The Most Spectacular Beaches in Northern Spain

Northern Spain’s infamous green landscapes tell us a lot about the weather: It’s rainy! So the best time of year to hit the beaches in Northern Spain is between July and September. It doesn’t rain often during these three months of the year, and the weather hovers around a perfect 60 degrees at night and around 75 degrees during the day.

Convinced? Then check out this list of the best beaches in Northern Spain from west to east.

Galicia is Spain’s northwestern-most autonomous community and is home to some of the best beaches in the North of Spain. 

Praia das Catedrais, which translates into English as “Cathedrals Beach,” is one of the most popular in the country. The beach gets its name from its stunning natural rock formations that resemble the flying buttresses and arches of Gothic cathedrals. The rocks are best observed during low tide and in the off-season. If you’re going to visit during the summer months, make sure to check and see if a ticket and appointment time is required to access and marvel at this picturesque beach. 

Praia de Rodas, or Rodas beach, is located on the breathtaking Cíes Islands of Galicia, which can be accessed by ferry from nearby port towns. Its breathtaking crystal clear waters may trick you into thinking you’re actually in the Caribbean instead of Northern Spain. If you want to take a dip in these impressive waters, brace yourself! The waters are a bit more than chilly. After visiting the Cíes Islands, rest up at the nearby Occidental Vigo hotel before heading east to continue exploring the beaches in Northern Spain.

Insider tip: Make sure to order the traditional Galician octopus dish, pulpo a feira, with a side of local Albariño or Ribeiro wine on your travels through this region. 

Asturias is the autonomous community directly east of Galicia, and it’s the next stop on our highlights of the best beaches in Northern Spain.

Llanes is an adorable fisherman town that’s famous for its breathtaking beaches. One of Llanes’ best beaches is Gulpiyuri Beach, a total must-see, as it’s an inland beach with no visible or direct access to the sea. You read that right: You can see the water, sit on the beach, and hear the waves crash, but there’s no shoreline in sight. The water comes from under the stunning cliffs you face when sitting on the sand. This is by far one of the most unique beaches you’ll ever encounter, and it’s nestled in gorgeous Northern Spain. 

Another one of Llanes’ best beaches is Torimbia Beach, nestled below a stunning cliff line. There’s a parking lot at the top, providing picture-perfect views of this natural beauty, but the beach itself is only accessible via a hike down a gravel path. If you’re not up for the walk down, making a pit stop at the parking lot for a view of one of Asturias’ best beaches is well worth your time.

Playa del Silencio, which translates into “Beach of Silence” in English, is a tranquil, shell-shaped cove known for its serene atmosphere and natural rock amphitheater. It's located in the town of Castañeras, near the idyllic fisherman town of Cudillero, and is accessed via a stone walkway. The beach is surrounded by breathtaking, green cliffs, and a good dose of pebbles is mixed in with the sand, so bringing a beach chair along will make for a more comfortable stay. 

Insider tip: While in Asturias, it’s worth venturing a bit inland from the coast to visit the region’s capital city of Oviedo. This charming town has plenty to offer for history and culture lovers, especially when it comes to hotels. The Barceló Oviedo Cervantes has won awards for its design and rehabilitation, as it was built inside an impressive mansion from the early 20^th century.

Let’s continue to travel east to hit the best beaches in Cantabria. 

El Puntal is a sandbar beach that stretches into the Bay of Cantabria, offering stunning views of the city of Santander. Puntal Beach is easily accessed by a quick ferry ride from Santander and is surrounded by stunning sand dunes. Minimally developed, this is a great spot to disconnect while traveling around Cantabria.

Liencres Beach is an absolute beauty and is located inside the Parque Nacional de las Dunas de Liencres (Liencres Dune National Park). This park is home not only to this stunning beach, but also to hectares upon hectares of dunes, and a maritime pine forest. Also known for its waves and wind, Linceres Beach is an ideal spot for surfers, windsurfers, and kite surfers alike.

The Basque Country is the easternmost coastal autonomous region in Spain on the Bay of Biscay.

If you like city beaches, make sure you check out Ondarreta Beach, located in the center of bustling San Sebastián. In summer, you can rent a popular white and blue striped beach hut for the day to relax in the shade, and walk to your hotel right around the corner when you’re done with your beach day. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head out to eat the Basque twist on Spanish tapas, pintxos, in the evening. 

One of the best surf spots in the country is at the beach in Zarautz, Basque Country. This popular surfing destination is known for its consistent waves and variety of surf breaks suitable for beginners and experienced surfers alike. If you’re not a surfer, no worries! It also has a beautiful promenade for a nice stroll surrounded by green hills, mountains, and homes.

From the dramatic rock formations of Galicia to the serene coves of Asturias, the windswept dunes of Cantabria, and the vibrant surf scene in the Basque Country, the beaches in Northern Spain offer something truly special for every type of traveler. Whether you're in search of adventure, surfing, tranquility, or simply want to soak in the stunning natural beauty, Northern Spain’s coastline invites you to explore its hidden gems and well-loved shores alike. So pack your bags, head north, and let these remarkable beaches redefine your idea of a perfect beach getaway.