As Catedrais Beach
A natural wonder of Galicia, famed for its majestic sea-carved arches and caves, accessible only at low tide.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
To see the arches & caves
As Catedrais Beach
Best Time
To see the arches & caves

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A natural wonder of Galicia, famed for its majestic sea-carved arches and caves, accessible only at low tide.
"This place is absolutely amazing!! If you r in the northern part of Spain it's a must!"
⏰ Check Tide Times Daily
Low tide is crucial! Access to the arches and caves is only possible then. Plan your visit around these times.
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Entry is free but requires advance booking, especially in summer. Don't miss out!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Majestic Arches
Along the shoreline
Gigantic rock formations sculpted by the sea, resembling gothic cathedrals. A truly unique natural wonder.

Sea Caves Exploration
Within the rock formations
Venture into the cool, echoing caves carved by centuries of wave action. A thrilling experience at low tide.

Panoramic Coastal Views
Clifftop viewpoints
Admire the breathtaking coastline and the beach from above. Perfect for drone shots and stunning photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide is Key
Book Ahead for Free Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ Check Tide Times Daily
Low tide is crucial! Access to the arches and caves is only possible then. Plan your visit around these times.
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Entry is free but requires advance booking, especially in summer. Don't miss out!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be rocky and slippery. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are a must for exploring.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera! The natural arches and caves offer incredible photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏰ Check Tide Times Daily
Low tide is crucial! Access to the arches and caves is only possible then. Plan your visit around these times.
🎟️ Book Free Tickets Online
Entry is free but requires advance booking, especially in summer. Don't miss out!
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The terrain can be rocky and slippery. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are a must for exploring.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera! The natural arches and caves offer incredible photo opportunities.
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking is regulated and can fill up. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
As Catedrais Beach is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking natural beauty, with visitors calling it an 'absolutely amazing' and 'must-see' destination. The unique rock arches and caves are consistently highlighted as spectacular. However, some visitors express frustration with the limited amenities and the strictness of staff regarding access during tide changes, alongside the inevitable crowds during peak times.
"This place in absolutely amazing!! If you r in the northern part of Spain it's a must! Full satisfaction is guaranteed, and it's worth the extra mileage. We found out about this place by accident, and other than Cape hope in Canada, I haven't seen any thing like this in the world. Just make sure to arrive at the low tide, and you must register on their web site in advance (entrance in free)."
Hilla Shaviv
"5 stars for the beach, 2 stars for service and amenities.
We arrived 8.30-9am, no bathrooms nor the cafeteria were open, so pee by the bushes it is!
The beach was open, people are walking around and exploring the caves, then comes this worker with ropes and metal sticks yelling "Get out of the caves!! Get out of the caves!!" She started to rope off the caves entrances. Hmmm... Don't yell at us because you haven't done YOUR job!! Meanwhile another worker was calmly nodding at people roping off other caves as in "You got lucky, take your picture and move so I can rope this off".
The beach is incredible and worth the visit.
Meanwhile the caves to the left of the beach were left without ropes for the whole day.
Yes, it's crowded... I can only imagine how July and August are. You'll have to fight to take picture without someone on it... Good thing most phones have apps to delete them!!"
Fabio Fabiano
"Highly recommended! Do make sure you get the required (and free) tickets long in advance, and double check the low tide times so you can actually access the beach and its rocky structures."
Marcelo Clerici-Arias
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
As Catedrais Beach is located in Ribadeo, Lugo, Spain. You can reach it by car via the A-8 highway, taking exit 520. There is regulated parking available, though it can fill up quickly during peak season.
Public transport options are limited, so driving is generally recommended.Yes, there is regulated parking available near the beach entrance. However, it is limited and can fill up rapidly, especially during summer. Arriving early is advised.
While possible, it's less convenient. You might need to rely on taxis or pre-arranged transport from nearby towns like Ribadeo.
Public bus services are not extensive for direct beach access.From Bilbao, take the A-8 highway towards Galicia. The journey is approximately 3-4 hours. Follow signs for Ribadeo and then for Playa de las Catedrales.
The beach itself involves stairs and uneven terrain, making it not recommended for those with significant mobility problems. However, viewpoints from above are accessible.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to As Catedrais Beach is free, but you must book tickets online in advance, especially during the summer months. Access is limited to protect the natural environment.
During peak season (summer), it's recommended to book tickets 2-3 days to even 2 weeks in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
The beach is accessible during low tide. You must check the specific tide times for the day of your visit, as this dictates when you can enter.
No, you can only enter As Catedrais Beach during low tide. High tide submerges the arches and caves. Always check the tide schedule before your visit.
You will not be allowed to enter the beach area. Advance online booking is mandatory to manage visitor numbers and protect the site.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is exploring the magnificent rock arches and caves carved by the sea. You can also relax on the sand, play in the waves, or walk along the shore during low tide.
Yes, it can get very crowded, especially during peak season (July and August) and at popular low tide times. You might have to 'fight' for photos.
Visiting during off-season or weekdays can offer a less crowded experience.These are the iconic natural arches and caves formed by the erosion of the rock cliffs by the Cantabrian Sea. They are the main reason for the beach's fame.
Yes, swimming is possible when the tide is out and conditions are safe. However, be mindful of the rapidly rising tide.
Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes as the rocks can be slippery and the terrain uneven. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim, and a light jacket as coastal weather can be unpredictable.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a cafeteria and restaurant near the beach entrance offering views and refreshments.
However, amenities on the beach itself are limited, so consider bringing snacks or planning meals in nearby Ribadeo.The closest options are at the beach's viewpoint cafe. For a wider selection of Galician cuisine, head to the town of Ribadeo, which offers various restaurants and bars.
While there are no designated picnic areas on the beach itself, you can bring your own food and enjoy it at the designated viewpoints or in the surrounding areas. Remember to take all your trash with you.
Restrooms are available near the entrance and cafeteria, but they may not be open very early in the morning.
The Lugo region, and Galicia in general, is known for its excellent seafood, especially octopus (pulpo a la gallega), empanadas, and fresh fish. Don't miss trying local cheeses and wines.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for photographing the arches and caves. However, you must be mindful of tide times.
Drone usage might be restricted due to its status as a Natural Monument and potential impact on wildlife and other visitors. Check local regulations before flying.
Visit during the off-season, on weekdays, or during very early morning or late evening low tide periods. Using photo editing apps to remove people is also a common strategy.
The main arches and caves are the stars. Also, the clifftop viewpoints offer stunning panoramic shots of the coastline and the beach from above.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the arches. A polarizing filter can help with reflections on wet sand and water. A tripod is useful for low-light conditions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Tides: Your Key to Access
When the tide recedes, it exposes a breathtaking landscape of towering rock formations that evoke the grandeur of gothic cathedrals, earning the beach its evocative name. Visitors can then walk among these natural wonders, explore the sea caves, and marvel at the sheer artistry of nature. However, remember that the tide can rise surprisingly quickly, so always be aware of your surroundings and the receding waterline.
Booking Your Free Entry: A Must-Do
Failure to book in advance means you will likely be denied entry, even if the tide is low. The process is straightforward via the official regional tourism website. Always double-check the booking requirements and availability before your trip. This system, while requiring a bit of planning, is essential for protecting the delicate ecosystem and ensuring the long-term preservation of this natural wonder.
Exploring the Natural Wonders: What to Expect
Be prepared for a bit of an adventure. The terrain can be rocky and slippery, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. While the beach is stunning, some visitors have noted that amenities like bathrooms might not be readily available or open early. Despite any minor inconveniences, the sheer natural beauty and unique geological features make As Catedrais Beach an unforgettable destination. Many visitors describe it as one of the most amazing places they've ever seen.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit