Playa de Bikinis - Thalittlemarc. CMG Pictures.
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Playa de Bikinis

4.6
·132 reviews·, Spain

Santander's intimate Playa de Bikinis, a rocky cove steeped in history as the rumored birthplace of the bikini.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Playa de Bikinis - Thalittlemarc. CMG Pictures.

Playa de Bikinis

Best Time

Summer mornings

Calm waters, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Santander's intimate Playa de Bikinis, a rocky cove steeped in history as the rumored birthplace of the bikini.

4.6
(132 reviews)

"A small rocky beach with clear water, good for a dip and a bit of history."

Vertical photo
TIP

🧺 Pack a Picnic

The grassy areas are perfect for a relaxed meal with a view. Bring your own food and drinks!

🪨 Beach Footwear

It's a rocky beach, so water shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended for comfort.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Bikini's Origin

The Bikini's Origin

Stand where the bikini is said to have been introduced to the world. A small beach with a big historical claim.

Rocky Cove Charm

Rocky Cove Charm

Enjoy the clear waters and unique rocky landscape of this intimate beach.

Grassy Picnic Spots

Grassy Picnic Spots

Relax on the nearby grassy areas, perfect for a leisurely picnic with a view.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Bikini's Birthplace

Discover Playa de Bikinis, a small, rocky cove in Santander rumored to be the birthplace of the bikini. It's a unique spot for a dip and a bit of history.

Santander's Hidden Gem

This beach is often less crowded than others in Santander, offering a more relaxed vibe. Perfect for a peaceful escape with clear waters and grassy areas nearby for picnics.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Calm waters, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

In Santander for a few days, any cool cliff jumping spots?

🧺 Pack a Picnic

The grassy areas are perfect for a relaxed meal with a view. Bring your own food and drinks! Reddit

🪨 Beach Footwear

It's a rocky beach, so water shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended for comfort. Reddit

🌊 Cliff Jumping Nearby

For the adventurous, there are rumored cliff jumping spots nearby. Ask locals for directions! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Magdalena Peninsula

Combine your beach visit with exploring the beautiful Magdalena Peninsula. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🧺 Pack a Picnic

The grassy areas are perfect for a relaxed meal with a view. Bring your own food and drinks! Reddit

🪨 Beach Footwear

It's a rocky beach, so water shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended for comfort. Reddit

🌊 Cliff Jumping Nearby

For the adventurous, there are rumored cliff jumping spots nearby. Ask locals for directions! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Magdalena Peninsula

Combine your beach visit with exploring the beautiful Magdalena Peninsula. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(132 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Playa de Bikinis for its historical significance as the rumored birthplace of the bikini and its tranquil, less crowded atmosphere compared to other Santander beaches. The clear waters and nearby grassy picnic spots are also highlights, though the rocky terrain means it's not a typical sandy beach experience.

"Apparently here lies the place that started the bikini revolution as per local folks. Small rocky beach with clear water. Good borderline ok.

Hop in when you visit Santander"

Akshay Raj

"Nice little beach on the Magdalena Peninsula. You can eat in the neighborhood."

Karol Karolkiewicz

"There is nice because of the grassy ground there, you can have good place to sit and eat there. Normally less dense compared to other beaches in Santander."

Muhammad Arshad Mukhtar

What People Like

Historical significance
Clear, calm waters
Less crowded vibe

What People Dislike

Rocky beach terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Playa de Bikinis is located on the Magdalena Peninsula. You can reach it by walking from the Magdalena Palace or by taking a local bus towards the peninsula. Parking might be limited, so consider public transport or walking. Reddit

While you can drive to the Magdalena Peninsula, parking directly at Playa de Bikinis can be challenging. It's often easier to park a bit further and enjoy a short walk. Reddit

It's a pleasant walk, but it will take some time. Consider it if you enjoy scenic strolls along the coast. Alternatively, local buses are a convenient option. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Playa de Bikinis is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can visit and enjoy it freely. Reddit

As a natural beach, Playa de Bikinis is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

There's no need to book tickets. Playa de Bikinis is a natural beach, and entry is free and open to everyone. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Playa de Bikinis is characterized by its rocky terrain rather than soft sand. This gives it a unique, rugged charm. Reddit

Facilities are generally limited directly at this small cove. It's advisable to use facilities elsewhere on the Magdalena Peninsula before or after your visit. Reddit

Yes, the water is clear and generally calm, making it suitable for swimming, especially during warmer months. Reddit

While not directly at the beach, there are reports of cliff jumping spots in the vicinity of the Magdalena Peninsula. It's best to inquire locally for safe and accessible locations. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find dining options in the neighborhoods surrounding the Magdalena Peninsula. The beach itself is more about enjoying nature and picnics. Reddit

Absolutely! The grassy areas adjacent to the beach are ideal for picnics. It's a popular activity for visitors. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique rocky coastline, the clear waters, and the historical significance of the beach. The grassy areas also offer lovely framing for photos. Reddit

Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour light, while mornings provide calmer seas and fewer people for unobstructed shots. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Playa de Bikinis offers a unique experience for families, though its rocky nature means it's less ideal for toddlers building sandcastles. The clear, calm waters are great for supervised swimming. The nearby grassy areas are perfect for a family picnic, providing a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the views. Consider bringing water shoes for little feet to navigate the rocks easily. Reddit

Combine your visit with exploring the rest of the Magdalena Peninsula, which has more open spaces and attractions like the Magdalena Palace and the sea lion colony, offering a fuller day out for the whole family.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Playa de Bikinis is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers as it's a free public beach. The main cost will be transportation to the Magdalena Peninsula. Packing your own picnic is highly recommended, as dining options directly at the beach are non-existent, saving you money while allowing you to enjoy the scenic surroundings. Reddit

This spot offers a beautiful natural experience without the price tag of more developed tourist areas, making it a great way to enjoy Santander's coastline on a budget.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Bikini's Historical Footprint

Playa de Bikinis holds a unique place in fashion history, rumored to be the very spot where the bikini made its debut. While the exact historical accuracy is debated, the local lore imbues this small, rocky cove with a significant cultural narrative. It's a place where visitors can connect with a piece of 20th-century revolution in swimwear.

This intimate beach, nestled on the Magdalena Peninsula, offers a more secluded experience compared to Santander's larger sandy stretches. Its rocky composition adds to its charm, providing a different kind of coastal beauty. The clear waters invite a refreshing dip, making it a delightful stop for those seeking both history and a tranquil seaside escape. Reddit

Exploring the Magdalena Peninsula

A visit to Playa de Bikinis is often combined with exploring the wider Magdalena Peninsula. This expansive green space offers stunning views of the Bay of Santander and is home to the iconic Magdalena Palace. Visitors can wander through the peninsula's gardens, visit the small maritime museum, or even see the rescued sea lions at the Oceanographic Museum.

The peninsula provides ample opportunities for leisurely walks, cycling, or simply enjoying the natural beauty. The grassy areas surrounding Playa de Bikinis are perfect for a picnic, offering a relaxed atmosphere away from the city bustle. It’s a fantastic area for families and couples alike to spend a day soaking in the coastal scenery and historical landmarks. Reddit

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