
Playa de Poo Llanes Asturias
A unique Asturian beach that transforms into a serene natural pool at high tide, offering calm waters and soft sands.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Creates a perfect natural pool

Playa de Poo Llanes Asturias
Best Time
Creates a perfect natural pool

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Asturian beach that transforms into a serene natural pool at high tide, offering calm waters and soft sands.
"Genuinely one of the most incredible beaches I have ever been to."

Check Tide Times First! :iphone:
The beach's character changes drastically with the tide. Plan your visit for high tide to see the natural pool!
Bring Cash for Parking :moneybag:
The small parking lot often requires cash payment. Arrive early to secure a spot during busy periods.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Natural Pool
At high tide
High tide transforms the beach into a serene, saltwater swimming pool, perfect for a tranquil dip.

Sandy Expanse
At low tide
Low tide reveals a vast sandy area, ideal for sunbathing, playing, and exploring the coastline.

Cove Sheltered Beauty
Entire beach
Nestled in a picturesque cove, this beach offers stunning views and a sense of secluded paradise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tide is Key for Poo's Magic
Parking and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Times First! :iphone:
The beach's character changes drastically with the tide. Plan your visit for high tide to see the natural pool!
Bring Cash for Parking :moneybag:
The small parking lot often requires cash payment. Arrive early to secure a spot during busy periods.
Water Quality Alerts :warning:
Occasionally, pollution can affect water quality. Check with lifeguards for current conditions before swimming.
Pack Beach Essentials :beach_with_umbrella:
While lifeguards are present seasonally, bring your own towels, sunscreen, and snacks for a comfortable day.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Times First! :iphone:
The beach's character changes drastically with the tide. Plan your visit for high tide to see the natural pool!
Bring Cash for Parking :moneybag:
The small parking lot often requires cash payment. Arrive early to secure a spot during busy periods.
Water Quality Alerts :warning:
Occasionally, pollution can affect water quality. Check with lifeguards for current conditions before swimming.
Pack Beach Essentials :beach_with_umbrella:
While lifeguards are present seasonally, bring your own towels, sunscreen, and snacks for a comfortable day.
Explore Nearby Coves :hiking_boot:
Combine your visit with walks to other beautiful beaches in Llanes, like Gulpiyuri or San Antolín.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa de Poo is lauded for its stunning natural pool formed at high tide, offering a unique and tranquil swimming experience. Visitors appreciate the soft sand and picturesque cove setting. However, some mention an occasional unpleasant odor and caution about water quality during certain periods, advising to check with lifeguards.
"Lovely beach with an unfortunate English name.
We arrived as the tide was coming in and saw the transformation from a bay with a sand flat to one filled with water.
We swimming around the corner closer to the sea. The water is colder as there is deep water coming into the bay. At mid tide there are some heavy waves as the water is coming over the sand bank. Children need to take care even though there were a couple of life guards on duty as the waves can smash you into the rocks."
Simon Round
"Gets crowded... However lovely beach. You'll need cash for parking!"
Ben
"Unfortunately lived up to its name when we visited on Sunday 17th August. Hand written sign on the beach saying it was closed to swimming on due to pollution in the water (e.coli). Lifeguard confirmed it was due to a recent storm causing a sewage spill from further up the river. We saw black effluent visible in some of the pools just upstream from the beach. Suggest checking with the lifeguard for updates before entering the water."
Matthew Stannard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa de Poo is located in the village of Poo, near Llanes in Asturias, Spain. If driving, there's a small parking lot near the beach, but it fills up quickly. You can also reach it by foot from nearby towns like Celorio, which takes about an hour.
Yes, there is a small parking lot adjacent to the beach. However, it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, as it can get crowded. Be prepared to pay a fee, often requiring cash.
While not directly in Llanes town, you can walk to Playa de Poo from nearby areas. For instance, a walk from Celorio takes approximately one hour and offers scenic coastal views.
Public transport options directly to Playa de Poo can be limited. It's often best to travel to Llanes by bus or train and then arrange local transport or enjoy a scenic walk to the beach. Research local bus routes in Asturias for the most up-to-date information.
Access to the beach itself can be challenging due to the sandy terrain and potential slopes. While there's parking nearby, navigating the beach might require assistance. It's recommended to check with local tourist information for the most current accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Playa de Poo itself. However, parking near the beach may incur a fee, so it's wise to have cash on hand.
Playa de Poo is a natural beach and is accessible at all times. However, facilities like lifeguards and any seasonal services will operate on specific schedules, typically during the summer months.
No, tickets are not required for Playa de Poo as it is a public beach. You can visit anytime. Booking is only relevant if you are looking to book accommodation nearby.
During certain times, especially if there are concerns about water quality due to pollution, swimming may be restricted. Always check with lifeguards or local authorities for any advisories.
To avoid crowds, visit during weekdays outside of the main summer holidays (July-August) or opt for early mornings or late afternoons. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn also offer a more tranquil experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At high tide, Playa de Poo transforms into a beautiful, calm natural pool of saltwater. This unique feature makes it ideal for relaxed swimming and is a major draw for visitors.
You can enjoy swimming in the natural pool at high tide, sunbathing on the sandy expanse at low tide, building sandcastles, and simply relaxing by the Cantabrian Sea. It's also a great spot for photography.
Lifeguards are typically on duty during the peak summer season. It's always a good idea to check locally for their availability, especially if you are visiting with children.
Playa de Poo features soft, fine sand, which is pleasant for walking on and relaxing. At low tide, it creates a vast, inviting sandy area.
Yes, especially at high tide when the water forms a calm pool, it's very suitable for families with young children. At low tide, the gentle slope and soft sand are also great for kids to play on. However, always supervise children closely, especially when waves are present.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no direct restaurants or cafes directly on Playa de Poo itself. However, the nearby village of Poo and the larger town of Llanes offer a variety of dining options, from traditional Asturian cuisine to seafood.
Absolutely! Bringing your own picnic is a popular option for a day at Playa de Poo. Remember to take all your trash with you to keep the beach clean.
The Llanes area is known for its delicious Asturian cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, 'fabada' (a hearty bean stew), 'cachopo' (breaded veal stuffed with ham and cheese), and local cider ('sidra').
You'll find excellent seafood restaurants in the town of Llanes, which is a short drive or a longer walk from Playa de Poo. Look for establishments serving fresh catches of the day.
Typically, Playa de Poo does not have permanent beach bars or 'chiringuitos'. Any seasonal vendors would be temporary. It's best to come prepared with your own refreshments or plan to visit nearby establishments.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is the natural pool formed at high tide, showcasing the unique landscape. The contrast between the calm water and the surrounding cliffs is stunning.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for photography. However, the dramatic transformation of the beach with the tide also provides unique photographic moments throughout the day.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the beach and the cove. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water and enhance colors. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light shots or capturing the tide's movement.
While the beach itself is the main subject, exploring the cliff edges can offer elevated perspectives of the cove and the natural pool. The surrounding landscape also provides scenic backdrops.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and regulations regarding drone operation in protected natural areas and coastal zones in Asturias before flying. Always prioritize safety and respect for the environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
At low tide, the soft sand provides ample space for building sandcastles and general play. While lifeguards are present seasonally, it's always wise to keep a close eye on children. Bringing snacks and drinks is recommended as facilities are limited directly on the beach. The ease of access from the small parking lot also makes it convenient for families.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
The dramatic cliffs and the Cantabrian Sea provide a stunning backdrop for photography and quiet contemplation. The relatively undeveloped nature of the beach, apart from seasonal lifeguards, appeals to those seeking a more natural and less commercialized beach experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the coastal trails.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different times of day to capture the changing light – golden hour can be particularly magical. The contrast between the sandy expanse at low tide and the water-filled cove at high tide provides a dynamic range of photographic opportunities. Don't forget to capture the surrounding cliffs and the vastness of the Cantabrian Sea.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tidal Phenomenon of Playa de Poo
Visitors often describe the experience of seeing the beach fill with water as breathtaking. The calm, shallow waters of the pool are ideal for a relaxed swim, especially for families with children. It's a stark contrast to the potentially more energetic waves that can occur closer to the sea entrance during mid-tide. Understanding the tide schedule is crucial to fully appreciate this natural wonder.
When planning your visit, consulting a tide chart for the Asturias coast is highly recommended. Aiming for high tide will allow you to witness the beach at its most picturesque and serene. Even if you miss the peak pool formation, the sandy expanse at low tide offers its own charm and opportunities for enjoyment.
Navigating Llanes and its Coastal Gems
Beyond Playa de Poo, the Llanes area boasts a variety of other notable beaches, each with its own character. From the tiny, almost hidden Gulpiyuri beach, which is landlocked and filled by underground tunnels, to the expansive sands of Playa de Toró and the dramatic cliffs of Playa de San Antolín, there's a beach for every preference. Exploring these diverse coastal spots offers a comprehensive taste of Asturias' natural splendor.
Getting around Llanes and its beaches is often best done by car, allowing for flexibility in visiting multiple locations. However, for the more adventurous, walking and cycling routes connect many of the coastal areas, offering a more immersive experience of the Asturian countryside and coastline. Public transport options are available to Llanes town, from where local buses or taxis can be used for shorter distances.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit