Playa de San Antolín
A stunning, wild sandy beach in Asturias, framed by dramatic cliffs and ancient monastery ruins. Perfect for nature lovers and surfers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and rising tide
Playa de San Antolín
Best Time
Beat the crowds and rising tide
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning, wild sandy beach in Asturias, framed by dramatic cliffs and ancient monastery ruins. Perfect for nature lovers and surfers.
"A wild beach, a must-see if you're in the Llanes area, far from the touch of humans."
🚗 Parking Patience
The parking lot is small; arrive early, especially in summer. Consider walking from the main parking area if full.
🌊 Tide Awareness
The tide rises significantly in the afternoon, reducing beach space. Plan your visit accordingly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Expansive Sandy Shores
Main beach area
A large, golden sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the Cantabrian Sea. Ideal for a relaxing day by the water.
Monasterio de San Antolín de Bedón
Adjacent to the beach
Explore the ruins of this ancient Romanesque monastery, adding a historical and atmospheric layer to your beach visit.
Punta Pestaña Cove
Accessible from San Antolín
Discover this hidden, intimate cove for a more secluded experience, where green meadows meet the blue sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Wild
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
The parking lot is small; arrive early, especially in summer. Consider walking from the main parking area if full.
🌊 Tide Awareness
The tide rises significantly in the afternoon, reducing beach space. Plan your visit accordingly.
🏄♀️ Surfing Zone
Swimming may be restricted due to surf classes. Enjoy the waves from the shore or explore nearby coves.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk
Enjoy a pleasant walk along the coast, often with horses and cows grazing nearby.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
The parking lot is small; arrive early, especially in summer. Consider walking from the main parking area if full.
🌊 Tide Awareness
The tide rises significantly in the afternoon, reducing beach space. Plan your visit accordingly.
🏄♀️ Surfing Zone
Swimming may be restricted due to surf classes. Enjoy the waves from the shore or explore nearby coves.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walk
Enjoy a pleasant walk along the coast, often with horses and cows grazing nearby.
🍽️ Beachside Bites
A beach bar offers food and drinks, perfect for a casual meal with a view.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Playa de San Antolín is lauded as a beautiful, large sandy beach with a wild, natural charm. Visitors appreciate the nearby parking, beach bar, and the scenic historical ruins. Some note that swimming can be restricted due to surf classes and the tide rises significantly in the afternoon.
"Nice beach. Its a sand beach with mild waves, but (at least today) it wasnt permited to enter the water because of surfing classes. The life guards only let you enter the water until it was up to your knees or less. Otherwise, 10/10.
There is a place to eat nearby and the parking isnt so far away. There is a decent ammout of sand and an ice-cream shop."
Ludmila s
"Wonderful sandy beach large. Just outside of the motorway ample parking"
amedeo pugliese
"Amazing"
Gustavo Wommer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Playa de San Antolín is located in Llanes, Asturias. Access is typically via car, with a parking area available nearby. Some visitors mention a pleasant walk from the parking to the beach, sometimes accompanied by local livestock. 
Yes, there is a parking area, but it's described as small. Arriving early, especially during peak season, is highly recommended to secure a spot.
Information on direct public transport is limited, but it's advisable to check local bus routes serving the Llanes area. Many visitors opt for car travel to access this more remote beach.
The beach is generally accessible, with a walk from the parking area. Some reviews mention it's a sandy beach, implying easy access once you're there.
Absolutely! It's a popular spot for day-trippers in the Llanes region, offering a beautiful natural escape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Playa de San Antolín is a public beach and does not require an entrance fee. You can enjoy its natural beauty freely.
Parking is generally free, though it can be limited. It's advisable to confirm current parking regulations upon arrival, especially during busy periods.
As a natural beach, Playa de San Antolín is accessible at all hours. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The monastery is currently closed to the public, so there is no entry fee. However, its exterior and historical significance can still be appreciated from the beach area.
While the beach is generally open, swimming may be restricted due to surfing classes. Always adhere to lifeguard instructions and local regulations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy sunbathing, relaxing on the sand, and exploring the nearby Monasterio de San Antolín de Bedón. It's also a popular spot for surfing and adventure sports.
Swimming conditions can vary. While it's a sandy beach, surfing classes may limit access to deeper water. Always check with lifeguards for current conditions.
The beach features fine, golden sand, making it comfortable for lounging and walking.
Yes, there is a beach bar (chiringuito) where you can get food and drinks. Restroom facilities might be limited, so plan accordingly.
It can get busy, especially during peak season. Visiting in the morning or off-season can offer a more tranquil experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the expansive sandy shores, the dramatic coastline, and the ancient Monasterio de San Antolín de Bedón. The nearby Punta Pestaña cove also offers stunning, secluded shots.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour hues. Sunsets can be particularly magical here.
Drone regulations can vary by region and time of year. It's best to check local aviation authorities or signage at the beach before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the monastery or distant cliffs.
Yes, the monastery ruins are a prominent feature and can be photographed from various angles along the beach, especially during low tide.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the beach itself is accessible, the walk from the parking lot might be a consideration for families with very young children or strollers. The natural, wild setting is a great way to introduce kids to the beauty of the Asturian coast. Pack plenty of sun protection and water, as facilities can be basic.
🏄♀️ Adventure Seekers & Surfers
Even if you're not surfing, the dynamic environment provides great opportunities for photography and enjoying the powerful ocean. For those looking for a bit more exploration, the hike to the secluded Punta Pestaña cove offers a rewarding adventure. The surrounding cliffs and the historical monastery ruins also add layers of interest for the more adventurous visitor.
+1📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
+2 The natural, wild landscape is a key draw, providing endless opportunities for capturing stunning coastal scenes. Visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset will yield particularly breathtaking shots. +1Beyond the main beach, the hidden Punta Pestaña cove offers a more intimate and untouched photographic subject.
The surrounding green hillsides of Asturias meeting the blue sea create a picturesque contrast that is quintessentially Northern Spain. Don't miss the chance to frame the ancient monastery ruins against the backdrop of the ocean. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of San Antolín's Coastline
+2Adding to its unique appeal is the presence of the Monasterio de San Antolín de Bedón, a Romanesque ruin dating back to the 12th century. Situated at the mouth of the Bedón River, which divides the beach, the monastery adds a layer of historical intrigue. Although currently closed to the public, its evocative presence enhances the dramatic scenery and offers a glimpse into the region's past.
+1For those seeking a more secluded experience, the nearby Punta Pestaña cove is a hidden gem. Accessible by foot from San Antolín, this intimate cala offers a tranquil escape where the lush Asturian landscape seamlessly merges with the ocean. It's a testament to the unspoiled nature of this coastline, providing a peaceful retreat away from the main beach.
Navigating Playa de San Antolín: Practicalities and Experiences
While the beach is beautiful, it's important to note that swimming conditions can be variable. Surfing classes are frequently held here, and lifeguards may restrict access to the water beyond knee-depth.
Despite potential limitations for swimming, the overall experience at Playa de San Antolín is highly positive. Visitors often praise its wild, natural beauty and the presence of a convenient beach bar for refreshments.
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