Do you like enjoying your free time with your tribe? We do too! We are a large family and we love sharing our experiences together, especially when it comes to sun and beach. Cantabria, in the north of Spain, is our home, and we take pride in it because it has a stunning coastline and the best beaches to enjoy as a family.
Why choose Cantabria for your family vacation?
Cantabria offers a variety of beaches that are ideal for families with children. Not only are they beautiful, but they are also safe and have all the facilities you need to have a great day. From large stretches of sand where the little ones can run and play, to quiet coves perfect for relaxing, Cantabria has it all!
Our selection of family-friendly beaches in Cantabria
Join us on this tour of the most family-friendly beaches in Cantabria. I assure you that, if it isn’t already, Cantabria is going to become one of your favorite destinations. Let’s go to the beach together!
Beaches by Geographic Zone
We have selected some of the best beaches and are showing them to you by area, so that no matter where you are in our beautiful land, you know where to go to make your children’s dreams come true.
Before your road trip along the beaches of Cantabria
Besides considering a car rental if you’re coming from outside Cantabria, don’t forget to get travel insurance with IATI (5% off for Glutendtrotters readers) before leaving home, and if you’re coming from outside Spain, activate your Holafly eSIM (also 5% off) to have data from the moment you land on the beaches of Cantabria.
Western Zone
Oyambre Beach
Oyambre Beach, located in the heart of the Oyambre Natural Park and a stone’s throw from San Vicente de la Barquera and Comillas, is one of our favorite gems in Cantabria. This place is perfect for immersing yourself in the region’s natural beauty and enjoying an unforgettable day with your family.
An amazing landscape
Oyambre Beach is known for its wide expanses of sand and spectacular surroundings. This impressive 2-kilometer-long beach, flanked by dunes, begins at the mouth of the La Rabia estuary and stretches as far as the eye can see. Here, the waves, cliffs, dunes, forests, and meadows come together in perfect harmony, creating one of Cantabria’s most vibrant ecosystems.
Exploration and relaxation in the Oyambre Natural Park
But Oyambre beach is just one part of the charm of the Oyambre Natural Park. This park is a mosaic of pristine sandy areas, quiet marshes, and green meadows that stretch out under the Cantabrian sky. You can spend the day exploring nature trails, bird watching, or simply relaxing while the kids play in the sand.
Culture and nature combined
For those who want to combine a beach day with a cultural visit, Oyambre is the perfect place. Just a short bike ride or drive away, you can discover architectural wonders like El Capricho de Gaudí in Comillas, a masterpiece by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Additionally, you can visit the majestic Castillo del Rey in San Vicente de la Barquera, an impressive medieval castle that offers panoramic views and a journey through history.
Las Arenas
Las Arenas beach, located in the picturesque town of Pechón in Cantabria, is a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. This small and cozy beach, surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation, is ideal for families who want to enjoy calm waters and picnic areas. Here you can savor the peace of this unique location and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
A natural environment to explore
Pechón not only offers a charming beach, but also a natural environment that invites adventure. The trails that meander along the coast will allow you to discover hidden coves and dreamlike landscapes. These paths are perfect for family hikes, offering stunning views and the possibility of encountering local flora and fauna.
Outdoor activities in Alto de Pechón
Here, sea and water sports enthusiasts like surfing and paddle surfing will find their paradise. The privileged location of Alto de Pechón allows you to enjoy breathtaking sea views with the majestic Picos de Europa mountain range as a panoramic backdrop.
Adventure and Relaxation at the Pechón Campsite
For adventure lovers, the Pechón campsite offers comfortable facilities and quality services to ensure a pleasant stay. You can camp with your own tent orenjoy all the comforts of a glamping experience in the middle of nature. This option is perfect for those looking for an unforgettable vacation surrounded by the natural beauty of Cantabria.
Berellín Beach
Berellín Beach, located near the charming town of Prellezo in the beautiful area of Val de San Vicente, is a hidden treasure in Cantabria that will leave you breathless. This paradisiacal sandy area, with its crystal-clear waters and unique rock formations, offers an unparalleled environment that many compare to the wild beaches of Thailand.
A natural paradise
To access Berellín Beach, you must travel along a little-known path that takes you deep into nature. The turquoise waters, green surroundings, and the sound of the sea crashing against the cliffs transform this privileged spot into an ideal destination for your vacation in Cantabria. In this paradisiacal corner, you can get lost and completely disconnect from the world, as even the mobile signal disappears. It is the perfect place to connect with nature in its purest state.
An environment for total disconnection
Berellín Beach is a hidden paradise that enchants all its visitors. Cantabria is full of places as authentic as this one. The only drawback is that many of them can only be reached by a road trip. However, the tranquility and stunning landscape of these places make the journey worthwhile.
Nearby explorations and adventures
Berellín Beach is very close to the Nansa River basin. From this coastal point, you can embark on an excursion toward the interior of the region, exploring the Peña Labra and Peña Sagra mountain ranges. This trip offers spectacular landscapes that you cannot miss.
If you are a hiking enthusiast, the Nansa River Trail is an accessible and comfortable route, ideal for enjoying with children. This trail leads you to a refreshing swim at the foot of a small waterfall, adding a magical touch to your adventure.
Are you still thinking about it?
Central Zone
El Sardinero
The Sardinero beaches, located in Santander, are two of the most iconic and popular destinations in Cantabria. The First Sardinero Beach and the Second Sardinero Beach combine their rich history with a variety of family activities.
History and events in El Sardinero
The First Sardinero Beach is the most famous in Santander and is the place where the Baños de Ola were born, a summer tradition of the Spanish nobility of the last century. This beach stretches from the Santander Casino to the Racing Field, passing by the Gran Hotel Sardinero, the Plaza de Italia, and the Piquío Gardens, completing the visit to the city’s most emblematic beach.
Walks and water sports
The First Sardinero Beach stretches next to La Concha Beach and the Second Sardinero Beach, offering nearly 2 kilometers of sand to enjoy during low tide. This stretch of beach is ideal for long walks by the sea. Furthermore, it is one of the best places to practice surfing in Santander, thanks to its consistent waves. In addition to sunbathing and swimming, you will find many opportunities to engage in various water activities.
Enjoy Regma ice cream
A very well-known delight among Santander locals is the Regma ice cream, founded by Regina and Margarita. Although there are ice cream parlors all over the capital and the province, the perfect place to enjoy these ice creams is in El Sardinero. Plus, they offer gluten-free options so everyone can enjoy!
Read also: Where to eat gluten-free in Santander
Valdearenas
Valdearenas Beach, located in the Dunes of Liencres Natural Park, is a spectacular destination for nature and adventure lovers. This extensive golden sand beach is perfect for enjoying a family day surrounded by an impressive landscape.
A unique natural environment
Valdearenas is characterized by its large dunes and pristine natural environment. Walking along this beach is a unique experience, where you can enjoy the beauty of the Cantabrian Sea and the tranquility of its surroundings. The impressive landscape will fascinate you.
Walks and outdoor activities
With its wide expanse of sand, Valdearenas is ideal for long walks by the sea. The beach offers perfect conditions for surfing and other water sports, thanks to its consistent waves and size. Additionally, the surrounding natural park is perfect for exploring on foot along the trails through the dunes and pine forests.
A place for the family
Valdearenas is a wonderful destination to enjoy as a family. Children can play on the large beach and explore the dunes, while adults relax and enjoy the scenery. The combination of sea, sand, and nature makes this beach a perfect place to create unforgettable memories together.
Where to eat gluten-free near Valdearenas
If you’re spending the day at this beach, just a few minutes’ drive away in Liencres, you’ll find La Casona de Juntad, an old Cantabrian country house with a large garden where, according to the specialized directory Celicidad, they have their own gluten-free bread and prepare burgers, fried squid, and calamari suitable for celiacs. A great stop for a worry-free meal after the beach.
El Puntal
El Puntal Beach is one of my favorite corners of Cantabria. This paradise located right in front of the Bay of Santander stretches over 10 kilometers of sand, changing its name depending on the town from which you access it: Loredo, Somo, and, finally, El Puntal.
Boat trip on “Los Reginas”
Accessing El Puntal Beach is a unique and fun experience, especially for children. The beach is only accessible by boat, which adds a touch of adventure to the trip. You can take the “Los Reginas” boats from the Santander Promenade, near the Embarcadero Palace and the Botín Center. This boat trip will be an unforgettable experience for the whole family, providing spectacular views and an exciting journey before enjoying the beautiful beach.
If you prefer a more complete experience covering the whole bay, you can also book in advance a sightseeing boat tour around the Bay of Santander, which also sails past El Puntal and shows you the Magdalena Palace, El Sardinero, Cabo Mayor, and the Loredo and Somo coastline from the water, in a trip of about one hour.
Activities at El Puntal Beach
This beach is known for its serenity, making it one of the best options in Santander to visit with children. Its calm waters are ideal for swimming and enjoying while you contemplate the stunning views of the Bay of Santander and the Magdalena Palace on the horizon.
Are you ready to explore this Cantabrian oasis?
Eastern Zone
Trengandín Beach
Trengandín Beach, located in the municipality of Noja, is an extensive sandy area that exceeds 3 kilometers in length. Characterized by its fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters, this beach offers a dreamlike natural environment perfect for enjoying as a family.
Bird watching
Located near the Santoña Marshes, Trengandín Beach is ideal for watching migratory birds. The tranquility of this beach makes it one of the best options in Cantabria to visit with children. In addition to all the necessary services, such as showers, bathrooms, and lifeguards, it has a playground area for the little ones!
Outdoor activities
Trengandín is perfect for long walks along the shore, with over 3 kilometers of beach to wander. Surfing enthusiasts will find this beach to be an excellent place to practice their favorite sport, thanks to its gentle waves and the expanse of sand.
If you prefer to avoid the sand while eating, there is a garden area between the parking lot and the beach, ideal for a safe picnic.
A perfect summer destination
The town of Noja, with its charming setting and services, is an ideal destination for spending the summer in Cantabria. Keep in mind that during the high season, Noja’s population multiplies, which can lead to traffic and queues at the entrance and exit of the municipality. Therefore, it is advisable to be patient if you are not staying there.
La Salvé
La Salvé Beach, located in Laredo, Cantabria, is one of the most extensive and popular beaches in the region. With more than 4 kilometers in length, it stretches from the old port of Laredo to the sand spit known as El Puntal, forming, together with El Regatón Beach, one of the longest sandy areas on the Cantabrian coast.
Natural beauty and activities
La Salvé Beach stands out for its impressive natural beauty and calm waters, making it an ideal place for families and swimmers. Here you can enjoy long walks along the shore and practice sports like surfing, windsurfing, and paddle surfing. In addition, we recommend a boat trip to the famous Caballo Lighthouse on Mount Buciero, an experience that will leave you speechless.
History and culture
La Salvé Beach has a rich history, standing out as the place where Emperor Charles V landed in 1556 during his retreat to the Monastery of Yuste. This historical event adds significant cultural value to the beach, making it a destination of interest not only for its natural beauty but also for its historical relevance. To fully immerse yourself in history, visit Laredo during the festivities in September that commemorate this event.
Read also: Where to eat gluten-free in Laredo
Berria
Berria Beach, located in Santoña, is an impressive sandy area 2 kilometers long and 150 meters wide. Located on the Trasmiera coast, this beach stretches between Mount Brusco to the west and the Buciero massif to the east, offering a natural environment of great beauty.
Natural beauty and activities
Berria Beach stands out for its waters with moderate waves and constant winds, making it ideal for practicing sports like surfing and beach volleyball. To the north, the beach opens to the sea, while to the south are the Santoña marshes, a place of great natural interest.
Hiking and adventure
If you are a fan of hiking, you will find several marked routes that you can explore around Mount Buciero. However, keep in mind that the descent on foot to the Caballo Lighthouse involves going down more than 500 steps. If you prefer a less demanding option, especially if you are traveling with children, a boat excursion is just as beautiful and safe.
History and culture
In addition to its natural attractions, Berria Beach is surrounded by a rich cultural heritage. Near the beach are the Santoña marshes, an ecosystem of great ecological importance and a popular destination for nature lovers and bird watching. The proximity to Santoña allows you to enjoy its local cuisine, famous for its anchovies, sardines, and bonito del norte. Several local canneries offer guided tours and tastings, providing the opportunity to take home some of these delicious products.
Plan your Vacation in Cantabria
Cantabria is an ideal destination for a family vacation, offering an impressive variety of beaches and outdoor activities. It is a quintessential sun and beach destination, but you can’t forget about our gastronomy. The experience wouldn’t be complete without trying our culinary delights, and we have numerous gluten-free options so that everyone can enjoy without worries.
To move around with total freedom and make the most of your visit, we recommend coming with your own car or, if you arrive by plane or train, renting a car as soon as you land. Although we are not proud of it, the truth is that public transport in our province is somewhat limited.
So, what are you waiting for? Prepare your trip to Cantabria and create unforgettable memories with your family! With its beautiful beaches, rich history, and delicious gastronomy, Cantabria awaits you to offer you a unique and unforgettable vacation experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most beautiful coastal town in Cantabria?
It’s very hard to pick just one, but for us the best are: Comillas, San Vicente de la Barquera, Somo, and Loredo. These towns are very touristy in summer, so don’t hesitate to visit them.
What are the most beautiful towns to spend the summer in Cantabria?
The most beautiful towns to spend the summer in Cantabria are: Santillana del Mar, Comillas, San Vicente de la Barquera, Caviedes, Castro Urdiales, Laredo, Somo, Loredo, villages in the Pasiega region like Puente Viesgo, Castañeda, Villacarriedo, and many others.
What is the best beach in Cantabria to go to with children?
We can’t recommend just one beach. Beaches in Santander like El Sardinero, Los Peligros, Bikinis, Magdalena beach, or El Camello are ideal for going with children; we usually go to Bikinis. Outside of Santander, we recommend the beach in Comillas, Oyambre, Laredo, or Trengandín in Noja.
Is it easy to eat gluten-free near the beaches of Cantabria?
Yes, it’s getting easier all the time. Near Valdearenas beach, in Liencres, the restaurant La Casona de Juntad has its own gluten-free bread and prepares burgers, fried squid, and calamari suitable for celiacs. Plus, in El Sardinero you can enjoy gluten-free ice cream at Regma. You’ll find more recommendations across the region in our guide to gluten-free dining in Cantabria.
