Galicia is one of the most remarkable regions in Spain, with some of the most beautiful beaches and famous cities such as Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, and Vigo. Located in the northwest of Spain, it is often overlooked in favor of more mainstream destinations. I’ve been traveling across Spain tens of times, but this journey along Galicia’s coast has led me to discover stunning natural wonders – National Geographic has even named the Galician islands the European Caribbean. Here are the best beaches in Galicia, something you never imagined existed across the European shores.
Finding the best beaches in Galicia!
I took a road trip using public transportation to explore cities in Galicia and the Galician country. I flew to Lisbon and took a train to Vigo, to travel by public transport from Vigo – Santiago de Compostella – Cies Islands – A Coruna – Ribadeo – Playa de Las Catedrales – Bilbao.
Playa de las Catedrales.
Playa de las Catedrales is considered one of the world’s most beautiful beaches. It’s located near the town of Ribadeo, and it’s a highlight of Galicia.
Playa de las Catedrales is widely considered a top natural attraction in Spain and is frequently featured in travel guides.
The beach is known for dramatic rock formations (nearly 30 meters high) and cliffs that resemble the soaring ceilings of a cathedral. Playa Catedrales is spectacular; it’s one of the most amazing beaches in Galicia.
VISITING TIP: To access in summer, it is necessary to make a prior reservation. Visit the beach during low tide, which allows walking beneath the towering cliffs and under iconic rock formations, exploring hidden coves. However – it is essential to check the tides before you go!
Visiting Playa de las Catedrales.
Check the tide before visiting Playa de las Catedrales – this is the most crucial step. The rock formations are only accessible at low tide. During high tide, the entire beach is covered by the sea.
Always watch for rising water levels, as high tide can trap you in the caves and passages!
Consider wearing water shoes to protect your feet from slipping on rocks.
Where to stay near Playa de las Catedrales:
Located a 2-minutes walk from Playa de las Catedrales is Hotel Las Catedrales.
HOTEL: Hotel Las Catedrales in Barreiros offers direct beachfront access with stunning sea views!
HOLIDAY HOME: Casa Icaro in San Miguel de Reinante – 10 minutes walk to the beach.
APARTMENTS: Casa Guillermo in Reinante, 4 4-minute walk from the beach.
How to get to Playa de las Catedrales by public transport?
- Take a Renfe train on the Ferrol-Xixón line.
- Get off at the Esteiro (or Esteiro-A Devesa) station.
- Walk to the beach – from the train station, it’s about a 15-20 minute walk to the beach entrance.
- From Ribadeo: Take a local bus from the Ribadeo Bus Station (Ribadeo E.A.).
- From Foz: You can also find daily bus departures from Foz.
- Your bus should drop you at or near the Campamento bus stop on the N634 road.
- Walk to the beach: From the Campamento stop, it’s approximately a 20-minute walk to the beach.
SEASONAL SHUTTLES
Ribadeo Tourist Office: During peak season (June to September), a shuttle bus service runs from the tourist office in Ribadeo directly to the beach access point.
Playa de Rodas.
To enjoy one of the best beaches in Galicia, you need to travel to the Cies Islands. Not many people know about this Spanish Archipelago known As The ‘Caribbean of Europe’.
Playa de Rodas in the Cíes Islands is a slice of paradise with crystal-clear water, accessible only by boat. It is located in the heart of the Atlantic Islands National Park. There are several hiking trails across the islands, some leading to the island’s natural lookout points. The panoramic views over the Atlantic are breathless. Hiking maps displayed on many road signs across the island.
Cies Islands - the Caribbean of Europe!
To find a cumulation of the best beaches in Galicia, you need to travel to the Cies Islands, once called “Islands of the Gods”.
Atlantic Islands of Galicia National Park is a highly protected area, with a limited number of visitors daily, with 2000. “Galician Caribbean” is a natural paradise due to its stunning white sandy beaches and amazing azure waters.
The Archipelago is made up of 3 main islands: Monteagudo, O Faro and San Martino.
How to get to Cies Islands?
To get to the Cíes Islands, you must take a ferry from Vigo, Cangas or Baiona.
First, you will need to obtain an authorization through the Xunta de Galicia website and then book your ferry ticket with a ferry company. The ferry journey takes approximately 45 minutes from Vigo to Cies islands, where you can spend a whole day hiking and sunbathing.
Praia de Carnota - the longest beach in Galicia.
Praia de Carnota is one of my favourite beaches in Galicia, as it is set against a backdrop of the majestic Monte Pindo mountains.
It’s probably the longest beach in Galicia stretching, for over 7 kilometers. Located in the province of A Coruña, the beach is known for its white sand and dunes. It is less crowded than some of the more famous beaches, and it’s perfect for long kite flying and enjoying nature.
Playa de A Lanzada - Vigo.
Playa de Samil in Vigo is a perfect, lively spot and one of the most beautiful beaches in Galicia. This sprawling beach offers a variety of beach bars, restaurants, and sports facilities.
It’s a long, beautiful, sandy city beach, perfect for families, with a paved promenade.
Praia de San Xurxo.
Playa de las Conchas is a true paradise but it is not generally recommended for swimming due to its strong, dangerous currents and high waves that make it more suitable for surfing and other water sports.
Praia de San Xurxo (also called San Jorge Beach). The beach is safe for swimming when conditions are calm. San Jorge Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Galicia and one of the best open beaches I’ve seen in Spain.
Praia de Lanzada.
Praia de Lanzada is one of the most spectacular beaches in Galicia – first of all for its crystal clear water, the beach is spacious, easily accessible, with parking, which all makes it a great spot for families and tourists.
Located between the municipalities of Sanxenxo and O Grove
It also has historical significance with the nearby Lanzada Tower, a 16th-century watchtower built to protect the coast against pirates.
Tips for Visiting Galicia’s Beaches.
TIMING: The best time to visit Galicia’s beaches is from late spring to early autumn, when the weather is mild and the sea is warmer. However, the summer months can be crowded. May, June, or September are much quieter.
TIDE: Some beaches, particularly Praia das Catedrais, are heavily influenced by tides.
LOCAL CUISINE: Galicia has one of the most delicious food I’ve had in Spain. Try Galician seafood such as octopus (pulpo), clams, and fresh fish at beachside restaurants.
TRANSPORTATION: Public transport options are available but renting a car gives you more freedom to explore remote beaches. Here is all you need to know about car hire in Spain.
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