The western continuation of La Concha beach, Ondarreta is slightly quieter and more residential, backed by the Peine del Viento sculpture at its far end. The beach is beloved by San Sebastián families and has a more local feel than the busier La Concha.
Playa de Ondarreta forms the western continuation of the famous La Concha bay in San Sebastián, Basque Country, separated from its more celebrated neighbour by a small rocky outcrop near the Royal Sailing Club. Though shorter than La Concha — stretching roughly 500 metres — Ondarreta has a loyal following among local families and residents of the Antiguo neighbourhood, giving it a markedly less touristy atmosphere even at the height of summer. The sand here is golden and medium-grain, similar in character to La Concha but slightly darker. The beach is backed by the Paseo de Ondarreta, a quieter extension of the famous promenade. The bay remains sheltered and the waters generally calm, though the position slightly closer to the open mouth of the bay means a touch more breeze is possible at the western end. Conditions are gentle enough for children and non-swimmers, and the shallow gradient allows wading close to the shore on most days. Water colour ranges from blue-green to a deeper blue on clear days, with good clarity during summer months. The defining landmark at the far western end of the beach is the Peine del Viento, or Comb of the Wind — a celebrated series of sculptures created by Basque artist Eduardo Chillida in 1977. Three large steel claws are embedded in the rocks at the base of Monte Igueldo, designed to interact with the Atlantic wind and spray. The installation is freely accessible at all times and is one of the most photographed cultural sites in the Basque Country. At very high tide and during Atlantic storms, jets of seawater erupt through blowholes in the surrounding rocks, creating dramatic natural spectacles. The funicular to Monte Igueldo departs from a terminus just inland from the western end of the beach, offering another attraction within easy reach. Amenities include sunbed and umbrella rentals, showers, changing rooms, and lifeguards from June through September. Several café-terraces line the promenade. Parking in the area is limited in summer; arrival on foot or by city bus is strongly recommended.
Amenities
- sunbed rental
- showers
- changing rooms
- lifeguards
- beach cafes
Good to know
- Best for
- families, couples, photographers, sunbathers
Highlights
- Eduardo Chillida's Peine del Viento sculpture — three steel claws embedded in Atlantic rocks — a landmark of Basque modernism, freely accessible
- Quieter and more local in atmosphere than neighbouring La Concha, even during peak summer
- Golden sandy bay with calm sheltered water suitable for families and young children
- Gateway to the Monte Igueldo funicular railway and hilltop amusement park at the western end
- Promenade café-terraces with sea views and a relaxed pace away from Parte Vieja crowds
Tips for visiting
- Visit the Peine del Viento sculpture in the early morning for dramatic light and without the crowds that gather later in the day.
- Winter and autumn storms produce spectacular blowhole eruptions around the Chillida sculpture — safe to watch from the adjacent viewing platform.
- The western end of the beach nearest Monte Igueldo can be breezier; set up further east for calmer conditions.
- Park near the Aquarium and walk the promenade west — parking immediately behind Ondarreta is extremely limited in summer.
- Combine the beach with a ride on the Monte Igueldo funicular for panoramic views over the full bay — the funicular station is a five-minute walk from the sculpture.
When to visit
July through early September offers the best combination of warm water, long daylight hours, and active beach amenities. The Peine del Viento sculpture is most dramatic during winter Atlantic storms, but the beach itself is cold and sparsely used outside the summer season.
Accessibility
The Paseo de Ondarreta promenade is flat and accessible for wheelchair users. Ramped access to the sand exists at several points. The area around the Peine del Viento sculpture at the beach's western end involves some rocky and uneven ground that is not easily navigable by wheelchair. The Monte Igueldo funicular has step access at the base station.
Frequently asked questions
How is Ondarreta different from La Concha beach?
Ondarreta is the western continuation of the same La Concha bay, separated by a rocky spur. It is shorter, quieter, and has a more residential character, with the added cultural draw of the Peine del Viento sculpture by Eduardo Chillida at its far western end.
Is the Peine del Viento sculpture at Ondarreta free to visit?
Yes — the sculpture is set into the rocks at the foot of Monte Igueldo and is freely accessible at all times of day and year. The surrounding viewing platform is open without charge.
Are there facilities and lifeguards at Playa de Ondarreta?
Yes — sunbed rental, showers, changing rooms, and lifeguard patrols operate from June through September, comparable to La Concha beach next door.
Is the water at Ondarreta suitable for children?
The bay is sheltered and the water is generally calm and shallow at the shore, making it suitable for children. The western end near the Peine del Viento is slightly more exposed to Atlantic breeze and occasional chop.