3 Best Sights in Bilbao and the Basque Country, Spain

San Sebastián's shell-shaped main beach is one of the most famous urban beaches in the world. Night and day, rain or shine, it's filled with locals and tourists alike, strolling and taking in the city's skyline and the uninhabited Isla de Santa Clara just offshore. Several hotels line its curved expanse including the grande dame Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra. The beach has clean, pale sand and few rocks or seaweed, but only a bit of shade, near the promenade wall. Lounge chairs are available for rent. The calm surf makes it a favorite pick for families. Amenities: lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; sunset; walking.

This beach is said to have the longest break in Europe and among the best in the world, making it a magnet for surfers. In summer and fall this beach is off-limits to families who just want to splash around. Inland from the beach is the Urdaibai Natural Preserve, a UNESCO-designated biosphere. Amenities: lifeguards; water sports. Best for: surfing.

Across the Urumea River from La Concha lies this sprawling, less touristy beach. Exposed to the open Atlantic, the beach boasts waves that are sometimes big enough to surf—and occasionally too dangerous for kids. Amenities: lifeguards; water sports. Best for: surfing.