Audio Guide of El Puntal Beach

El Puntal Beach is a natural beach and, as such, it has no opening or closing hours; it is accessible 24 hours a day. To get there, the most common option is to take one of the boats or ferry launches from the Santander pier, which will drop you directly on the sand. It is also possible to reach it on foot from Pedreña, but only at low tide.

No, access to El Puntal Beach is completely free, as it is a public beach. However, you will need to pay for a ticket if you choose to use the boats or ferry launches from Santander to cross the bay, with prices around €3–4 per trip.

It depends on what you are looking for: for a simple walk, 1 or 2 hours will be enough. If you plan to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic, you could easily spend a full morning or afternoon there, around 3 to 5 hours, enjoying the surroundings and the views of Santander.

El Puntal Beach is especially significant because it is one of the few natural beaches facing Santander Bay, formed by a shifting sandbar. Its importance lies in its dune ecosystem, a protected natural area of great ecological value that serves as a refuge for various species of seabirds.

Summer is the ideal time to enjoy swimming and sunshine, especially from June to September. If you are looking for peace and stunning scenery, spring and autumn are perfect, helping you avoid the crowds. Early in the morning or at sunset are the most magical times for a walk, with spectacular light over the bay.

Due to its rustic nature and the main access by boat directly onto the sand, El Puntal Beach has limitations for people with reduced mobility. It does not have adapted walkways or specific accessibility services. The soft sand and the need to disembark from the boats make access more difficult.

Once in the bay, you can visit Santander and its iconic landmarks such as the Magdalena Palace, the Centro Botín or the Cabo Mayor Park. If you access it from Pedreña, you can enjoy the golf course or its picturesque village with views over the bay.

Bring sun protection, a cap, and comfortable footwear, as you will be walking on sand. Do not forget something to drink and eat, as there are not many services on the beach. If you are visiting in high season, try to go early to secure a good spot. And of course, do not forget your camera to capture the stunning views of Santander from the bay.