Colunga Beaches

Overview

Nestled in Asturias, Spain, Colunga is a delightful destination for beach lovers, particularly appealing for families. Its Cantabrian Sea coastline boasts beautiful beaches with generally clean and crystalline waters, inviting for a swim. A key characteristic of this coast is the significant tidal variation, which dramatically reshapes the sandy stretches and reveals hidden wonders throughout the day.

Among Colunga's highlights is Playa de La Griega, renowned for its remarkable dinosaur footprints and its suitability for children. For stunning views, Playa de la Isla captivates with its characteristic islet and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for picturesque walks. Surfers often head to the expansive Playa de La Espasa, known for its good conditions, while the iconic Asturian beach, Playa de Rodiles - Rodiles, is well worth considering for a day trip to experience its vast golden sands.

Near the charming fishing village of Lastres, you'll also find the noteworthy Playa de Lastres. Colunga truly presents a diverse range of coastal experiences, from unique geological sites to shores ideal for family enjoyment and scenic beauty. For a comprehensive look at all the coastal gems Colunga has to offer, be sure to explore our longer list of beaches in this guide.

Top Beaches

FAQ

Is Colunga a good destination for a family beach holiday?

Yes, Colunga is considered a good destination for families. Beaches like La Griega are highlighted as ideal for children due to the formation of natural pools at low tide and good facilities. Playa de La Isla is also recommended for families.

Playa de La Griega

Playa de la Isla

What is the best time of year to visit Colunga for a beach holiday?

The best time for beach activities in Colunga is generally from late July to late August, when the weather is typically clearest and temperatures are perceived to be between 24°C and 32°C. However, the summer months of June, July, and August are popular.

Can you swim in the beaches of Colunga? What is the water like?

Yes, you can swim in the beaches of Colunga. The waters of the Cantabrian Sea are described as healthy and generally clean and crystalline. Water temperatures in summer can be around 18-20°C. Some beaches may experience moderate to strong waves, so caution is advised depending on the specific beach and conditions.

Are there beaches in Colunga with dinosaur footprints?

Yes, Playa de La Griega is famous for its dinosaur footprints. There is a path leading to the ichnites, which are among the largest discovered in the world. This makes it a unique beach attraction.

Playa de La Griega

Are dogs allowed on Colunga beaches?

Generally, dogs and other domestic animals are prohibited on the beaches of Colunga during the main bathing season, which typically runs from June 1st or July 1st to September 30th, depending on the specific regulation cited. Outside of these dates, access may be permitted. Playa El Escanu in Lastres has been mentioned as accessible for dogs, but it's always best to check current local regulations.

What are the tide conditions like at Colunga beaches and why is it important?

The beaches in Colunga, like much of the Asturian coast, experience significant tidal variations. It's important because the beach landscape can change dramatically between high and low tide, affecting the available space, access to certain areas (like the dinosaur footprints at La Griega or the tombolo at Playa de La Isla), and the formation of natural pools.

Playa de La Griega

Playa de la Isla

Which beaches in Colunga are good for surfing?

Playa de La Espasa is often mentioned as a good beach for surfing in the Colunga area and even has a surf school. Playa de La Isla can also be suitable for surfing, particularly in autumn and winter with a northwest swell.

Playa de La Espasa

Playa de la Isla

How do Colunga's beaches compare to those in Ribadesella?

Both Colunga and Ribadesella offer beautiful Asturian beaches. Colunga is known for Playa de La Griega with its dinosaur footprints and family-friendly atmosphere, and the scenic Playa de La Isla. Ribadesella boasts the iconic and expansive Playa de Santa Marina, popular for its urban setting and services, and Playa de Vega, known for its natural beauty and surf. The choice depends on preferences for specific features like dinosaur coast, urban convenience, or particular surf conditions.

Playa de La Griega

Playa de la Isla

Playa de Santa Marina

People Also Ask

Are there facilities like showers and toilets at Colunga beaches?

Yes, several beaches in Colunga offer facilities. For example, Playa de La Griega has showers, toilets, and accessibility features. Playa de La Isla and Playa de Lastres also generally have services like showers and toilets. However, smaller or more remote coves may not.

Playa de La Griega

Playa de la Isla

Playa de Lastres

What is Playa de Lastres like?

Playa de Lastres, also known as Playa del Astilleru, is located near the picturesque fishing village of Lastres. It's a beach of sand and pebbles, sheltered by cliffs. It offers services like lifeguards, showers, and toilets. The beach can be fully covered during high tides.

Playa de Lastres

Are there any nudist beaches in or near Colunga?

While there isn't a specifically designated nudist beach directly in Colunga itself according to most general tourist information, some beaches in the broader Asturian region are known to be nudist-friendly or have nudist sections. For instance, Playa de Vega in nearby Ribadesella is sometimes mentioned as naturist-friendly. It's always best to inquire locally or observe customs.

What are 'chiringuitos' and can I find them on Colunga's beaches?

Chiringuitos are beachside bars or small restaurants, often serving drinks and local food. Yes, you can find chiringuitos on some of Colunga's beaches, such as Playa de La Griega (e.g., Vista Alegre, Afayaízu) and Playa de La Isla (e.g., El Furacu, Fitomar nearby at La Espasa). They offer a chance to enjoy local gastronomy with sea views.

Playa de La Griega

Playa de la Isla

Playa de La Espasa

How accessible are Colunga's main beaches, for example, for families with strollers or people with reduced mobility?

Playa de La Griega is noted for having good accessibility, including a platform for easier access for those with reduced mobility or strollers. Playa de La Isla also has good access. Main beaches generally have parking and pathways, but accessibility can vary for more secluded spots.

Playa de La Griega

Playa de la Isla

Is it easy to find parking near Colunga's beaches?

Most of the main beaches in Colunga, such as Playa de La Griega, Playa de La Isla, and Playa de Lastres, have parking areas. However, during peak season (especially July and August), these can fill up, so arriving early is recommended.

Playa de La Griega

Playa de la Isla

Playa de Lastres

Apart from swimming and sunbathing, what else can you do at Playa de La Griega?

Besides swimming and sunbathing, Playa de La Griega is famous for its dinosaur footprints, which you can visit via a short coastal path. The river Libardón flows into the sea here, creating an interesting landscape. At low tide, natural pools form, which are great for children. There are also chiringuitos for food and drinks, and the beach offers views of Lastres.

Playa de La Griega