Playa de El Puntal is a scenic beach located in the Municipality of Marina de Cudeyo in Cantabria, Spain. This municipality, which has a population of over 5100 residents and spans an area of 27.1 square kilometers, is nestled to the south of the Bay of Santander and is surrounded by water bodies including the Bay of Santander, the Cubas estuary, and the San Salvador estuary. These water resources contribute to the area's rich ecosystem, supporting activities such as shellfish harvesting, particularly clams and razor clams.
The beach itself is a tranquil spot, known for its warmer waters and quieter ambiance as compared to the main beaches of Santander. This is attributed to its location, which is shielded from the wind on one side. One of its unique features is its accessibility, primarily by ferry, which adds to its charm and exclusivity. This, coupled with a pet-friendly policy, makes Playa de El Puntal a popular destination for both local inhabitants and visitors.
The beach is not just a place for relaxation, but also for recreational activities. It is a popular spot for surfing enthusiasts, offering an ideal environment for learning the sport. Despite its popularity, the beach maintains a peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene beach experience. However, it's important to note that the beach lacks certain amenities such as showers and sheds.
The natural beauty of Playa de El Puntal is not just confined to the beach. The surrounding area boasts typical marsh vegetation such as Salicornia, wild birch trees, and interesting fern species. The margins of the Cubas estuary are home to marsh vegetation, and the nearby island of Pedrosa is home to various tree species, including large cypresses, Monterey cypress, oak trees, and dense stands of eucalyptus trees.
The area is also rich in fauna, with marine species such as clams, cockles, mussels, limpets, and periwinkles found in the Miera estuary and the Bay of Santander. A variety of aquatic birds, such as cranes, spoonbills, herons, grebes, egrets, cormorants, storks, sandpipers, and blackbirds, are also found in the area, adding to the biodiversity of the region.
