Playa de los Bikinis is a well-known beach located in the eastern part of Santander, a city in northern Spain. It is situated on the Península de la Magdalena, and access to the beach is granted through the Magdalena Palace. The name "Playa de los Bikinis" was inspired by the foreign students from the Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo, who began wearing bikinis on the beach in the 1960s, a trend that was previously unobserved in Spain.
The beach stretches over 650 meters in length on the south side of the peninsula, with an average width of 35 meters. The shoreline is faced by two islands known as Torre (Tower Island) and Horadada. The beach is surrounded by an urban area and features a promenade.
Playa de los Bikinis is characterized by its fine, golden sand and calm waters. The terrain is rocky, and there is also a grassy area where visitors can sit and relax. The beach is typically less crowded compared to other beaches in Santander, making it a preferred spot for young people and tourists.
The beach is equipped with several amenities to ensure the comfort and safety of its visitors. These include showers and lifeguard services. There is also a Red Cross station for emergencies, and the nearest hospital, Marques de Valdecilla, is located just 3 kilometers away in Santander. Other facilities such as toilets, telephones, and trash bins are available, along with cleaning services.
For those visiting by car, a parking area is provided approximately 200 meters from the beach. There are also signs indicating the way to the beach. Additionally, the beach is accessible by public transportation, with a bus service available. The closest transportation route is the S-20. The beach is also equipped for disabled access, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beautiful location.
