Playa de Mer贸n is a well-known and popular beach in the town of San Vicente de la Barquera, in the region of Cantabria, Spain. It is situated three kilometers away from the town center, with clear signs indicating the entrances, and can be reached by crossing the Punte de La Maza and taking the seaside promenade along the San Vicente estuary.
The beach is characterized by its significant sandy area, extending to a length of 3,000 meters and a width of 40 meters. The sand is of a pristine white color, and the beach is known for its strong waves and windy conditions, making it an ideal spot for surfing enthusiasts.
Adding to its natural beauty is its location within the Oyambre Natural Park. This contributes to the presence of interesting sand dunes and characteristic vegetation on the beach, making it a haven for nature lovers. Despite its semi-urban development, the beach does not have a seaside promenade and its coastal facade maintains a semi-urban appearance.
Playa de Mer贸n is equipped with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for beachgoers. These include toilets, showers, a surf practice area, a children's playground, trash bins, and a sports area. Safety measures have also been put in place, with warning signs and flags indicating potential dangers, and both human and material resources available for rescue and assistance. For emergencies, visitors can call the number 112.
Accessibility is a key feature of Playa de Mer贸n, with facilities adapted for people with reduced mobility. The beach can be reached by car, with an unpaved parking area providing more than 100 spaces for vehicles. Additionally, there is an interurban bus service that connects the cities of Santander and San Vicente de la Barquera.
Despite its popularity, Playa de Mer贸n does not offer rental services for hammocks, umbrellas, or water sports equipment. There is also no tourist office or food and beverage establishments on the beach.
Playa de Mer贸n can get crowded, especially during peak periods, due to its popularity among locals and tourists alike. However, its size ensures that visitors can still find a spot to enjoy their day. A word of caution for swimmers, though - the beach can sometimes be full of small floating algae.
