3 Best Sights in San Sebastian, The Basque Country, Navarra, and La Rioja

San Sebastián's crown jewel is this sandy stretch that curls around the uninhabited Isla Santa Clara. One of the most famous urban beaches in the world, La Concha is filled day and night, rain or shine, with locals and tourists who go to swim, jog, stroll, and admire sand sculptures. The beach has clean, pale sand and few rocks or seaweed—but scant shade, near the promenade wall. Lounge chairs are available for rent. The calm surf makes it a favorite pick for families. Amenities: lifeguards; showers; toilets. Best for: sunrise; sunset; walking.

For a stroll through and under some 6,000 marine animals—ranging from tiger sharks to sea turtles, with one participative pool where kids are encouraged to touch and try to pick up fish—the aquarium is a great rainy-day activity. The illustrated history of Basque whaling and boatbuilding is also fascinating.

You can visit this uninhabited island that rises from the center of La Concha's bay and shields it from high swells. Ferries (around €8 round-trip) run from the mainland every 30 minutes and are packed on summer weekends. Reaching the island from the beach is a fun challenge for experienced swimmers. There's a small bar at the ferry dock and lifeguard service at a beach that reveals itself only at low tide. Bring sturdy sandals as the coastline is rocky. Within the lighthouse is a 15-ton bronze fountain called Hondalea ("Sea Floor"), by Basque sculptor Cristina Iglesias; unveiled in 2021 and open only on select dates (see website), its whooshing flows are meant to mimic the tides.