La Zurriola Beach (La Zurri), also known as Gros beach, is a hidden gem in the vibrant city of Donostia – San Sebastián. Located between the mouth of the Urumea River and Mount Ulía, this beach extends for about 800 meters, offering a natural spectacle that anyone will fall in love with.
History
To understand the current configuration of the Zuriola, we have to go back to its history. In the 19th century, the beach was known for its large sandbanks, located between the mouth of the Urumea River and Mount Ulía. However, due to the violence of its waters, there was little use of the beach
It was from the first decade of the 20th century that real tourist interest in the beach was recorded, in part due to the proliferation of hotels in the area1. Despite this, the beach had such powerful waves that it was practically unusable.
The significant transformation of Zurriola beach occurred in the 1990s. In 1994, local authorities undertook a series of reforms to make the beach a more accessible and safer place. These reforms included the construction of a breakwater, which managed to increase the length of the beach and calm its waters enough to make them suitable for swimming.
Thanks to these reforms, the beach increased its length, its waters became suitable for bathing and its use multiplied5. Zurriola beach, which was previously made up of large sandbanks and was known for its strong waves, became an ideal place for lovers of water sports.
Today, Zurriola Beach is a vibrant and lively place, known for being a surfer’s paradise and a meeting place for locals and visitors. Its story is a testimony of how human intervention can transform a natural space to make it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Location
La Zurriola is located in the Gros neighborhood, in the beautiful Basque city of San Sebastián, in the province of Gipuzkoa. One of its unique features is that it is the only beach in San Sebastián that is not located in the popular La Concha Bay.
Surf in la Zurriola
Zurriola beach is a true paradise for surfers. Known for its quality waves, this beach offers a variety of conditions that make it ideal for surfers of all levels.
La Zurriola has several peaks, each with its own characteristics. The right of Monpas and El Centro stands out, with intense rights and lefts. Monpas can generate good tube sections and is the strongest wave, while El Centro generates mainly lefts at low tide and good rights as the tide rises.
In addition to these two areas, there are other peaks along the beach that offer different types of waves, allowing surfers to choose based on their skill level and the conditions of the day.
La Zurriola is also a place of learning. There are several surf schools in the area offering beginner lessons and equipment rentals. This makes it an ideal place for those who want to learn to surf or improve their skills.
But what really distinguishes Zurriola is its atmosphere. The beach is usually packed with local and visiting surfers, creating a vibrant and friendly atmosphere. It’s not uncommon to see groups of friends sharing waves, cheering each other on, and enjoying the spirit of surfing.
Zurriola beach offers a unique combination of quality waves, a variety of conditions and a friendly atmosphere, making it a top-level surfing destination in Donostia – San Sebastián. Whether you are an experienced surfer looking for your next big wave, or a beginner who wants to learn to surf, Zurriola has something for you.
Anecdotes
Zurriola beach has been the scene of some concerts at the San Sebastián Jazz Festival and Bodyboarding, surfing, skateboarding competitions and similar events. Furthermore, the arrival of the second stage of the 2023 Tour de France took place on the edge of this beach, near the Kursaal Palace, on July 2, 2023. Since 2004, the practice of nudism has been allowed, being one of the few Spanish urban beaches that allow it.
La Zurriola, a meeting place
Zurriola beach is not only a place for surfers, but also a meeting place for locals and visitors. Here, you can see people playing beach volleyball, practicing sunrise yoga, or simply enjoying the sun. In addition, the beach has facilities such as showers, changing rooms and surfboard rental services.
Events and festivals
Zurriola Beach is not only a place to enjoy the sun and sea, but also a vibrant setting for a variety of events and festivals held throughout the year.
One of the most notable events is the San Sebastián Jazz Festival, held every year in July. This festival attracts internationally renowned musicians and music lovers from all over the world. During the festival, Zurriola beach becomes an open-air stage, where free concerts are held. Visitors can enjoy live music while relaxing on the sand or swimming in the sea. It is a truly unique experience that combines the natural beauty of the beach with the excitement of live music.
In addition to the Jazz Festival, Zurriola also hosts surfing competitions, such as the European Projunior ASP event. This event attracts young surfers from all over Europe, who come to compete in the excellent surf conditions of Zurriola. It’s an exciting sight to see these young talents riding the waves, and always draws a large crowd of spectators.
But that is not all. Throughout the year, a series of other events and festivals are held in Zurriola. These include beach volleyball competitions, beach soccer tournaments and sunrise yoga classes. There are also cultural events, such as film screenings and local music concerts.
Zurri Beach is a hive of activity all year round. No matter when you decide to visit, you will always find something exciting to do in Zurriola. So the next time you are in Donostia – San Sebastián, be sure to check the Zurriola events calendar. Who knows, you might end up participating in a beach volleyball tournament or dancing to jazz under the stars!
La Zurriola at night
La Zurriola is equally charming at night. When the sun sets, the beach is illuminated by the city lights, creating a magical atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy a quiet night walk while listening to the sound of the waves. Nearby bars and restaurants offer a wide variety of options for dinner or drinks, making La Zurriola the perfect place to end the day. Whether you prefer a quiet walk on the beach or dinner at one of the local restaurants, Zurriola offers you an unforgettable nighttime experience.
Conclusion
Zurriola beach is much more than a beach. It is a meeting place, a setting for events and festivals, an open-air cinema and a surfer’s paradise. If you visit Donostia – San Sebastián, don’t miss the opportunity to discover Zurriola and everything it has to offer.
I hope this article has helped you get to know Zurriola beach better. If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’d love to hear from you!
More information;
https://www.gipuzkoaturismoa.eus/es/-/playa-zurriola
https://turismo.euskadi.eus/es/playas-embalses-rios/playa-de-la-zurriola/aa30-12375/es/
