San Sebastian Boat Trip

This boat trip crosses La Concha Bay in San Sebastián and reaches the island of Santa Clara. At this point, there are two options: disembark to explore the rocky outcrop or remain on board and return to the city. The trip takes place on a boat with a transparent floor, allowing you to admire the marine life. As for frequency, trips depart every half hour.

Once on board, you’ll have a complete view of San Sebastián’s skyline. The following monuments and buildings are clearly visible from the boat:

• La Concha Beach – The city’s most iconic postcard view. It is considered one of the best urban beaches in the world
• Town Hall – An elegant building inspired by the Monte Carlo Casino
• Urgull – A hill on the eastern side of the bay. In the past, it was a military post that protected the city
• La Perla Thalassotherapy Centre – A splendid Belle Époque spa
• Peine del Viento – Three sculptures clinging to the rocks. Here the waves crash violently, creating a spectacular display of water and foam. It was designed by San Sebastián-born artist Eduardo Chillida
• Igueldo – Another hill overlooking San Sebastián. Here you’ll find an amusement park and a restaurant with breathtaking views
• Miramar Palace – The former summer residence of Queen María Cristina of Austria

The island of Santa Clara dominates the bay of San Sebastián. At its summit stands the lighthouse, built in 1864, which is easily reached via a short walk. From here, you can enjoy a splendid panoramic view of the coast. This is also the site of the Hondalea art installation, which in Basque means ‘abyss in the sea’. Created by local artist Cristina Iglesias, it highlights the importance of the environment. In fact, it is designed to blend into the natural surroundings, becoming a habitat for the marine species that thrive on the island. To visit, you must book in advance via the official website.

The lighthouse isn’t the island’s only attraction. It also features a natural swimming pool, a bar/restaurant, picnic tables and a tiny beach that only appears at low tide. For the return journey, you simply need to wait for the next boat back to San Sebastián.