Location
Spain
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
July to September
About Playa de La Arena - Los Nudistas
La Arena, also called Los Nudistas, is a small beach at the mouth of the Ría de Ajo in Arnuero, eastern Cantabria, a little over 1 km from the village of Isla. It sits within the Marismas de Santoña, Victoria y Joyel Natural Park. The beach is about 150 m of golden sand with calm water, and trees grow out of the rocks around its edges. A campsite stands next to it. FEN describes it as very suitable for families, and it holds a Blue Flag. Lifeguards are on duty in season, and beach bars operate nearby. The 'Los Nudistas' name reflects its long-standing nude use, though it is a quiet, mixed beach rather than an exclusively naturist one.
Getting there
La Arena is just outside Isla (Arnuero), reached by the CA-448 road. There is a free car park with about 200 spaces, two of them for disabled drivers, and the beach has AENOR-certified accessible access. Interurban buses serve Isla. The walk from the car park to the sand is short and easy.
Amenities
Legal context
Spain has no national law against nudity in public. La Arena – Los Nudistas is used nude by custom and listed by the Spanish Naturist Federation. It lies within a regional natural park and Natura 2000 area, where environmental rules apply.
Naturism at Playa de La Arena - Los Nudistas sits under Spain's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: Spain public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 43.5017, -3.5851
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in Spain
Frequently asked questions
Is nudity accepted at La Arena?
Yes. It is known locally as Los Nudistas and is listed by the Spanish Naturist Federation.
Is it suitable for families?
Yes. The water is calm, there are lifeguards in season and there is a campsite next door.
Is there parking?
Yes, a free car park with about 200 spaces, including two for disabled drivers.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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