Location
Spain
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
June to September
About Playa del Puntal
El Puntal is a long sand spit across the bay from Santander, in Ribamontán al Mar (Cantabria), with the open sea on one side and the calm water of the bay on the other. It continues east into Somo beach and then Loredo, forming one of the largest sand systems in Cantabria. The Spanish Naturist Federation lists El Puntal as a nude beach and says the most nude section lies just across the dunes from the passenger-boat jetty. The spit is about 4.5 km long and up to 120 m wide, with golden sand, strong waves and wind on the seaward side, low occupancy and summer lifeguards. From the sand there are views across to Santander and the Magdalena palace. Its length makes it ideal for long nude walks or runs. There is no shade.
Getting there
The easiest way is the passenger boat from Santander, which leaves from beside the Centro Botín roughly every 10 minutes in summer and takes about 10 minutes to the El Puntal jetty (FEN quoted €4.10 return in 2020). From the jetty, cross the dunes to reach the nude section. Alternatively, drive to Somo, park and walk west along the beach to El Puntal. The dune crossing is on soft sand.
Amenities
Legal context
Public nudity is not an offence under Spanish national law, and FEN lists El Puntal as a nude beach; other guides mention a signposted nude sector. No local ban is known (2026).
Naturism at Playa del Puntal 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. 43.4574, -3.7771
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
How do I get to El Puntal?
Take the passenger boat from Santander (about 10 minutes), or walk west along Somo beach.
Where is the nude area?
Just across the dunes from the boat jetty, according to FEN.
Is the sea calm?
On the bay side, yes; the open-sea side has strong waves and wind.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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