Although it was late November, we were lucky enough to have a sunny-ish, warm-ish day forecast in San Sebastian. We decided to take advantage and see some of the outdoor activities available. This is what we got up to on a day out in San Sebastian with a toddler…
Day Out in San Sebastian with a Toddler
First, we headed to the beach. There are three in San Sebastian. Zurriola Beach has large waves and is popular with surfers, which would have been fun to watch but Daisy is not a fan of waves. Concha Beach is the most visited, with its kilometre and a half of sand and great city views. There were hardy locals swimming, paddle boarding and kayaking even in winter. We decided to walk around the bay a little to Ondarreta beach, lying between Monte Igeldo and the Palacio Miramar gardens. Another sandy beach, with a few playground constructions for toddlers to clamber on. The beach gently shelves down into the water, so perfect for families. We spent a happy hour or two here watching people walk their dogs, skimming stones, paddling in the freezing water and building sandcastles
There is a fourth mini-beach on Santa Clara Island, which is tiny and only there when the tide is out, but the boats across to the island do not run in winter.
From the beach we headed to the funicular railway that carries you to the top of Monte Igeldo. These wooden carriages have been carrying people to the top for over 100 years. And provide a good spot to eat some crisps…
Top tip: if you are anywhere near a meal time, take food with you. There is nothing open at all at the top on a weekday in the winter! I suspect in the summer that there are all sorts of eating opportunities at the amusement park or hotel. As it was, in winter the deserted amusement park provides a rather eerie experience.
However, the views back over San Sebastian are spectacular, making the trip worthwhile whatever the time of year.
Day Out in San Sebastian with a Toddler: Where to Stay
We rented an apartment in a great location by La Concha beach (although unfortunately no sea view). It was only a studio, so a little cramped for a long stay, but fine for a couple of nights. It is not particularly toddler-friendly – no cots or highchairs – but there is a sofa bed providing extra sleeping space.
One of the biggest pet peeves about Europe is the struggle to find food in the afternoon, during the winter or between certain times! Definitely should always carry some snacks and drinks! #CityTripping
Yes, outside of busy tourist areas can be tricky. I really should be more organised now I have a child and carry snacks and drinks everywhere!
When I looked at your photos I immediately thought: ah yes, weather in San Sebastian can be so crappy. Haha! Too bad right, as it’s such a fun place.
#CityTripping
We were pretty lucky considering the time of year. We were there for the marathon in November and most days were dry except of course the day of the race which was wet and cold!
Wouldn’t mind trying some pintxos!
#citytripping
I know a few people who’ve been here with kids and it sounds such a lovely one to visit – bite sized (and very good) food, plus the beach and easy to stroll around. November there is a lot more tempting than January today! Thanks for linking up with #citytripping
It is nice to look at beach photos rather than the grey out of the window in London today!
Wow, I can’t get over how empty the beaches are. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a photo of San Sebastian that wasn’t covered with travelers. It looks lovely and peaceful, but I’m with you on the empty amusement park – definitely an eerie feeling! #citytripping
I couldn’t believe that there were still several people swimming in the sea in the winter!
We visited San Sebastian with our 15 year old when he was a toddler! This post brings back those happy memories, when he was still a sweet little guy… now he’s a grumpy teen! LOL! #citytripping
Ah, I’d love to go to San Sebastian. My sister raves about it as she lived nearby when working as an au pair. So good to know it’s really doable with a little one. I fancy that beach in summer, though! Dont think I’d make much of a winter swimmer!
Ive never really known anything about san Sebastian but you have convinced me that it would be perfect with the toddler #fearlessfamtrav
Beaches are fab for kids, whatever the weather. And that railway looks so fun! #fearlessfamtrav
I love beaches when the weather isn’t so great – so much quieter!!
Such a beautiful place, my parents have visited many times as they live in South West France. Need to get them to take us the next time we are over – fab tips, especially about taking food on the funicular railway just in case! Sim x #TotsTravel