Services: Smoke-free beach | Hotel service | Parking lot | Accessible stairs |
Length: approximately 250m
Type of sand: Sand and stones
Bathing season: From May 1 to October 15
Public Toilets: From 06:00 hours to 23:00 hours
How to get there: Easy walking and by car
Large walking area
Gijón, the charming coastal city in northern Spain, is famous for its beaches that offer everything from bustling urban environments to tranquil natural havens. Among these coastal treasures is Los Mayanes Beach, also known locally as Ría de Los Vagones. This lesser-known but charming coastal nook is located east of Gijón, between Playa de San Lorenzo and El Rinconín, and offers a unique experience for those seeking tranquility, history and a natural setting in one of the most beautiful areas of the city.
Los Mayanes Beach, or Ría de Los Vagones, is a place that combines history, nature and tranquility, offering a unique beach experience in Gijón. This hidden corner is ideal for those seeking a quiet refuge away from the crowded beaches, allowing you to enjoy the Asturian coast in its purest state.
Whether for swimming, exploring the rocks, or simply relaxing to the sound of the waves, Los Mayanes Beach is a must-see destination for visitors to Gijón. Its discreet charm and rich history make this beach a place that captures the essence of the Gijón coast, offering an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
The alternative name “Ría de Los Vagones” comes from a time when, during the first half of the 20th century, abandoned train wagons were washed up on this part of the coast by the tide. These wagons became a local symbol, giving the beach a distinctive character and marking its history. Although the wagons are no longer there, the name has endured among the people of Gijón, becoming a historical curiosity that adds a touch of nostalgia to the place.
This fact gives added value to the beach, as it is not only a place to enjoy the sea, but also allows visitors to connect with a fragment of Gijón’s industrial past. This connection between the region’s railway history and the coast is a reminder of how nature and industry have coexisted in Asturias, shaping the landscape in a unique way.
Los Mayanes Beach is a small natural jewel and its rocky environment creates a unique coastal landscape. Its extension is not as wide as other beaches in Gijón, but this fact makes it even more attractive for those looking for a more private and less crowded place. The beach is framed by a series of rocks that, at low tide, create small natural pools ideal for exploring.
One of the main characteristics of this beach is its calm and relaxed atmosphere. Unlike more urban beaches, Los Mayanes offers a more natural environment, where you can enjoy the sound of the waves and the sea breeze without the distractions of the tourist hustle and bustle. This peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place to rest, sunbathe or simply enjoy nature in its purest state.
The water at Los Mayanes Beach is clear and clean, and although the waves can be moderate, it is a safe place to swim, always taking into account the usual precautions for the Cantabrian coast, known for its unpredictable swell at certain times. The rock formations surrounding the beach are also ideal for those interested in scuba diving or snorkeling, offering the opportunity to discover the local marine life.
One of the most distinctive features of San Lorenzo Beach is its promenade, known as the Paseo del Muro de San Lorenzo. This promenade, which runs along the beach from end to end, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is ideal for strolling, jogging or simply enjoying the breathtaking views of the sea. Along the promenade there are several points of interest, such as the sculpture “Sombras de Luz” (Shadows of Light), a work by the Asturian artist Fernando Alba.
Los Mayanes Beach, being smaller and less crowded, does not have the same amount of services as the bigger beaches of Gijón, such as San Lorenzo. However, this is part of its charm. Visitors looking for a more natural experience without too many amenities will find Los Mayanes an ideal place.
However, the proximity of the beach to the center of Gijón ensures that all necessary services are within walking distance. On the nearby Paseo del Muro de San Lorenzo, several bars, restaurants and stores can be found where visitors can enjoy the local gastronomy or purchase what they need for a day at the beach. It is also common for locals to bring their own provisions, enjoying a picnic on the sand while relaxing with a view of the sea.
As for safety,Los Mayanes Beach, like many other beaches in Gijón, has a lifeguard service during the high season. This ensures that bathers can enjoy the sea with the peace of mind of knowing that there are lifeguards attentive to any eventuality.
Despite its small size, Los Mayanes Beach offers a number of activities for those who wish to enjoy a full day on the coast. The main activity is, of course, bathing and swimming in its crystal clear waters. The tranquility of the place makes it an ideal place for those who prefer to swim in a more relaxed and private environment.
Another popular activity is exploring the rock formations that line the beach. During low tide, it is possible to walk among the rocks and discover small nooks and crannies full of marine life. It is an excellent place for snorkeling, where visitors can observe fish, mollusks and other marine organisms that inhabit the waters of the beach.
Paddle surfers can enjoy the calm waters of Los Mayanes, especially on days with less wind but when the Bay of Biscay “sends its waves” the area becomes an ideal place for surfing on the ledge called El Mongol.
Los Mayanes Beach is located in a quiet residential area, but close to the bustling center of Gijón. To reach this beach, it is easily accessible from the Paseo del Muro de San Lorenzo, which is a popular place for both residents and tourists. From the end of the promenade, known as El Tostaderu, you continue walking east, where you begin to discover this more secluded corner.
Access to Los Mayanes Beach is relatively easy, although the beach is known for its more intimate and less urbanized character. This aspect makes it an ideal option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger beaches, such as San Lorenzo. It is advisable to get there on foot or by bicycle, taking advantage of the Paseo del Muro that connects it to the city center. It is also possible to access by car, although parking may be limited on busy days.
The area surrounding Los Mayanes Beach is rich in history and culture. Just a few minutes’ walk away is the Cimavilla neighborhood, known as the old town of Gijón, where visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the city. The narrow cobblestone streets, old fishermen’s houses and numerous cider bars offer an authentic Asturian experience that perfectly complements a day at the beach.
In addition, the beach’s proximity to other points of interest in Gijón, such as the Evaristo Valle Museum, the Atlantic Botanical Garden and Isabel la Católica Park, makes it easy to combine a day of cultural exploration with a relaxing time at the beach.
For those planning to visit Los Mayanes Beach, it is advisable to bring what you need for a day at the beach, as services at the beach are limited. This includes bringing sun protection, water and something to eat if you plan to spend several hours at the site. In addition, it is important to take into account the tides, as during high tide, the beach can shrink considerably in size.
Visitors should also consider exploring the surrounding area, such as the nearby Paseo del Muro or the Senda Marítima, which runs along the Cantabrian Sea to Providencia Park, to make the most of their visit to this area of Gijón.
