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The idea of a Spanish beach vacation for many conjures up images of packed out stretches of sand along the Costas where you simply can't move for the volume of people there. While this type of vacation appeals to some, for a lot of people the idea of crowded beaches where there's hardly room to stand up is a bit of a turn off.

The beaches of Northern Spain though are an altogether different prospect. There are plenty of wide-open spaces to enjoy on the quieter sands along the coastline here. There's also dramatic scenery to soothe the eyes. Sharp cliffs and unusual rock formations descend into the sea, cutting up the coast into a series of small beaches, as well as coves and headlands. Nestled in many of the coves are desolate stretches of pure unadulterated sand - perfect if you really want to get away from it all.

Beaches to try in Northern Spain

In the Northeast, extending from the border with France, is the Costa Vasca. This takes in the major seaside resorts of Donastia-San Sebastian, Bilbao and Santander. Donastia-San Sebastian is known as the summertime capital of Northern Spain. It has three particularly nice beaches and some of the warmest weather in the North. Beaches that should top your list here are La Concha, La Zurriola and Ondarreta.

Further west along the coast is the Costa Verde. Translated into English this means 'Green Coast''and when you visit the area it is easy to see why! The beaches are backed by some phenomenally lush scenery, and feature the Cantabrica mountain chain that rises up to the south. Castro Urdiales, Lared, Santona and Comillas all have superb beaches that offer visitors hours of enjoyment during the summer.

Moving into Galicia - the mystical heart of Northern Spain - the coastline becomes more rugged. Rias Atlas and Rias Bajas are comprised of alternating coves and headlands in which many secluded stretches of beach await. When the weather plays ball there are some idyllic beaches to visit in this part of Spain - Valdovino, Capte Estaca de Bares, San Simon, Aldan and A Lanzada being perhaps the pick of the crop. But, in wintertime or when the winds come in from the Atlantic these beaches can be a bit exposed.

Getting to the Beaches of Northern Spain

Public transport in Northern Spain is very good. There are links from many of the major towns and cities to outlying coastal locations, including some of the beaches. For maximum flexibility though it is recommended that you hire a car. Car hire can be booked in advance for pick up at the airport or alternatively in many of the towns and cities in Northern Spain.