Playa de la Magdalena sits at the base of the Magdalena Peninsula, sheltered from the open Atlantic by the headland above it. It is the calmer, smaller counterpart to El Sardinero — protected enough that the waves rarely build to any size, making it a good choice for families and less confident swimmers. The water is clear, the sand is fine, and the view from the beach up toward the palace and the pine woods of the peninsula is one of the most attractive settings of any city beach in northern Spain.
The beach is accessible on foot from the Paseo de Pereda in about 20 minutes, or from the gates of the Magdalena park in a few minutes. It can get busy in July and August but rarely feels crowded by the standards of Spain's Mediterranean coast. A small chiringuito at the eastern end serves drinks and snacks through the summer.