Vigo's main city beach stretches for about 1.5 km along the southern shore of the ría, with views across the water to the Portuguese coast and — on clear days — the Islas Cíes. It is a proper sandy beach with a promenade backed by pines, popular with families and local joggers throughout the year.
The water is cold by Mediterranean standards but swimmable in summer. The beach has lifeguards in July and August, and a string of beach bars and restaurants behind the promenade serve grilled fish and cold wine. It is easily reachable by bus or tram from the city centre, and the coastal path continues south to Alcabre and the Museo do Mar. The Islas Cíes ferry departs from the city port, not from Samil, but the beach is the next best option if the islands are sold out.