Vigo Beaches: 5 Amazing Spots to Enjoy Soaking up the Sun

If you’ve stumbled upon Vigo and you’re wondering, does Vigo have good beaches? With over 30 Vigo beaches, wherever you go you’ll find the perfect beach for you. One of the best parts about beaches here is that you can start at one end and continue walking down the coast to another beach.

One of my favorite things to do on the weekends in Vigo is to start at one beach and continue walking along the coast beach hopping. 

In Vigo you won’t be disappointed by the beaches here. But if you’re short on time and want to see the best beaches in Vigo, then read this guide to figure out which beach best fits your style and needs. 

Vigo beaches you need to visit

Samil 

You can’t have a list about the best beaches in Vigo and not include Samil. Samil is popular for its close proximity to Vigo (it’s about 10-15 min away), family-friendly activities, and its sunsets. 

Along the promenade you can spend the day walking, roller skating, and people watching. There are small wading pools that make it perfect for young children who are just learning how to swim. Additionally, there’s plenty of playgrounds for kids to spend the day at after visiting the beach. 

During the summer concerts are held here. So be sure to check out Chiringuito La Fuente’s instagram to see when free live concerts are being held. 

With so many amenities you can’t get bored at Samil.

If you’re looking for food: 

• Try checking out the beer garden and eat at Berty’s Burger (Av. Samil, 65) 
• Or if you’re in the mood for Spanish food head over to Restaurante Mar del Plata

Pro tip: 

• There’s plenty of free parking if you’re coming by car 
• Samil is also easily accessible by bus. Check out Moovit to figure out the bus system 

Playa del Vao

South of Samil you’ll find Playa del Vao. As my students like to say, Samil is for older people, but Playa del Vao is for the younger crowds. Here you’ll find plenty of people playing soccer, windsurfing, or sailing. 

Playa del Vao makes my list as one of the best beaches in Vigo for its long stretch of golden sand flanked by rocky formations, creating a picturesque coastal landscape. The water here is crystal-clear with gorgeous views. 

Once here you’ll probably be asking yourself, what is that weird tower? Toralla, is a private island with free access beaches, so I recommend popping over there to see what the beaches are like.

Facilities: 

• Showers are available nearby to wash away all the sand 
• Public restrooms are also available nearby
• During the summer months lifeguard services are available 
• There are also nearby parking areas for those arriving by car

Visiting Vigo beaches got you feeling hungry? 

• For food I’d recommend going to Restaurante Durán (be sure to try their almejas a la marinera–garlic clams) 
• Or Mesón do Marisco is a good option. You can’t go wrong with their chipirones fritos (small squids) or pulpo (octopus) 

Playa de Patos 

If you’re looking to break into the surfing scene in Vigo, then Patos is the best beach in Vigo to try this out. Whether you want to take classes or just rent a board, Patos Surf Galicia or Prado Surf Escola Patos have you covered. 

Once you’ve finished spending the day soaking in the sun or getting into the surf scene, then you should hike to Monteferro and once at the top, take a break swinging and taking in the views. 

Some of my favorite places to eat after spending the day at Patos beach are: 

•  Chac Mool: They usually have long lines but once you try one of their tacos you will see why and be glad you too waited in line. 
• If you’re looking for something a little more low-key then I’d recommend Pénjamo SunBar (Rúa Cansadoura, 29). Their upper deck is great for watching the sunset and they serve up some delicious empanadas. 

Playa de Bouzas

Not to be confused with Bouzas the neighborhood, Playa de Bouzas is my favorite Vigo beach. Here the sand is white with aqua clear water and jagged rocks to search for sea creatures. The waves here aren’t too intense making the water perfect for wading in.

Behind the beach is a long stretching park with playgrounds and places to have a picnic. I personally love taking my dog here and spending the day with him. 

During the summer Chiringuito de Alcabre also has free live music which I highly recommend checking out. 

If you’re feeling peckish: 

•  Try the churrasco (barbecue) from Bar O Muiño do Alcabre 

Or check out Museo do Mar de Galicia to learn more about Vigo’s fishery past. 

Either way, you’ll love spending a day at this beach and soaking up the sun. 

Playa de Rodas 

While technically not in Vigo, Playa de Rodas (which is Cies Island’s beach) is a must visit while in Spain. The Guardian named it one of the best beaches in the world. At this beach the sand is white and the water is turquoise blue, you’ll feel like you’re in the Caribbean.

If hanging out on a beach all day isn’t your thing, you can also go hiking around the island and visit lighthouses.