Playa de la Isla

Introduction

From the moment we set foot on Playa de la Isla, in the picturesque municipality of Colunga, in the heart of Asturias, we feel we have arrived at a special place. This sandy beach, which proudly flies the Blue Flag, is much more than just a beach; it's a natural canvas that transforms with the tides, revealing and hiding its most distinctive feature: a small islet from which it gets its name and which becomes a peninsula when the sea retreats. It's a true gift for the senses, one of those Asturian beaches that stays etched in memory for its singular beauty and welcoming atmosphere.

We, as beach tourism experts, always seek out those corners that offer a complete experience, and Playa de la Isla more than delivers. Its fine, golden sand invites us to walk barefoot, while its calm waters are perfect for a relaxing swim. The presence of the islet not only adds an unparalleled visual appeal but also gives us the opportunity to explore on foot, discovering small tide pools and rock formations that harbor marine life. It's an ideal destination both for those seeking peace and tranquility and for families with children, who find here a safe and fun environment for their little adventures.

How to Get to Playa de la Isla

Getting to Playa de la Isla is relatively straightforward, and the journey itself immerses us in the beauty of the Asturian landscape. If we're coming from Oviedo or Gijón, the most common route is to take the Cantabrian Motorway (A-8) towards Santander. We must take exit 346 towards the N-632 in the direction of Colunga/Lastres. Once on the N-632, we follow the signs to La Isla, which will divert us onto a local road that winds through green meadows and small rural houses, offering spectacular views of the surroundings.

If we're coming from Santander or the Basque Country, we will also take the A-8 towards Oviedo/Gijón and look for the same exit 346. The signage to Playa de la Isla is well indicated, which makes arrival quite easy. It's a comfortable road, although the final stretches can be a bit narrower and winding, something common in the Asturian coastal areas. However, the journey is short and the destination is well worth it.

Parking at Playa de la Isla

One of the strong points of Playa de la Isla is that it has a fairly large and well-organized parking area. This is crucial, especially in the summer months when visitor numbers increase. Although it can fill up during peak hours on a sunny August day, we generally find a spot without too much trouble. Parking is usually paid during the high season, with reasonable rates that contribute to the maintenance of the facilities and the cleanliness of the beach. From the parking lot, access to the sand is very comfortable, with paved paths and ramps, making it easy to transport everything needed for a day at the beach.

The Sand and Water

Playa de la Isla is distinguished by the quality of its sand. We would describe it as fine sand with a very pleasant golden tone, inviting relaxation and enjoyment. It's perfect for building sandcastles with the little ones or simply for feeling its softness underfoot while walking along the shore. The expanse of sand is considerable, especially during low tide, when the sandy area widens and allows us to enjoy more space to lay out our towels and umbrellas. It's a very clean beach, noticeable in the absence of pebbles or annoying rocks in the main bathing area, although at the ends we do find some rock formations that add character to the landscape.

As for the water, that of Playa de la Isla is typically what we expect to find on Asturian beaches: clean, crystal clear, and, yes, a bit cool, especially for those not used to the temperatures of the Cantabrian Sea. However, it's not freezing and is very refreshing on hot summer days. Being a semi-sheltered beach, the waves are usually moderate, making it a safe place for swimming, even for children. The water quality is excellent, a factor that, along with the cleanliness of the sand, contributes to this beach retaining its prestigious Blue Flag year after year. The transparency of the water allows us to see the sandy bottom, which is a plus for the safety and peace of mind of bathers.

Services and Facilities

Playa de la Isla is very well equipped to ensure a comfortable and pleasant day for all its visitors. We understand that good services are key to fully enjoying the experience, and here they do not disappoint. Among the available facilities, we highlight:

• Showers: Essential for washing off sand and salt before heading home. They are located at strategic points and are free to use.
• Restrooms/WC: Clean and well-maintained, a fundamental service for everyone's comfort, especially for families.
• Lifeguards: During the bathing season, the beach has a lifeguard service that watches over the safety of bathers. Their presence gives us great peace of mind, especially when visiting the beach with children.
• Chiringuitos: On the beach itself or in its immediate surroundings, we find at least one chiringuito where we can get a cool drink, a coffee, or even a snack. They are perfect for taking a break and enjoying the sea views.
• Parking: As already mentioned, the ample parking lot greatly facilitates arrival and stay.