Praia da Concha

Praia da Concha, also known as Playa de la Concha-Compostela, is a picturesque beach located in the town of Vilagarcía de Arousa, Galicia, Spain, at the end of the Arousa estuary. The beach is renowned for its calm waters and moderate temperatures, characteristic of the Galician estuaries, and is the main beach in the municipality.

The beach stretches for nearly two kilometers and is divided into two sections: the Concha and the Compostela. The Concha section, closer to the urban area of Vilagarcía, is adorned with a pine tree, a viewpoint, and a small garden. The Compostela section is located in the central and northern part of the beach and features a spa and a park. A promenade runs parallel to the beach, linking Vilagarcía and O Carril, offering a pleasant walkway for visitors.

The beach's natural characteristics include an extensive sandy shore, filled with coarse sand and seashells, which can make walking barefoot challenging. The water at Praia da Concha is not always the cleanest, and algae can often be found on the shore during low tide. Despite these elements, Praia da Concha remains a favorite spot for children and pets, who are allowed to roam freely on the beach.

Praia da Concha boasts a variety of amenities for its visitors. These include showers, public toilets, drinking fountains, wooden tables situated in the pine forest for relaxation, and various kiosks and bars. The beach is cleaned daily, and the water quality is under regular scrutiny by health authorities.

During the summer months, lifeguards are present to ensure the safety of beachgoers. Despite being a popular location among locals and visitors, attracting thousands of people every day, especially during the summer, Praia da Concha manages to maintain a peaceful atmosphere, never becoming overly crowded. It is also a favored location for sociocultural activities and features playgrounds for children.

Parking is available along Rosalía de Castro Avenue and in front of the old train station in O Carril, making the beach accessible to those who drive. For those without a car, the beach's location in the town makes it easily reachable. Surrounded by charming old architecture, lovely little parks, and numerous bars and restaurants, Praia da Concha offers a unique beach experience with its old-time charm and pet-friendly environment.