Playa de San Balandrán

Playa de San Balandrán is a tranquil beach situated in the municipality of Avilés, within the Centro de Asturias zone, in the region of Avilés, Asturias, Spain. Despite being located in an industrial environment near the port of Avilés and the Ría de Avilés estuary, it is known for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere.

The beach stretches over 150 meters and is characterized by its calm waters and sandy terrain. Its location in an industrial area has led to issues with pollution, making it unsuitable for swimming. However, the beach is still frequented for beach fishing and bird watching, as it is part of the Charca de Zeluán and Ensenada de Llodero natural monuments, which serve as a passage for several types of migratory birds.

Visitors to Playa de San Balandrán can enjoy the relaxing views of the estuary and the sea, and a viewing point is available for observing the migratory birds. The beach also has parking facilities available for visitors. There are guidelines in place to respect the natural environment, such as keeping dogs leashed.

The beach is easily accessible by road and is not typically crowded, providing a quiet atmosphere that is suitable for families with young children. However, it should be noted that there is no lifeguard service available at this beach. Despite its proximity to the bustling city of Avilés, known for its cosmopolitan, maritime, medieval, dynamic, and metropolitan characteristics, Playa de San Balandrán often feels practically abandoned due to the pollution issues.

In the surrounding area, the nearest population is San Juan de Nieva, which is situated 6 kilometers from the municipal capital of Avilés. The beach itself is located in the Laviana parish, part of the Avilés municipality, which is bordered by the Cantabrian Sea and the municipalities of Gozón, Corvera, Castrillon, and Illas. It is part of the Avilés region, a unique area that combines coastal and interior landscapes.