Things To Do
in Santa Cruz de Bezana
Santa Cruz de Bezana is a coastal municipality in Cantabria, Spain, located just west of Santander. It blends leafy residential streets with scenic shoreline promenades and panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea. The area offers easy access to beaches, parks, and gentle hikes that reveal both green hills and rugged cliffs.
Its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere makes it a great base for exploring Santander’s culture and the Cantabrian countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk along the stunning beachfront of Santa Cruz de Bezana, enjoying the sound of the waves and the fresh sea breeze. Visit the nearby beaches, such as Usil and Playa de la Magdalena, to soak up the sun and take in the beautiful coastal views. Grab a traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café to fuel up for the adventures ahead.
Spend your afternoon exploring the charming streets of the town, filled with local shops and delightful eateries. Stop by the Santa Cruz de Bezana Church, an architectural gem, and take some time to appreciate the local art galleries showcasing regional talent. Consider tasting the delicious local cuisine at a restaurant featuring fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients.
As the sun sets, unwind with a stroll along the promenade, where the vibrant colors of the evening sky create a picturesque backdrop. Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, sampling traditional Cantabrian dishes as you listen to the gentle lapping of the waves. Wrap up the evening with a refreshing gelato from a local shop while watching the stars emerge in the clear sky.
Begin your day with a visit to the Centro de Visitantes de las Dunas de Liencres, where you can learn about the local ecosystem and nature. Take a leisurely hike through the nearby natural parks, admiring the diversity of flora and fauna. Grab a picnic brunch to enjoy amidst the natural beauty.
In the afternoon, head to the historical town of Santillana del Mar, just a short drive away, to explore its medieval architecture and cobblestone streets. Visit the Altamira Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to marvel at prehistoric cave paintings that date back thousands of years. Take your time to browse artisanal shops before returning to Santa Cruz de Bezana.
Return to Santa Cruz de Bezana for a relaxed evening, perhaps enjoying a leisurely dinner at a family-run tavern. Engage with locals and immerse yourself in the warm social atmosphere as you savor regional specialties. End your night with a peaceful walk along the beach, allowing the sounds of the ocean to soothe your mind.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $4-6 |
| 🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $70-130 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Santander with easy access to museums and seaside dining
- Beautiful coastal scenery and accessible dunes for outdoor lovers
- Can be quieter and less nightlife-focused than some bigger cities
- Limited standalone attractions within Bezana itself; many visitors explore nearby Santander
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Quisiera..." - I would like...
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz de Bezana
Visit one of these nice places.
Impressive coastal dunes with sweeping views, leading to rugged cliffs and Atlantic views; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Scenic coastal walk with sea views, boats, and pastel-colored houses along the shoreline.
Iconic sea panoramas, green parks, and elegant skyline views just a short drive from Bezana.
Food in Santa Cruz de Bezana
Santa Cruz de Bezana Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty bean and meat stew typical of Cantabria, perfect for cooler days.
Must-Try!
Salt-calted anchovies cured to a delicate, flavorful bite; great on toast or in tapas.
Light, buttery sponge cake often enjoyed with coffee or warm milk.
A creamy cheese custard-style cake with a distinct Cantabrian sweetness.
A traditional tuna stew flavored with potatoes and peppers, enjoyed with crusty bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Markets in Bezana and nearby Santander offer fresh seafood, cheeses, produce, and regional pastries.
Try small plates of seafood tapas and pastries at seaside kiosks and plazas during the day and early evening.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common to greet with 'buenos días/tardes'; lunch around 2 pm and dinner after 9 pm; politeness and small talk are valued.
Some shops may close briefly in the early afternoon; respect personal space and keep noise moderate in public places.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz de Bezana
Ensure a smooth experience
Not mandatory but appreciated for good service; many establishments include service in the bill; round up or add a few euros for exceptional service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; ATMs available in town centers and Santander.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with refreshing coastal breezes; expect more visitors, longer days, and excellent conditions for beach activities and outdoor dining.
Milder days with showers possible; great for hiking the coast and enjoying quieter streets and cafes.
Cool but rarely freezing; rain is common, so bring a waterproof jacket. Coastal scenery remains dramatic and uncrowded.
Green landscapes and blooming countryside; ideal for hiking and exploring the coast without peak crowds.
Santa Cruz de Bezana at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz de Bezana
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic route through the dunes with ocean views, suitable for a varied difficulty level.
Forested hills with vistas over the coast; good for a longer hike and panoramic photography.
Coastal walking route that links towns along the Cantabrian shore, ideal for day-long or multi-day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz de Bezana by plane.
Conveniently connected to the Cantabria region; about a 20-30 minute drive to Santa Cruz de Bezana depending on traffic.
Larger international hub about a 1.5-2 hour drive from Bezana; useful for longer trips or international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families enjoy the safe, scenic beaches and parks; the area is popular for day trips and weekend getaways.
Residents who value coastal living, outdoor activities, and regional cuisine.
Visitors from Spain and abroad attracted by easy access to Santander’s culture and Cantabria’s natural beauty.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across Cantabria, with local clubs and community teams; casual games and matches are common.
Coastal location supports sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding along the Cantabrian coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz de Bezana.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Restaurant staff in Bezana and Santander can accommodate vegetarian options; ask for vegetable stews, grilled vegetables, and salads; many places offer vegetarian versions of local dishes.