Beach of the Cathedrals, spectacular Gothic cliffs with natural arches

De wolfgang.mller54

De Linwind

De Avaldia

Maider Roman

The Beach of the Cathedrals (Aguas Santas Beach) in Galicia is a natural wonder famed for its Gothic-like cliffs: towering arches and vaults over 30 m high, sculpted by the sea over millennia.

Location & Access

Province: Lugo (Mariña Lucense), 10 km west of Ribadeo.
Access: stairs and boardwalks from the upper car park.
Viewpoints: two platforms near the parking area offer panoramic coastal vistas.

Beach Features

Low tide: up to 1 300 m of white sand to explore—caves, galleries and tunnels.
High tide: arches partially submerged yet still impressive from the cliffs.
Blue Flag: water quality, cleanliness, accessible facilities (showers, restrooms, picnic areas).

Reservations & Restrictions

In summer and Easter, beach access is limited to 4 000 visitors/day. A free permit must be obtained in advance on the official website:

ascatedrais.xunta.es

Printed or digital permit and valid ID required.
Limit applies only to the sand area; viewpoints and cliffs remain freely accessible.

Safety Precautions

Do not venture too close to cliff edges: strong winds and steep drops.
Be aware of tide schedules to avoid being cut off.

Pets

Dogs are not allowed on the sand. Outside the beach area, they must remain on a leash.

Visit the Beach of the Cathedrals at low tide to wander beneath its stone arches and at high tide to admire the submerged vaults—a unique natural spectacle on the Galician coast.