Playa La Espasa / Asturius / Spain

About 25 kms east of the city of Gijon lies Playa La Espasa. It is a popular spot for surfers and kite surfers of all intermediate and expert abilities. It is not advisable for beginners to practice around here because there are numerous rocks dotted in and around the shoreline, so you will need to be vigilant. Like most beaches along this stretch of coast it does get pretty busy with holiday makers and sun bathers during the summer months, especially June , July and August, so there may well be time and zone restrictions in place. It might be wise to check it out before you head off. To avoid the crowds, then October through to April are your best bet.

Playa La Espaca boasts a medium to large sized sandy beach with lots of space. So out of season, it is possible to pick your spot, particularly if you come during the week. To find it you need to head out eastwards from Gijon on the A8 towards Colunga. When you get here you will see signs for Playa, La Espaca. There is ample parking close by.

Like many spots up and down this coastline, the wind can be pretty changeable, the best directions to surf here are north, north northeasterly and north northwesterly. A northerly wind blows directly onshore. It can also be pretty gusty especially during the winter months and it is not uncommon for 25-30 knot winds. The summer winds are much lighter. The water quality is clean and the conditions are choppy most of the time. However, when the wind is strong enough and blowing in the right direction it is possible to catch small and medium sized waves of up to 3 meters in height. The water temperature hovers around 10-18 degrees depending upon the time of year. During the winter a wetsuit is a must.

There is ample parking and there is also a campsite close by where you can find accommodation, eating placed and toilet facilities. There is even a small on-site shop where you can buy essentials. If you require anything else, then head back into Gijon.

Keep an eye out for the rocks dotted around the shoreline and in the water. Be aware of swimmers and bathers during the busy summer months.