Quotes of the Day

The city of San Sebastián is known throughout Spain for its signature shell-shaped beach, Playa de La Concha, and its exquisite culinary tradition. Less well-known is its breathtaking coastline, but if you're in the area, don't miss a walk along it.

Start at the gigantic glass cubes of Rafael Moneo's Kursaal Convention Center, then cross the adjacent Kursaal Bridge, turn right toward the Paseo Nuevo (New Promenade), and leave the Old Quarter behind. The almost 1-km-long Paseo meanders between stately cliffs and churning sea; locals come on windy days and "play" — outrunning waves that splash high into the air after breaking against the rocks.

At the end of the Paseo is the Aquarium and San Sebastian's harbor, an old whalers' haunt now filled with a few red, green and blue ships. To the right (about 400 m) you can see City Hall and Playa de La Concha, which stretches for about 1.5 km. It's impossible to get lost: just follow the wide, busy sidewalk (there's also a bike path) overlooking the beach — always to the right. At the end of La Concha is Playa de Ondarreta — a spacious, sandy beach — and 500 m further, at the foot of Monte Igeldo, the walk ends at the Peine del Viento (Wind's Comb) sculpture, a primordial structure designed by Eduardo Chillida.

Time to take a well-deserved rest. Pull a bocadillo de jamón (a cured ham sandwich) out of your backpack and enjoy.

• ENRIQUE ZALDUA
• Don't pass up a stroll along San Sebastián's shoreline