Tips on San Sebastián Warnings and Dangers- Stay Safe!

San Sebastián Warnings and Dangers

San Sebastián is a coastal city in Spain on the northern tip bordering France. It has tropical weather and a pretty low crime rate. However, as with any city there are warnings and dangers you should be aware of in order to stay safe.

Huge Waves

The beaches at San Sebastian are tucked into the protective circle of The Bay of Biscay. The beaches of San Sebastian that are closer to the Atlantic Ocean have frighteningly large waves. These beach areas have warnings in place to keep you safe. If you want to park your car in the parking area at ‘Paseo Berria-Paseo Nuevo’ make sure the weather is good or you may not be able to get out of your car. Unfortunately, parking is sparse elsewhere when visiting this area.

Toilets During Siesta

If you are someone who likes access to a bathroom at all times, talking to parents mostly, you may want to visit the shore during hours when the bathrooms are sure to be open. From 10 am – 2 pm and then from 4-8 pm the toilets are open. This is due to the cultural tradition of siesta where the city and all of Spain basically shuts down for the hottest time of the day.

ETA and Basque Nationalism

As late as the early 2000s there was a fair amount of political strife in this area as Basque nationalists pushed violently to be declared an independent state. They planted pipe bombs, vandalized businesses, and generally wreaked havoc on the city. It seems that things have cooled down since then and that most of the ones responsible have been prosecuted.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about San Sebastián warnings and dangers.