Cathedrals Beach

Praia das Catedrais

A spectacular beach on the northern coast named for its towering natural rock arches and cliffs that resemble cathedral naves, best seen at low tide. It's one of Galicia's most photographed natural landmarks.

Things to do

• Walk through the rock arches — At low tide you can walk on the sand beneath the towering stone arches that give the beach its cathedral-like nickname.
• Explore the sea caves and tunnels — Erosion has carved numerous caves and tunnels into the cliffs that are only reachable when the tide is out.
• Photograph the formations from the clifftop mirador — A viewpoint above the beach offers a sweeping panorama of the arches and coastline, ideal for sunrise or sunset shots.
• Hike the coastal path toward Ribadeo — A scenic footpath along the cliffs connects the beach to nearby villages with views over the Cantabrian Sea.
• Search the tide pools for marine life — Rock pools left by the receding tide reveal small crabs, anemones, and shells among the sculpted stone.
• Visit Ribadeo town and its lighthouse — The nearby town of Ribadeo has a historic quarter and a coastal lighthouse worth a short detour.

Food to try

• Pulpo á feira — Tender boiled octopus seasoned with paprika and olive oil, a Galician classic often served on wooden platters.
• Percebes — Prized goose barnacles harvested from the rugged Galician coast, boiled simply in seawater to highlight their briny flavor.
• Empanada gallega — A savory pastry pie filled with tuna, cockles, or pork, popular as a portable snack in coastal Galicia.
• Queso San Simón da Costa — A smoked cow's milk cheese from nearby Lugo province, often paired with local honey or membrillo.
• Caldo gallego — A hearty broth of greens, potatoes, and beans that warms visitors after a breezy walk along the shore.

Local customs & good to know

• Reserve free access in advance — From Easter through September, access to the beach requires a free timed permit booked online through the Xunta de Galicia website.
• Check the tide tables before visiting — The arches and caves are only exposed at low tide, so plan your trip around the local tide schedule to avoid disappointment.
• Leave the rocks and formations untouched — Visitors are asked not to climb on or remove stones to help preserve the fragile natural arches.
• Arrive early for parking — Parking near the beach fills quickly in summer, so early arrival or use of the shuttle bus from nearby lots is recommended.