San Sebastian: Sunrise SUP Tour & Breakfast on La Concha

Summary

Early morning SUP adventure in San Sebastian with island breakfast

You’ll paddle out into La Concha Bay before sunrise with a local guide who adjusts to your pace. Glide across calm waters as San Sebastian wakes up around you, stop for a swim if you like, then enjoy breakfast right on Santa Clara Island before heading back refreshed — maybe even a little changed by the quiet beauty of it all.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the hush — just the faint slap of water against my board and the low, sleepy hum of the city still tucked in. We met our guide, Ane, down by La Concha before dawn (she greeted us with that quick Basque smile), and honestly, I wasn’t sure if I’d regret setting my alarm so early. But then we pushed off, and the bay was just glass — no boats, no crowds, only that pale pink light creeping over Santa Clara Island.

Paddle boarding at sunrise in San Sebastian is nothing like any other day trip I’ve done. The water felt cool under my feet but not cold, more like a gentle nudge to wake up. Ane pointed out little things — fishermen prepping nets near Ondarreta Beach, gulls bickering over scraps. She adjusted our route based on how wobbly we looked (I nearly lost it trying to turn too fast; she laughed and showed me a trick). We stopped mid-bay for a dip — salt on my lips, hair plastered to my face, but it felt good.

Breakfast on Santa Clara Island was simple but perfect: coffee from a thermos (the steam smelled almost chocolatey), bread still warm from somewhere local, and jam that tasted way better than anything back home. We sat on the rocks with our boards pulled up beside us. For a few minutes nobody said much — just watched the sunlight hit the city’s white facades. It’s funny how quiet can feel so full sometimes.

I keep thinking about that view of San Sebastian from the water — all those old balconies catching gold light while most people were still asleep. If you’re even half curious about paddle boarding or just want to see this place without the usual noise, this sunrise SUP tour is…well, it’s something else. Not perfect paddling on my part (my arms were noodles by the end), but I’d do it again tomorrow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunrise paddle boarding and breakfast

• Start paddle boarding at sunrise
• Paddle in La Concha bay
• Stop for dips in the water
• Take a breakfast break on Santa Clara Island

Top questions

What time does the sunrise SUP tour in San Sebastian start?

The tour begins before dawn to catch sunrise over La Concha Bay.

Is breakfast included during the paddle board experience?

Yes, breakfast is served during a stop on Santa Clara Island.

Do I need prior paddle boarding experience for this tour?

No experience is necessary; instruction is provided if needed.

Are wetsuits and lifejackets provided for the SUP tour?

Yes, use of paddle board, wetsuit, and lifejacket is included.

Is hotel pickup included in this private SUP tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; meet at La Concha beach area.

How long does the day trip last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but covers early morning through breakfast time.

Can pregnant travelers join this sunrise SUP tour?

This activity is not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Is secure storage available for personal belongings?

Yes, secure storage is included during your paddle boarding session.

What’s included

Your morning includes use of all paddle boarding equipment—board, wetsuit and lifejacket—plus secure storage for your things while you’re out on the water. You’ll get instruction if you need it and enjoy breakfast served right on Santa Clara Island before paddling back to shore together.