On the coast of Asturias, in the municipality of Llanes, lies a true gem—the Playa de Poo. This spot, part of a protected landscape along the eastern coast, boasts a remarkable feature. With the arrival of high tide, it transforms into a vast natural reservoir of salt water, making it a true paradise for family recreation. The scenery is complemented by small islets such as Palo de Poo and Castro de Poo, visible just off the shoreline.
The main highlight of this place is its daily transformations. During low tide, the shoreline expands up to 150 meters, revealing a wide stretch of golden sand perfect for walks and games. However, with the incoming tide, the scene changes dramatically. Seawater slowly fills the narrow bay, turning the sandy area into a calm, shallow pool without waves. This natural phenomenon offers exceptional safety for families with young children. Swimming here feels more like being in a pool than in the open Cantabrian Sea, giving parents peace of mind and children endless joy. The bay’s unique funnel shape prevents currents from forming, creating an oasis of crystal-clear, shallow water.
During the summer season, a lifeguard service operates here for visitors’ convenience, showers are available, and the area is cleaned daily. A Red Cross first aid station is located nearby. Bars, hotels, and a campsite are also close, providing everything you need for a comfortable day on the coast. It’s important to note that the number of parking spaces is limited and tends to fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early is recommended. Reaching the spot is easy: by car from Llanes, the drive takes less than ten minutes—just two kilometers along the AS-379 road. From Oviedo, take the A-64 and A-8 highways, which takes about an hour and a half. Public transport is also available: ALSA company buses and RENFE narrow-gauge trains running the Oviedo – Santander route stop in the town of Pu, from where it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the coast.
In addition to safe swimming, this spot captivates with its unique natural beauty. The mouth of the Vallina River and the lush vegetation covering the surrounding cliffs create a distinctive landscape. The view of the Picos de Europa mountain range rising in the background adds an especially picturesque touch—a contrast that few coastal areas can offer. Playa de Pu is a corner of Asturias where natural beauty, comfort, and safety blend harmoniously. Its location within a protected area, with abundant shrubs and seabirds on the cliffs, as well as green meadows bordering the bay, make it a true natural refuge for a peaceful and enjoyable seaside escape.
