The beach is sheltered from the open Atlantic swells by the geography of the Ría de Ares.
The adjacent pine forest is a reclaimed ecosystem designed to stabilize the dune area.
The beach directly overlooks the town of Pontedeume, located across the estuary.
It is a Blue Flag beach, recognized for its water quality and environmental management standards.
Praia da Madalena is a significant sandy beach located in the municipality of Cabanas, adjacent to the Eume estuary in the province of A Coruña. The beach features a distinctive pine forest canopy that extends nearly to the shoreline, providing natural shade for visitors. It spans approximately one kilometer in length, offering a mix of fine white sand and calm, sheltered waters suitable for swimming. The site is situated at the mouth of the Eume River, which influences the coastal landscape and tidal environment. Pedestrian boardwalks facilitate access across the dune system to protect the local ecosystem. The area includes managed parkland zones integrated with the maritime environment.
The wooden boardwalk leading through the pine forest with the estuary in the background.
Use the wooden boardwalks to avoid damaging the protected dune vegetation.
Check the tide charts, as the beach width changes significantly between high and low tide.
Bring a windbreaker even in summer, as coastal breezes are common in this part of Galicia.
Attempting to park vehicles on the grassy verge or outside designated zones, as local enforcement is active.
Standard beach etiquette applies; do not remove sand or shells and ensure all waste is packed out to preserve the dune ecosystem.
