San Sebastian’s Hidden Hotels with Pools You Must See

If we’re being completely honest, there’s no real need to book a hotel with a pool in San Sebastian. 

For a start, the city has 3 beaches. And Donostia is small enough that if you stay in any of our recommended hotels, you’re usually only a short walk to one of the beaches. 

That being said, many tourists like the option of a pool! 

And why not? 

They may set you back a little bit more budget per night. But you can guarantee you’ll have one of the most rivalled spots in all of the city!

In the article below, we’ll run through some of the best hotel options with swimming pools!

Hotels with pools in San Sebastian

Below are our recommended hotels with pools.

Some are a little further out of the city centre, so be sure to check out the locations if that’s important to you!

1. The Social Hub

The Social Hub Hotel San Sebastian
Image from The Social Hub

The Social Hub is a fairly new addition to San Sebastián, opening in February 2023. It’s a hotel, co-working and general meeting space.

A little further out from the centre of San Sebastian (located 2.2 km from La Concha Beach), you can still cool off on a hot day thanks to its amazing rooftop pool!

Not only that, the hotel features a fitness centre, private parking, garden, and terrace too.

2. Barceló Costa Vasca

Barcelo Costa Vasca Swimming Pool in San Sebastian
Image from Barceló Costa Vasca Instagram

Barceló Costa Vasca is ideally located for those looking to be close to the action but with a little more peace and quiet at the hotel. 

And there’s a good reason why you’d want to have some downtime at the hotel! 

If there are few hotels with pools in San Sebastian, there aren’t any with a pool as big or enjoyable as this one! 

In fact, the whole outdoor area (with over 1,500 sq metres of outdoor terraces) makes this hotel unrivalled for outside space. 

With 203 rooms catering to all types of accommodation, what’s not to love?

3. Hotel Avenida

Hotel Avenida Pool in San Sebastian
Image from Hotel Avenida Facebook

Picture yourself in the pool or relaxing poolside with San Sebastian as a backdrop!

Well thanks to Hotel Avenida, this is no longer just a fantasy! 

Located on Mount Igueldo, Hotel Avenida offers an amazing garden space with a swimming pool, plus access to a fitness centre. 

If you’re more of a beach person, Ondarreta Beach is also just 800 metres away.

Outside of being a great place to enjoy the outdoors in San Sebastian, the hotel has well equipped rooms and a great buffet breakfast. 

4. Zenit Convento Hotel

Zenit Convento San Martín hotel in San Sebastian
Image from Zenit Convento San Martín Facebook

The name may give it away, but the Zenit Convento Hotel is located in an old convento (convent) building dating back to 1887. 

Today, the beautiful classic façade (made from the stone from Monte Igueldo) is the front for what is otherwise a modern hotel with all the facilities you could need. 

And that includes the rooftop pool!

It’s exclusive for guests, which makes this one of the best rooftops in San Sebastian

The pool is a little smaller than some of the others listed in this article, but if you fancy a proper swim, the hotel is located less than 100 metres from La Concha beach!

Personally I love the main hall which is a restored chapel, turned bar. It’s worth stopping for a drink even if you don’t stay at the hotel!

5. Catalonia Donosti

Catalonia Donosti Hotel in San Sebastian
Image from Catalonia Donosti

The Catalonia Donosti, situated on San Bartolomé hill in the centre of San Sebastian, is one of the top hotels in the city.

This boutique hotel, set in a historic convent, features a rooftop terrace with a pool, sun deck, and panoramic views over La Concha Beach and the San Sebastian skyline.

If you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry! You can relax in the hotel’s wellness zone which also has an indoor pool and sauna.

With all the major attractions right on your doorstep, it’s an ideal stay for both business and leisure stays.

6. Boutique Hotel Mendi Argia

Boutique Hotel Mendi Argia in San Sebastian
Image from Boutique Hotel Mendi Argia Facebook

Mendi Argia, meaning “Illuminated Mountain,” is a villa dating back to the early 20th century. 

The hotel is located on the slopes of Mount Ulia, offering spectacular views of San Sebastián. 

Revived by Openhouse Studio, this historic home features a hidden Basque pelota court, an old wooden staircase, and stone arches, creating a serene space blending nature and contemporary design. 

More importantly, it also has one of the city’s most beautiful rooftop gardens, terraces and pools!