Are you looking for the best surf spots in Basque Country? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the top surf spots in Basque Country. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region of Spain.
Best beaches for surfing in the Basque Country
Mundaka
Mundaka is located inside the UNESCO Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, around 38 kilometers northeast of Bilbao. It is home to the longest left-hand wave in the world and even holds the annual Billabong Pro surf competition. With its world-famous surf, Mundaka is a must-visit destination for any surfer.
Zurriola
Zurriola Beach is one of San Sebastian’s three beaches and is best for city center surfing with lots of big swell and plenty of facilities such as surf schools and rental places. It’s great if you don’t want to have to travel far for the surf and don’t mind sharing the sands with other tourists and locals alike.
Zarautz
Zarautz is a small town located around 24 kilometers from San Sebastian, with a vast wide beach that measures two and a half kilometers long. It’s called ‘the queen of the beaches’ because Queen Isabella II of Spain used to come here for her vacations in the 19th century. The swell is big, and it’s popular with surfers from all over the world, hosting a number of world surfing championships.
La Salvaje Sopelana
La Salvaje near Sopelana means ‘the wild one,’ and it certainly is, with its huge waves and natural windswept beach. It lies a half an hour metro ride from the city of Bilbao, so it’s a great place to combine both city and surf. The beach is natural and has very few amenities, though, so head to nearby Sopelana Beach for bars and cafes.
Meñakoz
Meñakoz can be found north of Bilbao and is perfect for those who seek solitude and silence (save for the sound of giant waves crashing along the shore). And they truly are giant – in winter, the waves can reach up to five or six meters high, making them some of the biggest in Europe. Due to the nature of the waves here, this one is expert surfers only.
La Arena
La Arena is located in the town of Muskiz, around 20 kilometers from Bilbao. It’s a beautiful beach with a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The waves here are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools in the area to help you get started.
Bakio
Bakio is a small town located around 30 kilometers from Bilbao, with a beautiful beach that stretches for over a kilometer. The waves here are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools in the area to help you get started. Bakio is also home to the annual Basque Surfing Championship.
Plentzia
Plentzia is a small town located around 25 kilometers from Bilbao, with a beautiful beach that stretches for over a kilometer. The waves here are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools in the area to help you get started. Plentzia is also home to the annual Basque Surfing Championship.
Barinatxe
Barinatxe is located in the town of Getxo, around 15 kilometers from Bilbao. It’s a beautiful beach with a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The waves here are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools in the area to help you get started.
Bakio Beach
Bakio Beach is located in the town of Bakio, around 30 kilometers from Bilbao. It’s a beautiful beach with a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The waves here are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools in the area to help you get started.
Laga
Laga is located in the town of Ibarrangelu, around 50 kilometers from Bilbao. It’s a beautiful beach with a long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. The waves here are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers, and there are plenty of surf schools in the area to help you get started.
Frequently Asked Questions Surf Spots in Basque Country
What is the best time of year to surf in Basque Country?
The surf season in Basque Country starts in autumn and lasts through the winter, so now is the time to be looking for those top spots to hit the waves.
What are the best surf spots in Basque Country for beginners?
Some of the best surf spots in Basque Country for beginners include La Arena, Bakio, Plentzia, and Barinatxe.
What are the best surf spots in Basque Country for experienced surfers?
Some of the best surf spots in Basque Country for experienced surfers include Mundaka, Meñakoz, and La Salvaje Sopelana.
What are the best surf schools in Basque Country?
Some of the best surf schools in Basque Country include Pukas Surf Eskola, San Sebastian Surf School, and Zarautz Surf Eskola.
What is the water temperature like in Basque Country?
The water temperature in Basque Country varies depending on the season. In the summer, the water temperature can reach up to 22°C, while in the winter, it can drop down to 12°C.
What should I wear when surfing in Basque Country?
When surfing in Basque Country, it’s important to wear a wetsuit to protect yourself from the cold water. The thickness of the wetsuit will depend on the season and the water temperature.
Are there any surf competitions in Basque Country?
Yes, there are several surf competitions held in Basque Country throughout the year, including the Billabong Pro in Mundaka and the Basque Surfing Championship in Bakio.
What other activities can I do in Basque Country besides surfing?
Basque Country is a beautiful region of Spain with plenty of other activities to enjoy besides surfing. Some popular activities include hiking in the mountains, visiting the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and exploring the charming seaside towns along the coast.
What is the best way to get to Basque Country?
The best way to get to Basque Country is by flying into Bilbao Airport or San Sebastian Airport. From there, you can rent a car or take public transportation to your destination.
What is the best time of year to visit Basque Country?
The best time of year to visit Basque Country depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re interested in surfing, the best time to visit is in the fall and winter when the waves are at their best. If you’re interested in hiking or exploring the region’s charming towns, the summer months are a great time to visit.
What is the food like in Basque Country?
Basque Country is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, pintxos (small snacks), and hearty stews. Some popular dishes to try include bacalao al pil pil (cod in garlic and olive oil), marmitako (tuna stew), and txangurro (spider crab).
What is the nightlife like in Basque Country?
Basque Country has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Some popular destinations include San Sebastian, Bilbao, and Vitoria-Gasteiz.
I hope this guide has been helpful in planning your next surfing trip to Basque Country. Remember to always check the weather and surf conditions before heading out, and to respect the local environment and culture. Happy surfing! 🏄♂️🌊
