Surfing in the Basque Country, Spain

The Basque Country is the beating heart of Spanish surfing. Stretching along Spain’s rugged northern coastline, this region blends powerful Atlantic swells with a unique culture, incredible food, and lively surf towns. It’s where Spain’s surf culture first flourished and today it remains one of Europe’s most iconic surf destinations.

Key Surf Spots

San Sebastián

Known for its stunning beaches and world-class gastronomy, San Sebastián is a city where surfing meets urban life. The city’s main beach, La Zurriola, offers fun, consistent waves suitable for beginners and intermediates. The surf scene here is vibrant, with plenty of schools, rentals, and a lively après-surf culture.

Zarautz

Just a short drive from San Sebastián, Zarautz is the ultimate surf town. Its 2.5 km sandy beach is one of the best beginner and intermediate spots in Spain, with mellow waves and plenty of surf schools. The town is buzzing with surf hostels, camps, and tapas bars, making it a great place for longer stays.

Mundaka

A name whispered with respect in the surf world, Mundaka is one of Europe’s most legendary waves. This river mouth left-hander is fast, hollow, and incredibly long, offering rides that can stretch for hundreds of meters. It’s strictly for advanced surfers when it’s firing, but even watching it break is a spectacle.

Best Time to Surf in the Basque Country

• Autumn (Sept–Nov): The golden season — consistent swells, warm weather, and fewer crowds.

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Big, heavy surf for advanced riders, especially at Mundaka.

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Smaller swells, but great for beginners at Zarautz and La Zurriola.

Surf Levels

• Beginners: Zarautz, San Sebastián (La Zurriola)

• Intermediate: San Sebastián, Zarautz on bigger days

• Advanced: Mundaka, plus hidden reefs along the Basque coastline

Vibe & Culture

The Basque Country has a strong surf identity, but it’s also famous for its food culture. After surfing, you’ll find yourself hopping between pintxo bars (Basque tapas) and soaking up the lively atmosphere. Towns like Zarautz and San Sebastián combine a laid-back surf lifestyle with world-class cuisine and nightlife.

Travel Tips

• Wetsuit: 3/2 mm in summer, 4/3 or 5/4 mm in winter.

• Transport: Renting a car is the best way to explore multiple breaks. Public transport is reliable between bigger towns, but not always for remote surf spots.

• Accommodation: From surf hostels in Zarautz to boutique hotels in San Sebastián, the region has options for every budget.

• Local Etiquette: Crowds can get heavy in the Basque lineup, especially at Mundaka. Respect the locals and don’t paddle out above your level.