The Basque Coast, stretching along the southwestern edge of France and the northern shore of Spain, is one of Europe’s premier surfing destinations. From the iconic waves of Biarritz in France to the rich surf culture of San Sebastián in Spain, this stretch of coastline offers a combination of world-class waves, stunning landscapes, and an authentic cultural experience that few other places can match.
It does not matter if you are a beginner eager to catch your first wave, an intermediate surfer chasing consistent swells, or an expert seeking powerful barrels, the Basque Coast has something for you. This blog post will take you on a journey along this legendary surf route, highlighting the best surf spots, local vibes, and essential tips for making the most of your surf trip from Biarritz to San Sebastián.
Why Surf the Basque Coast?
Before getting into the specific spots, it’s important to understand why the Basque Coast is so special for surfers.
- Consistent Atlantic Swells
The Basque Coast faces the open Atlantic, receiving regular swells year-round. This ensures consistent waves, especially from autumn to spring when the North Atlantic storms generate more powerful surf. - Diverse Breaks
The coastline features a variety of breaks—beach breaks, reef breaks, point breaks—that cater to different skill levels and wave preferences. - Rich Culture
Surfing here is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle intertwined with Basque traditions, food, music, and community. - Accessibility
The proximity of several surf spots means you can easily hop from one beach to another, maximizing your surf sessions. - Scenic Beauty
From rugged cliffs to sandy beaches backed by charming towns, the Basque Coast is as breathtaking as it is surf-worthy.
Biarritz: The Birthplace of European Surfing
Your surf journey begins in Biarritz, France’s glamorous seaside town widely recognized as the birthplace of surfing in Europe. Let’s see the best surf spots:
- Côte des Basques
The flagship surf spot of Biarritz, this beach offers a beautiful right-hand point break with long rides. It’s great for both longboarders and shortboarders, though the wave can get quite powerful on bigger swells. - La Grande Plage
In the heart of Biarritz, this beach break is more accessible for beginners and intermediate surfers, with plenty of surf schools and rental shops nearby. - Grande Plage and Milady
These beaches offer more mellow waves and great conditions for learning or refining your technique.
Biarritz is stylish yet laid-back, with a thriving surf community and great après-surf options; cafés with top-notch coffee, seafood restaurants, and lively bars.
Recommended Surf Schools:
Surf In Biarritz: book online your private or group lessons. All ages and levels, rentals, and guided surf tours.
Côte des Basques Surf Club: Here you will find lots of local knowledge and personalized coaching.
Accommodation
- Hotel Le Café de Paris: Classic seafront 4 stars hotel near Grande Plage, perfect for easy beach access. Book directly online to get the best offer.
- Surf Riders Biarritz Hostel: Budget-friendly with a super social vibe, close to main surf spots and surf schools. “Come in as a guest, leave as a friend” – more than a slogan. Absolutely recommended if you are a solo traveler.
If you want more details about surfing in Biarritz, check my dedicated post.
Guéthary: Power and Precision
Just a few kilometers north of Biarritz lies the small fishing village of Guéthary. This spot is beloved by experienced surfers for its fast, hollow reef breaks. Les Cavaliers is challenging reef break known for its powerful waves and hollow sections. It’s not for beginners but offers rewarding rides for those up to the challenge. Another reef break close by is Bascule, popular on mid to high tides.
Guéthary maintains a quiet, authentic Basque atmosphere, perfect for those wanting to combine intense surf sessions with peaceful village life. If you are looking for a good surf lessons, try Guéthary Surf School. It is a smaller, boutique school ideal for intermediate to advanced surfers wanting to hone technique on reef breaks.
Recommended Accommodation:
Boutique guesthouse Villa Catarie offers cozy rooms with ocean views and it is perfect for surfers seeking tranquility. Check the website and book online.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz:
Mellow Waves and Family-Friendly Beaches
Heading further south toward the Spanish border, Saint-Jean-de-Luz offers gentler waves that are ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers. Saint-Jean-de-Luz Beach for instance is a long sandy beach with consistent beach breaks, perfect for lessons or relaxed sessions. Erromardie is another great spot, slightly more sheltered and popular among locals so be respectful.
The town is picturesque with a strong Basque identity, excellent eateries, and a welcoming feel that’s perfect for families and new surfers. For surf lessons head to Saint Jean de Luz Surf School. It is great for beginners and families, with bilingual instructors and beach safety focus.
Accommodation:
Hotel Parc Victoria: Elegant, comfy, close to the beach and old town.
Auberge Basque: Budget accommodation with a traditional Basque feel. Simply perfect if you want to combine a yoga retreat, surf and extraordinary culinary experience. Check the website for more info and direct booking here.
Hondarribia: A Hidden Gem on the Spanish Side
Crossing into Spain, Hondarribia is a charming fishing town with surf spots that remain relatively uncrowded. There are two main surf spots:
- Hondarribia Beach: a sandy beach break suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers. The waves can be soft in summer and build with Atlantic swells during fall and winter.
- Hendaye: just 10 minutes drive away from town offers slightly bigger waves. Check the description below.
Hondarribia’s medieval old town, with its cobblestone streets and Basque architecture, offers a cultural bonus alongside the surf.
Recommenced Accommodation
Hotel Rio Bidasoa: Riverside hotel near the beach and old town. Perfect for a relaxing stay and delicious meals. Check the website for direct bookings.
Hendaye: Wide Beaches and Consistent Surf
Hendaye, just next to Hondarribia, features one of the longest beaches on the Basque Coast, providing excellent conditions for surfers of all levels. Hendaye Beach is known for its wide, sandy beach and gentle waves, ideal for beginners and longboarders. The Cove is a right-hand point break on the southern side of the bay and it offers more challenging waves when conditions are right.
Hendaye is quieter and less touristy, offering a relaxed environment with a strong connection to Basque culture.
You can find a beginner friendly surf lessons at Hendaye Surf School. Book your group or private lessons and if it’s flat rent a stand-up paddleboard.
Accommodation
- Relais Thalasso: combine surfing and thalasso therapy. In this hotel, right on th ebeach, you will find all the possible comforts to enjoy your stay. Check the website and get a discount on your next stay here.
Zarautz: The Surfing Capital of the Spanish Basque Country
Moving further down the coast, Zarautz stands out as a surfing hotspot with a lively atmosphere and a long sandy beach. Zarautz Beach in fact is the main attraction and its consistent beach break can handle swells of varying sizes. It’s suitable for all skill levels and is particularly popular in summer. Nearby breaks like Getaria offer more challenging waves for advanced surfers.
Zarautz is a bustling surf town with numerous surf shops, schools, bars, and restaurants. It hosts several surf competitions annually, fostering a vibrant surf culture.
Check two local surf schools if you want to improve your surfing level:
- Zarautz Surf Eskola: Large surf school with experienced instructors, popular among tourists and locals.
- Pukas Surf Eskola: Offers advanced coaching and competitive training programs.
Accommodation
- Ur Bare Hotel: Beachfront hotel with excellent surf access.
- Surf Hostel Zarautz: Here you will meet other surf travelers and live a real surfing vibe. Check the website for surf packages.
San Sebastián (Donostia):
A Perfect Mix of Surf and City Life
Your journey culminates in San Sebastián, one of Spain’s most beautiful coastal cities and a cultural jewel of the Basque Country. Let’s check the surf spots:
- La Zurriola Beach: The city’s main surf beach, known for consistent beach breaks and waves that suit intermediate and advanced surfers.
- Ondarreta Beach: gentler waves suitable for beginners, near the city center.
- Mundaka (nearby): a bit further away. It is a world-famous left-hand river mouth break considered one of the best in Europe, ideal for expert surfers seeking barrels. Can’t miss it if you are an advanced surfer.
San Sebastián combines urban sophistication with Basque traditions. The city boasts an incredible food scene (think Michelin-starred restaurants and pintxos bars), lively nightlife, and stunning architecture, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of surfing.
Recommended surf schools:
- Zurriola Surf Eskola: Conveniently located on La Zurriola beach, this school caters to all levels.
- Donosti Surf School: Emphasizes a community vibe, surf guiding, and equipment rental.
Accommodation
- Nicolasa Boutique Hotel: Centrally located, budget-friendly, near La Zurriola. Book on the website directly to get 10% off the normal price.
- San Sebastian Surf Hostel: Surf-focused hostel with easy access to surf spots and city life. Perfect for those who want to meet new people. Check the website and book online to get the best price here.
Surf Maps & Spots Overview
| Location | Main Surf Spot(s) | Level | Wave Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biarritz | Côte des Basques, Grande Plage, Milady | Beginner to advanced | Point & beach breaks | Côte des Basques is a classic right-hand point break, great for all levels depending on swell |
| Guéthary | Les Cavaliers, Bascule | Advanced | Reef break | Powerful and hollow waves, best for experienced surfers |
| Saint-Jean-de-Luz | Saint-Jean-de-Luz Beach, Erromardie | Beginner to intermediate | Beach break | Mellow waves, family-friendly |
| Hondarribia | Hondarribia Beach | Beginner to intermediate | Beach break | Quiet, less crowded spot |
| Hendaye | Hendaye Beach, The Cove | Beginner to intermediate | Beach and point break | Wide sandy beach, gentle waves |
| Zarautz | Zarautz Beach | Beginner to advanced | Beach break | Long beach with consistent waves |
| San Sebastián | La Zurriola, Ondarreta, Mundaka (nearby) | Beginner to expert | Beach and river mouth | La Zurriola is lively with strong waves; Mundaka offers world-class barrels |
Surfing Tips for the Basque Coast
- Best Season: The prime surf season runs from autumn through spring, when Atlantic swells are stronger and more consistent. Summer offers smaller, more beginner-friendly waves.
- Transport: Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore multiple surf spots at your own pace. Alternatively, regional buses connect major towns but are less frequent.
- Wetsuit Required: The water can be chilly year-round, so bring a quality wetsuit (4/3mm or 5/4mm in winter).
- Respect Local Etiquette: The Basque surfing community is tight-knit. Always wait your turn and be courteous in the lineup.
- Explore Beyond Surf: Don’t miss Basque cuisine, language, music, and festivals to enrich your trip. Check the below part of this post.
- Get Local Advice: Surf shops and schools in each town are invaluable for up-to-date surf conditions and gear rental.
Exploring the Basque Coast Beyond Surfing
Surfing here isn’t just about the waves—it’s about the lifestyle. The Basque Coast is rich with cultural heritage, stunning natural parks, and charming towns to explore between surf sessions.
Food: Try pintxos (Basque tapas), fresh seafood, and local wines in seaside taverns.
Hiking: Explore coastal trails. The Camino de Santiago route along the coast is the famous one but there is much more. Check my post about hiking in Basque Country here.
Festivals: Time your visit with local festivals like Aste Nagusia in Bilbao or Semana Grande in San Sebastián.
Architecture: Discover Basque vernacular buildings and modern architectural wonders like the Guggenheim Museum in nearby Bilbao. Stay tuned: a post about digital nomads in Bilbao is on its way!
Surfing from Biarritz to San Sebastián offers an unforgettable journey combining some of Europe’s best waves with a rich cultural tapestry. This coastline balances natural beauty, diverse surf breaks, and vibrant local communities. Whether you’re chasing barrels at Côte des Basques, learning your first turns in Zarautz, or soaking in the culinary delights of San Sebastián, the Basque Coast delivers an authentic and thrilling surf experience.
So pack your board, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to ride the waves of one of the world’s most captivating surf regions.
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