The Surf Window

Sopelana

Basque Country, Spain

Beach breakIntermediate

A quality beach break just west of Bilbao, wide, accessible, and consistent, intermediate surfers a genuine Basque surf experience within easy reach of the city.

Typical Conditions

The Surf Window

Swell Window

N
OptimalN (0°)
WindowNNW–ENE (330°–60°)
Size4-10ft

Wind

NE

Offshore

Tide

Any

LowMidHigh

Season

October–March

JFMAMJJASOND

The Wave

Type

Both

Bottom

Sand

Shape

Punchy, medium-speed beach-break peaks

Length

50–100m

Skill Level

  • •Who it's for: Intermediate
  • •Why: Sandy bottom and consistent peaks are forgiving and great for progression.

Hazards

  • •Rips between sandbars
  • •Rocky headlands at both ends of the beach
  • •Crowded in summer and weekends

Local Tips

  • •Combine a surf session with a visit to the Guggenheim Bilbao, 20 minutes away and one of the world's great museums.
  • •The metro line from Bilbao reaches Sopelana directly, no car needed.

Location

Map showing the location of Sopelana in Basque Country, Spain

43.3997, -2.9864