An Introduction To Mundaka Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | March 21, 2025
Surfers flock to Spain’s northern coast for the legendary left-hand river mouth out at Mundaka surf. This tiny fishing village in the Basque Country boasts some of the best barrels in Europe, drawing in intermediate and advanced surfers from all over.
Sitting partially in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, Mundaka’s powerful wave breaks in front of a green and tranquil view. Also, for the beginners, Laida Beach presents a manageable beach break not intent on destroying confidence. While Laga Beach, further along the coastline offers waves suited to intermediate surfers.
After surfing, the compact town’s walkable streets and traditional architecture invite you to settle into a pintxos bar and bask in the glory of Basque culture. A bus or train ride from Bilbao and you get world-class waves with authentic charm.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Mundaka
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Peak Mundaka Surf Season | October to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Mundaka surf reaches its peak in winter when powerful North Atlantic swells generate long, barreling lefts that can reach 6 to 12 feet. This is when Mundaka surf delivers its most iconic conditions, attracting experienced surfers eager to challenge its fast, hollow waves.
Strong currents & heavy local crowds make this season demanding, requiring confidence & skill. Offshore southeast winds are essential for maintaining clean, glassy barrels, & early morning sessions often offer the best opportunities. While Mundaka surf is at its finest in winter, it’s also at its most intense, rewarding only those prepared for its power.
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Shoulder Mundaka Surf Season | April, May & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
Spring & early autumn bring more forgiving but still powerful Mundaka surf, with waves ranging from 3 to 6 feet. September often benefits from the first autumn swells, providing quality surf without the full power of winter. April & May still receive occasional solid days, though the consistency drops as summer approaches.
Winds are more variable during these months, making conditions less predictable. Despite this, Mundaka surf remains an excellent option for skilled surfers looking for world-class waves with slightly fewer crowds. The mix of powerful swells & moderate conditions makes this period ideal for experienced surfers wanting high-quality waves.
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Low Mundaka Surf Season | June to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Summer is the least reliable time for Mundaka surf, as smaller & less powerful swells struggle to break properly over the famous sandbank. Waves typically range from 1 to 3 feet, making it difficult for Mundaka to showcase its world-class potential. While longboarders may still find the estuary enjoyable, most shortboarders will need to look elsewhere for more powerful waves.
Many surfers use this time to explore other breaks in the Basque Country, as Mundaka surf becomes more inconsistent. While this isn’t the best season for wave quality, the area’s natural beauty & relaxed atmosphere still make it a great place to visit.
Mundaka Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Mundaka Surf Temperature:
18–22°C (64–70°F)
What To Wear:
A 2–3 mm wetsuit is recommended.
Rainfall:
Moderate rainfall, around 4–7 rainy days per month.
Mundaka Surf Temperature:
16–19°C (61–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit provides enough warmth for autumn conditions.
Rainfall:
Rainfall increases to 7–12 rainy days per month.
Mundaka Surf Temperature:
13–16°C (55–61°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit is needed, with booties recommended.
Rainfall:
Winter sees 10–15 rainy days per month.
Mundaka Surf Temperature:
14–17°C (57–63°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is fine for most sessions.
Rainfall:
Rainfall averages 6–10 rainy days per month.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Mundaka
| Mundaka Surf Spots | Distance from Mundaka | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Mundaka |
In the town centre |
3-10 foot |
Long powerful left |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Laida Beach |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) east |
2-4 foot |
Gentle beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Laga Hondartza |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) east |
3-6 foot |
Varied, consistent waves |
All levels |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Bakio Beach |
Approx. 15km (9.3mi) south |
3-6 foot |
Punchy beach break |
All levels |
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Sopelana Beach |
Approx. 45km (28mi) west |
2-6 foot |
Variety of breaks |
All levels |
Further Information To Mundaka Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Norht-northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Mundaka is one of Europe’s most famous & revered surf spots, offering a world-class left-hand river mouth wave that barrels flawlessly over a sandbank. Best at low to mid tide with a strong northwest swell, this legendary break delivers long, hollow rides that can exceed 200 meters, making it a dream wave for advanced surfers.
The powerful, fast-breaking tubes require precision & experience, as strong currents & shifting sections can pose a challenge. Due to its prestige, the lineup is often highly competitive, attracting professional & skilled surfers eager to score one of the best lefts in the world.
Access is straightforward, with a short paddle from the shore, but the crowds & tidal sensitivity mean patience & timing are key to getting the best waves Mundaka has to offer.
Rating: 5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Laida Beach offers a more forgiving alternative to Mundaka, with fun, mellow beach break waves suited to all skill levels. Best surfed at mid to high tide with a steady northwest swell, the waves here are softer & less intimidating, making it a great spot for beginners & intermediates looking to refine their technique.
The sandy bottom provides a safe environment, & while it doesn’t have the punch or barrels of Mundaka, it can still produce enjoyable longboard-friendly rides. The crowd factor remains relatively low, especially compared to its more famous neighbor, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere.
The beach is easily accessible, with scenic surroundings & plenty of space to spread out. Laida is an excellent choice for those looking for a more relaxed, fun surf session away from the high-performance waves of the region.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Laga Hondartza is a picturesque beach break nestled within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, offering reliable waves with a scenic backdrop. At mid tide, a northwest swell combined with a light south wind creates fun, consistent peaks that work well for surfers of all levels. The waves tend to be softer than those at Mundaka, making this an excellent spot for intermediates & longboarders.
While the lineup can see moderate crowds, particularly in the summer, it remains a far less intense experience than nearby Mundaka. The sandy bottom ensures a forgiving ride, & the natural surroundings add to the appeal of the location.
Easily accessible & with consistent wave quality, Laga Hondartza is a fantastic option for those looking for a mix of fun surf & stunning landscapes.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to low tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Bakio Beach is one of the most consistent surf spots in the Basque Country, receiving powerful northwest swells that create fast-breaking waves over a sandy bottom. Best at mid tide, the wave quality ranges from fun, rippable sections to heavy, barreling peaks, depending on swell size & wind conditions.
South winds help keep the face clean, making it a reliable spot for shortboarders & experienced surfers. Due to its consistency & location, Bakio can get crowded, particularly on weekends & during prime swell windows.
The beach is easily accessible, with ample space to accommodate multiple takeoff zones, though the best peaks often draw the most attention. For those looking for a strong, punchy beach break with plenty of power, Bakio is a top-tier choice in the region.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Sopelana Beach, often referred to as Sopela, is one of the Basque Country’s most popular surf destinations, known for its variety of peaks that cater to all levels. With a solid northwest swell & light southerly winds, the beach break produces both playful & powerful waves, making it a favorite among shortboarders & longboarders alike.
Mid tide offers the best balance of wave shape & power, though the break can handle different tidal conditions. Due to its accessibility & wave quality, Sopelana sees heavy crowds, particularly in summer & on weekends.
Despite this, the long stretch of sand provides multiple takeoff spots, giving surfers the chance to find their own peak. With a vibrant surf scene & consistent conditions, Sopelana is a must-visit for anyone exploring the waves of northern Spain.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Mundaka Surf Spots
| Mundaka Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Mundaka |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Laida Beach |
Approx. 20 min. + paddle across Urdaibai Biosferaren Erreserba estuary |
1hr. 20 min. |
1hr. 20 min. (local bus available) |
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Laga Hondartza |
Not advised |
Not advised |
30 min. (Taxi) |
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Bakio Beach |
Not advised |
Not advised |
20 min. (Taxi) |
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Sopelana Beach |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Not advised |
Accommodation In Mundaka
Want to enjoy hassle free trip to surf in Spain? Then, book your accommodations through Trip.com. From luxury waterfront resorts to budget surf hostels, all options are there. Booking in advance helps you get more time on the waves and less time thinking about preplanning.
Tripaneer runs surf camps around Spain, where you can get professional tuition and comfortable accommodation with a community based atmosphere. This way, you could really sharpen your surfing skills and delve into the Spain and Mundaka surf lifestyle.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€70 to €120 |
$75 to $130 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€150 to €250+ |
$160 to $270+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Mundaka Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Mundaka surf schools provide top-tier coaching for surfers looking to improve their technique in one of Europe’s most famous waves. Mundaka Barra Surf provides personalized lessons with a focus on mastering the unique challenges of Mundaka’s legendary wave.
Surfing Coach Mike Dobos offers tailored coaching, sharing expert techniques for navigating the powerful breaks in the area. Laga Surf Camp doubles as a surf school, combining hands-on instruction with an immersive surf experience at nearby beaches.
Gudari Caribe Surf School, known for its friendly atmosphere, delivers high-quality surf lessons that cater to both beginners and more experienced surfers seeking progression.
With a strong emphasis on safety, progression, & respect for the local surf culture, Mundaka surf schools offer an exceptional learning experience for those eager to refine their skills in this world-class surf destination.
Mundaka Surf Camp
While Mundaka doesn’t have a surf camp, San Sebastian Surf Camp is located a short distance from Mundaka and offers one of the top surf camp experiences in the Basque Country in Spain. Just past Zarautz, this incredible surf & yoga retreat is perfect for those looking to combine world-class waves with relaxation in a vibrant and scenic setting.
To find out more, check out our Zarautz surf page.
Mundaka Surfboard Hire
Mundaka surfboard hire makes it easy for visitors to access high-quality equipment suited for the region’s powerful waves. Gudari Caribe Surf School offers well-maintained boards for hire, catering to various skill levels and surf conditions.
Mundaka Barra Surf also provides a reliable selection of surfboards, ensuring you have the right equipment to tackle this challenging break.
With convenient options available, Mundaka surfboard hire ensures that surfers have everything they need to make the most of their time in this iconic destination.
Mundaka Surf Report & Surf Cam
Getting the most out of your Spain surf trip will require an in-depth understanding of swell and tide changes. Surf-Forecast provides comprehensive forecasting, whereas Surfline has paid subscriptions for live cams that show Spain surf spots throughout the day. These cams are ideal for checking in real-time.
A Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM activates itself online as soon as you land, making it blissfully easy and quick to get on the internet. No need for having to figure out where to buy popup charges or where to get local SIM cards. Whether it is live cam or reading surf clips into your feeds, Drimsim and Yesim keep you plugged into the Spain and Mundaka surf scene seamlessly.
How To Get To Mundaka Surf
- Bilbao Airport (BIO) To Mundaka
Distance: 35km (22mi)
Bilbao Airport (BIO) is the nearest major airport for travelers heading to Mundaka surf. Here’s how to get there.
Public Transport
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
There is no direct public transport from Bilbao Airport to Mundaka surf, but you can get there by combining a bus & a train. First, take the A3247 Bizkaibus airport shuttle to Bilbao Intermodal (approx. 25 minutes).
From there, walk to Casco Viejo Station (around 15 minutes) & board the E4 Euskotren towards Bermeo. The train ride takes roughly 50–60 minutes, & Mundaka is one of the stops along the way. While budget-friendly, this route requires a transfer & some walking between transport hubs.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 40-60 mins.
Details:
Private shuttle services like Welcome Pickups & Bilbao Airport Transfers offer direct transfers from Bilbao Airport to Mundaka surf. Shared shuttles may be available but typically require pre-booking.
Reserve your shuttle before your flight with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have a vehicle ready at the airport. This ensures a quick, comfortable transfer to the beach without any waiting.
Spain Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
If Spain is your next surf destination, knowing a few travel basics will help. The country uses the Euro, and cards are accepted almost everywhere. Tap water is safe for drinking, and English is spoken in many surf towns. Spanish is still the dominant language, so learning a few phrases can help.
For detailed travel guidance, including visa requirements, emergency contacts, and health advice, check out our Spain surf page where we’ve outlined all 7 essentials to help you plan smartly.
Travel Insurance For Your Mundaka Surf Trip
You lose your bag at the airport. Your board arrives cracked. You catch the flu in the middle of the trip. These aren’t unusual. They’re simply everyday realities of surf travel. Sure, Spain surf spots churn out perfect waves. Still, travel always comes with some chaos. VisitorsCoverage promises tailor-made coverage just for that opportunity to recover real fast and get back to the waves.
You have long been yearning for this vacation, so don’t let hurdles get in the way of this great adventure. A smart move in turning future disaster into just a minor speed bump.
Discover Mundaka: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf is down, Mundaka offers a variety of activities, from scenic coastal walks to cultural sites and the amazing Basque cuisine.
Exploring Bilbao: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
For a multi-day surf break, Bilbao is an excellent nearby option, offering a rich mix of Basque culture, art, and cuisine. From the iconic Guggenheim Museum to the atmospheric streets of the Old Town, there’s plenty to explore.
For even more experiences, check out GetYourGuide and Viator for guided city tours, food walks, day trips, and cultural highlights that bring Bilbao to life.