An Introduction To Zarautz Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 05, 2025
Zarautz surfing is among the best experiences in Spain’s Basque Country, with constant waves, an extensive sandy beach, and solid surf culture. On the northern coast of this lively town, it’s a surfer’s paradise for all levels and is best navigated on foot or by bike, with a good public transport service and an overall compact setting, Zarautz makes for a perfect car free surf getaway.
The main surf spot is Playa de Zarautz, a two-kilometer stretch with an array of wave conditions. While beginners learn in the gentler sections, intermediates will go out searching for some things worth their while. Schools and board hire joints decorate the promenade along with a scattering of beachside cafés, giving the whole surf area quite a welcoming and well-equipped feel!
Playa de Orio is a bit of a bike ride away, or a quick bus trip, and it offers just a bit more of a challenge. It has a bit more vigorous wave action with a bit more of a laid-back local vibe, making it part of the local surf mix. Whether you are getting taught, improving your skills, or going for something really heavy, Zarautz surf offers wave quality along with that easy travel and charm only found in Basque coastal life.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Zarautz
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Peak Zarautz Surf Season | October to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Zarautz surf reaches its peak between October & March, when North Atlantic swells send consistent 4 to 10-foot waves rolling into its long, sandy beach. The beach break here handles size well, producing fast peaks & rippable walls that attract dedicated surfers from all over.
During winter, the waves can pack a serious punch, with stronger currents & more powerful sections that require solid paddling & positioning. Zarautz surf in this season is the most challenging & rewarding, offering near-daily opportunities to score high-quality surf. With fewer crowds in the water, especially during colder spells, committed surfers can enjoy long, uncrowded rides & dynamic sessions across a variety of peaks.
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Shoulder Zarautz Surf Season | April, May & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
Spring & early autumn are excellent times to experience the more approachable side of Zarautz surf. Waves typically sit in the 3 to 6-foot range, offering something for all levels. April & May often retain some late-season swell energy, while September brings the first powerful pulses of the new season.
With more consistent conditions & a slightly mellower vibe, Zarautz surf during the shoulder months is perfect for progression. Whether you’re a beginner stepping into the lineup or an intermediate looking to push your limits, this season delivers reliable waves with fewer crowds & more daylight for extended sessions.
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Low Zarautz Surf Season | June to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Summer brings smaller, more beginner-friendly waves to Zarautz surf. From June to August, waves generally stay in the 1 to 3-foot range, with a few bigger days mixed in depending on storm activity. While conditions may lack power, the playful surf is ideal for longboarding & learning the basics.
Zarautz surf during these months is laid-back & accessible, although the town gets crowded with beachgoers. Despite the busier beaches, early mornings still offer peaceful surf sessions, & the mellow conditions are perfect for relaxing days in the water. While advanced surfers may crave more power, summer surf in Zarautz is perfect for fun, low-pressure rides.
Zarautz Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Zarautz Surf Temperature:
18–21°C (64–70°F)
What To Wear:
A 2–3 mm wetsuit is ideal, though some days may allow for a shorty or boardshorts.
Rainfall:
Around 4–7 rainy days per month.
Zarautz Surf Temperature:
16–19°C (61–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is recommended as the water cools.
Rainfall:
Rainfall increases to 7–12 rainy days per month. This season brings more powerful & consistent surf.
Zarautz Surf Temperature:
13–16°C (55–61°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit is necessary, & booties can help in colder conditions.
Rainfall:
The wettest season, with 10–15 rainy days per month. Strong swells create great conditions for experienced surfers.
Zarautz Surf Temperature:
14–17°C (57–63°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit works well, offering flexibility & warmth.
Rainfall:
Rainfall starts to decrease, averaging 6–10 rainy days per month. Surf conditions remain reliable, with good waves for all levels
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Zarautz
| Zarautz Surf Spots | Distance from Zarautz | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Zarautz Beach |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
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Markobe Hondartza |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) northwest |
2-4 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Playa de Orio (Antilla Beach) |
Approx. 10km (6.2mi) east |
3-6 foot |
Consistent, fun beach break |
All levels |
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Playa de la Zurriola |
Approx. 25km (15.5mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Consistent, fun beach break |
All levels |
Further Information To Zarautz Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: South-southeast
- Swell Direction: Northeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Zarautz Beach is one of the most well-known surf destinations in the Basque Country, offering a long stretch of sand with multiple peaks catering to all levels. The beach break provides fun, rippable waves that work best with a northwest swell & south winds keeping conditions clean. The wave quality varies depending on sandbanks, but mid to high tide generally produces the best rides.
Beginners can find smaller waves on the inside, while experienced surfers can hunt for more powerful peaks along the beach. Due to its popularity & reputation, Zarautz Beach can get crowded, especially near the main surf schools. However, with over 2.5 km of coastline, there’s usually space to spread out. The town of Zarautz offers a vibrant surf culture, making it a must-visit spot for those looking for both great waves & an authentic Basque surfing experience.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Markobe Hondartza is a lesser-known surf spot near Zarautz, offering a more peaceful alternative to the often crowded main beach. This beach break works best at mid tide with a northwest swell, & south winds help maintain clean & well-shaped waves. The waves here can be more unpredictable due to shifting sandbanks, but when conditions align, Markobe provides fun, peaky waves suitable for intermediate & advanced surfers.
Since it’s not as famous as Zarautz Beach, it sees far fewer surfers, making it a great choice for those looking to escape the crowds. However, access can be trickier, & there are fewer facilities compared to Zarautz’s main surf areas. If you’re willing to explore & adapt to changing conditions, Markobe Hondartza can deliver some rewarding sessions in a stunning, quieter setting.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa de Orio, also known as Antilla Beach, is a scenic & consistent beach break located just west of Zarautz. This spot picks up plenty of swell, working best at mid to high tide with a solid northwest swell & clean south winds. The waves here tend to be powerful & can produce fun, punchy sections that suit intermediate & advanced surfers.
While the waves are generally friendly, stronger swells can create challenging conditions with fast, barreling sections. Unlike Zarautz Beach, Playa de Orio is less crowded, offering more space to surf without heavy competition. The natural setting, combined with quality waves, makes it a favorite among locals looking for an alternative to the busier surf beaches nearby. The beach is easily accessible, with parking & facilities available close to the shore.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Playa de la Zurriola is one of the most famous surf spots in San Sebastián, known for its powerful & consistent waves that attract surfers from all over. This beach break works best with a northwest swell at mid tide, with south winds helping to maintain clean, well-shaped waves. The waves here can be fast & punchy, with occasional barreling sections that challenge even experienced surfers. However, there are also mellower sections for beginners, making it a versatile spot for different skill levels.
Due to its popularity & central location in San Sebastián, Playa de la Zurriola is often crowded, particularly in peak season. Despite this, it remains a top-tier surf destination, offering reliable waves, easy access, & a vibrant surf scene. If you don’t mind sharing the lineup, this spot delivers some of the best beach break waves in the Basque Country.
Rating: 4.5/5
Travel Time To Zarautz Surf Spots
| Zarautz Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Zarautz Beach |
5-10 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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Markobe Hondartza |
Approx. 60 min. |
Approx. 15-20 min. |
15 min. train or 8 min. taxi |
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Playa de Orio (Antilla Beach) |
Not advised |
Approx. 30-40 min. |
30 min. train + short walk or 15 min. taxi
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Playa de la Zurriola |
Not advised |
Not advised |
35 min. train or 25 min. taxi |
Accommodation In Zarautz
Trip.com provides an easy and convenient way for booking accommodations for a surf trip in Spain. From luxury resorts on the beach or hostels on a budget, Trip.com provides a bee of options beyond the breaking waves. Booking your lodging beforehand offers peace of mind & some extra hours for surfing.
For surfers wanting a richer experience in Spain, Tripaneer organizes surf camps for professional techniques, comfortable accommodation, and warm camaraderie for surf camps that provide an insight into the Spanish and Zarautz surf lifestyle while boosting your surfing skills in an interactive & openly supportive environment.
| 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 €150 |
$75 to $160 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€200 to €400+ |
$220 to $440+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Zarautz Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Zarautz surf schools offer high-quality instruction for surfers of every level, making this Basque town a top destination for learning & progression in the water. Moor Surf Eskola Zarautz ensures a safe and enjoyable experience with its experienced instructors who emphasize skill-building in a supportive environment.
North Shore Surf Camp offers a blend of professional coaching and an authentic surf lifestyle, ideal for those seeking both learning and immersion in surf culture. Shelter Surf and Good People Surf are renowned for their friendly, personalized teaching approaches that adapt to each student’s needs.
Essus Surf Eskola Zarautz focuses on building confidence and foundational skills for beginners, while Axi Muniain Surf Center specializes in advanced techniques for seasoned surfers looking to refine their abilities.
With expert coaching & a variety of programs available, Zarautz surf schools provide an ideal environment to grow your skills & enjoy the vibrant local surf scene.
Zarautz Surf Camp
San Sebastian Surf & Yoga Retreat With San Sebastian Surf Camp
Nestled in the breathtaking Pagoeta Nature Reserve, Stoke Surf House offers a unique blend of surf, yoga, & Basque culture in one of Europe’s most stunning coastal regions. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean & the rolling green hills of the Basque countryside, this surf camp is a paradise for adventure seekers & social travelers alike.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced surfer, you’ll receive expert guidance on the summer waves of Playa Zarautz surf. Beyond Zarautz surf, enjoy yoga sessions, beach games, bonfires, & legendary parties while connecting with like-minded travelers from around the world.
5 Day San Sebastian Surf & Yoga Retreat With San Sebastian Surf Camp
Stoke Surf House offers a 4-night stay with chef-prepared meals. The retreat includes an introductory surf lesson, daily guided surf sessions, & yoga classes led by experienced instructors.
Wetsuits, surfboards, & additional activities like skimboarding, slacklining, & beach games are all part of the experience. Unwind with welcome drinks, free Wi-Fi, & lively Basque festivities. Daily transport to Zarautz & train station pickups are arranged for convenience. Find Out More
6 Day San Sebastian Surf & Yoga Retreat With San Sebastian Surf Camp
Immerse yourself in the surf & yoga lifestyle with a 5-night stay at Stoke Surf House. Mornings begin with a hearty breakfast before heading to Zarautz for surf lessons with expert guides. The afternoons are yours to explore San Sebastian’s vibrant streets or relax on the beach, while evenings bring bonfires, social gatherings, & a taste of the region’s buzzing nightlife.
This package covers an introductory surf lesson, daily surf sessions, yoga classes, & access to beachside activities like skimboarding & slacklining. Free Wi-Fi, welcome drinks, & daily transport to Zarautz are included, along with train station pickups. Find Out More
7 Day San Sebastian Surf & Yoga Retreat With San Sebastian Surf Camp
A full week at Stoke Surf House means more time to catch waves, stretch into yoga poses, & soak up Basque culture. Over 6 nights, enjoy chef-prepared meals, an introductory surf lesson, & daily surf guiding.
Yoga classes take place daily, with mats provided. When you’re not surfing or stretching, take advantage of skimboards, slacklines, & beach games. Evenings are lively with social events, local festivities, & transport to Zarautz for a change of scenery. Train station pickups & drop-offs are part of the package for a seamless arrival & departure. Find Out More
Zarautz Surfboard Hire
Zarautz surfboard hire options are plentiful & convenient, giving visitors easy access to quality boards for all styles & skill levels. Moor Surf Eskola Zarautz and Essus Surf Eskola Zarautz provide a variety of boards, from soft-tops for beginners to performance-focused shortboards for advanced surfers.
Good People Surf not only rents high-quality equipment but also offers expert advice on local conditions to help you make the most of your session.
Whether you’re chasing long rides or refining your technique, Zarautz surfboard hire services make it simple to get the right gear & enjoy the region’s consistent waves.
Zarautz Surf Report & Surf Cam
A close watch on the surf conditions in Zarautz is keys to maximizing your time in the water. Trusty websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline give thorough swell forecast, tide charts, & wind data for your day planning. Surfline has cameras set in real-time surf breaks in Spain, though this requires a paid subscription.
Staying connected while traveling is easy with a Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, and is activated the instant you land, with no stress about local SIM card purchase. It really keeps you in the loop all through the trip, check surf reports, watch live cams, and upload your Spanish surf clips without interruption.
How To Get To Zarautz Surf
- Bilbao Airport (BIO) To Zarautz
Distance: 85km (53mi)
To reach Zarautz surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Bilbao Airport (BIO) & then take a local bus or taxi to your destination. Below is a quick guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Zarautz surf based on your preferences.
Public Transport
Approx. 2-3 hrs.
Details:
There is no direct public transport from Bilbao Airport to Zarautz surf, so you’ll need to travel via San Sebastián (Donostia). First, take the A3247 airport bus from Bilbao Airport to Bilbao Termibus, which takes around 20 minutes. From there, board a PESA or ALSA coach to San Sebastián, a journey of 1–1.5 hours.
Once in San Sebastián, you can take an Euskotren (E1 line) train or a Lurraldebus (UK09 or UK10) bus to Zarautz, which takes 20–30 minutes. While budget-friendly, this option requires multiple transfers, & checking schedules in advance is recommended.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1.5-2.5 hrs.
Details:
Several airport transfer services, such as HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups, offer shared & private shuttles from Bilbao Airport to Zarautz surf. Shared shuttles often involve stops in San Sebastián or nearby towns, extending travel time.
Spain Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Planning a surf trip to Spain? It’s worth knowing the basics before you go. Euros are used throughout the country, and cards are accepted in nearly all shops and restaurants. Tap water is safe to drink, and English is common in tourist areas. Still, learning a bit of Spanish goes a long way.
For everything from health tips to visa policies and emergency contacts, our Spain surf page outlines all 7 essentials to help you travel confidently and comfortably.
Travel Insurance For Your Zarautz Surf Trip
You’ve booked your flights, waxed your board, and counted the days. But once the journey begins, the unknowns start to appear too. It’s illness, delays, and damaging the equipment, and it can occur out of the blue. VisitorsCoverage offers coverage that matches your traveling style.
That’s why intelligent surfers should purchase travel insurance. It keeps your mind at ease and helps you get healthy faster after setbacks. Trips to Spain surf should be exhilarating, not frenzied, stay covered and savor each moment.
Discover Zarautz: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf is flat, Zarautz still has plenty to offer. From scenic coastal walks and local food spots to cultural sites and nearby towns, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your time. Check out our 5 recommendations below.
For even more experiences, check out GetYourGuide for guided tours, day trips, and local activities around Zarautz and the Basque Coast.
Exploring San Sebastian: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
If the surf is flat for a few days, it’s the perfect time to explore the scenic and culturally rich surroundings of San Sebastian. Below are four must see highlights.
For even more ways to experience the region, check out GetYourGuide and Viator for guided tours, culinary experiences, and day trips across the Basque Country.