Meñakoz is the Basque Country's big-wave proving ground—a heavy right-hand reef that only awakens when massive winter swells slam the northern Spanish coast. This is not a recreational wave: rock-jump entry, powerful currents, and lips that detonate on shallow reef make Meñakoz the domain of experienced big-wave surfers only. The cliff-path approach and dramatic setting create an amphitheater effect for spectators, while the surfers below commit to one of Europe's most intimidating cold-water slabs. When Sopelana is maxed out, the big-wave crew heads to Meñakoz.
Water temp
14°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Cliff path and rock jump.
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Oct, Mar
Big wave spot. Only breaks on big winter swells.
Verified by Big wave community
How well swell angle matches the spot
Wave height in the ideal range
Each spot has different period requirements. Points and reefs can handle longer periods than beaches.
Offshore/glassy conditions