Zarautz is the Basque Country's longest beach—over two kilometers of sand producing multiple peaks that cater to all skill levels and spread crowds across a wide area. The town has embraced its surf heritage, with quality surf shops, schools, and a culture that celebrates wave riding as central to local identity. The wave works across most tides and conditions, making it one of the region's most reliable options. Summer brings crowds and mediocre surf; autumn through spring delivers the real goods when Atlantic storms send consistent swells toward this north-facing coast.
Water temp
15°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
8/10
Access: Town beach with all facilities.
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Year-round but winter is best.
Verified by Magic Seaweed
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