Guéthary
Guéthary is where European surfing ventures into serious territory—a powerful reef break tucked beneath the charming Basque village that transforms into a genuine big wave arena when Atlantic storms unleash. The main peak offers heavy, left-breaking walls that can hold well overhead surf, while the outer reefs light up for experienced chargers during the largest swells. The local crew is tight and proud, with decades of history at this wave, so respect in the lineup isn't optional. When the harbor wall is getting swamped and the sets are marching in, Guéthary reminds everyone that European surfing has teeth.
Guéthary surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (310°)
- Direction range
- 280° - 340°
- Size range
- 1m - 3.5m
- Ideal size
- 2.1m - 2.9m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- ESE (120°)
- Offshore range
- 80° - 160°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.4m - 1.5m
Water temp
16°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
7/10
Crowd level
6/10
Access: Jump off harbor wall or paddle from beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Guéthary?
The Guéthary profile favors low to mid tide, ideally between 0.4m and 1.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Guéthary?
The Guéthary profile uses wind from ESE (120°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 80° to 160°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Guéthary?
The Guéthary scoring profile favors swell from NW (280° to 340°), a swell-height range of 1m to 3.5m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Guéthary?
The main season at Guéthary is Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, May. Autumn-Spring. Needs solid swell. Handles size well.
How do I get to Guéthary?
The spot profile lists BIQ as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 20 minutes. Jump off harbor wall or paddle from beach.
What kind of wave is Guéthary?
Guéthary is a reef break, a left-hander. Difficulty is rated 7/10.
Best Season
Peak: Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, May
Autumn-Spring. Needs solid swell. Handles size well.
Getting There
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