Menakoz
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.
Menakoz surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (320°)
- Direction range
- 295° - 350°
- Size range
- 2m - 6m
- Ideal size
- 3.8m - 5m
- Height multiplier
- 1.08×
- Ideal period
- 16s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Offshore range
- 140° - 220°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid to high
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2m
Water temp
14°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
9/10
Crowd level
3/10
Access: Cliff path and rock jump.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Menakoz?
The Menakoz profile favors mid to high tide, ideally between 0.5m and 2m 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 Menakoz?
The Menakoz profile uses wind from S (180°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 140° to 220°. 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 Menakoz?
The Menakoz scoring profile favors swell from NW (295° to 350°), a swell-height range of 2m to 6m, and a reference period of 16s. 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 Menakoz?
The main season at Menakoz is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. A secondary window runs Oct, Mar. Big wave spot. Only breaks on big winter swells.
How do I get to Menakoz?
The spot profile lists BIO as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 25 minutes. Cliff path and rock jump.
What kind of wave is Menakoz?
Menakoz is a reef break, a right-hander. Difficulty is rated 9/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Oct, Mar
Big wave spot. Only breaks on big winter swells.
Getting There
Nearby Spots
Sopelana
🚇 Metro-accessible surf • Bilbao's beach • Urban convenience
Punta Galea
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Mundaka
🌊 Europe's best barrel • Medieval Basque village • 400m of tube time
Somo
🇪🇸 Cantabrian gateway • Ferry-access adventure • All-levels beach
Loredo
🌊 Cantabrian space • Multiple peaks • Somo alternative
Zarautz
🏘️ Basque surf town • Two-kilometer beach • All-level access