Sopelana
Sopelana is Bilbao's go-to surf beach—a cliff-backed stretch of sand easily accessible by metro from the city, where multiple peaks offer options for surfers of varying abilities. The convenience of urban access means crowds, especially given the region's passionate surf culture, but the beach is long enough to find space. The dramatic cliff backdrop adds visual drama to every session, while nearby cafes and changing facilities provide creature comforts. For visitors to Bilbao seeking a surf fix, Sopelana delivers reliable waves within easy reach of the Guggenheim.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NW (315°)
- Direction range
- 285° - 350°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.9m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Offshore range
- 140° - 220°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- low to mid
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 1.8m
Water temp
15°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
7/10
👥 Summer Holidays (Jun 20 – Sep 7) — expect extra crowds
Access: Metro accessible from Bilbao.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Sopelana?
Sopelana works best on a low to mid tide, ideally between 0.3m and 1.8m on the local tide chart. The tide chart above shows today’s strike window.
What wind direction is offshore at Sopelana?
Offshore wind at Sopelana blows from the S (180°). Anything in the 140° to 220° range grooms the faces; outside it, expect chop or bumpy conditions.
What swell size and direction work best at Sopelana?
Sopelana wants NW swell (285° to 350°) between 0.6m and 2.5m, with a period of 12s or more for quality waves.
When is the best time of year to surf Sopelana?
The main season at Sopelana is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, Sep. Winter best. Close to Bilbao.
How do I get to Sopelana?
Fly into BIO, then allow about 20 minutes by road. Metro accessible from Bilbao.
What kind of wave is Sopelana?
Sopelana is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, Sep
Winter best. Close to Bilbao.
Getting There
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