Zarautz
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.
Zarautz surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- NNW (340°)
- Direction range
- 325° - 20°
- Size range
- 0.6m - 2.5m
- Ideal size
- 1.5m - 2m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 12s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- S (180°)
- Offshore range
- 140° - 220°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.3m - 2m
Water temp
15°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
8/10
Access: Town beach with all facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Zarautz?
The Zarautz profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.3m 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 Zarautz?
The Zarautz 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 Zarautz?
The Zarautz scoring profile favors swell from NNW (325° to 20°), a swell-height range of 0.6m to 2.5m, and a reference period of 12s. 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 Zarautz?
The main season at Zarautz is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, Sep. Year-round but winter is best.
How do I get to Zarautz?
The spot profile lists EAS as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 25 minutes. Town beach with all facilities.
What kind of wave is Zarautz?
Zarautz 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
Year-round but winter is best.
Getting There
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