Nestled in the charming town of Gipuzkoa, Stoke Surf House offers an authentic Spanish surf experience in one of the region’s most scenic coastal spots. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery, the camp provides easy access to consistent surf breaks suitable for all levels, from beginners eager to catch their first wave to seasoned surfers chasing their next challenge. The relaxed yet professional atmosphere encourages a genuine connection to the ocean, where guests can immerse themselves in local surf culture while honing their skills under the guidance of experienced instructors. Whether you’re seeking a laid-back getaway or an intensive surf training session, Stoke Surf House promises a welcoming environment where the waves and community become your inspiration. With comfortable accommodations and a vibrant social scene, it’s the perfect place to unwind, learn, and share stories with fellow surf enthusiasts amid the natural beauty of the Basque Coast.
Registration open summer 2025 you can now book your surf lessons for this summer. choose between weekly courses and group or private lessons. our multisurf will make the little ones enjoy the summer, with more than 20 hours of surfing and complementary activities per week. booking Take off About us It was in 2011 when...ZURRIOLA
San Sebastián offers a unique blend of world-class cuisine and consistent city waves. Zurriola beach, the city's surfing hub, provides a vibrant atmosphere and waves for all levels, making it a perfect surf getaway in the heart of the Basque Country.
The Vibe
San Sebastián, or Donostia as it's known in Basque, is a city that effortlessly combines a rich culinary tradition with a laid-back surf culture. The main hub of surfing is Zurriola Beach, located in the Gros neighborhood. Here, you'll find a lively mix of locals and travelers, all sharing the stoke of riding waves in a stunning urban setting. After a surf session, the city's famous pintxos bars are just a short walk away, offering the perfect way to refuel and soak in the local atmosphere.
The Waves
Zurriola Beach is the most consistent and popular surf spot in San Sebastián. It's a beach break that works with different tides and swells, offering a variety of peaks along its length. The western end of the beach, closer to the Kursaal building, is generally more sheltered and ideal for beginners, with smaller, more manageable waves. The eastern end can produce more powerful and hollow waves, attracting more experienced surfers. For those looking for more of an adventure, the surrounding Basque coastline offers a plethora of world-class point breaks and reef breaks, all within a short drive from the city.
When to Go
San Sebastián has something to offer surfers year-round. For beginners, the summer months (June to August) are ideal. The waves are smaller and more forgiving, and the warm weather creates a perfect learning environment. For more experienced surfers, the autumn and winter months (September to February) are the prime time to visit. During this period, the Atlantic swells are more consistent and powerful, lighting up the beach breaks and the surrounding point breaks.
Skill Level
San Sebastián is a great destination for surfers of all abilities. The variety of conditions at Zurriola Beach means that there's almost always a wave to be had, whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned pro. Numerous surf schools and rental shops are located right on the beachfront, making it easy to get a lesson or grab a board and get in the water.
What Makes It Special
What truly sets San Sebastián apart as a surf destination is its unique combination of city life and surf culture. You can spend your morning surfing great waves and your afternoon exploring the charming old town, indulging in some of the best food in the world. The vibrant atmosphere, stunning scenery, and consistent waves make San Sebastián a must-visit for any surfer looking for a unique European surf experience.
The best time to surf in San Sebastian is during the autumn months (September and October) and spring (April and May). During these seasons, you'll find consistent swells and favorable wind conditions. Autumn, in particular, benefits from the first winter swells, creating powerful and clean waves. While summer (June to August) offers smaller, more beginner-friendly waves, it can also have flat spells. Winter (November to March) brings the biggest and most consistent swells, but the conditions can be challenging for less experienced surfers.
San Sebastian offers a variety of waves suitable for all skill levels. Beginners will find the gentle waves at La Concha beach ideal for learning. Zurriola beach, the main surf spot in the city, offers conditions for all levels, with dedicated areas for surf schools. More experienced surfers can find more challenging waves at Zurriola during bigger swells or explore nearby spots like Zarautz, which is known for its consistent and powerful beach breaks.
Zurriola Beach is the most popular and consistent surf spot in San Sebastian, offering a variety of peaks for different levels. For beginners, La Concha Beach provides a more sheltered environment with smaller waves. For those willing to venture outside the city, Zarautz is a world-class beach break just a short drive away, offering long, powerful waves. Other nearby spots worth exploring include Orio and the more challenging point break at Ondarreta.
The water temperature in San Sebastian varies throughout the year. In the summer months (June-August), the water is at its warmest, averaging around 20-22°C (68-72°F), making a 3/2mm wetsuit or even boardshorts and a top sufficient. During the autumn and spring, the water temperature drops to around 15-18°C (59-64°F), requiring a 4/3mm wetsuit. In the winter (November-March), the water is at its coldest, ranging from 12-14°C (54-57°F), so a 5/4mm wetsuit with a hood, boots, and gloves is recommended.
Besides your surfboard and wetsuit, be sure to pack for variable weather. In the summer, bring light clothing, swimwear, and sunscreen. For the cooler months, pack layers, including a rain jacket, as the Basque Country is known for its frequent rainfall. Don't forget comfortable shoes for exploring the city and its beautiful coastline. For more detailed packing advice, check out our guide on what to pack for a surf trip.
San Sebastian is a food lover's paradise, famous for its pintxos (Basque-style tapas). The Old Town is packed with pintxos bars where you can hop from one to another, sampling a variety of delicious small plates. The local culture is rich and vibrant, with a strong Basque identity. Be sure to explore the city's beautiful architecture, visit the San Telmo Museum to learn about Basque history, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the city.
The cost of a surf trip to San Sebastian can vary depending on your travel style and preferences. Accommodation can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. A meal at a pintxos bar can be quite affordable, while a sit-down dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant will be more expensive. Surf lessons and rentals are reasonably priced. To get a better idea of the costs involved, you can check out our San Sebastian surf camps for package deals that include accommodation, surf lessons, and more.
Surfing in San Sebastian is generally safe, especially at the main beaches like Zurriola and La Concha, which are supervised by lifeguards during the summer months. However, it's always important to be aware of the conditions, including tides, currents, and swell size. If you're a beginner, it's highly recommended to take a lesson from a local surf school to learn about ocean safety and the specific conditions of the area. Be mindful of other surfers and follow proper surf etiquette to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Absolutely! San Sebastian is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. You can hike up Monte Ulia or Monte Igueldo for stunning panoramic views of the city and the bay. Explore the charming streets of the Old Town, visit the historic Miramar Palace, or take a stroll along the beautiful La Concha promenade. For a day trip, you can visit the nearby fishing villages of Getaria and Zarautz, or explore the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, which is just an hour's drive away.
