The first surf school in Sopelana offers courses and surfing classes, as well as surf camps on the beaches of Sopelana, Bizkaia, with experience, professionalism, and passion.
Sopelana, a coastal gem in the Basque Country, offers a refreshing escape with its stunning cliffs, golden sands, and, most importantly, its consistent and varied surf. Just a short drive from Bilbao, it's a must-visit for any surfer exploring northe
Sopelana, a coastal gem in the Basque Country, is a must-visit for any surfer exploring the northern coast of Spain. Just a short drive from the vibrant city of Bilbao, Sopelana offers a refreshing escape with its stunning cliffs, golden sands, and, most importantly, its consistent and varied surf.
The Surf Scene
The vibe in Sopelana is laid-back and welcoming, with a strong local surf community that shares the waves with visitors from all over the world. The town is dotted with surf schools and shops, making it an ideal place for beginners to get their feet wet or for experienced surfers to rent gear and get local tips. The two main beaches, Arrietara and Barinatxe (also known as La Salvaje), are the epicenters of the surf action, with plenty of space to find your own peak.
Wave Types and Breaks
Sopelana is blessed with a variety of waves that cater to all tastes. As an exposed beach break, it picks up consistent swell from the North Atlantic, offering both lefts and rights. The seabed is a mix of sand and rock, which creates a range of wave shapes, from mellow peelers perfect for longboarding to faster, more hollow sections for high-performance surfing. The waves here work on all tides, so you can almost always find a rideable wave.
Best Time to Surf
While Sopelana offers surfable waves year-round, the prime time to visit is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November). During these shoulder seasons, you'll find the most consistent swells, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds than in the peak summer months. The winds are generally favorable, with offshore breezes from the southeast grooming the waves into clean, rideable lines.
Skill Levels
Sopelana is a fantastic destination for surfers of all abilities. The wide, sandy beaches provide a safe and forgiving environment for beginners to learn the basics, while the more powerful and challenging waves that light up on bigger swells will keep advanced surfers on their toes. The variety of breaks means you can always find a spot that suits your comfort level.
What Makes It Unique?
What truly sets Sopelana apart is its unique blend of world-class surf, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant Basque culture. The dramatic cliffs that frame the beaches create a breathtaking backdrop for your surf sessions. After a long day in the water, you can refuel with delicious pintxos and experience the lively atmosphere of the local bars and restaurants. Its proximity to Bilbao also means you can easily combine your surf trip with a city break, exploring the Guggenheim Museum and the city's rich history and architecture.
Sopelana offers great surfing year-round, but the best time for your trip depends on your skill level. For experienced surfers, the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) provide the most consistent swells and powerful waves. Beginners will find the summer months (June-August) ideal, with smaller, more manageable waves and warmer water. Winter brings the biggest swells, which are best left to the experts.
Sopelana is a fantastic destination for surfers of all abilities. The main beach, Arrietara, offers a wide variety of waves suitable for everyone from complete beginners to advanced surfers. There are numerous surf schools available for lessons. For the more experienced, the region boasts challenging reef breaks like the famous La Triangular, which offers powerful right-hand waves.
The water temperature in Sopelana varies significantly throughout the year. In the peak of summer (August), you can expect pleasant temperatures between 20-24°C (68-75°F), where a shorty or even boardshorts might suffice. However, for the rest of the year, a wetsuit is essential. In spring and autumn, a 3/2mm wetsuit is recommended, while in winter, the water can drop to around 12°C (54°F), requiring a 4/3mm or even a 5/4mm wetsuit to stay comfortable.
Besides your surfboard, you'll want to pack a wetsuit appropriate for the season. A versatile 3/2mm wetsuit is a good choice for most of the year, but a thicker 4/3mm suit is necessary for winter. Don't forget other surf essentials like a leash, wax, and a ding repair kit. For your time out of the water, pack comfortable clothes, a rain jacket (the Basque Country is known for its sudden showers), and sun protection including sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
Sopelana is located in the heart of the Basque Country, a region renowned for its unique culture and incredible food. You must try the local pintxos (the Basque version of tapas), which are served in almost every bar. Fresh seafood is also a highlight of the local cuisine. For a dose of culture, the vibrant city of Bilbao is just a short metro ride away, home to the world-famous Guggenheim Museum and a bustling old town. You can explore more about the local culture on our Basque Country page.
The cost of a surf trip to Sopelana can vary widely depending on your travel style and the time of year. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly surf hostels to more luxurious apartments. Eating out can be very affordable if you stick to pintxos bars. To get a better idea of accommodation prices, check out our Sopelana surf camps page. Transportation is also reasonably priced, with an efficient metro system connecting Sopelana to Bilbao.
Generally, Sopelana is a very safe destination for surfers. The main beach breaks are well-suited for learning and are patrolled by lifeguards during the summer months. However, like any surf spot, it's important to be aware of the conditions, including tides and rips. Some of the more advanced reef breaks can have strong currents and localism can occasionally be an issue at the most popular spots, so always surf with respect for the locals.
Beyond the fantastic surf, Sopelana's location offers a wealth of attractions. The city of Bilbao, with its stunning architecture and vibrant arts scene, is a must-visit. A short drive along the coast will take you to other famous surf towns like Mundaka, home to a legendary left-hand wave. For a unique cultural experience, visit the islet of Gaztelugatxe, a stunning hermitage connected to the mainland by a man-made bridge. For more ideas, see our guide to surfing in Spain.
