Nestled along the scenic shores of Zarautz, North Shore Surf Camp offers a genuine Spanish surf experience in one of the country's most iconic surf spots. Situated on the Malecón de Zarautz, the camp benefits from a prime location just steps from the long, sandy beach renowned for its consistent waves and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a beginner eager to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking to refine your skills, the camp provides personalized coaching in a relaxed, community-oriented setting. Surfers can enjoy the vibrant local culture while immersing themselves in the rhythm of the Atlantic, with easy access to reliable surf breaks that cater to all levels. The camp’s expert instructors emphasize safety, technique, and fun, ensuring that every guest leaves with new skills and a deeper appreciation for the sport. Beyond the surf, guests can also indulge in the region’s rich culinary traditions and scenic coastal views, making North Shore Surf Camp not just a place to learn, but a memorable surf adventure in the heart of the Basque Country.
Nestled along the picturesque Malecón de Zarautz, Surf Club De Zarautz offers surfers an authentic gateway to the renowned Basque Coast’s consistent and inviting waves. Surrounded by stunning ocean vistas and the vibrant energy of Zarautz’s seaside town, this surf school provides an ideal setting for both beginners and seasoned wave riders to immerse themselves in the local surf culture. Here, you can expect personalized coaching that emphasizes technique, safety, and environmental respect, all delivered in a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're catching your first wave or refining your skills on the rolling surf, the club’s experienced instructors will guide you through a memorable experience that blends the thrill of riding the Atlantic’s gentle swells with the charm of a lively coastal community. With its proximity to the beach and a passion for fostering a genuine surf experience, Surf Club De Zarautz is more than just a place to learn—it's a hub for surfers seeking connection, growth, and the pure joy of riding the waves in one of Spain’s most beloved surf destinations.
Zarautz, the heart of the Basque Country's surf scene, boasts a 2.5km beach attracting surfers globally. With a rich surf culture, laid-back vibe, and numerous surf schools, it offers an unforgettable experience for all levels.
The Epic Surf Scene in Zarautz
Zarautz is the undisputed heart of the Basque Country's surf scene. This vibrant coastal town boasts a massive 2.5-kilometer-long beach that is a magnet for surfers from all corners of the globe. The town itself is steeped in a rich surf culture, with a laid-back atmosphere, numerous surf schools, and a lively après-surf scene. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, Zarautz offers an unforgettable surfing experience.
Waves for Everyone
The main attraction in Zarautz is its incredibly versatile beach break. The sandy bottom and the sheer length of the beach create a wide variety of waves suitable for all skill levels. The western end of the beach is more sheltered, offering smaller, more manageable waves perfect for beginners and longboarders. As you move towards the eastern end, the waves get progressively bigger and more powerful, providing a challenge for even the most experienced surfers. The break works on all tides, but the character of the waves changes, so there's always something new to discover.
Best Time to Score Waves
While you can find waves in Zarautz year-round, the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months. During this time, you'll find consistent swells, favorable winds, and pleasant weather. Summer is also a great time to visit, especially for beginners, as the waves are generally smaller and more forgiving. The winter months can bring powerful swells, but be prepared for colder water and potentially stormy conditions.
A Spot for Every Surfer
Zarautz is a true all-rounder when it comes to skill levels. The gentle, rolling waves on the inside are perfect for those just starting their surfing journey. Intermediate surfers will find plenty of fun, open-faced waves to practice their turns. For the experts, the bigger days offer powerful, barreling sections that will test their skills. The sheer size of the beach means there's plenty of room for everyone, so you'll never feel too crowded.
What Makes Zarautz Special?
What truly sets Zarautz apart is its unique combination of world-class waves and a vibrant local culture. The town is a fantastic destination in its own right, with a beautiful old town, delicious Basque cuisine, and a lively nightlife. The surrounding area is also stunning, with the lush green hills of the Basque Country providing a dramatic backdrop to the golden sands of the beach. It's this blend of incredible surfing and rich culture that makes Zarautz a must-visit destination for any surfer.
The best time to surf in Zarautz depends on your skill level. For beginners, the summer months from June to August offer smaller, more forgiving waves, with average heights of 2-6 feet. For more experienced surfers, the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-November) are ideal, with more consistent swells and bigger waves. The winter months from December to February bring the biggest and most powerful waves, attracting advanced surfers.
Zarautz is an excellent destination for surfers of all skill levels. The 2.5 km long beach offers a variety of peaks. The western end of the beach is more sheltered and generally has smaller waves, making it perfect for beginners and surf schools. The central and eastern parts of the beach pick up more swell and offer more challenging waves for intermediate and advanced surfers. You can find more information on local surf schools on our Zarautz surf camps page.
The water temperature in Zarautz varies throughout the year. In the summer (June-August), the water is at its warmest, averaging around 21°C (70°F). In the spring and autumn, the temperature drops to around 15-18°C (59-64°F). During the winter (December-February), the water is coldest, with an average temperature of 12-13°C (54-55°F). A wetsuit is recommended for all seasons.
For a surf trip to Zarautz, you'll want to pack your surfboard and a good wetsuit. In the summer, a 2mm spring suit or even boardshorts on the warmest days will suffice. For the spring and autumn, a 3/2mm or 4/3mm wetsuit is recommended. In the winter, a 5/4mm hooded wetsuit, boots, and gloves are essential to stay warm. Besides your surf gear, pack beach essentials like sunscreen, a towel, and a change of clothes. For exploring the town and the beautiful Basque Country, comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Zarautz is located in the heart of the Basque Country, a region with a unique and rich culture. The Basque language, Euskara, is widely spoken, and the local traditions are very much alive. The gastronomy is a highlight of the region. Be sure to try the local pintxos (Basque tapas) and fresh seafood. The local white wine, Txakoli, is produced in the nearby hills of Getaria and is a perfect accompaniment to the local cuisine. Explore the old town's narrow streets and visit the local market to experience the authentic Basque culture.
The cost of a surf trip to Zarautz can vary widely depending on your travel style and preferences. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly surf hostels to luxury hotels. A meal of pintxos can be very affordable, while a sit-down dinner at a high-end restaurant will be more expensive. Surfboard and wetsuit rentals are reasonably priced. To get a better idea of the costs, you can check out our Zarautz surf camp packages.
Zarautz is a relatively safe place to surf, but it's important to be aware of the conditions and potential hazards. The beach can get very crowded, especially in the summer, so be mindful of other surfers. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer months. It's always a good idea to check the surf forecast and be aware of the tides and currents before you go out. If you're a beginner, it's highly recommended to take a lesson from a local surf school.
Yes, Zarautz is a great base for exploring the beautiful Basque coastline. The charming fishing village of Getaria, the birthplace of fashion designer Balenciaga, is just a short walk or bike ride away. The vibrant city of San Sebastián, with its world-renowned restaurants and beautiful La Concha beach, is only a 30-minute bus or train ride away. For nature lovers, the Pagoeta Nature Reserve offers beautiful hiking trails in the surrounding hills. You can also visit the unique Flysch Route in Zumaia, a stunning geological formation that has been featured in the TV series 'Game of Thrones'.
