Spain's enchanting coastal town boasts a reputation as a coveted European hotspot for surfing enthusiasts.
Discover the Surfing Paradise of Zarautz, Spain
Nestled on the northern coastline of Spain's Basque Country, Zarautz has emerged as one of Europe's most coveted surfing spots. This small coastal town boasts a long sandy beach with gentle, consistent waves, making it an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Surfing in Zarautz: A Seasonal Guide
The best time for surfing in Zarautz is from late spring through early autumn. Summer offers smaller, fun waves ideal for learning, while autumn through spring brings more powerful swells for intermediate to advanced surfers. The swimming season, with water temperatures warm enough for comfort, runs from June to September, reaching around 21°C on average in summer.
Surf Schools and Accommodations
Zarautz offers a mix of great rest spots and consistent, gentle waves for all skill levels. For beginners, several recommended surf schools include Pukas Surf School, North Shore Zarautz, Good People Surf, Zarautz Surf House, and Shelter Surf, run by professional surfer Aritz Aranburu. These schools are located right on or near the promenade and cater to novices with equipment rentals and lessons tailored to all ages.
In addition to surf schools, Zarautz also offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveller's needs. The Karlos Arguiñano Hotel is an upscale option for those seeking luxury by the shores, while surf hostels and stays like the popular Zarautz Surf House provide a more budget-friendly and immersive experience. For a more adventurous stay, the Talai Mendi Kanpina campsite offers open-air accommodations with sea views.
Exploring Beyond the Surf
Zarautz is a short 30-minute drive along the coast from the foodie hot spot, San Sebastián. San Sebastián is well connected to other destinations and is home to San Sebastián Airport (EAS). For those travelling in from overseas, Bilbao is a good destination, offering a cultural city-center getaway and home to Zarautz's closest international airport, Bilbao Airport (BIO). Bilbao is also a one-hour drive from Zarautz, a city in Spain with a world-famous museum and Michelin-starred eateries.
Restaurante Otzarreta and Karlos Arguiñano Hotel Restaurant are beautiful authentic restaurants in Zarautz for traditional Basque cuisine. Whether you're looking to surf, explore, or indulge in delicious food, Zarautz has something for everyone.
So, pack your wetsuit and get ready for an unforgettable surfing adventure in Zarautz, Spain!
- For travelers desiring a blend of lifestyle activities and surfing, travel guides may suggest adding a trip to Restaurante Otzarreta or Karlos Arguinño Hotel Restaurant for an authentic taste of Basque cuisine, located in Zarautz, Spain.
- If you're interested in sports beyond surfing, consider exploring Beyond the Surf and visiting San Sebastián, a foodie hot spot that is a short 30-minute drive from Zarautz, or even Bilbao, offering a cultural city-center getaway and home to Zarautz's closest international airport, Bilbao Airport (BIO), making it easy to include travel, sports, and lifestyle in your travel itinerary.
