Sopelana
Beach break · Vizcaya · Beginner → Advanced
Sopelana surf today
Forecast for Friday 16 October
Intermediate : Not great, but surfable around 16h. — Best window: 16h–19h
Today's score by level (at the day's best, out of 100)
- Beginner —
- Intermediate 53
- Advanced 63
- Waves 1.7 m · 13 s period
- Wind NW 13 km/h (gusts 25 km/h)
- Tides: ▽ 02:00 · ▲ 08:00 · ▽ 14:00 · ▲ 20:00
About this spot
Bilbao's urban surf beach — the most consistent in the Spanish Basque Country. Multiple peaks firing almost year-round, though highly competitive. Well-equipped beach with surf schools, surf shops, lifeguards, bars and stores nearby. Overcrowded in summer.
Spot photos
Sopelana in detail
Swell season for your level
- Beginner: March → October
- Intermediate: August → May
- Advanced: November → March
Based on 5 years of offshore swell. The wind, often decisive on summer afternoons, is not in it: check the forecast
Beginner → Advanced
Good level required. You can stand, paddle and read a peak. When it fires, better know what you're doing.
Access & landmarks
Easy beach access, parking usually nearby. Ask locally about seasonal currents.
Safety
Wear an appropriate wetsuit. Scout the currents before you paddle out. Respect the locals and right-of-way. Check weather and tides.
Frequently asked about Sopelana
What tide is best for surfing Sopelana?
Sopelana usually works best around mid-tide. The tide shapes the sandbanks and the depth over the reef, so check the day's tide times before your session.
Is Sopelana suitable for beginners?
Sopelana is rather recommended for intermediate surfers. If you're a beginner, prefer a surf school, a small swell and a suitable tide, or look for a more sheltered nearby spot.
What wind is ideal for Sopelana?
The ideal wind at Sopelana comes broadly from South: it's offshore, which helps shape and hold the waves. A strong onshore wind generally degrades conditions.
What surf spots are near Sopelana?
Around Sopelana, you can also check conditions at Meñakoz, La Salvaje, Punta Galea. Compare the scores, wind and swell direction before choosing where to surf.