Mundaka - a small church on a rocky cliff by the ocean
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Mundaka

4.6
·491k reviews·Mundaka, Spain

Mundaka: A Basque gem famed for its legendary left-hand surf wave and picturesque fishing port, offering stunning coastal beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Autumn & Winter Mornings

Best surf conditions

CrowdLow
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Mundaka - a small church on a rocky cliff by the ocean

Mundaka

Best Time

Autumn & Winter Mornings

Best surf conditions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Mundaka: A Basque gem famed for its legendary left-hand surf wave and picturesque fishing port, offering stunning coastal beauty.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience the magic of Mundaka, where world-class surf meets authentic Basque charm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🏄‍♂️ Chase the Wave

Best surf conditions are typically autumn/winter. Check forecasts before you go!

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Mundaka is small and best explored by walking. Enjoy the charming streets and port.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary Mundaka Wave

The Legendary Mundaka Wave

Mundaka Estuary

Witness or ride the iconic, world-class left-hand wave, a surfer's paradise.

Mundaka Fishing Port

Mundaka Fishing Port

Puerto de Mundaka

Stroll through the charming harbor, soak in the authentic Basque fishing village atmosphere.

Ermita de Santa Catalina

Ermita de Santa Catalina

Hilltop overlooking the estuary

Enjoy panoramic views of the estuary and the Cantabrian Sea from this scenic hermitage.

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Planning Your Visit

Surf's Up in Mundaka!

Mundaka is world-renowned for its legendary left-hand wave, attracting surfers globally. If you're not a surfer, the charm lies in its picturesque fishing port and stunning coastal views. Plan your visit around surf conditions if that's your focus, or enjoy the serene beauty of this Basque gem.

Getting Around Mundaka

Mundaka is a compact, walkable town, perfect for exploring on foot. For day trips to nearby areas like Bermeo or San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, consider local buses or taxis. If you're planning extensive cycling tours, as some travelers suggest, renting a bike in Bilbao might be an option before heading to Mundaka.

Best Times

When
Autumn & Winter Mornings
Why
Best surf conditions
Crowd
Low
When
Summer Evenings
Why
Pleasant strolls, fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Dormir con vistas al paraíso en Camping Portuondo 🌊. Situado en Mundaka, con unas vistas espectaculares a la ría y a la Reserva de la Biosfera de Urdaibai. Sus bungalows modernos (algunos con vistas al mar) son perfectos para disfrutar del entorno con todas las comodidades 🏡. El camping cuenta con un restaurante a la carta de primer nivel y también opciones más informales tipo take away, ideales p...
@campingsespana
2.7K likes • 103.2K views

🏄‍♂️ Chase the Wave

Best surf conditions are typically autumn/winter. Check forecasts before you go! TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Mundaka is small and best explored by walking. Enjoy the charming streets and port. TikTok

Día 1 recorriendo Euskadi 🏕️. Mundaka, un restaurante de Camping y San Juan de Gaztelugatxe 🌊. Por la mañana visitamos Mundaka, un pequeño pueblo marinero con mucho encanto, donde te recomiendo visitar el puerto o la ermita de Santa Catalina 👍. Para comer nos fuimos hasta el restaurante del Camping Portuondo, un restaurante de primer nivel con vistas a la Ría, donde degustar la auténtica gastronom...
@campingsespana
2.5K likes • 98.9K views
Sólo me dejó 5 minutos el aldeano al que invadí el terreno, cosas del verano, Laida estaba hasta la bandera, ni poder aparcar. Casualmente le cogí al pakete Pro Junior de @p3ib
ata_alikate
304 likes • 0 views

🚗 Parking Challenges

Summer parking can be tough, especially at nearby beaches like Laida. Instagram

⛰️ Scenic Hikes

Discover beautiful circular routes starting from Mundaka for stunning views. TikTok

Anazing session with boys! #surf #sports #mundaka #paisvasco #spain #surfsup #españa #lucasbojanich #bermeo #paisvasco #mikedobos @Lucas Bojanich
@mundakasurfcoach
2K likes • 34K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🏄‍♂️ Chase the Wave

Best surf conditions are typically autumn/winter. Check forecasts before you go! TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore on Foot

Mundaka is small and best explored by walking. Enjoy the charming streets and port. TikTok

🚗 Parking Challenges

Summer parking can be tough, especially at nearby beaches like Laida. Instagram

⛰️ Scenic Hikes

Discover beautiful circular routes starting from Mundaka for stunning views. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mundaka is celebrated for its world-class surf break and charming fishing port, offering a quintessential Basque coastal experience. Visitors love the stunning scenery and authentic village feel, though some find parking and crowds challenging during peak summer months.

What People Like

World-class surf wave
Charming fishing port
Beautiful coastal views

What People Dislike

Summer crowds
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Mundaka from Bilbao by car in about 40 minutes. Alternatively, take a train from Bilbao's Matiko station to Bermeo, then a short bus or taxi ride to Mundaka. Some travelers opt to cycle from Bilbao, enjoying the scenic Basque Country routes. Reddit

Yes, Mundaka is accessible by public transport. Buses connect it to nearby towns, and trains run from Bilbao to Bermeo, which is close by. This makes it a viable base for exploring the region without a car. Reddit

Mundaka itself is very walkable. For exploring the wider Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve or nearby towns like Bermeo, local buses are a convenient option. TikTok

Absolutely! Many cyclists enjoy road cycling holidays in the Basque Country, with Mundaka being a potential base. Plan your routes carefully, as the terrain can be hilly. Reddit

Mundaka makes for a lovely day trip, especially if you're interested in its famous surf or charming fishing port. You can easily combine it with a visit to nearby Bermeo or San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance tickets required to visit Mundaka town, its port, or the general public areas. Access to specific attractions like museums or private surf schools may have fees.

Public beaches like Laida, near Mundaka, are generally free to access. Parking during peak season, however, might incur a fee. Instagram

The legendary Mundaka wave is best observed during autumn and winter months when swell conditions are optimal for surfing. Check surf forecasts for the most accurate timing. TikTok+1

The Ermita de Santa Catalina is typically open to visitors without an entry fee, allowing you to enjoy the views and the historical site. TikTok

While not always formally advertised, local surf schools offer guided sessions for surfers. For general town tours, inquire at local tourist information points or consider self-guided exploration. TikTok

🎫 🏄‍♂️ Surfing in Mundaka

Mundaka's wave is known for its power and speed, making it more suitable for experienced surfers. Beginners might find calmer spots in the wider Urdaibai estuary or nearby beaches. TikTok+1

Several surf schools and shops in Mundaka and nearby Bermeo offer surfboard rentals. It's advisable to book in advance, especially during peak surf seasons. TikTok

The prime surfing season for Mundaka's iconic wave is typically from autumn through spring (September to April), when the Atlantic swells are most consistent and powerful. TikTok

Yes, numerous surf schools operate in Mundaka, offering lessons for various skill levels. Booking in advance is highly recommended. TikTok

Mundaka's wave is famous for being one of the longest and most powerful left-hand point breaks in the world, offering incredibly fast and hollow tubes. TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Mundaka offers delicious Basque cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. Look forward to pintxos, grilled fish, and local specialties. TikTok

Yes, the Camping Portuondo restaurant boasts spectacular views of the estuary and the Biosphere Reserve, offering a high-quality dining experience. TikTok+1

Don't miss out on fresh grilled fish like hake (merluza) or sea bream (dorada), and sample the local pintxos. Bacalao al pil-pil (cod in garlic-oil sauce) is also a Basque classic. TikTok

While Mundaka has some upscale dining, you can find more affordable options by seeking out local bars serving pintxos or opting for simpler cafes. TikTok

While seafood is prominent, many Basque restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's best to check menus or ask staff about options. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the fishing port, the estuary, and the coastline from the Ermita de Santa Catalina. The surf action itself is also a photographer's dream. TikTok+1

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photographing Mundaka's picturesque harbor and coastal landscapes. TikTok

Yes, the Mundaka surf is a major draw for photographers. The best vantage points are often from the shore or nearby cliffs, especially during good swell. TikTok+1

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and village scenes. For surf photography, a telephoto lens might be useful, but many shots can be captured with a standard zoom. TikTok

Drone regulations can vary. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone in Mundaka or the surrounding Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve to avoid fines. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mundaka offers a relaxed atmosphere that can be enjoyable for families. While the famous surf wave is more for experienced riders, younger children might enjoy exploring the Mundaka fishing port, watching the boats, and perhaps building sandcastles at nearby beaches like Laida (though parking can be challenging in summer). Instagram Consider a gentle walk to the Ermita de Santa Catalina for lovely views without strenuous effort. TikTok

For a more active family experience, look into gentle boat trips on the estuary or explore some of the easier hiking trails in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. While Mundaka itself is compact, its proximity to other towns and natural areas means you can create a varied itinerary. Pack snacks and be prepared for potentially busy conditions at popular spots during peak season.

🏄‍♂️ Surfers & Water Sports Enthusiasts

Mundaka is a pilgrimage site for surfers worldwide, renowned for its iconic left-hand wave. This powerful, fast, and long wave is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers. The prime season runs from autumn to spring, so plan your trip accordingly and always check surf forecasts. TikTok+1

Numerous surf schools and rental shops are available in Mundaka and nearby Bermeo, offering lessons for all levels and equipment hire. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak surf periods. Beyond surfing, the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding in calmer waters of the estuary.

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Explorers & Culture Seekers

For those who appreciate charming villages and scenic beauty, Mundaka is a delight. Spend your time strolling through the picturesque fishing port, admiring the traditional architecture, and soaking in the authentic Basque atmosphere. TikTok Visit the Ermita de Santa Catalina for stunning panoramic views of the coastline and estuary. TikTok

Consider a visit to the nearby town of Bermeo for a broader cultural experience, or take a trip to the dramatic San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Mundaka's relaxed pace makes it ideal for unwinding and enjoying the simple pleasures of coastal life.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Mundaka's Wave

Mundaka is globally celebrated for its legendary left-hand wave, a true marvel of nature that draws surfers from every corner of the planet. This wave is not just any surf break; it's considered one of the longest and most powerful point breaks in the world, capable of producing incredibly fast, hollow tubes. The unique geography of the Mundaka estuary, combined with specific swell and wind conditions, creates this world-class phenomenon. TikTok+1

While the wave is a dream for experienced surfers, it requires specific conditions to perform at its best. The prime season typically runs from autumn through spring, with swells from the northwest being ideal. Watching the surfers carve through the barrels is a spectacle in itself, even if you're not paddling out. For those looking to ride it, booking lessons or guided sessions with local surf schools is highly recommended, as the wave demands skill and respect. TikTok

Beyond the surf, the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve surrounding Mundaka offers a stunning natural backdrop. This protected area is a haven for biodiversity, with diverse ecosystems ranging from marshes to forests. Exploring this natural beauty can be done through hiking trails or simply by enjoying the scenic vistas from various viewpoints around town. TikTok+1

Exploring Mundaka's Charm

Mundaka's charm lies in its picturesque fishing port and its authentic Basque village atmosphere. Wandering through its narrow streets, you'll discover traditional stone houses, colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, and a sense of timeless tranquility. The port is the heart of the town, where local life unfolds at a relaxed pace. It's the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll, soak in the maritime ambiance, and perhaps sample some fresh seafood at a local eatery. TikTok

For breathtaking panoramic views, a visit to the Ermita de Santa Catalina is a must. Perched on a hill overlooking the estuary and the Cantabrian Sea, this hermitage offers a serene spot to appreciate the stunning coastal scenery. The vistas from here are particularly captivating during sunrise and sunset, providing excellent opportunities for photography. TikTok

If you're looking for a bit of adventure beyond the town, Mundaka serves as an excellent starting point for hiking and cycling. Several circular routes are available, offering a chance to explore the beautiful Basque countryside and coastline. These trails provide a different perspective on the region's natural beauty, away from the immediate bustle of the port. TikTok

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