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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best surf conditions
Mundaka
Best Time
Best surf conditions

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Mundaka: A Basque gem famed for its legendary left-hand surf wave and picturesque fishing port, offering stunning coastal beauty.
"Experience the magic of Mundaka, where world-class surf meets authentic Basque charm."
🏄♂️ 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Legendary Mundaka Wave
Mundaka Estuary
Witness or ride the iconic, world-class left-hand wave, a surfer's paradise.

Mundaka Fishing Port
Puerto de Mundaka
Stroll through the charming harbor, soak in the authentic Basque fishing village atmosphere.

Ermita de Santa Catalina
Hilltop overlooking the estuary
Enjoy panoramic views of the estuary and the Cantabrian Sea from this scenic hermitage.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Surf's Up in Mundaka!
Getting Around Mundaka
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🏄♂️ 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.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Summer parking can be tough, especially at nearby beaches like Laida.
⛰️ Scenic Hikes
Discover beautiful circular routes starting from Mundaka for stunning views.
Tips
from all over the internet
🏄♂️ 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.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Summer parking can be tough, especially at nearby beaches like Laida.
⛰️ Scenic Hikes
Discover beautiful circular routes starting from Mundaka for stunning views.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
Mundaka itself is very walkable. For exploring the wider Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve or nearby towns like Bermeo, local buses are a convenient option.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
The Ermita de Santa Catalina is typically open to visitors without an entry fee, allowing you to enjoy the views and the historical site.
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.
🎫 🏄♂️ 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.
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.
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.
Yes, numerous surf schools operate in Mundaka, offering lessons for various skill levels. Booking in advance is highly recommended.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Mundaka offers delicious Basque cuisine, with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood. Look forward to pintxos, grilled fish, and local specialties.
Yes, the Camping Portuondo restaurant boasts spectacular views of the estuary and the Biosphere Reserve, offering a high-quality dining experience.
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.
While Mundaka has some upscale dining, you can find more affordable options by seeking out local bars serving pintxos or opting for simpler cafes.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photographing Mundaka's picturesque harbor and coastal landscapes.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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
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
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
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.
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.
Exploring Mundaka's Charm
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit