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Mundaka

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City
PlizioGo—°2116
Mundaka (Spain)
ℹ️

Practical info — Mundaka

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • The famous surf wave breaks best in autumn and winter; check the tide tables for the best viewing conditions from the harbor.
  • Parking is extremely scarce in the small town; arrive stress-free by taking the Euskotren railway directly from Bilbao.
  • Weather in the Basque Country can change very quickly, so always carry a light rain jacket when going for walks.
  • Explore the Urdaibai estuary during high tide by looking for kayak or stand-up paddleboard rentals on the beach.

🍽 Food

🍽
Pintxos (Basque Tapas)

Hop from bar to bar in the streets around the harbor and sample different bite-sized treats from the counters.

🍽
Marmitako

A hearty tuna and potato stew; look to order this classic fisherman's dish in traditional taverns.

🍽
Txakoli

Order this slightly sparkling local white wine with fresh seafood; it is traditionally poured from a height.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Local Surf Shops

Located near the main road, these are handy for buying surf gear or clothing brands tied to the local surf culture.

🛍
Traditional Bakeries

Buy a 'Pastel Vasco' (Basque cake) as a delicious sweet snack to take on a coastal hike.

🧘
Ermita de Santa Catalina

A scenic chapel located on a small peninsula that has spectacular and peaceful views of the ocean.

🧘
Portuondo Viewpoint

Take a short walk just outside the town for a dramatic panoramic view over the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.

Highlights of 2026

2

Mundaka is a scenic coastal village in the Bizkaia province, deeply rooted in Basque tradition and culture. The town achieved global fame for its extraordinary 'left-hand wave,' which forms at the mouth of the Oka river and is regarded as one of the best in the world. Every year, thousands of surfers flock here to ride the legendary tubes that can stretch for up to 400 meters. Beyond surfing, Mundaka is positioned in the heart of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-protected wetland area of immense ecological significance. The welcoming fishing harbor with its colorful boats and the narrow streets of the old quarter offer a peaceful atmosphere. A standout landmark is the Santa Catalina Hermitage, perched on a headland overlooking the sea with wide-open views of Izaro Island. The local cuisine is focused on high-quality seafood, served in cozy eateries around the harbor.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C101011131518202120171311
Rain mm1311019483726140425996155123

Geography

Population
1,893
Coordinates
43.40720, -2.69610

Facts

  • Former host of the Billabong Pro Mundaka surf event
  • Part of the UNESCO Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve
  • Santa Catalina Hermitage was rebuilt in the 19th century
  • Izaro Island is located just off the coast
  • The population traditionally relied on sea fishing
  • Located 35 kilometers northeast of Bilbao

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Mundaka (11)

Port of Mundaka

A pleasant and colorful small harbor that serves as the social heart of this traditional coastal town.

Laidatxu Beach

Fine sand and modest dimensions make this small beach in Mundaka a true under-the-radar destination. The gentle conditions of the sea offer optimal settings for swimming and prove handy for beginner surfers wanting to catch their first waves. A relaxed, local atmosphere defines the experience along this pretty stretch of coast. Securing a spot by the water early is a good idea on sunny days.

Laga🎡 recreation

A surf beach with consistent waves, at the mouth of the Oka river near Mundaka.

Laida🎡 recreation

A wide sandy beach backed by dunes and marshland, part of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.

Abinagako hondartza🎡 recreation

A secluded pebble beach at the base of cliffs, accessible by a coastal path from Mundaka.

La estrella👨‍👩‍👧 family

A family-friendly playground in Mundaka for children to enjoy.

Laidatxu👨‍👩‍👧 family

Laidatxu in Mundaka is a scenic swimming area great for enjoying the coastal waters and scenery.

Arrantzaleen Museoa🏛 museum

A museum focused on the maritime history and fishing traditions of the Basque coast.

🕒 Mo-Sa 09:00-19:00

Dolmen Pakatene🏺 historical

A megalithic dolmen from the Neolithic period, located on a hillside near Mundaka.

Katilotxu II🏺 historical

An archaeological site featuring ancient remains on the Katilotxu mountain.

Tumulo de Katillotxu 6🏺 historical

A prehistoric burial mound located in the Katillotxu archaeological area.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Mundaka world-famous?
Because of its legendary 'left-hand wave,' which is considered one of the best surfing spots in the world.
In which nature park is Mundaka located?
The village is located within the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, an area of high ecological diversity.
What can you visit in the village?
The scenic fishing port and the Santa Catalina hermitage right by the sea are worth visiting.
Are there sandy beaches?
Yes, Laidatxu beach is small but nice and located right on the edge of the town.
When do most surfers visit?
The best waves usually occur in autumn and winter (September to March).
Mundaka: where is it located?
Mundaka is located in Spain.
Mundaka: what is there to see?
Highlights include Port of Mundaka, Laidatxu Beach, Laga.
Mundaka: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Mundaka: why is it worth visiting?
Mundaka is a scenic coastal village in the Bizkaia province, deeply rooted in Basque tradition and culture.
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