Magdalena Festivity
On 22 July boats sail out to Izaro island, where Mundaka and Bermeo compete over the rock with Elantxobe as judge, an old seafarers' festival at the estuary mouth.
PlizioGo
Hop from bar to bar in the streets around the harbor and sample different bite-sized treats from the counters.
A hearty tuna and potato stew; look to order this classic fisherman's dish in traditional taverns.
Order this slightly sparkling local white wine with fresh seafood; it is traditionally poured from a height.
Located near the main road, these are handy for buying surf gear or clothing brands tied to the local surf culture.
Buy a 'Pastel Vasco' (Basque cake) as a delicious sweet snack to take on a coastal hike.
A scenic chapel located on a small peninsula that has spectacular and peaceful views of the ocean.
Take a short walk just outside the town for a dramatic panoramic view over the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve.
Water temperature…
On 22 July boats sail out to Izaro island, where Mundaka and Bermeo compete over the rock with Elantxobe as judge, an old seafarers' festival at the estuary mouth.
In late June the fishing village celebrates its patron San Pedro with street parties, music and maritime traditions.
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.
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 10 | 11 | 13 | 15 | 18 | 20 | 21 | 20 | 17 | 13 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 131 | 101 | 94 | 83 | 72 | 61 | 40 | 42 | 59 | 96 | 155 | 123 |
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Mundaka is the heart of the Urdaibai reserve. We stroll from the charming harbor to the waterfront church and on to the solitary Santa Catalina chapel. In the afternoon, we enjoy the beach atmosphere and watch the world-famous wave.
A rainy morning begins at the harbor, where mist hangs mystically over the water. At noon, Santa Maria Church offers a dry sanctuary full of history. In the afternoon, we use the Kurtzio Cultural Center as a perfect shelter from the downpour. We spend the evening protected near the harbor, watching the stormy Atlantic surf as the rain falls steadily.
A chilly winter morning at the harbor requires warm layers against the sea breeze. At noon, we warm up within the historic halls of Santa Maria. In the afternoon, Atalaya offers a dramatic view of winter waves before the sun sets early. We enjoy the evening with local wine in a heated bar, leaving the cold outside.
This bike tour connects Mundaka with the rugged coastal landscape. We cycle to the chapel and explore the path towards Bermeo before admiring the town's stately palaces.
A rainy biking day starts cautiously on the wet roads of the harbor. At noon, we pedal to Santa Catalina Hermitage, where puddles make the path adventurous. In the afternoon, the coastal path to Bermeo leads through misty forests and fresh air. By evening, we return soaked but invigorated, looking forward to a warm shower.
A frosty winter day starts with a fast ride at the harbor to warm up. At noon, we pedal to the windy cliff of Santa Catalina, where the view is breathtakingly clear. In the afternoon, the coastal path to Bermeo challenges us with steep climbs and winter sun. By evening, we finish the tour before dark in the illuminated town center.
By car, we first visit the iconic Gaztelugatxe before returning to Mundaka. We stroll through the port and the old town, enjoying the views of the biosphere reserve.
A rainy day by car takes us safely to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe, where we admire the crashing surf from the window. At noon, we park near the harbor and make quick sprints through the rain. In the afternoon, the coastal drive offers spectacular views of the grey sea. By evening, we relax in the dry interior of the car on the way back.
A clear winter day by car takes us early in the morning to San Juan de Gaztelugatxe before the mist rises. At noon, we explore Mundaka, using the car as a warm base between stops. In the afternoon, we enjoy the spectacular coastal road in the golden winter light. By evening, we return safely before frost forms on the roads.
Surfers come October to March for the world-famous left wave. Beach and village life: June to September. November can bring Mundaka Pro (if the wave shows up) - a pilgrimage for surf fans.
Safe and laid-back. At the harbour mind the narrow slippery jetty. The surf spot is for experts only - the famous left breaks over sand and gets dangerous at contest size. Never paddle out without local advice.
Deeply Basque - in the village you hear almost only Euskara. The surf crowd is international, so English is good on the beach and in surf shops. In sidrerías and pintxo bars, 'Kaixo' and 'Eskerrik asko' instantly earn you smiles.
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.
A museum focused on the maritime history and fishing traditions of the Basque coast.
