256 kilometers of coastline, 40 beaches, and 50 waves: the perfect formula to enjoy the sea while discovering the Basque Country
256 kilometers of coastline, 40 beaches, and 50 waves: the perfect formula to enjoy the sea while discovering the Basque Country
The relationship between the Basque people and the sea has been clear for centuries; in fact, the first yacht clubs at the ports of Bilbao, Getxo, San Sebastián, and Hondarribia date back to the end of the nineteenth century and, today, thanks to the proliferation of water activity companies, visitors and locals alike have multiple ways of enjoying the deep blue sea.
The Basque coast has a length of 246 km and is comprised of 40 beaches, 50 waves to surf, and more than 100 water tourism companies offering the best activities at sea. Among the many options available is the rental of yachts, motorboats, and sailboats with or without a captain for custom outings to the most picturesque ports. There are also organized trips in catamarans and by ferry, among others, to spot whales, tour the flysch formations of the geopark, and sail around the Islet of San Juan de Gaztelugatxe. Beginners can learn to sail at one of the dinghy sailing schools, and for those who travel to the Basque Country in their own boat, the coast has 20 marinas.
The sportiest can try their hand at stand up paddle surfing and canoeing in such attractive settings as La Concha Bay and the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Another discipline in vogue is coasteering, consisting of the use of the coastal orography to combine different water sports and land activities.
Although the star sport is still surfing: the first surfers appeared on the beaches of the Basque Country in the 1950s –pioneers in Europe– and, today, the Basque coast is one of the main surf destinations on the continent for those who wish to practice the sport and learn it; in fact, there is a club called “Surfing Euskadi” which is made up of authorized schools that offer tailor-made classes with the best materials and there are also surf camps in incredible places.
Discovering the seabed is another of the favorite activities of tourists, and there are 10 agencies dedicated to organizing underwater dives in Bermeo, Getaria, Getxo, Hondarribia, Mutriku, and Pasaia. For those who prefer not to go underwater but would like to have fun driving and even “flying” across the sea, there are companies that offer jet ski, flyboard, and jetboard outings along the Basque coast. Fun is guaranteed.
Water Activities
