The practice of surfing in northern Spain is a magnet for all lovers of this discipline. Not in vain, the coasts of this part of the Spanish geography have a location that has been recognized as the best left-hand wave in Europe and one of the best in the world.
Without a doubt, Mundaka Beach for surfing is an extraordinary place where great experts come all year round to practice this sport. However, although everyone knows this beach as Mundaka, do you know that it actually has its own name? It is Laidaitxu Beach.

A day of perfect waves in Mundaka.
The best left-hand wave for surfing in northern Spain
This wave, known by many as "la barra," is one of Spain's main attractions for surfers from all over the world. Its location on a promontory at the mouth of Urdaibai, along with a unique sandy bottom, allows these waves to form and extend all the way to the next beach, Laida. This area is a perfect alternative for less experienced surfers, as it is suitable for all skill levels.
When conditions are favorable, you will enjoy fast waves reaching heights of up to four or five meters, breaking with power to form a perfect tube that can extend up to 500 meters in length. Those who manage to ride it agree that the view of the coast from inside the tube is an unforgettable sight.
During the best times of the year, hundreds of surfers wait their turn to ride these waves, highlighting the importance of respecting the surfing priority rules. However, it's important to note that Mundaka Beach is not suitable for all surfers. You need to have a certain level of experience, as the rip currents and the power of its waves can be dangerous for someone with a lower skill level. In fact, the complexity of the Mundaka wave has led to the creation of specific surfboards designed for riding it, such as the Pukas Water Lion surfboard.

A day of perfect waves in Mundaka.

Cartel del Billabong Pro Mundaka en 2008
These waters have been frequented by world-class surfers such as Mark Occhilupo, Andy Irons, Kelly Slater, Tom Curren, and Marc Paarman.
Best time for surfing in Mundaka
The ideal months for surfing in the northern region of Spain, specifically in Mundaka, are during the autumn and winter seasons. Particularly, the hours before and after low tide, with long periods and winds from the south or southwest.If you want to know the best conditions in advance, we recommend checking the wave forecast on some of the apps that offer hourly predictions. This way, you will make the most of your visit. Remember that we explained in detail how to interpret Windguru and how to interpret Surf Forecast.
What surfboard to use in Mundaka
Mundaka is a wave for experienced surfers. We recommend using a thick and long shortboard surfboard. The most critical area in Mundaka is the take-off zone. Having a slightly thicker and longer board will help you start a bit earlier on the wave, making it easier for you to position yourself in the barrel of the first section.
Also, keep in mind that on a good day in Mundaka, you won't be alone. Having extra volume in your surfboard will help you position yourself at the peak and catch waves. A very useful and common accessory to see in Mundaka is a surf helmet. As we have seen before with Kepa Acero's accident, Mundaka is a dangerous wave. The danger doesn't only come from the power of the wave but also from other surfers, and a helmet can save your life.
The beach and its surroundings
Mundaka is a beautiful fishing village located in Urdaibai, a Biosphere Reserve. In addition to its beaches, it is surrounded by kilometers of marshes and sandy areas that are rich in flora and fauna.
To explore it, you will have to visit its small port, which exudes the atmosphere of the fishermen and is home to one of the most important landmarks in the town

The small fishing port of Mundaka.
Through its trails, you will explore the mountains that surround it, such as Ogoño. From its viewpoint, the views of the sea are spectacular.
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Ignacio
Ignacio is the bodyboarding expert at Mundo-Surf, with a competitive track record at the national and European levels that makes him a reference in the sport. Passionate about the sea and waves, Ignacio lives and breathes bodyboarding, bringing with him a unique blend of technique, passion, and knowledge.
In addition to his competitive experience, Ignacio has a solid background as a surf instructor, allowing him to pass on his love for the ocean and shape new generations of surfers and bodyboarders. On the Mundo-Surf blog, he shares not only advanced tips and techniques but also the philosophy that inspires him in every wave.