All these beaches are within easy reach of Bilbao, in the towns of Getxo, Plentzia, Gorliz and Sopela. They are within easy reach in a short time using only public transport and, as you will see, there is something for everyone: urban yet natural beaches, with light and dark sand, open and surrounded by cliffs ...

The beaches close to Bilbao that you should not miss

In Getxo:

1. Las Arenas. This small urban beach, located just 13 kilometres from Bilbao, is very close to the Txurruka pier and the spectacular Bizkaia Bridge. It offers a range of hospitality services, including a prestigious maritime club, and is ideal for windsurfing, sailing, and canoeing.

2. Ereaga. This sandy area is located between the Old Port of Algorta and the Arriluze pier and is surrounded by majestic houses and mansions. The beach of fine sand stretches for almost 900 m where you have all the space for a game of volleyball or other beach sports. It is also a good place to snorkel and dive, especially when the sea is calm.

3. Arrigunaga. This beach, located right at the foot of the cliffs of La Galea, offers a more open environment, a little less urban. It provides beautiful views of the Aixerrota windmill.

4. Gorrondatxe – Aizkorri. A little further away, but easily accessible by bus, is this beautiful beach of dark sand and heavy swell with strong waves. It is ideal for lovers of naturism.

In Sopela:

1. Arriatera – Atxabiribil. This is one of the longest and most changeable beaches in the whole of Bizkaia and is particularly loved by surfers. It is located in a spectacular natural setting at the foot of majestic cliffs.

2. Barinatxe - La Salvaje. Barinatxe is another perfect spot for surfing and has earned its nickname of La Salvaje, the Wild Beach, due to its combination of wind, changing sea beds, big swell and spectacular natural surroundings. It has a naturist area.

In Plentzia and Gorliz:

1. Plentzia and Gorliz. The beaches of the same name, situated near their respective town centres and separated only by the Txatxarro stream, form a large sandy area perfect for walking, sports, swimming, snorkelling and diving. These are the last beaches that can be reached by metro from Bilbao.

How to get to these beaches?

By METRO: Metro Bilbao line 1 (L1) connects with the beaches of Las Arenas (Areeta station), Ereaga (Neguri station), Arrigunaga (Bidezabal station), Barinatxe - La Salvaje and Arriatera - Atxabiribil (Larrabasterra station) and, finally, Plentzia and Gorliz (Plentzia station). From the metro stops, the beaches are a short walk away; the distance varies depending on the beach. Consult timetables and frequencies on the official Metro Bilbao website.

By BUS: There are a number of Bizkaibus services that can take you from Bilbao to these beaches. Visit the official Bizkaibus website for information on lines, schedules, and frequencies.

By CAR: From Bilbao, to get to the beaches of Getxo (approximately 15 minutes) take the N-637 and the BI-637. To go to Sopela (approx. 20 minutes), take the BI-637, and then continue along the BI-634 road to the beaches. To get to Plentzia and Gorliz (30-minute drive), go along the BI-3154 until the bay of Plentzia.

Other beaches near Bilbao worth visiting

1. Barrika. This beach is tucked between cliffs and is noted for its impressive rock formations and folds. It is located next to a picnic area that is easy to reach by car (BI-2122 Sopela- Barrika- Plentzia road ) or bus (Ziarreta stop in Barrika), and then a long flight of steps lead to the beach. There are no beach facilities.

2. Muriola. This tiny and charming beach, also known as La Cantera and suitable for naturism, became famous as it was featured in the series Game of Thrones. It can be reached by walking from the picnic area above Barrika beach and then going down a flight of steps. It offers unbeatable views of the bay of Plentzia. There are no beach facilities.

Where to eat near these beaches?

If you want to eat near the beaches of Getxo, we recommend you take a stroll around the Old Port of Algorta, a small seaside spot half an hour by metro from Bilbao (Algorta stop). The smell of salty sea air and the sight of its whitewashed houses set on sloping alleys will take you back in time.

In the port, there are bars that always seem to have been there. As it is a fishing port, why not try the fish and seafood in the restaurants, while enjoying the marvellous panoramic view of the Abra Bay. You can also make the most of the experience by joining the local "cuadrillas”, group of locals, on a "poteo” and "pintxo" route, i.e. having a wine and tapa in the magnificent bars.

Getxo offers diverse culinary options, including international restaurants. Local cuisine, celebrated with multiple awards, is renowned for its high-quality ingredients. Be sure to try the famed grilled fish or the wide variety of pintxos (tapas) in one of the many bars in the town.

Where to stay?

Whether in Bilbao or near the beaches, just a few kilometres from the capital, accommodation options abound. Getxo offers everything from luxurious seaside hotels to hostels and pensions catering to all budgets.

If you are looking for more peace and quiet, in Sopela and Plentzia you will find numerous rural houses. Advance booking is recommended in any of these four towns, especially during summer season.