In Bilbao Biscay, there is a wide diversity of beaches to choose from, ranging from unspoilt rocky coves that preserve their natural essence to large sandy beaches that open into bays near coastal towns, without forgetting the lovely small beaches that lie close to fishing harbours.

Urban beaches are conveniently accessed via Metro. There are also beaches that change depending on the tide and others which stretch at the mouth of the scenic estuaries that dot the Biscayan coastline. Some of them are ideal for water sports such as surfing, others offer great spots for basking in the sun, while others are just right for spending quality time with the little ones or for having some fun with your friends. You will be surprised to find out there is always an ideal beach for you in Bilbao Biscay, no matter what your tastes are.

Here is a list with the best beaches in Bilbao Biscay:

  • Ereaga. Within easy reach by public transport from Bilbao, Ereaga is an 800-metre-long sandy beach located in Getxo, a short walk away from the Vizcaya Bridge. Surrounded by a pleasurable esplanade that extends from the Arriluze Wharf to the Old Port of Algorta, this beach is perfect for those who want to enjoy the sea and the sand, as well as for surfing, bodyboarding, playing volleyball or simply lying in the sun.

  • Gorrondatxe. Also known as Aizkorri, this beach makes its way out of the bluffs of Uribe in Getxo. Sand dunes, cliffs and the waters of the Cantabrian Sea are combined to form an almost unspoilt environment that delights the senses of those who come looking for quietness or for the chance of surfing the famous Akanti wave.

  • Barinatxe. This is the most natural, not only of the three beaches you can visit in Sopela, but on the entire coast. The roughness of the sea that bathes it and the cliffs that surround it have earned it the name of ‘La Salvaje’ (‘The Wild One’). The recurrence rate of its waves has turned Barinatxe into a Biscayan mecca for surfers and its cliffs gives offer paragliding experiences all year round.

  • Barrika. This wild beach in the town of Barrika, which can be reached by descending a set of steps in the cliffs, practically disappears at high tide. It offers spectacular views of truly incredible geological formations and a nearly intact natural ecosystem.

  • Plentzia and Gorliz. Belonging to the towns of Plentzia and Gorliz respectively, these two beaches become one on the ebb tide. Opening into a quiet bay at the mouth of the Estuary of Plentzia, they are two of the most popular beach destinations in Biscay because of their sand, their seafront, the recreational areas around them, and the calmness of their waters, ideal for beginners in water sports.

  • Bakio. At a small distance from San Juan de Gaztelugatxe lies the beach of Bakio, the longest sandy beach in Biscay. An impressive seascape can be admired from its esplanade, while its fine sand is perfect to spend a sunny day with the whole family. Apart from all this, its waters attract thousands of surf lovers each year.

  • Aritzatxu. Hidden among coastal cliffs, this small cove in Bermeo boasts golden sands and an incredible natural landscape made of huge rocks and crystal-clear water, reason why it is much frequented by scuba divers. This truly relaxing setting is great for those who want to take an agreeable bath in the Cantabrian Sea.

  • Laga. A series of natural dunes and the massive rock at Ogoño Cape, in Ibarrangelu, have created a unique atmosphere around this quiet beach nestled in the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve. Facing the Cantabrian Sea, Laga is usually frequented by surfers trying to catch the best waves and groups of friends trying to make the most of over 500 metres of golden sands.

  • Ea. On the far side of the charming coastal town of Ea, close to its small port, we can spot a beautiful little beach. Framed against the cliff faces that give shape to the valley, this peaceful sandy beach is an excellent place for kids as it has its own playground.

  • Karraspio. Situated in the town of Mendexa next to the harbour of Lekeitio, the quiet Karraspio beach offers unbeatable views over Garraitz Island, accessible on foot when the tide is out. This is a good destination to take your first steps in surfing or sailing.

For more information about services offered, lifeguard flags, sea conditions, environmental factors, the bathing water quality, or the temperature at any of the 28 Biscayan beaches, please follow this link.