Although Bilbao is known for its world-class museums, modern architecture, and pintxos culture, its northern Spanish location places it tantalisingly close to the Atlantic coast. While the port city proper sits a few miles up the Nervión estuary, some of the most beautiful beaches near Bilbao are just a short metro or car journey away. If you're on the hunt for surfing hotspots, tranquil coves, or family-friendly sands, this coast offers a lovely variety of experiences.
Playa de Las Arenas
Located in Getxo, just a few minutes from the centre by metro, Las Arenas is undoubtedly one of the best-known Bilbao beaches by metro. This urban beach sits near the mouth of the Nervión River and is popular for walks, sunbathing, and its proximity to the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge. While the water here can be more suited for a paddle than proper swimming, its location is perfect for those based in or visiting the city.
Playa de Ereaga
Also not far from the Getxo metro station, Ereaga is a long sandy expanse surrounded by elegant mansions and a laid-back promenade. It’s beloved for sunset strolls, volleyball, and windsurfing. Ereaga is one of the nicest beaches near Bilbao that locals favour for its relaxed but lively atmosphere.
Playa de Arimune
Located in the picturesque Bakio and renowned for its long stretches of sand, this is one of the best surfing bays on the Vizcaya coast. It also serves as a great base to visit the mythical San Juan de Gaztelugatxe islet nearby, which features in Game of Thrones and can be reached by walking along a narrow pathway in the middle of the ocean.
Playa de Arrigunaga
Found between towering green cliffs, Arrigunaga beach is celebrated for its clean sands and incredible views. Well connected by metro to central Bilbao, it’s quieter than Ereaga and ideal if you want a peaceful escape or some decent surf. There's also a wooden beach bar that serves up sandwiches, burgers and snacks with seating outside.
Playa de Gorrondatxe
A little further along the coast sits Gorrondatxe, or Azkorri beach. It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches near Bilbao due to its wild backdrop and black sand. Located next to Neguri Golf course, this beach is windswept and quieter, favoured by surfers and those after an untouched feel.
Playa de Gorlizeko
About 40 minutes by metro, Gorliz or Gorlizeko is a favourite beach near Bilbao for families thanks to its shallow waters, golden sand, and gentle atmosphere. Backed by pine woods and dunes, it is located by the pretty coastal town of Plentzia, which features historic streets and riverside pintxo bars.
Playa de La Arena
Located at the mouth of the Barbadun river, La Arena beach stretches nearly a kilometre and is popular for swimming, beginner surfing, volleyball, and easy beach walks. The boardwalk, beachside cafés, and convenient parking make it a practical spot, and you can reach it from Bilbao by Cercanías train to Muskiz, followed by an hour walk.
Playa de Mundaka
This beach is famous among the surfing community as it is known to have the best left break in Europe, if not the world, creating long, barrelling waves. It is the best beach between San Sebastian and Bilbao if you're an experienced surfer. With an abundance of surf schools and shops, the area becomes particularly buzzing in autumn as the waves reach their prime, drawing enthusiasts eager to catch a thrill.
Playa de Barrika
Known for its wild beauty and rugged cliffs, Barrika beach is popular with nature lovers, nudists, and photographers. This stretch is more isolated (no direct metro, but reachable by car or bus from Bilbao) and situated right next to Flysch nature reserve, which has some very dramatic rock formations.
Playa de Arrietara
For anyone seeking surf and scenery, Arrietara beach in Sopela is popular with young people and expats. It offers regular surf competitions, some of the best surf schools in the area and excellent facilities. The beach is backed by dramatic cliffs, and there is a direct bus that takes you directly there from the metro station in summer.