Surf beach in Sopela next to Atxabiribil, with a wide sandy shore and Atlantic waves.
Playa de Arrietara, also written Arriatera, is the beach that joins Atxabiribil on the Sopela coast. Local guides describe the two as one long stretch with no clear dividing line, and both are windy and popular with surfers. Arrietara has a wide sand shore at lower tides. The Metro to Larrabasterra is the easiest public route; from there it is about a 20-minute walk. The coastline continues west toward Barinatxe and the cliffs of Punta Galea in Getxo. The sea is cold and powerful on stormy days, so check the flags and local advice before entering the water.
| Distance | About 20 km north-west of central Bilbao; about 30 minutes by Metro Line 1 to Larrabasterra plus a walk of about 20 minutes |
|---|---|
| Getting there | Metro Bilbao Line 1 (direction Plentzia, from Moyua, Abando or Indautxu stations; Barik card; timetable at metrobilbao.eus) to Larrabasterra (zone 3), then walk about 20 minutes. Confirm at metrobilbao.eus; Bizkaibus information 946 125 555 |
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Best season | June to September for swimming; year-round for surfing |
| Address | Arrietara Hondartza, 48600 Sopela, Biscay, Spain |
Amenities
- Lifeguard in the summer season
- Surf conditions for various levels
- Car parking nearby
- Seasonal beach bars
Good to know
- Best for
- surfers, couples, walkers
Location
Arrietara Hondartza, 48600 Sopela, Biscay, Spain
43.3882, -2.9970 View on map
Highlights
- Wide sand at lower tides
- Joined to Atxabiribil along one stretch
- Close to Barinatxe for a longer coastal walk
- Popular with surfers
Tips for visiting
- Check tide and wave forecasts before going.
- Follow lifeguard flags in summer.
- Combine with a coastal walk west toward Barinatxe.
- Pack layers; wind makes it feel cooler.
When to visit
Summer for casual visits; autumn for surf
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is Arrietara the same as Arriatera?
Yes, both spellings are used for the same beach in Sopela.
Is there a Metro near Arrietara?
Larrabasterra station on Line 1 is about a 20-minute walk away.