Writer: Helena Bergström
Updated: August 2026 | Zarautz is a charming coastal town in the Basque Country in northern Spain, known for its long sandy beach, its surfing waves and its relaxed atmosphere. We visited Zarautz by camper and stayed at the beautifully situated campsite above the beach. During our visit we had time to enjoy the beach life, walk around the town and experience a small part of the Basque coast.
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Gran Camping in Zarautz in Spain
Gran camping in Zarautz is located on a mountain with a fantastic view of the beach. We first parked so that we had a magical panoramic view right from the windows. Later we moved to another place on the campsite, just to get better internet coverage.
The campsite has good services including nice service buildings, laundry facilities, a small shop and a popular bar.
Walk down to Zarautz and the beach
The view from Gran Camping Zarautz is magical, but when you want to get down to (and up from!) the beach and the town you have to be prepared for some exercise. It's a long and quite demanding climb in both directions. Peter also wanted to stop here and there to test his macro lens on various insects...
The beach in Zarautz
Eventually we made it down to the amazing beach, and we have to say it was worth the effort. What a beach! Here is also the town of Zarautz, which is full of shops and restaurants, and nice to walk around in.
Viewpoint
The campsite is located on a mountain, but you are not quite at the top. So if you want, you can choose to walk further up. This will give you even more breathtaking views, not only towards the beach and the city, but also in other directions!
More to see in Spain
Of course, there is more to see around Spain. Here you will find some more tips, not too far from Zarautz.
- Maria Luisa Park in Seville
- Picos de Europa - national park in Spain
- Historic Tarragona
- Things to do in Barcelona
FAQ – frequently asked questions about Zarautz
Where is Zarautz located?
Zarautz is located in the Basque Country in northern Spain, about 20 kilometers west of San Sebastián (Donostia), along the Bay of Biscay.
What is Zarautz known for?
Zarautz is best known for its long sandy beach, Playa de Zarautz, which is one of the longest in the Basque Country. The town is also a popular destination for surfing, beach life and good Basque food.
Is Zarautz worth a visit?
Yes, Zarautz is a nice destination for those who want to combine beach life with a charming small town. Many people appreciate the relaxed atmosphere and proximity to San Sebastián.
How long is the beach in Zarautz?
Playa de Zarautz is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and is considered one of the longest sandy beaches in the Basque Country.
Is Zarautz good for surfing?
Yes, Zarautz is one of Spain's most famous surfing destinations. Thanks to the Atlantic waves, the beach is suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, and there are several surf schools on site.
How many days do you need in Zarautz?
One day is enough to experience the city center and the beach, but two or three days are good if you want to relax, surf or take excursions in the Basque Country.
What is there to see and do in Zarautz?
Besides the beach, you can stroll along the promenade, visit the historic city center, try pintxos at local bars or hike the coastal path towards Getaria.
Is Zarautz a good destination for campervan travellers?
Yes, Zarautz is popular with campervan travellers. The town has a campsite in a great location above the beach and is a good stop during a road trip along the north coast of Spain.
What is there to see near Zarautz?
Nearby is the charming coastal town of Getaria, famous for its seafood restaurants and as the birthplace of fashion designer Cristóbal Balenciaga. San Sebastián is also within easy reach.
When is the best time to visit Zarautz?
Summer is best for swimming and beach life. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant weather, fewer visitors and good conditions for hiking and surfing.
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English (UK) 
Svenska
BP says:
So in the world of photo bloggers, it is usually girls / ladies / aunts who crawl around on the ground to take pictures of bugs. Peter is probably the first guy I see in that position;-)
21 December 2014 - 15:03
BP says:
Answer: The usual - Benidorm. We had to skip our planned trip to Jerusalem due to the political situation in Israel, and then we got off. Benidorm feels rejected, I know, but given the weather forecast that shows a lot of sun, we do not complain;-)
21 December 2014 - 16:12
Steve says:
Counting steps may well seem like a perfectly acceptable activity if you are travelling around Europe at this time. I also look at Peter's pictures on Instagram. Great pictures and interesting creatures he photographs.
21 December 2014 - 16:46
Lars Permelin says:
There seems to be a golf course along the beach, seaside course, not bad. Fun with special interests, there will be a lot of bugs to photograph everywhere.
21 December 2014 - 19:08
admin says:
BP, haha, yes, here it is probably Peter who appears in the most odd photo poses... now that he has his macro lens. Sun in Benidorm does not sound stupid at all, although it was sad that you had to skip the planned trip.
Steve, haha yes, maybe we should have counted the steps... By the way, Peter filmed the bugs today too, but it was not possible to get the films on Instagram unfortunately....
Lars, yes, it is true that there is a golf course there. Yes, it's fun now that we've come to a slightly better climate for bugs... further north, they are scarce this time of year.
😉
21 December 2014 - 19:09
Lena & Jan says:
Hey Peter, insects are very interesting and unusual, maybe you will be able to impress/sell to insect lovers!
I'm glad you don't have to be cold anymore 😉.
21 December 2014 - 19:10
Matts Torebring says:
Now there was not a single person, with their arse bare on the beach, or anyone else either, other than Peter. In summer it looks like "ants" on the beach. We probably climbed the stairs at least six times, once with 20 kg of food in the backpack and +30 degrees outside. Hugs
21 December 2014 - 21:09
Casa Annika says:
So beautiful! If you're heading west now, don't miss the seafood in A Coruña! Incredibly good seafood, there are razor clams in the windows of the seafood bars, the best razor clams I've ever had! And the mussels! Don't miss out! We will go back some day just to eat seafood!
21 December 2014 - 22:48
admin says:
Lena & Jan, very nice with some milder weather!
Matts, that sounds heavy! We thought it was quite heavy to go up, even without a pack and 30 degree heat...
Casa Annika, thank you so much for the tips! Yes, we will go that way. By the way, do you know how to prepare/eat razor clams...? Have actually never eaten them ...
22 December 2014 - 9:21
Ama de casa says:
Northern Spain is really beautiful! And - haha - as a blogger (or instagrammer) you have to keep your body in shape.
😉
22 December 2014 - 10:35
admin says:
Ama de casa, yep, absolutely true...!
😉
22 December 2014 - 12:08
FANTASYDINING-En blogg om temarestauranger och resor says:
How lovely it sounds with the sun shining! You would really need it now.
22 December 2014 - 12:25
Ladies Abroad says:
Now it's starting to look more real for you weather-wise!
22 December 2014 - 15:05
admin says:
FantasyDining, very nice! We have not yet had so much of that on the trip...
Ladies Abroad, well now it's starting to look like something!
😉
22 December 2014 - 16:32
Dryden says:
Wow, it looks really beautiful. The water also looks a bit warmer than I guess it is? 🙂
29 December 2014 - 3:10
admin says:
Dryden, we saw one person swimming. Otherwise, it was just surfers with wetsuits...
29 December 2014 - 10:01