Playa de Arribolas

Introduction

If there is a spot on the Basque coast that invites us to disconnect, to feel nature in its purest state, and to marvel at the force of the Cantabrian Sea, that is undoubtedly Playa de Arribolas in Bermeo. We are faced with a hidden gem, a cove that does not give itself up easily, but rewards those who venture to discover it with untamed beauty and unparalleled peace. This small inlet, sheltered by cliffs and vegetation, is the epitome of what we seek when we long to escape the hustle and bustle and immerse ourselves in a pristine landscape.

Playa de Arribolas is not the typical sandy beach with umbrellas and 'chiringuitos', and that is precisely where its charm lies. It is a space where nature dictates the rules, where the sound of waves breaking on the shore and the cry of seabirds are the only soundtrack. Its privileged location, in the fishing municipality of Bermeo, in the province of Bizkaia, makes it a perfect destination for those who value authenticity and seek experiences beyond the conventional. We invite you to delve into this natural paradise together and uncover all its secrets.

How to Get to Playa de Arribolas

Getting to Playa de Arribolas is part of the adventure. It is not an easily accessible beach, which contributes to its wild character and keeps it relatively uncrowded. Generally, it is reached after a short but steep descent along a path. We recommend you go prepared with comfortable and secure footwear, as the path can be uneven and slippery, especially if it has rained recently. The reward, however, is worth every step.

To get there by car, from the center of Bermeo, you should take the road heading towards Bakio, the BI-3101. After a few kilometers, you will find signs or landmarks that will lead you to the beach area. Do not expect a massive, signposted parking lot; it is most common to find small informal parking spots on the sides of the road or in a turn-off near the start of the path. It is crucial to be respectful of the environment and not block the way. Another option, for the more athletic, is to arrive on foot or by bicycle from Bermeo, enjoying the impressive views of the Bizkaia coast. Remember that signage can be discreet, so it is always a good idea to check a map or GPS before setting off.

The Sand and Water

Once we descend to Playa de Arribolas, the first thing that catches our attention is the composition of its shore. You will not find the fine, golden sand of other more touristy beaches, but a fascinating mix. Playa de Arribolas is characterized by its mixed sand, where coarser grains of sand coexist with small pebbles and stones polished by the constant ebb and flow of the sea. This particularity gives it a very natural and authentic appearance and invites us to walk barefoot, feeling the unique texture under our feet. The rocks dotting the shore and the cliffs flanking it add a dramatic and very photogenic visual element.

As for the water, it is one of the great attractions of this cove. The waters of the Cantabrian Sea here are famous for their clarity and cleanliness. The turquoise color, often tinged with emerald tones, is an irresistible invitation for a swim. Although the Atlantic always surprises with its temperature, in the summer months the waters are warm enough to enjoy a refreshing dip. The transparency of the water allows you to observe the seabed, making it an ideal place for snorkeling, as we will see later. We always recommend caution when swimming, as, being an unguarded beach, it is essential to know your own limits and be aware of currents.

Services and Facilities

As we have already mentioned, Playa de Arribolas is distinguished by its wild and virgin character. This means we should not expect to find the services and facilities we are accustomed to in more urbanized beaches. Here there are no 'chiringuitos', showers, public toilets, umbrella or sunbed rentals, nor lifeguard service. And, honestly, it is precisely this lack of infrastructure that preserves its essence and natural beauty.

We always advise our visitors to come prepared. This means bringing everything needed for the day: water and provisions, a towel, sunscreen, and of course, a bag to collect all our waste and take it back with us. It is our responsibility to keep this paradise as impeccable as we found it. The lack of services becomes an opportunity to reconnect with the essentials and enjoy a purer, more self-sufficient beach experience. If you are looking for a beach with all the comforts, perhaps Playa de Arribolas is not your first choice, but if you value tranquility and natural beauty above all else, you have come to the right place.

Best Time to Visit

The choice of when to visit Playa de Arribolas will largely depend on what we seek in our experience. Each season has its own charm in this corner of Bizkaia.

Summer (June, July, August)

Undoubtedly, the summer months are the most popular if our main goal is to swim and enjoy the sun. During this time, temperatures are more pleasant, daylight hours are longer, and the sea water reaches its warmest temperature. However, being the high season, it is when the beach may receive a higher number of visitors, although never reaching the crowds of other coasts. If you come in summer, we recommend arriving early to secure a good spot and enjoy maximum tranquility before other bathers arrive.