San Sebastian: Surf & Party Hostel

Imagine waking up in a vibrant hostel where the waves are calling, the nights are buzzing, and you’re surrounded by like-minded travelers eager for adventure. This San Sebastian Surf & Party Hostel offers exactly that—a mix of outstanding surf lessons, hearty Basque cuisine, and wild nightlife all within the beautiful Basque Country in Spain. With a price of around $154 per person for 3 to 7 days, it’s a great way to combine active days and lively evenings without breaking the bank.

What we love about this experience is the quality of the surf instruction—professional guides help beginners stand up on their first wave—and the inclusive vibe of the hostel, where everyone is there for fun, friendship, and a little bit of adrenaline. The other highlight? The local Pintxos in San Sebastián’s old town that give you a true taste of Basque culinary delights, all paired with plenty of social evenings fueled by drinks and games.

On the flip side, one consideration is that this isn’t a quiet retreat—if you’re after serene solitude or a relaxing spa environment, this isn’t your place. The focus here is on active, energetic days and partying into the early hours. It’s best suited for adventurous travelers aged 18 and over who thrive on social connections, good waves, and lively nights.

If you’re someone looking to score some great surf, meet travelers from around the world, and enjoy authentic Basque atmosphere, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for young travelers, groups of friends, and solo explorers wanting a mix of sport and social fun.

Key Points

• Great for beginners and experienced surfers thanks to professional, inclusive lessons.
• All meals included—home-cooked breakfasts, lunches, and dinners bring a taste of local cuisine.
• Lively party atmosphere, with free-flowing drinks, games, and social events.
• Authentic local experience with pintxo tours, Basque festivities, and regional activities.
• Comfortable accommodation with dorm beds, sheets, and personal outlets.
• Ideal for social travelers seeking fun, adventure, and new friendships.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the San Sebastian Surf & Party Hostel Experience

Location and Access

The hostel is conveniently located in the Basque Country, with the main meeting point at San Sebastian Surf House, Arrutiegia Auzoa 26, Bajo 1. From there, daily transfers to and from Zarautz make it easy to get to the surf spots, specifically the popular Zarautz beach, renowned for its surf-friendly waves. Pickup times at Zarautz Station are flexible (9 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm), and arrangements are needed at least 24 hours in advance, adding a bit of structure to your free-spirited plans.

The Surf Experience

The highlight for many is the included surf lessons—a perfect way to introduce newcomers to the sport or sharpen skills for seasoned surfers. The guides are experienced, and they’re passionate about helping everyone catch their first wave or improve their technique. The surf theory lesson ensures you understand safety, tides, and waves, which is especially useful for beginners.

For those who already surf, the guides will point out the best spots, helping you maximize your time on the water. Equipment is provided—wetsuits and boards—so you don’t need to worry about bringing your gear. Daily transfers to beach breaks mean you won’t be stuck at the same spot each day, and you can enjoy varied surf conditions.

Accommodation and Meals

Your stay includes dorm accommodation—ideal for meeting fellow travelers—plus sheets and pillows. The communal vibe continues at mealtimes, where homemade breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served around a family-style table. The food is healthy and hearty, giving you plenty of fuel for the day’s activities.

Meals are a major highlight, especially as you get to sample local Pintxos in San Sebastian’s famed old town. The city’s culinary reputation for these small, flavorful bites is well-deserved and makes for excellent evenings of strolling and tasting.

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Activities Beyond Surfing

Beyond the waves, the Basque Country offers a range of activities. For thrill-seekers, options like paragliding and horseback riding are available, adding variety to your trip. Food lovers can indulge in gourmet pintxo tours or visit Sidra Houses for traditional cider tastings. For those interested in local culture, participating in Basque festivities is encouraged.

The Nightlife and Social Scene

When sunset hits, the hostel shifts gears into party mode. The free-flowing beer, sangria, and cider make socializing easy, and the beer pong table, darts, and music create a lively, informal setting. Many reviews mention the friendly, energetic atmosphere, with Borja Sánchez praising the experience as “unique and super enriching,” adding he would repeat the trip without hesitation.

The party environment is part of the charm, but it’s worth noting that this isn’t a quiet retreat—if you’re seeking a peaceful getaway, this may not be the best fit. However, for those wanting to combine surfing with memorable nights out, it’s ideal.

Value for Money

At $154 per person, the price includes accommodation, meals, surf lessons, equipment, and transfers—a solid deal considering the number of activities and the social environment. Extras like private lessons, drinks packages, or excursions are available at additional costs, but the core package offers a comprehensive experience that balances activity, comfort, and fun.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers of all skill levels, especially those eager to learn to surf or improve their skills in a friendly setting. It’s perfect for young travelers, solo explorers, and groups of friends who want to enjoy a lively social atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to meet others. If your idea of a trip involves waves, good food, and a night or two of dancing, this is your spot.

Final Thoughts

The San Sebastian Surf & Party Hostel offers a lively, action-packed way to experience the Basque Country. With professional surf instruction, hearty local food, and nights filled with games and drinks, it’s a well-rounded option for those who want it all—waves, friends, and fun. The authentic atmosphere and friendly guides make it stand out, especially for those new to surfing or looking for a memorable social adventure.

Of course, if you’re after total tranquility or a more refined, quiet retreat, this isn’t the place. But if you thrive in energetic environments where every day ends with new friends and stories, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour includes surf lessons for beginners and experienced guides to help you get started, making it perfect for those new to surfing.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy home-cooked breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily. These meals are hearty and designed to fuel active days, with a focus on local ingredients.

How are transfers arranged?
Transfers are included for daily trips to the surf spots, specifically to Zarautz. Pickups at Zarautz Station are at 9 am, 1 pm, and 7 pm, with arrangements needed 24 hours in advance.

What about the nightlife?
The hostel has a lively party scene with free drinks, games, and music, making evenings fun and social. It’s ideal for travelers looking to mingle and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Are there additional costs?
Extras such as private lessons, pintxo tours, paragliding, or special dinners (like Sidra House dinners) are available at additional costs, but the core experience is all-inclusive.

Can I extend my stay?
Yes, the tour duration is flexible from 3 to 7 days—check availability for your preferred dates and see if you can soak up more surf and fun.

This tour offers a wonderful balance of learning, socializing, and exploring the Basque seaside. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to combine adventure with a lively social scene—a trip that’ll leave you with more than just memories, but new friends and stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: