Deba

## The spot Deba is a powerful right-hand point break on the Basque coast of northern Spain, where a rocky headland creates a defined, mechanical wave. The wave wraps around the point and peels along a rocky shelf, offering long rides when conditions align. The town sits above with colourful buildings and a harbour. On bigger swells, the right-hander can run for 100+ metres with barrel sections. ## When it works Needs a solid north-westerly groundswell wrapping around the headland. A southerly wind is offshore. Best at mid to high tide when water covers the reef. The 4-8ft range produces the best waves. Works October through March most consistently. Smaller swells fail to wrap around the point properly. ## Where to sit The take-off is at the tip of the point where the swell first encounters the headland. The wave then runs right along the rock shelf towards the beach. Position yourself at the boil near the rocks. On bigger days the take-off shifts further out as the swell wraps wider. ## Hazards Rocky bottom throughout the point break section. Shallow reef at lower tides. Strong currents sweep along the headland on bigger swells. The wave is powerful and fast. Getting caught inside means being dragged across rock. Experienced surfers only on solid days. ## Parking and access Park in town and walk along the harbour wall to the point. Entry from the rocks requires knowledge of the channel. The beach inside the bay offers an easier entry but involves a longer paddle. ## The crowd A tight local Basque crew who surf this wave regularly. The point break section is competitive on good days. Show respect, do not drop in, and wait your turn. Weekdays are quieter. The lineup has a clear hierarchy. ## Local tips Study the entry point carefully before your first session. The local surfers enter through a specific channel in the rocks. The right-hander works best on a dropping tide from high to mid. If Deba is too small, Mundaka (30 minutes east) needs even more swell but is world-class when it works.