A long-awaited awakening
Monday January 27, 2025 will remain a milestone for surf and thrill-seekers alike. Off the coast of Urrugne, in the Basque Country, the legendary Belharra wave awoke to an impressive spectacle. At first light, big-wave surfers and spectators alike gathered to witness this rare and fascinating natural phenomenon.
From the corniche, onlookers were able to admire this mountain of water rising with intimidating majesty, while the most daring surfers launched themselves into the assault on this mythical wave!

Belharra, the giant of the Basque Country
Located off the coast of Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Belharra is a wave that only forms in very specific weather and ocean conditions. Renowned for its power and rarity, it attracts the elite of big-wave surfing every morning. Once again this year, seasoned riders such as Justine Dupont, Maud Le Car, Peyo Lizarazu and Pierre Rollet were on hand to challenge this force of nature.
Belharra is unforgiving. Its colossal mass of water collapses with phenomenal power, making every attempt a true test of courage and technique. Despite the risks, more and more surfers want to register their names among those who have tamed this monster of foam.
Perfect conditions for an anthology session
Belharra's awakening took place under ideal conditions. The swell reached 4.6 meters with a period of 17 seconds, a favorable easterly wind and a low tide scheduled for 9:08 am. At dawn, the first crews set sail to position themselves strategically to face this exceptional wave. The icing on the cake: a rainbow appeared on the horizon, making the moment even more magical!
The waves picked up throughout the morning, making way for a memorable session. Justine Dupont, who was the first woman to surf Belharra in 2013, once again demonstrated the full extent of her talent. Matthieu Etxebarne, recently spotted at Mavericks in the USA, and Clément Roseyro, returning from Nazaré in Portugal, also made their mark on the day with their unfailing commitment!
A memorable event
Every wake-up at Belharra is an exceptional moment, a communion between man and ocean. This session on January 27, 2025 will be remembered not only for the quality of the waves, but also for the presence of some exceptional surfers!
On this day, Belharra once again proved why it is one of Europe's most legendary waves. Between thrills, adrenalin and respect for the ocean, this session will remain an unforgettable memory for all those lucky enough to witness it, whether from the water or from the Basque coast!
One thing's for sure: the next Belharra awakening will also be eagerly awaited!