All with waves of varying degrees of power, depending on the topography of the beaches. Whether sandy, rocky, or at the foot of high cliffs, they are ideal playgrounds for surfers.
If you are travelling through Europe and looking for good surf spots, we’ve put together a guide to the best surf spots in Europe. Also, be sure to check out Booking.com to save on travel accommodations!
1. La Gravière, Landes, France 🇫🇷
This sandy beach in Hossegor is one of the most popular in Europe. Thanks to the constant winds, the rollers are powerful. This world-renowned spot offers a short break where you can surf up to 3 or 4 metres from the shore. It’s a surf spot for advanced surfers.
2. Lafiténia, Pyrénées-Atlantiques, France 🇫🇷
Located in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Lafiténia beach is emblematic of the Basque coast. Wild in winter but popular in summer, it forms a bay surrounded by cliffs. You’ll love its peace and quiet and the fact that it’s far from urban areas. Go there in an east/south-easterly wind, with a 1 to 3.5 metres swell. The area is nevertheless bustling in summer. It’s a rocky beach, more suited to experienced surfers.
3. Lacanau, Gironde, France 🇫🇷
Here’s one of the most beautiful surf spots in Europe. France is generous when it comes to surf spots, especially along its Atlantic coast. Lacanau, in Gironde, is a world-renowned spot. The beach spots can be very busy, especially in summer. Need help figuring out where to surf? Check out La Barrière, La Centrale or L’Alexandre!
4. Baie des Trépassés, Finistère, France 🇫🇷
Situated at the end of Pointe du Raz, the Baie des Trépassés is one of the best surf spots in France. Large rollers continually batter the sandy beach. Go there if you already have a good level and have mastered your board. The best time to surf is between autumn and spring.
5. Fuerteventura, Spain 🇪🇸
The weather is good all year round in the Canaries, on the islands of “eternal spring”. Right on the Atlantic Ocean, Fuerteventura offers excellent waves all year round. But the best time is from October to May. A multitude of lava reef breaks dot the island. And if you’re a gliding enthusiast, you’ll love the island’s vast beaches. “Fuerte” is one of Europe’s best surf spots, with something for everyone. Superb beaches and great rollers all year round!
6. Playa de Sotavento de Jandía, Spain 🇪🇸
Fancy surfing in the middle of a barren lunar landscape and a turquoise lagoon? Sotavento Beach is topped by winds all year round. It’s a paradise for surfers from all over Europe. If you’re a beginner in surfing, you’ll want to go at high tide!
7. Playa de Somo, Spain 🇪🇸
Located near Santander, Somo Beach is accessible to all levels. It’s a beach break, with waves crashing on the sand close to the shore. You can ride the waves all year round.
8. Playa de Los Lances, Spain 🇪🇸
The Costa de la Luz (Andalusia) is home to some of Europe’s best surf spots. Los Lances Beach in Tarifa is one of them. The medium-sized waves are ideal for beginners and advanced surfers alike. Go there at any time of year: the beach is as vast as it is magnificent.
9. Praia da Arrifana, Portugal 🇵🇹
Grab your board and head for Arrifana Beach to tame the beautiful waves of the Algarve. Arrifana is one of Portugal’s most beautiful beaches at the foot of monumental cliffs. It offers superb panoramic views of the Vicentine Coast. The beach opens onto a 500-metre bay where the waves break all year round. Unfortunately, it is trendy all year round.
10. Castelejo and Cordoama, Portugal 🇵🇹
Here are two beaches north of Sagres in Portugal. Highly exposed to the north wind, they are two of the best surf spots in Portugal and Europe. Be warned, though, if you’re starting out: many rocks are scattered around the bottom.
11. Tenby, Wales 🏴, United Kingdom 🇬🇧
Tenby is a beach renowned for its surf spots in the south of Wales. It offers superb uniform waves and big rollers, especially in winter. Freshwater West, West Dale or Marloes are popular spots on the beach, depending on your level.
12. Bundoran, Ireland 🇮🇪
The surfing capital of Ireland, Bundoran, is located northwest of Ireland. The main reason people go there is for the quality of the waves. Go to the famous spot ‘The Peak’. This is where you’ll find some of the most impressive waves in Ireland. You can surf here all year round. And as a bonus, you’ll have a wide choice of reefs and pointbreaks. “The Peak is a peak that breaks on the beach reef. So be careful if you’re new to surfing. This spot is best suited to experienced surfers.
13. Thurso East, Scotland 🏴, United Kingdom 🇬🇧
One of the best surf spots in Europe is Thurso East, in the very north of the country. The beach has great surf breaks all year round and is famous for its international competitions. If you like cold water (we’re in Scotland!), don’t worry.
14. Capo Mannu, Sardinia, Italy 🇮🇹
The Mediterranean Sea can be rough and tumultuous, especially in Sardinia, where swells come from all sides. Capo Mannu is one of the island’s best-known spots. The peninsula has several attractive surf spots.
15. Santa Maria di Leuca, Puglia, Italy 🇮🇹
To the south of the Italian peninsula lies yet another surfer’s paradise. Located in Castrignano del Capo, this spot is an hour’s drive from Lecce and is only visited by locals. In strong winds, the crystal-clear waves break and offer a superb spectacle.
Conclusion
Europe offers a wide range of incredible surf spots suitable for all skill levels. From powerful waves to picturesque beaches, each destination has its own unique charm. As you explore these top surf spots, remember to respect the environment, stay safe, and enjoy the unforgettable experience of riding the waves across Europe.
