Whether you want to learn how to surf or are already a pro looking for powerful reef breaks, discover where to surf in Europe.
You don’t have to travel all the way to Australia or Hawaii to find those perfect waves. Europe has plenty to offer swell seekers, with world-renowned surf spots scattered between the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve selected 10 must-visit European surfing destinations, divided into easier options for beginners, and more challenging spots for those skilled adrenaline seekers.
Whether you’re preparing for your first lesson or you want to test yourself on the legendary waves of Nazaré or Hossegor, you’ll find the right surf sport for you, with some advice on the best time to go.
So grab your board and let’s catch that perfect wave!
Table of Contents
ToggleBeginner breaks:
1. Sotavento Beach, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a perfect destination for those who love nature, sports and outdoor activities. The island of Fuerteventura boasts a coastline of over 100km, exposed to the chergui, a warm wind that comes from the Sahara. These climatic conditions make Fuerteventura ideal for water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and, of course, surfing. If you’re a beginner and want to learn the basics of the board, Sotavento Beach, on the Costa Calma, is the place to be, thanks to its gentle and regular waves, sandy seabed and turquoise waters.
And if you’re going to surf here, be sure to check out our Fuerteventura guide, with local tips that’ll help you prepare for your trip.
When to go: From March to November for optimal conditions and pleasantly warmer water. Winter is much windier.
2. Capo Mannu Beach, Sardinia, Italy
Sardinia is not just golden sand and calm clear waters. In fact, even in the Mediterranean, the sea can get rough. In Sardinia, north of Oristano, Capo Mannu beach is exposed to the mistral (a strong northwesterly wind) all year round. In summer, when the wind is not too strong, it’s perfect for taking your first surfing lessons. Far from the crowds, this location has a wild and rugged charm.
When to go: From June to September, when the sea is calmer and conditions are favorable for beginners. In autumn and winter the waves can reach up to 3m high; an adventure for experts, such waves are best avoided by those not yet confidant.
3. Playa de la Zurriola, San Sebastián, Spain
Just a short walk from the city center, Zurriola is one of the most accessible surfing beaches in Europe. The beach is wide, with moderate waves and has a young, cosmopolitan vibe. It’s ideal for beginners, thanks to the many surf schools available, and is also perfect for those who want to alternate lessons with discovering Basque culture and its fantastic gastronomy.
When to go: May to October, when the waves are regular and the weather pleasant. The months of July and August are busiest.
4. Falassarna and Kouremenos, Crete, Greece
Although it’s not the first European surfing destination that comes to mind, Crete is a surprisingly beginner-friendly option. Its coastline, particularly in Falassarna (to the west) and Kouremenos (to the east), has gentle, steady waves that allow you to get to grips with your board in complete safety. The beaches are wide, the seabed is sandy, and local surf schools offer courses for all ages.
When to go: In summer, when the weather is warm and the sea is clear. The Meltemi wind also helps create small waves that are perfect for beginners.
5. Watergate Bay, Cornwall, England
Watergate Bay has been a surfing destination since the 1960s. The bay is famous throughout England as the ideal destination for a surfing getaway. The Watergate Bay Hotel, right on the beach, brings the area to life all year round with numerous sporting events, mostly related to surfing, but not only.
When to go: May to September. Summer is perfect for beginners, with warmer water and easy waves.
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Advanced surf spots:
6. La Gravière, Hossegor, France
You can’t talk about surfing in Europe without mentioning La Gravière beach in Hossegor, in the Landes. It’s home to some of the most impressives waves in Europe and regularly hosts World Cup events, including the Quiksilver Pro France. The sandy bottom, combined with strong ocean swells, creates technical waves that attract pros from all over the world.
When to go: September to November for the best waves. Summer is quieter and less interesting for experts.
7. Praia do Norte, Nazaré, Portugal
Portugal is a beloved destination for surfers from all over the world. In particular, the small village of Nazaré, north of Lisbon, is internationally famous for its giant waves considered ‘the biggest in the world’. The waves here can exceed 20m high thanks to the underwater canyon of Nazaré. It’s a spot only for professional big wave surfers. The view is also incredible for those who watch from the cliff under the lighthouse.
When to go: From October to March, the season of big swells. Not for beginners.
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8. Costa Vicentina, Algarve, Portugal
If you’re looking for big waves, wild landscapes and less crowded spots than the north of Portugal, the Costa Vicentina in the Algarve is for you. Here, the Atlantic Ocean hits the cliffs with force, creating fast and technical waves, perfect for expert surfers. Places like Zavial, Cordoama and Castelejo, with their unpredictable beach breaks, offer ideal conditions to test your skills.
When to go: In winter, when the swells become more intense and constant, guaranteeing spectacular surf sessions without the crowds.
9. Thurso, Caithness, Scotland
Scotland isn’t worth visiting just for the whisky or the castles, it also has some incredible surfing (if you’re not scared off by the cold and freezing water). In Thurso, in the far north-east of Scotland, there is a legendary spot: Thurso East. Since 2006 numerous international competitions have been hosted here, with the wonderful landscape of the Highlands making everything even more epic.
When to go: From September to April. You need a good wetsuit (minimum 5/4 mm) and an adventurous spirit.
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10. El Quemao, Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Known for its ‘Canary Pipeline’, El Quemao is one of the most feared and sought-after surfing destinations in Europe. Located near the village of La Santa, on the northwest coast of Lanzarote, this volcanic reef break offers powerful, fast and barreling waves that form on a sharp rocky seabed.
When to go: The best conditions are between November and March, when the Atlantic swells are strongest. Entry and exit from the water also require care.
Ready to catch the perfect wave?
Book to start learning or to improve your skills:
- Surfing lesson in Thurso (Scotland)
- Surfing lesson in Albufeira (Algarve)
- Surfing lesson in the south of Fuerteventura
- Surfing lesson in Lanzarote
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