The best Surf-Spots in Europe

June 27, 2025

Many countries in Europe are located on different seas. Some are very cold, such as the Baltic Sea and the Atlantic, while others are much warmer, like the Mediterranean. Many beautiful beaches and coasts are well known, but did you know that European seas also have excellent surf spots? Surf Spots for Beginners If you […]

Many countries in Europe are located on different seas. Some are very cold, such as the Baltic Sea and the Atlantic, while others are much warmer, like the Mediterranean. Many beautiful beaches and coasts are well known, but did you know that European seas also have excellent surf spots?

Surfer

Surf Spots for Beginners

If you have just started or want to start, we recommend Biarritz in France. It’s a stylish place in the Basque Country and the waves are steady, regular but solid. The same applies to Lacanau, also in France, and a classic place for surf camps. In Portugal, Arrifana in the Algarve is worth recommending. There are also many surf schools here for the perfect introduction.

Best Waves/ Best Travel Time:

  • Biarritz: May-October
  • Arrifana: fall to spring
  • Lacanau: summer to early fall

Spots for Advanced Surfer

If you are already a bit more experienced in surfing, you can venture straight onto the bigger waves of Europe!

You can find these in Hessegor (France), for example, a surf spot that is world-famous for its powerful beach breaks. The World Surf League is held in Portugal on the Peniche and boasts excellent waves. Ericeira, also in Portugal, has an above-average number of waves breaking in a confined space over a short period of time, which is why it is such a good surfing destination.

Best Waves/ Best Travel Time:

  • Hossegor: September-November
  • Peniche: Fall/ Winter
  • Ericeira: All year round, peak in fall/winter

Extravagant Surf-Spots

The ones listed above are more classic and well-known in the European surf scene. If you are looking for something more extravagant, you might like the Aegean region (Greece). There are lots of smaller spots there, but most of them are very empty and have good waves. If you don’t mind the cold, Unstad on the Lofoten Islands in Norway might also be something for you. Here you can ride the waves in ice-cold water with a breathtaking backdrop.

Best Waves/ Best Travel Time:

  • Aegean Region: Late Summer
  • Unstad: Winter (you will need good equipment) 
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