Surfing in Spain: Best Surf Spots in Spain to Visit (2024)

written by local expert Anna Faustino

Anna is a co-founder of Adventure in You and has been traveling the world for the last 9 years. She has spent time living in Thailand, Mexico, Indonesia, and Spain and is our local expert in these areas. Her expertise on travel, gear, and building businesses have been featured on Foundr, Business Insider, Yahoo Travel, and more.

Looking for the best surf spots in Spain?

In this article, I’m going to share the best surf spots all over Spain.

When I think of Spain, I think of calm Mediterranean beaches, amazing food and a whole lot of culture. There is no wonder why it is the number one location for Europeans to holiday!

What a lot of people don’t know is if you head north, you will find 500 miles of coastline with some of the best waves for surfing.

Spain is one of the most popular surf destinations in Europe with world class waves that are perfect for all levels of surfers.

To help guide you on where to go, here is our list of the 10 best surf spots in Spain, plus information on surf camps to further improve your surf skills.

Surfing in El Cotillo Beach, Spain

Surf Camps in Spain

Before I get on to the best surf spots, let me quickly talk about surf camps in Spain. Spain is a popular destination for surfers from all over the world, and there are many surf camps located throughout the country that cater to all levels of surfers.

These camps offer a range of accommodation options, including tents, dormitories, and private rooms, and they provide a variety of services such as surf lessons, equipment rentals, and guided surf trips.

Overall, surf camps in Spain offer a great way to experience the country’s vibrant surf culture and stunning natural landscapes.

With a range of accommodation options and services, these camps cater to surfers of all levels and provide an unforgettable surfing experience. Here are a few of the most popular ones in Spain.

Surf CampLocationLengthBook Surf Camps
All-Level Surf Camp SpainGipuzkoa, Basque Country4 DaysView Prices
Spain Surf CampGran Canaria, Las Palmas Province8 DaysView Prices
Yoga and Surf Holidays SpainTenerife, Canary Islands6 DaysView Prices
All Levels Spain Surf CampFuerteventura, Canary Islands6 DaysView Prices
Fun Tarifa KitesurfingTarifa, Cadiz, Playa de Los Lances7 DaysView Prices

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Surfing in Spain: Best Spots to Visit

1. Mundaka, Biscay

Best Time to Go: Between October to April, with NW swell and off-shore S wind.

Mundaka, a picturesque fishing village on the Basque Coast of Northern Spain, is home to one of the world’s most famous surf spots in Spain.

Known for its perfectly-shaped, long left-hand barrels, Mundaka attracts surfers from all corners of the globe. The break is formed by the interaction of the River Oka’s sand deposits with incoming swells, creating a unique and exceptional wave that can reach up to 12 feet in size.

The best time to surf Mundaka is during the winter months, from October to April, when his spot delivers consistent and powerful swells, perfect for intermediate surfers.

Mundaka is home to some of the most perfect waves and only a 90 min drive from San Sebastian.

Mundaka is known as one of Spain’s best surf spots with arguably the world’s best river mouth wave!

The best part, apart from the obvious monster wave, is that these waves are suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers!

Due to its close proximity to San Sebastian, this spot is frequented by surf enthusiasts from all over the world, especially when the waves are good.

Mundaka Spain surfing
The surf in Mundaka, Spain is incredible

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2. Meñakoz, Sopelana

Best Time to Go: Between September to April, with N and NW swell and S/SE winds.

Meñakoz is a world-renowned surf spot located on the Basque Coast of Northern Spain, near the town of Sopela, approximately 20 kilometers from Bilbao.

Known for its powerful waves and stunning natural scenery, Meñakoz is a popular destination for surfers seeking a challenging and thrilling experience.

This little spit in the Basque country has an old reputation among European big wave riders as an extreme surf spot. In fact, it is one of the best spots along the Basque country coastline.

Meñakoz is becoming increasingly popular and a regular place to surf. However, be aware that the local surfers won’t tolerate people who are inexperienced in surfing big waves as it is highly dangerous.

If you feel confident to take on the challenge, prepare yourself for hazards such as razor-sharp rocks, very strong rips, two-wave hold downs, and potentially broken boards or worse, broken bones!

Other than that, enjoy the powerful right hands starting from mid to high tide and holding to 18ft. Truly world class waves!

The most consistent swell and wave conditions can be found between October and April.

However, winter months can bring frigid water temperatures, so it’s essential to have appropriate wetsuit gear if you plan to surf during this time.

Meñakoz Spain

3. Razo, Galicia

Best Time to Go: Between November to April, with N and NW swell and off-shore S/SW winds.

Razo is a beautiful stretch of coastline in the Galician region of Spain, is a beloved surf destination that offers consistent and versatile waves for surfers of all skill levels.

Known for its pristine sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes, Razo has a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both novice and intermediate surfers to enjoy.

The beach break at Razo provides a mix of left and right-hand waves, with the most favorable conditions occurring during the winter months when powerful Atlantic swells combine with offshore winds.

The beach at Razo is a long stretch of sand with many sandbanks that produce A-frame waves ideal for every surf level. As the beach is so open, its exposure guarantees consistently good waves even in the smallest of swells.

Rarely crowded, this makes this spot one of the best places to learn to surf in Spain! The stretch of beach and constant waves are set against a stunning backdrop, with camping sites and a surf school nearby.

If you’re a beginner or just want to perfect your technique, ArtSurfCamp is located in this perfect surf spot which is ideal for extended stays!

Dedicate some days to surfing and chilling — you can thank me later.

4. Corralejo, Fuerteventura

Best Time to Go: During the winter months, from October to March, when consistent North Atlantic swells and favorable winds create optimal wave conditions.

Corralejo, a bustling tourist town located on the northeastern coast of Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, has become a popular surf destination for its diverse and consistent wave offerings.

People from all over the world head here for a surf holiday!

Known for its year-round sunshine, warm turquoise waters, and stunning volcanic landscapes, Corralejo provides a range of surf breaks suitable for all skill levels.

From the gentle rolling waves of Waikiki Beach, perfect for beginners, to the challenging and hollow waves found at spots like El Muelle and Rocky Point, surfers can find a break that suits their ability and experience.

There is a perfect wave for everyone in Corralejo and is one of the best spots in Spain to surf.

The consistent North Atlantic swells, combined with offshore trade winds, ensure that Corralejo is a reliable surf destination throughout the year.

There are numerous surf schools nearby as well as surf shops, and camps within the area, offering lessons and guidance for those new to the sport, as well as equipment rental and advanced coaching for more seasoned surfers.

If you’re looking for information on the best surf camps in Fuerteventura, check out our full post or the table below for information.

Another alternative is checking out the surf camps in Tenerife.

Surf CampLocationLengthBook
Surf and Yoga Retreat in FuerteventuraFuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain8 DaysView Prices
Surfing Camp in Corralejo with Surfintrip CampCorralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain8 DaysView Prices
Spanish Course and Surf Camp in CorralejoCorralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain15 DaysView Prices
All Levels Line Up Surf Camp in CorralejoCorralejo, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain8 DaysView Prices
Photography Workshop and Surf HolidayFuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain6 DaysView Prices
Learn Spanish and Kitesurfing Camp in CorralejoCorralejo, Fuerteventura, Spain15 DaysView Prices
Wing Foil Camp in FuerteventuraFuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain8 DaysView Prices
Deluxe Kite Surf Camp in FuerteventuraFuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain8 DaysView Prices
Windsurf, Surf, and Yoga Holiday in FuerteventuraFuerteventura, Canary Islands, Spain8 DaysView Prices
Surfers camp on the beach in Corralejo
Corralejo is a great beginner spot in Spain for surfers

5. Rodiles, Asturias

Best Time to Go: Between November to April, with N and NW swell and off-shore S/SW winds.

Rodiles, a serene beach nestled in the region of Asturias in Northern Spain, is known for its picturesque beauty and exceptional surf conditions.

Often referred to as the “Spanish Pipeline,” Rodiles is famous for its powerful, barreling left-hand waves that break over a shallow sandbar.

The surf spot owes its world-class wave quality to the Villaviciosa River’s sand deposits, which create an ideal underwater contour for the formation of these long, peeling waves.

Considered as Mundaka’s little sister, here you’ll find a world-class river mouth left-hander slightly shorter than Mundaka but by no means less fun!

Surrounded by stunning landscapes, you can ride the perfect hollow lefts in low to mid tide for up to 3 meters. However, with the strong rips, this spot is recommended for intermediate to advanced surfers only.

Being a favorite local surfer spot, this beach will be crowded so get there early or stay close by at the town of Villaviciosa.

The most favorable conditions for surfing at Rodiles occur during the winter months, from October to April, when Atlantic swells are most consistent.

Rodiles Beach
Rodiles Beach on a quiet calm day

6. Sopelana, Biscay

Best Time to Go: Between October to April, with N and NW swell and off-shore S/SE wind.

Sopelana is a popular destination for surfers from all over the world. The town is known for its consistent waves, making it an ideal spot for surfing enthusiasts. The waves are suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to advanced.

Barinatxe Beach, also known as La Salvaje, is the most popular surf spot in Sopelana. It is known for its powerful waves that break over a rocky bottom, providing challenging conditions for seasoned surfers.

The beach is also home to several surf schools that offer lessons and equipment rentals for beginners.

Another popular surf spot in Sopelana is Atxabiribil Beach. This beach is located next to Barinatxe Beach and offers more gentle waves, making it a good option for beginners. It is also less crowded than Barinatxe, making it a great spot for those who prefer a quieter surfing experience.

In addition to surfing, Sopelana also offers other water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. The town is home to several water sports centers and surf shops that offer equipment rentals and lessons for these activities.

Like most of Spain’s beaches, Sopelana is another great surf spot that is suitable for all levels of surfing all year round. It is a beautiful beach with a mix of sand and rock, known for its variety of waves.

At the western end of the beach, you will find a semi-permanent high-tide peak, where the rest of the beach has a range of peaks that break right and left and are fast and long with some hollow sections.

Due to its popularity, this surf spot in Spain can get quite crowded.

The long coast of Sopelana
The long coast of Sopelana

7. Nemiña, Galicia

Best Time to Go: Between November to April, with big and medium swell from W and NW and off-shore E wind.

Calling all levels of surfers! Nemiña is a perfect spot for experiencing the awesome swell that parts of Spain get the entire year round. There are many west-facing beach breaks and river mouths that can be taken on by all kinds of surfers.

Nemiña is a small village located in the province of A Coruña in the Galicia region of Spain, known for its stunning beaches and excellent surfing conditions.

The main surf spot, Nemiña Beach, provides consistent waves suitable for all levels of surfers and has a laid-back surfing culture.

However, there is also a classic left at low to mid tide at the Ria de Lires that is highly recommended for advance surfers!

Located close to Razo beach, Nemiña is remote and quiet for most of the year, known more as a picturesque spot to watch the surf.

Nemiña beach surfing spain
The beach at Nemiña offers relatively quiet surfing in Spain

8. Zarautz, Gipuzkoa

Best Time to Go: Between October to April, with small to medium N and NW swell and S winds.

Zarautz is a charming seaside town located in the Basque Country region of Spain, known for its beautiful beaches and excellent surfing conditions.

The town’s main surf spot is Zarautz Beach, which stretches over 2.5 kilometers and offers consistent waves suitable for all levels of surfers.

The beach is especially popular among beginner and intermediate surfers due to its gentle, rolling waves.

Zarautz hosts several surfing competitions throughout the year, including the Zarautz Pro, which is part of the World Surf League Qualifying Series.

The town is also home to several surf schools and shops that offer equipment rentals and lessons for all levels of surfers.

Zarautz has a sandy beach with awesome breaks and several peaks, this spot is almost always crowded and highly competitive for surfing.

Suitable for surfers at any level, head down here to see what all the fuss is about. Just make sure you’re safe on the water by being aware of everyone around you.

9. Isla De Santa Marina, Asturias

Best Time to Go: Between November to April, with N and NW swell and SE wind.

Isla de Santa Marina is a small island located off the coast of Asturias in northern Spain, known for its incredible waves and challenging surfing conditions.

The island is accessible only by boat, and its exposed location makes it a magnet for swell from the Atlantic Ocean, creating some of the best waves in the region.

Isla de Santa Marina offers a variety of surf breaks, including beach breaks, reef breaks, and point breaks, making it suitable for surfers of all levels. However, the island’s remote location and unpredictable weather conditions make it a destination for experienced surfers looking for a challenge.

Isla de Santa Marina is known for its powerful right-hand reef break and big waves, this spot is recommended for intermediate to expert surfers.

For the more experienced surfers, you can paddle out from Loredo beach where you can have some fun in big barreling waves of up to 12ft! For the famous right-hander wave, this breaks on the western side of a rocky island away from the mainland.

Less experienced surfers can have just as much fun practicing in barrel sections from waves 5ft and upwards, which are spread over the whole beach. Located close to the village of Loredo, you can make use of all the smaller beaches around this area too.

10. Playa De Somo

Best Time to Go: Between November to April, with small to medium N and NW swell and offshore S winds

If a complete surf break is what you’re looking for, head to Playa de Somo! This beach has all the surfing facilities and is packed full of surf shops, campsites, and bars and restaurants.

You could literally spend weeks here relaxing, surfing and socializing over drinks in the evening.

Playa del Somo is a beautiful beach located in the town of Somo in the province of Cantabria, in northern Spain.

The beach is known for its long stretch of golden sand and excellent surfing conditions, making it a popular destination for surfers from all over the world.

The beach faces the Bay of Biscay and is exposed to swell from the Atlantic Ocean, providing consistent waves suitable for all levels of surfers.

As mentioned, this beach is home to several surf schools and shops that offer lessons and equipment rentals for all levels of surfers.

Apart from surfing, the beach offers a wide range of activities, including beach volleyball, horse riding, and hiking.

Playa de Somo has consistent beach breaks with good peaks and handles up to 6 ft. With small to medium swells, these sandbanks produce waves suitable for all levels.

Surfing in Playa De Somo
Playa De Somo on a sunny summer day

Editor’s Note: Check out our guide on Where to Stay in Spain  for top recommendations on hostels and hotels.

Hopefully, this article on surfing in Spain has given you tons of tips on planning your surfing adventure.

With plenty of surf schools around, sign up and make the most of your time. Learn about the sport and take day trips to the best surf spots in Spain.

For more of Spain’s amazing beaches, check out our picks for the best things to do in Tarifa and the best beaches in Spain that are just perfect for a seaside getaway.


Looking for more articles on surfing? Check out a few of our guides

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2 thoughts on “Surfing in Spain: Best Surf Spots in Spain to Visit (2024)”

  1. I love surfing in San Sebastian! Last year I went on the Van Surfari Spain & France and it meant I got to surf there, as well as some other spots like Biarritz, Hossegor, Moliets, Zarautz, all in one trip. Big thanks to Stoke Travel for an amazing trip! My surfing may still be average but the experience wasn’t.

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