Surf Destinations Near Europe for Your Next Surf Trip

If you’re a European surfer looking for the perfect wave without venturing too far, you’re in luck! There are plenty of incredible surf destinations near Europe that offer spots just a short flight away, offering year-round waves, warm water, and unique surf cultures. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, here are the best surf destinations close to Europe for your next adventure.

1. Morocco – World-Class Waves & Endless Sunshine

Best for: All levels – from beginner-friendly beach breaks to powerful point breaks

Best time to visit: September to April (prime swell season)

Morocco is often called the “Hawaii of Europe” due to its consistent swells, warm climate, and long right-hand point breaks. The country’s Atlantic coastline is packed with world-class surf spots, making it a favorite for European surfers looking for waves without the price tag of long-haul destinations.

Top Spots in Morocco:

✅ Taghazout – Famous for its iconic waves like Anchor Point, Killer Point, and Panorama Beach

✅ Tamraght – Perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers, with spots like Banana Point

✅ Imsouane – Home to one of the longest right-hand waves in Africa

✅ Sidi Ifni & Mirleft – More off-the-beaten-path, with empty lineups and great conditions

💡 Why go? Morocco is cheap, warm, and has waves for everyone. Plus, it’s just a 3-4 hour flight from most European cities!

2. Portugal – Europe’s Surfing Capital

Best for: All levels – from mellow beach breaks to heavy barrels

Best time to visit: September to May for the best swells

Portugal is one of Europe’s top surf destinations, offering waves for every level, affordable living, and a lively surf culture. It has everything from beginner-friendly spots to some of the heaviest waves in the world.

Top Spots in Portugal:

✅ Ericeira – A World Surfing Reserve with powerful reef and beach breaks

✅ Peniche & Supertubos – Home to Portugal’s best barrels

✅ Algarve (Arrifana, Amado, Sagres) – Warmer waters and beginner-friendly waves

✅ Nazare – If you want to witness the biggest waves in the world, this is the place

💡 Why go? Portugal is super accessible from anywhere in Europe, has great food and a laid-back surf culture.

3. The Canary Islands – Europe’s Hawaii

Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers

Best time to visit: October to April for the best swells

The Canary Islands (Spain) are a volcanic paradise in the Atlantic Ocean, offering powerful reef breaks, crystal-clear water, and warm temperatures all year round. Often compared to Hawaii, the islands attract surfers looking for waves similar to the Pacific – but much closer to home. This is one of the most popular Surf Destinations Near Europe as located close to Africa but accessible via European visas.

Top Spots in the Canary Islands:

✅ Fuerteventura – The “North Shore of Europe,” with consistent surf and mellow beach breaks

✅ Lanzarote – Known for its powerful reef breaks like El Quemao (the Pipeline of Europe)

✅ Tenerife – A mix of beginner-friendly beaches and world-class point breaks

💡 Why go? If you want warm water, powerful waves, and a tropical feel without leaving Europe, the Canary Islands are perfect.

4. The Azores – Portugal’s Hidden Surf Gem

Best for: Intermediate to advanced surfers

Best time to visit: September to April

The Azores, an island chain in the middle of the Atlantic, is Portugal’s best-kept surf secret. With uncrowded waves, breathtaking landscapes, and year-round swell, this is an ideal destination for those looking for adventure and epic surf.

Top Spots in the Azores:

✅ São Miguel (Ribeira Grande, Santa Bárbara) – The most accessible island with a variety of waves

✅ Terceira – Less crowded and full of hidden reef breaks

✅ Faial & Pico – Wild, remote, and perfect for experienced surfers

💡 Why go? If you want empty lineups, insane scenery, and world-class waves, the Azores are the ultimate European surf getaway.

5. France – Classic European Surf Culture

Best for: All levels, from beginners to pros

Best time to visit: September to November for consistent swells and warm water

France has one of the best surf cultures in Europe, with miles of beach breaks, famous competitions, and some of the most hollow waves on the continent. Whether you’re looking for perfect barrels or beginner-friendly waves, France has it all.

Top Spots in France:

✅ Hossegor – Europe’s best beach break for barrels (home to Quiksilver Pro)

✅ Biarritz – The birthplace of European surfing, great for longboarders and beginners

✅ La Torche (Brittany) – Less crowded, with fun waves and stunning scenery

💡 Why go? If you love classic beach breaks, surf towns, and a lively atmosphere, France is a must-visit.

6. Spain – Hidden Gems & Classic Beach Breaks

Best for: Beginners to experienced surfers

Best time to visit: September to May

Spain offers a mix of classic beach breaks, powerful reefs, and some of the best longboard waves in Europe. While the Basque Country is famous, there are hidden gems all along the northern coast.

Top Spots in Spain:

✅ Mundaka – A world-class left-hand river mouth wave (advanced surfers only)

✅ San Sebastián & Zarautz – Perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers

✅ Galicia (Pantín, Razo, Doniños) – Uncrowded waves and beautiful scenery

💡 Why go? Spain is affordable, has a great surf culture, and offers everything from mellow waves to heavy barrels.

Conclusion: Where Should You Go?

Here’s a quick guide of the best Surf Destinations Near Europe If you’re looking for warm waves close to Europe:

No matter where you choose to go, a great surf trip is waiting just a short flight away! Ready to catch some waves?

Join us at Adrenalin Surf Maroc for the ultimate Moroccan surf experience! 🌊

Read more here from The Surf Tribe blog.