Top 5 surf trip destinations in Europe

First surf trip or looking for the best waves?

Ready to plan your next surf adventure? Dust off your gear and find your next destination for your European surf adventure! We got you covered with our top 5 surf destinations across the continent for you to try out! Epic waves, great beach vibes and a timeless experience are in reach!

What makes a great surf trip destination?

When choosing a surf location in Europe, the primary focus should be on the conditions the spot brings with and what riding level the spot is suited for. You cannot miss out on the laid-back vibes and an apres-surf entertainment package that a surf spot has to offer. We have selected 5 top surf spots all across Europe with different characteristics which you can choose from!

Not sure yet what to pack for your surf trip? In this blog we will help you organise yourself!

5. Norway Hoddevik

For a truly epic Nordic surf adventure, Hoddevik is a must-visit destination that deserves its ranks among the best surf spots in Europe. Imagine riding glassy waves surrounded by towering mountains. This is what it's like to surf in Norway. Located in the country's stunning northern region, this remote surf paradise is roughly a seven-hour drive from the city of Bergen. While real surf adventurers can camp, the area also provides cozy small hotels and apartments for your stay. The ultimate highlight? Hoddevik's peak surf season aligns with winter, offering the incredible opportunity to witness the Northern Lights. Surfing by day and watching the polar lights by night makes for an unforgettable cold-water surf experience.

Learn more about handling the European coldness in our other blog here.

Wave type: beach break left-hand waves
Swell direction: West, North-West
Surf season: November-March
Ideal surf level: All levels but known as beginner friendly
Water temperature: 4-8°C

Imagine riding glassy waves surrounded by towering mountains. This is what it's like to surf in Norway.

4. Ireland Inch (suited to longboards)

Looking for one of the top surf spots in Europe for longboarders? Discover this 5-kilometer coastal strip in Ireland, a true paradise with endless waves sets. It is arguably one of the most picturesque locations for surfing in Ireland. Located just 40 minutes from the vibrant city of Cork, this spot perfectly combines great surf sessions with adventurous après-surf on the sandy beach. Explore the nearby islands or set up your tent at one of the many local campsites. After a day of surfing on the water, you can easily head into Cork for an authentic Irish pub night and discover the city's exciting nightlife. A major plus: this surf spot is not crowded, offering you plenty of space on the waves for a relaxed surf session.

Wave type: Beach break, Left and right
Swell direction: South, South-West
Surf season: September-November
Ideal surf level:Beginners - Upper intermediate and Longboarders
Water temperature: 9-15°C

3. Spain Mundaka
A Basque Country surf classic. A left-handed barrel, softly groomed by southern winds, stretching up to 200m. The surf spot is located 2 hours away from San Sebastian and is one of the more remote surf destinations on our list and great for nature adventurers. With its nature park nearby, you can have a relaxing apres-surf hike, instead of hanging around on the picturesque beach. Mundaka offers surf possibilities for beginner surfers or more advanced wave-riders.

European waters are made for wetsuits. You do not have one yet and need guidance? We got you. Read our beginner guide for wetsuits here.

Wave type: turquoise hollow cylinders
Swell direction: North/North West
Surf season: September-December
Ideal surf level: Beginner - Advanced

Water temperature: 20-24°C

A Basque Country surf classic. A left-handed barrel, softly groomed by southern winds, stretching up to 200m. The surf spot is located 2 hours away from San Sebastian.

2. Portugal, Peniche (Supertubos)

Peniche, an old fishing town, turned into one of the most reliable surf spots if you are aiming to ride long and strong barrels. This surf destination could be considered Europe’s version of Pipeline, Hawaii. An underwater canyon is creating the pitch-perfect waves crowning this spot as a surf haven. With an international crowd, this surf destination is far off of ever becoming boring. Besides Europe's best surf waves, this destination offers a rich culture and the world’s best sardines. Paired with a beach sunset, Peniche has it all!

Wave type: Left-hand beach break
Swell direction: South West-North West
Surf season: September-November
Ideal surf level: Advanced only!
Water temperature: 13-18°C

1. France, La Gravière (Hossegor)

The hotspot for advanced and expert surfers from all around the world. Warm waters, fast and heavy barrels with a bit of French apres-surf culture. Enjoy a beach vibe with a consistent swell where surfing never gets boring. If you are not busy paddling and dropping in, you can sit back with a coffee and croissants and join the spectators. Maybe you can spot famous pro surfers during the WSL Worlds held in October.

Wave type: Heavy beach break, fast and hollow barrels
Swell direction: West/North West swells
Surf season: September-November
Ideal surf level: Advanced-expert
Water temperature: 18-22°C

Already a surfer and you want to try something else? Find the top 5 cable parks for a new wakeboarding adventure.