Best surf destinations in Europe for beginners
For a first surf trip in Europe, aim for June to September on the Atlantic coast: waves are smaller and the water is warmest. Portugal's Caparica, Baleal and Sagres, Spain's Canaries and France's Landes all have beginner-friendly beaches. Choose by water temperature, travel time and how much you want to hire a car.
Compare →Best surf spots for beginners in Portugal
Costa da Caparica, Baleal and Sagres are the easiest places to start in Portugal, because each has a gentler beach for learners. Summer is the usual beginner window on the west coast, but the Caparica guide favours April, May, September and October. Pick by beach type, then by month.
Compare →Indonesia surf destinations by level
Indonesia's best beginner beaches are in Bali and Lombok: Canggu and Selong Belanak. Most of the rest, from Uluwatu to the Mentawais, is reef for intermediates and above. The dry season (roughly April to October) is the main window almost everywhere, but Keramas is best in the wet season.
Compare →Surf destinations for experienced surfers
Experienced surfers are best served by reef and point breaks: Uluwatu and Keramas in Bali, Jeffreys Bay in South Africa, Skeleton Bay in Namibia, and boat-based trips in the Mentawais and Telo Islands. These come with hazards and long transfers, so read each guide's access and safety notes before you book.
Compare →Surfing in Sri Lanka: south coast or east coast
Sri Lanka has two surf seasons on two coasts. The south coast (Weligama, Ahangama, Tangalle) is in season from about November to April, and Arugam Bay on the east coast from April to September. Weligama is the best-known learner bay; Arugam Bay's right-hand points suit improvers and intermediates.
Compare →Where to surf from November to March
For November to March, the strongest options in our guides are Morocco's Taghazout and Imsouane, Sri Lanka's south coast, Madeira, and Bali's Keramas. Winter is peak season in Morocco and Madeira but brings bigger swell, so check the level notes before you book.
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