7 Must Visit Waves to Surf in Spain
Cover image: © Oscar Martinez Diego / Magic Seaweed
Hola Olas! Vamos a la Playa! From small gentle waves in the summer to big pounding breaks in the Basque Country, river mouth barrels, and more, this country is home to plenty of surf. When the ocean is calling between plates of paella, here are the must-visit waves to surf in Spain.
Mundaka
Mundaka is known to be one of the best waves in the world. The 200 m long barreling tubes sent from the surf gods are shaped by an ideal combination of river and ocean currents. Despite its perfection, the wave isn’t easy to surf, so, it's best for intermediate to advanced surfers. Unfortunately, Mundaka's fame draws a large crowd and a territorial, local pack, however, even scraps can be the best waves of your life. It performs best with a Northwest swell, South wind, and low tide.
San Sebastian
Known as the surf capital of Spain, San Sebastian is a cute coastal town with surf breaks for all levels. La Zurriola is the main beach break perfect for beginners on smaller days. On bigger swells, the wave is more challenging, and along with the river mouth and jetty, should be reserved for more experienced surfers. The surf vibe is immaculate, and all over town, there are plenty of surf camps, shops, and schools to choose from. This area does best with a North to Northwest swell, South wind, and all tides.
Gijon
Gijon is a bustling industrial city in Asturias home to unique breaks and plenty of waves. Xivares, the main surf spot, is a consistent beach break with plenty of fun nuggets to be had. It is best with a North to Northwest swell, South Wind, and low tide. When it’s good, be wary of crowds.
Salinas
Another fun wave in Asturias, Salinas, also known as Playa Espartal, is an urban break with long lefts good for all surf levels. There is a consistent beach break that gets hallow on bigger days. That said, be ready for a crowd when it's firing. The break works best with a Northwest swell, Southeast wind, and all tides
San Vicente de la Barquera
Nestled along a rocky coastline in the North, San Vicente de la Barquera is a charming little fishing town. The main surf spots in the area are Playa de Meron and Playa de Oyambre, and if you ask around at the local surf shops, you get access to some secret points. This area is best with a Northwest swell and Southeast wind.
Cadiz
Located on the South coast of Spain, Cadiz has a similar surf profile to the Algarve in Portugal. Playa de Santa Maria del Mar and El Palmar are the most popular surf spots located close to town. To avoid crowds, talk to the local surf schools for help finding some secret and more challenging breaks in the wintertime. The area works best with a Southwest, West, and Northwest Swell, East wind, and all tides but a high tide.
El Santander
Santander is located on the gorgeous Cantabrian Coast. The main break, El Sardinero, is consistent and sheltered, perfect for beginners. Surfers looking for more of a challenge should head over to Playa de la Magdalena, Playa Los Peligros, or Playa de Somo. Most of the spots in this area are best with a Northwest swell and Southeast wind.
Planning to surf in Spain? Remember to check out the Jamie O’Brien Surf App here for anytime, anywhere surf coaching.
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