Surfing in Cantabria

Surf spot map of Cantabria in Spain.

Cantabria is a Spanish province and autonomous community with Santander as its capital city. It is bordered on the east by the Basque Country (Biscay) and France, on the south by Castile and León (provinces of León, Palencia and Burgos) - but we are not too worried as there is not surf in south Cantabria, on the west by the Principality of Asturias, and on the north by the Cantabrian Sea - which is really the North Atlantic, and is where all the swell comes from.

Cantabria's coastline spans just under 150 miles on Spain's north coast, is perfectly positioned to catch the powerful westerly swells that roll across the Bay of Biscay. These are the same swells that fuel the legendary breaks of the Basque Country, but Cantabria has a charm all its own. Instead of sheer cliffs and deep reefs, you’ll find sloping beaches and exposed sands, making this region a haven for intermediate and beginner surfers. Use the Cantabria surf spot locations to find suitable breaks for your skill level.

While it lacks the rugged reef breaks of Pais Vasco, Cantabria shines on mid-sized swells, offering fun, rippable waves ideal for shortboarders. The coastline shifts as you travel west from Santander, with beaches to the east facing more northeast, while those to the west have a clearer window to the Atlantic. The result? More reliable waves in western Cantabria, particularly in summer, while eastern spots tend to need larger winter swells to fire up.

For those combining their love of surfing with work, another bonus of Cantabria is that it makes a fantastic hub for remote jobs Spanish speakers might find exciting. Platforms like Jooble can connect you with opportunities while you enjoy the surf lifestyle.

Surfing in Cantabria: A Guide for Surfers

There is plenty of exposed coastline receiving lots of swell. The best swell time is from Autumn through Winter when the deep lows track across up north.

Quick Overview of Cantabria Surf

The Good:

• West-facing beaches catch reliable summer waves
• Quality beach breaks for all levels
• Generally less crowded than other Spanish surf hubs

The Challenges:

• Some localism at key spots
• Pollution concerns near Santander
• Unreliable surf in the east during summer

Surf Spots in Cantabria

We’ve divided Cantabria’s surf spots into east and west. The west is the more consistent region, but the east has some gems that are worth a visit—especially if you’re looking to dodge the crowds.

Eastern Cantabria Surf Spots

Laredo

Facing east, Laredo isn’t the most reliable break, but on big winter swells, it comes alive. Waves wrap around the headland, creating fun lefts across the sand. It’s a mellow, beginner-friendly spot when the winter swells push through.

Berria

A one-mile stretch of sand that stays under the radar, Berria needs chest-high swells to get going. It’s best between November and March, with punchy and peaky beach breaks forming over shifting sandbanks. Offshore winds from the north make for glassy conditions.

El Brusco

Just around the corner from Berria, El Brusco is arguably the best wave in eastern Cantabria. Sucky, hollow shorebreaks create barreling rights on a big swell. It’s a fickle spot, best when larger NW swells wrap around. Expect some localism when it's pumping.

Western Cantabria Surf Spots

Langre

Langre is a slightly protected beach break that picks up a fair bit of west and northwest swell. When working, it offers a punchy peak with rippable shoulders. Best at low tide and not usually crowded.

San Vicente

San Vicente is a nice beack break suitable for beginners. It can get busy, so do be prepared to surf with plenty of others. It's easily accessible and captures any swell from the north. It it's flat here, it's flat everywhere.

Santa Marina Island

A serious reef break off a rocky island near Santander, this is only for experienced surfers. Heavy, powerful waves barrel over sharp rocks, demanding a big board and serious skill. Not for visitors—localism is strong here.

Playa de Somo

The best spot for beginners. Somo is a long, sandy beach with soft, rolling waves that are perfect for learners. It’s a popular choice for surf schools, offering consistent whitewash and fun peaks when there’s a decent swell.



Liencres

Probably the best all-around wave in Cantabria. This punchy beach break hoovers up NW swells, making it one of the most reliable spots, even in summer. Sandbanks create A-frame peaks, and on 8ft swells, it can throw some serious tubes.

Los Locos

A true swell magnet, Los Locos is a west-facing beach break that works almost all year round. The best waves come off the northern point, peeling into the bay as clean, well-shaped rights. Crowds are a given when it’s firing.

When to Surf in Cantabria

Cantabria’s surf season runs for about nine months of the year. Here’s what to expect:

Summer (June-August) – Smaller, less consistent waves but good for beginners. Best in the west. Wear a 2mm or 3/2 wetsuit.

Autumn (September-October) – Peak season. Swells pick up, winds improve, and crowds thin out. Wear a 3/2 or 4/3 wetsuit.

Winter (November-March) – Powerful storms send solid swells, though onshores can be a problem. Wear a 4/3 wetsuit with gloves, hood, and boots.

Spring (April-May) – Mellow but fun. Less wind, good for intermediates. Wear a 4/3 or 3/2 wetsuit.

Getting to Cantabria

Fly – Santander Airport is the main hub, with flights from Madrid and seasonal routes from London on low-cost carriers.

Drive – Santander is well-connected by road. Bilbao is just over an hour away, and Madrid is about four hours.

The ferry is a good option if coming from the UK. There are regular crossings from Portsmouth.

Cantabria offers some of Spain’s best surf without the overcrowding of the Basque Country. From the beginner-friendly waves at Somo to the heavy barrels at El Brusco and Liencres, there’s something for every surfer. If you’re after solid Atlantic swells and a more laid-back surf scene, this is the place to be.