5 Top European Surf Destinations

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Top European Surf Destinations
Who wouldn't like to visit top European Surf Destinations? (Photo: Pexel)

There are destinations all over the world that have become well known for their high quality waves and surf spots – Hawaii anyone? – However, you really don’t need to travel far from home to catch some epic waves. In fact, there are plenty of surfing destinations here in Europe that will still provide you a memorable experience, while allowing you to properly put your surfing skills to the test. What’s perfect about surfing in Europe is that most locations are perfect for surfers of all skill, from complete novices to the ultimate surfing champions.

1. La Zurriola, Spain

Visiting this European destination alone is enough to take your breath away, thanks to the crystal turquoise waters and high quality of the waves. When it comes down to surfing though, you certainly won’t be left feeling disappointed. Lying on the North East of Spain, La Zurriola’s beach is perfect for beginners looking to literally dip their toes into the sport of surfing. This beach is considered one of the most consistent summer surfing hubs, so you can paddle out to sea on your surfboard and enjoy the immaculate views around you. Plus, with some really great surf shops nearby, you’ll never be out of supplies!

top europe surf spot la zurriola
Surfing at Playa de la Zurriola (Photo: WSL (ASP) / Aquashot)

2. Woolacombe, England

For some people, Devon is the perfect family holiday destination, full of beaches and fun resorts to keep everyone happy. However, have you ever considered it as an epic surfing location though? When heading down to Woolacombe, it’s likely that you’ll bump into a whole array of people eager to catch the waves. While the waves here can be very steady, the professionals among you will be thrilled to learn that there is a reef at the bay just around the corner from here, known as Grunta. Here, you will be able to properly test your surfing skills, giving you the surf of your life! And the best part? You barely have to leave home! Woolacome lies in the heart of North Devon, which is home to many different surf breaks and a popular surf trip destination for UK surfers.

3. St Ouen’s Bay, Jersey

Jersey is a very small island, however it has no lack of awesome waves just waiting for you! In fact, there’s five miles worth of beach here, all home to some pretty impressive waves, perfect for you surfers! Once again, it’s only a short trip from either the UK or France, and won’t require a great deal of effort to travel to. Once you’re there, you’ll be able to find a great team of experienced coaches, all buzzing to teach you beginners how to properly surf. If anything though, we’d definitely recommend that you pack your wetsuit – the Atlantic Ocean can get pretty chilly, even in summer time!

Klitmoller, Denmark

When you think about surfing destinations, it’s highly unlikely that Denmark is one of the first locations to pop into your head. Having said that though, it turns out that there are a few unique spots just perfect for the hobby! Take Klitmoller, for example – it’s well known as the surfing hub of the Danish coast, simply because the waves here can get quite big! But, even for you newcomers, it can often be perfect for those with lesser skill as well. It's an unusual location for a surf trip if you're from outside Denmark, which is the reason it's made it's way onto this list.

Scandinavian unusual surf destination
Sharing a Scandinavian Wave (Photo: Unknown)

Rossnowlagh, Ireland

Why not visit Rossnowlagh for your surfing destination, allowing you to sample some legendary waves as well as rich Irish culture? Whilst the waves here aren’t necessarily ideal for the more refined surfers, it certainly works perfectly for those eager to learn. Of course, whilst you’ll be visiting this destination for your surfing needs, there is so much more to do here! Once you’ll worn yourself out from all of that surfing, it’s time to head out to town and sample some of that delightful Guinness – it always tastes better in its home country! Ireland has some fantastic, uncrowded waves and is now on the list of big wave locations for thrill-seekers during the winter swells.

Now that we’ve given you some of the top European surfing locations, you no longer need to struggle finding your favourite. As you now know, Europe is a great hub for surfing, especially for those of you looking for something a little closer to home. For a list of hundreds more waves head over to our European Surf Spots map.

Get Prepared for Europe's Top Surf Spots

If you’re thinking about putting your surfing skills to the test whilst hanging in Europe, make sure you prepare correctly to get the most out of your trip.

  • Use our packing tips to secure your gear
  • Taking your board by air? You'll need to read this
  • Have surfing insurance in place, make sure you at least complete your e111 renewal for a valid European Health Insurance cards (you'll have medical cover)
  • Remember; tickets, money and passport - the rest is garnish!

Comments

  • Alisjack
    Alisjack
    on Nov 13, 2018

    Truly your shared all these places are the best ways for having enjoyment but I have a good experience of Rossnowlagh because I have been there lots of times in my whole and every time had huge fun there.

  • Portugal
    Portugal
    on Apr 24, 2020

    I can't understand how Portugal is not in this or any other wave top in Europe.

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