Spain crowned Europe’s best surf destination for 2025 – Here’s why

Spain rides high: Crowned Europe’s best surf destination for 2025 with unbeatable waves, warm waters, and world-class surf spots.

Planning your next surf escape? Forget the long-haul flights to Hawaii or Indonesia—Europe has just proven it can rival the world’s greatest surf playgrounds. According to Accor’s 2025 Surf Index, Spain has officially been crowned Europe’s number one surf destination. And if you’ve ever watched a Spanish sunset from a surfboard, you’ll know exactly why.

Why Spain Is Europe’s Greatest Surf Destination in 2025

Spain didn’t top the Surf Index by luck—it scored a 79.3 overall, thanks to its rare mix of variety, accessibility, and affordability. The country earned near-perfect marks for access (10/10) and price (9.4/10), while also excelling in spot density (9.3/10). With consistent waves (5/10 for wave power), surfable water temperatures (7.8/10), and pleasant air temperatures (7.9/10), Spain outshone legendary surf rivals like Portugal and France.

These numbers tell the story, but the experience seals it: Spain truly has something for everyone.

From Cantabria’s wild northern shores to Andalusia’s golden sands, the coastline feels made for surfers. The Atlantic delivers powerful, reliable swells, while mellow sand-bottom breaks keep beginners smiling. Even in autumn, the sea holds at a comfortable 18°C—no ice-cream headaches, no endless wrestling with wetsuits—just long, sunlit sessions.

For newcomers, Spain makes surfing almost effortless. Every coastal town seems to have an ISA-certified surf school, summer lifeguards, and rows of soft-top boards ready to hire. For pros, the playground is endless—point breaks, reef breaks, and hollow barrels that rival the best in the world. And when the day’s waves are done, there’s tapas, beach festivals, and a culture that celebrates life at sea level.

The 10 Best Surf Beaches in Spain

If you’re wondering where to paddle out first, here are Spain’s must-surf beaches:

1. Somo, Cantabria – Gentle waves, perfect for beginners.

2. Zarautz, Basque Country – A long sandy beach with consistent surf and a buzzing surf town.

3. Mundaka, Basque Country – Legendary left-hand river mouth, a bucket-list wave for advanced surfers.

4. Pantín, Galicia – Home to international surf competitions with powerful Atlantic swells.

5. Rodiles, Asturias – Beautiful setting, hollow waves, and less crowded than the Basque spots.

6. Salinas, Asturias – Wide beach with fun waves and a summer surf festival atmosphere.

7. Razo, Galicia – Reliable surf and a chilled-out surf camp vibe.

8. El Palmar, Andalusia – Southern Spain’s surf capital with waves year-round.

9. Los Locos, Cantabria – A favorite among intermediate surfers with consistent beach breaks.

10. Corralejo, Fuerteventura (Canary Islands) – A paradise for year-round surfing with warm water and reef breaks.

Beyond Spain: Europe’s Other Surf Havens

Spain may wear the crown, but the Surf Index also shines a light on Europe’s diverse line-up. Portugal remains legendary with giants like Nazaré and playful breaks in Peniche. Italy surprises with Mediterranean surf in Tuscany and Sardinia, while France holds its place as the continent’s surf capital thanks to Hossegor’s heavy beach breaks. And if you thought surfing was limited to sunny shores, think again—Belgium and Germany have carved out their own surf scenes, offering quick escapes for city surfers chasing weekend waves.

Europe’s Top 10 Surf Destinations (2025)

1. Spain

2. Portugal

3. Italy

4. France

5. Morocco

6. Netherlands

7. UK

8. Belgium

9. Germany

10. Greece

Why Europe Belongs on Your Surf Map

What makes Europe exciting is its accessibility and variety. Affordable flights, well-priced surf schools, and beaches for every level mean you don’t have to be a pro—or break the bank—to ride world-class waves. From chasing Atlantic barrels to cruising mellow Mediterranean rollers, the continent has something for everyone.

So if your surfboard is gathering dust in the garage, here’s your wake-up call: wax it, pack it, and get to Spain. Because Europe’s waves aren’t just catching up—they’re stealing the spotlight.