Surfing can be a fun and exhilarating sport, but it requires the right conditions. Local wind conditions can have an effect on the quality of the waves, so it is important to surf in the right climate. Fortunately, Europe has many excellent surfing locations.
Watergate Bay, Cornwall
Watergate Bay is considered to be one of the best surf spots in the UK. The bay has two miles of beach set against impressive cliffs. There is a sports school there that teaches surfing, both in group lessons and private lessons. Equipment can be hired for the day if needed.
The bay also has a surfer friendly hotel and some beach cafés, including Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Cornwall.
See this guide to Cornwall for more information about the local area http://www.holidaysintheuk.com/cornwall/
Mundaka, Spain
Mundaka on the Bay of Biscay is very well known as a surf location. The area has been included on the Association of Surfing Professional (ASP) World Tour. Mundaka has big swells and what is considered by some to be the best wave in Europe.
Due to the popularity of the spot, it can get very busy. However, the actual village of Mundaka is fairly quiet and unspoilt.
As Mundaka has huge swells, it can be quite treacherous, so this location may be more suited to experienced surfers.
The nearest airport to Mundaka is Bilbao. A car can be hired from National Car at the airport to make the remainder of the journey.
Biarritz, France
Biarritz has small swells, so it is an ideal location for beginners. Cotes des Basques beach at Biarritz is a popular destination for surfers, as well as beach lovers. The annual Biarritz Surf Festival is held at Cotes des Basques each July.
To enhance your experience in Biarritz, you’ll find a variety of surf-friendly locations, including the popular spots of Grande Plage and Anglet. While Anglet is known for its impressive swells, Grande Plage offers a more relaxed environment for surfers and beach enthusiasts.
Furthermore, Biarritz embraces a vibrant beach culture, teeming with a multitude of stores dedicated to fulfilling the needs of visitors. Here, you can effortlessly acquire all the indispensable beach essentials (such as the coveted all in organic poncho), which will likely ensure that you’re fully equipped for your beach adventures while prioritizing both fashion and environmental consciousness.
Bundoran, Ireland
Bundoran has hosted surfing events such as the Quiksilver World Masters and the European Surfing Championships. The Peak in Bundoran is considered to be suitable for experienced surfers only, as it can produce very fast waves.
Bundoran has both self-catering accommodation and lodges that offer bed and breakfast. There is a surf school there that offers lessons for beginners and improvers, as well as the Surf Academy which has courses for intermediate surfers.
Other attractions in the area include an indoor water park, pubs and entertainment venues.
Europe has some excellent surf locations, both for beginners and experienced surfers. As well as having the right surf conditions, these locations have the advantage of surf schools and surf shops for lessons and equipment rental.
Surfing can be good for physical fitness, as well as providing a break from the stress of a busy work schedule. These destinations all offer the opportunity to surf in attractive locations.
