10 Secret Surf Spots in Europe That Every Surfer Needs to Know
Gate to Surf
Europe is home to some of the most famous surf spots in the world, from the legendary waves of Hossegor in France to the powerful swells of Nazaré in Portugal. But beyond these well-known surf meccas, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered by those willing to explore.
For surfers who crave adventure, solitude, and uncrowded lineups, these secret surf spots offer the perfect escape. But finding them isn't always easy—some of the best waves are hidden in plain sight, tucked away from tourist-heavy beaches. Whether it's a remote break in Ireland, a powerful reef wave on the English coast, or an untouched swell in the Nordic wilderness, knowing where to go (and when) can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 lesser-known surf spots across Europe, uncovering why they’re special, when to visit, and what you need to know before paddling out. If you’re ready to break away from the crowds and ride some truly unique waves, let’s dive in!
For surfers who crave adventure, solitude, and uncrowded lineups, these secret surf spots offer the perfect escape. But finding them isn't always easy—some of the best waves are hidden in plain sight, tucked away from tourist-heavy beaches. Whether it's a remote break in Ireland, a powerful reef wave on the English coast, or an untouched swell in the Nordic wilderness, knowing where to go (and when) can make all the difference.
In this guide, we’ll take you through 10 lesser-known surf spots across Europe, uncovering why they’re special, when to visit, and what you need to know before paddling out. If you’re ready to break away from the crowds and ride some truly unique waves, let’s dive in!
1
Kimmeridge Bay, England
A Hidden Gem for Experienced Surfers
Why It’s Unique
Tucked away along England’s Jurassic Coast, Kimmeridge Bay is a hidden surf spot in the UK that offers some of the most powerful and longest waves on the south coast. Unlike the crowded beaches of Cornwall, this reef break in Dorset is a haven for experienced surfers looking for consistent waves and an untouched coastal experience. The dramatic limestone cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop, making it one of the most scenic surf spots in England.
The wave at Kimmeridge is known for its long right-hand rides, breaking over a rocky reef. On a good swell, surfers can enjoy 500-meter rides with steep faces, perfect for carving and high-performance surfing.
Best Time to Go
During the colder months, Atlantic swells roll into the English Channel, producing consistent surfable waves. While summer can still bring surf, the waves are much smaller and less reliable.
Tucked away along England’s Jurassic Coast, Kimmeridge Bay is a hidden surf spot in the UK that offers some of the most powerful and longest waves on the south coast. Unlike the crowded beaches of Cornwall, this reef break in Dorset is a haven for experienced surfers looking for consistent waves and an untouched coastal experience. The dramatic limestone cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop, making it one of the most scenic surf spots in England.
The wave at Kimmeridge is known for its long right-hand rides, breaking over a rocky reef. On a good swell, surfers can enjoy 500-meter rides with steep faces, perfect for carving and high-performance surfing.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: Autumn to Winter (September – March)
- Best Swell Direction: South or southwest swells with offshore northerly winds
- Tide Conditions: Works best on mid to high tide
During the colder months, Atlantic swells roll into the English Channel, producing consistent surfable waves. While summer can still bring surf, the waves are much smaller and less reliable.
2
Fanore Beach, Ireland
A Wild and Untouched Surf Haven
Why It’s Unique
Located on the rugged west coast of Ireland, Fanore Beach is a hidden surf spot in County Clare that remains largely off the radar compared to nearby Lahinch. This remote beach break offers consistent waves, breathtaking scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for surfers who want to escape the crowds.
What makes Fanore unique is its golden sand dunes, set against the dramatic backdrop of The Burren, a vast limestone landscape that looks like something from another planet. The beach itself stretches for miles, providing multiple peaks that cater to different skill levels. On a solid swell, the waves can be powerful, but on smaller days, it’s an excellent spot for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Best Time to Go
Thanks to its exposed location, Fanore Beach picks up a lot of swell year-round. However, autumn and winter bring the most powerful waves, while summer provides gentler surf, making it a great time for beginners.
Located on the rugged west coast of Ireland, Fanore Beach is a hidden surf spot in County Clare that remains largely off the radar compared to nearby Lahinch. This remote beach break offers consistent waves, breathtaking scenery, and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for surfers who want to escape the crowds.
What makes Fanore unique is its golden sand dunes, set against the dramatic backdrop of The Burren, a vast limestone landscape that looks like something from another planet. The beach itself stretches for miles, providing multiple peaks that cater to different skill levels. On a solid swell, the waves can be powerful, but on smaller days, it’s an excellent spot for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: Autumn and Winter (September – March) for the biggest and cleanest swells.
- Best Swell Direction: West and southwest swells, with offshore easterly winds.
- Tide Conditions: Works at all tides, but mid-tide is best for consistent waves.
Thanks to its exposed location, Fanore Beach picks up a lot of swell year-round. However, autumn and winter bring the most powerful waves, while summer provides gentler surf, making it a great time for beginners.
3
Asturias, Spain
The Untouched Surf Paradise of Northern Spain
Why It’s Unique
Often overshadowed by the famous surf spots of Basque Country and Galicia, Asturias remains one of Spain’s best-kept surfing secrets. This stunning region offers wild, rugged coastlines, lush green mountains, and some of the best beach and point breaks in Europe—without the heavy crowds found in San Sebastián or Mundaka.
What makes Asturias special is the variety of surf spots.
Whether you prefer long, mellow waves or powerful barrels, this region has something for every surfer. Popular beaches like Rodiles, Salinas, and Xagó provide world-class waves, but there are dozens of hidden breaks waiting to be discovered.
Best Time to Go
Summer is great for beginners, but if you’re looking for serious waves, autumn and winter bring the biggest, most powerful swells. Unlike southern Spain, Asturias experiences frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures, so bring a wetsuit (4/3mm in autumn, 5/4mm in winter).
Often overshadowed by the famous surf spots of Basque Country and Galicia, Asturias remains one of Spain’s best-kept surfing secrets. This stunning region offers wild, rugged coastlines, lush green mountains, and some of the best beach and point breaks in Europe—without the heavy crowds found in San Sebastián or Mundaka.
What makes Asturias special is the variety of surf spots.
Whether you prefer long, mellow waves or powerful barrels, this region has something for every surfer. Popular beaches like Rodiles, Salinas, and Xagó provide world-class waves, but there are dozens of hidden breaks waiting to be discovered.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: September – April for consistent, powerful swells.
- Best Swell Direction: Northwest and west swells with light offshore south winds.
- Tide Conditions: Varies by break—Rodiles works best on a mid to high tide, while Salinas is good at all tides.
Summer is great for beginners, but if you’re looking for serious waves, autumn and winter bring the biggest, most powerful swells. Unlike southern Spain, Asturias experiences frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures, so bring a wetsuit (4/3mm in autumn, 5/4mm in winter).
4
Praias da Vagueira, da Mira, and da Tocha, Portugal
The Underrated Surf Coast
Why It’s Unique
When people think of surfing in Portugal, places like Peniche, Ericeira, and Nazaré come to mind. However, just north of these famous breaks lies a lesser-known surf paradise: the beaches of Vagueira, Mira, and Tocha.
These three connected beach breaks sit along the Aveiro coastline, offering powerful, punchy waves with far fewer crowds than other Portuguese surf spots. Their vast, open sandbanks create constantly shifting peaks, meaning you can often find an empty peak just for yourself. The area is also surrounded by traditional fishing villages, providing a true local and authentic surf experience.
Best Time to Go
During the autumn and winter months, Atlantic swells hit this coastline with full force, producing hollow barrels and fast-breaking waves. Summer can still be fun, especially for longboarders and beginners, but the real magic happens in the colder months.
When people think of surfing in Portugal, places like Peniche, Ericeira, and Nazaré come to mind. However, just north of these famous breaks lies a lesser-known surf paradise: the beaches of Vagueira, Mira, and Tocha.
These three connected beach breaks sit along the Aveiro coastline, offering powerful, punchy waves with far fewer crowds than other Portuguese surf spots. Their vast, open sandbanks create constantly shifting peaks, meaning you can often find an empty peak just for yourself. The area is also surrounded by traditional fishing villages, providing a true local and authentic surf experience.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: September – April for the most powerful and consistent swells.
- Best Swell Direction: Northwest and west swells with offshore easterly winds.
- Tide Conditions: Works best on a mid to low tide, but depends on shifting sandbanks.
During the autumn and winter months, Atlantic swells hit this coastline with full force, producing hollow barrels and fast-breaking waves. Summer can still be fun, especially for longboarders and beginners, but the real magic happens in the colder months.
5
Sardinia, Italy
The Mediterranean’s Best-Kept Surf Secret
Why It’s Unique
When people think of surfing in Italy, they rarely consider Sardinia—but this Mediterranean island offers some of the best waves in Southern Europe. Unlike the more famous Atlantic surf spots, Sardinia provides crystal-clear water, uncrowded waves, and a laid-back island atmosphere.
With over 1,800 kilometers of coastline, Sardinia has beach breaks, reef breaks, and even some point breaks, making it a versatile surf destination. The west coast—particularly around Capo Mannu, Buggerru, and Is Arenas—gets the most consistent swells, creating waves that can rival some of Europe’s better-known spots.
Best Time to Go
Unlike the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean doesn’t generate waves as consistently, meaning Sardinia’s surf is heavily influenced by storms and wind patterns. The best waves arrive in winter, when strong Mistral winds send clean, powerful swells toward the island.
When people think of surfing in Italy, they rarely consider Sardinia—but this Mediterranean island offers some of the best waves in Southern Europe. Unlike the more famous Atlantic surf spots, Sardinia provides crystal-clear water, uncrowded waves, and a laid-back island atmosphere.
With over 1,800 kilometers of coastline, Sardinia has beach breaks, reef breaks, and even some point breaks, making it a versatile surf destination. The west coast—particularly around Capo Mannu, Buggerru, and Is Arenas—gets the most consistent swells, creating waves that can rival some of Europe’s better-known spots.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: November – March for the most powerful and consistent swells.
- Best Swell Direction: West and northwest swells with light offshore east winds.
- Tide Conditions: Sardinia has minimal tidal variation, so waves are more dependent on wind and swell size.
Unlike the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean doesn’t generate waves as consistently, meaning Sardinia’s surf is heavily influenced by storms and wind patterns. The best waves arrive in winter, when strong Mistral winds send clean, powerful swells toward the island.
6-7
Gizo and Tjørnuvík, Faroe Islands
The Ultimate Cold-Water Surf Adventure
Why It’s Unique
If you’re searching for one of the most extreme surf experiences in Europe, the Faroe Islands should be on your list. Nestled between Iceland, Norway, and Scotland, these islands offer rugged landscapes, untouched waves, and near-total solitude in the lineup.
The two standout surf spots here are:
Surfing here isn’t for the faint of heart—it’s cold, unpredictable, and challenging. But for those willing to brave the elements, it’s one of the most rewarding surf destinations in Europe.
Best Time to Go
Since the Faroe Islands sit in the middle of the North Atlantic, waves are generated by deep, powerful low-pressure systems. The surf is unpredictable but can be world-class when conditions line up.
If you’re searching for one of the most extreme surf experiences in Europe, the Faroe Islands should be on your list. Nestled between Iceland, Norway, and Scotland, these islands offer rugged landscapes, untouched waves, and near-total solitude in the lineup.
The two standout surf spots here are:
- Gizo, a remote, heavy reef break known for fast, powerful waves and freezing water temperatures.
- Tjørnuvík, a more accessible black-sand beach break set against stunning fjords, offering long, clean rides when conditions align.
Surfing here isn’t for the faint of heart—it’s cold, unpredictable, and challenging. But for those willing to brave the elements, it’s one of the most rewarding surf destinations in Europe.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: October – March, when North Atlantic storms send powerful swells.
- Best Swell Direction: North and northwest swells, with light offshore southeast winds.
- Tide Conditions: Varies—Tjørnuvík works on all tides, while Gizo is best on a rising tide.
Since the Faroe Islands sit in the middle of the North Atlantic, waves are generated by deep, powerful low-pressure systems. The surf is unpredictable but can be world-class when conditions line up.
8
La Gravière, France
The Pipeline of Europe
Why It’s Unique
Located in Hossegor, France, La Gravière is one of Europe’s most powerful and legendary beach breaks. Known for its hollow, fast, and heavy barrels, this spot is often compared to Pipeline in Hawaii—but with cold Atlantic waters.
Unlike other beach breaks, La Gravière features a steep drop-off in the sandbanks, allowing huge, sucking waves to form close to shore. When the conditions are right, you’ll find perfect A-frame barrels breaking over shallow sand, making it a dream wave for experienced surfers.
Best Time to Go
La Gravière comes alive in the fall, when the sandbanks are shaped by summer swells, creating perfect, machine-like barrels. Winter can bring huge, unruly surf, while summer is often too small for serious surfers.
Located in Hossegor, France, La Gravière is one of Europe’s most powerful and legendary beach breaks. Known for its hollow, fast, and heavy barrels, this spot is often compared to Pipeline in Hawaii—but with cold Atlantic waters.
Unlike other beach breaks, La Gravière features a steep drop-off in the sandbanks, allowing huge, sucking waves to form close to shore. When the conditions are right, you’ll find perfect A-frame barrels breaking over shallow sand, making it a dream wave for experienced surfers.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: September – November, when Atlantic storms produce big, clean swells.
- Best Swell Direction: West and northwest swells, with offshore east winds.
- Tide Conditions: Works best on a mid to rising tide—at low tide, waves can be dangerously shallow.
La Gravière comes alive in the fall, when the sandbanks are shaped by summer swells, creating perfect, machine-like barrels. Winter can bring huge, unruly surf, while summer is often too small for serious surfers.
9
Bundoran, Ireland
The Surf Capital of the Emerald Isle
Why It’s Unique
Bundoran, located in County Donegal, is often referred to as Ireland’s surf capital—and for good reason. This charming coastal town is home to some of the most consistent, powerful, and high-quality waves in Europe.
What sets Bundoran apart is its variety of world-class reef and beach breaks. The most famous wave, The Peak, is a perfect left- and right-hand reef break that produces hollow barrels and long rides, making it one of Europe’s best waves. Other nearby breaks, like Tullan Strand, Rossnowlagh, and Mullaghmore, offer waves for all levels—from mellow beach breaks to monster slabs for big-wave surfers.
Best Time to Go
Ireland's west coast receives constant swell, making Bundoran one of the most consistent surf spots in Europe. Winter brings heavier waves, while summer offers smaller, more beginner-friendly conditions.
Bundoran, located in County Donegal, is often referred to as Ireland’s surf capital—and for good reason. This charming coastal town is home to some of the most consistent, powerful, and high-quality waves in Europe.
What sets Bundoran apart is its variety of world-class reef and beach breaks. The most famous wave, The Peak, is a perfect left- and right-hand reef break that produces hollow barrels and long rides, making it one of Europe’s best waves. Other nearby breaks, like Tullan Strand, Rossnowlagh, and Mullaghmore, offer waves for all levels—from mellow beach breaks to monster slabs for big-wave surfers.
Best Time to Go
- Peak Surf Season: September – March, when Atlantic storms bring powerful, consistent swells.
- Best Swell Direction: Southwest to northwest swells, with light offshore east winds.
- Tide Conditions: The Peak works best on a mid to high tide, while Tullan Strand is surfable at all tides.
Ireland's west coast receives constant swell, making Bundoran one of the most consistent surf spots in Europe. Winter brings heavier waves, while summer offers smaller, more beginner-friendly conditions.
10
Porthcawl, Wales
Consistent waves year-round
Why It’s Unique
While Wales isn’t the first place that comes to mind for surfing, Porthcawl is home to some of the most reliable and fun waves in the country. Sitting on the south coast of Wales, this charming seaside town offers a mix of beach and reef breaks, making it an excellent destination for surfers of all levels.
The standout surf spots in Porthcawl include:
With stunning coastal scenery, fun waves, and a welcoming surf community, Porthcawl is one of Wales’ best-kept surf secrets.
Best Time to Go:
Thanks to Porthcawl’s exposure to Atlantic swells, it picks up consistent waves year-round, though autumn and winter bring the biggest and most powerful surf.
While Wales isn’t the first place that comes to mind for surfing, Porthcawl is home to some of the most reliable and fun waves in the country. Sitting on the south coast of Wales, this charming seaside town offers a mix of beach and reef breaks, making it an excellent destination for surfers of all levels.
The standout surf spots in Porthcawl include:
- Rest Bay – A consistent beach break, perfect for beginners and intermediates.
- Coney Beach – A sheltered spot that works well when the wind is strong elsewhere.
- Scarweather Reef – A powerful, rarely surfed reef break for experienced surfers.
With stunning coastal scenery, fun waves, and a welcoming surf community, Porthcawl is one of Wales’ best-kept surf secrets.
Best Time to Go:
- Peak Surf Season: September – April, when strong Atlantic swells produce the best waves.
- Best Swell Direction: Southwest to west swells, with light offshore east winds.
- Tide Conditions: Rest Bay and Coney Beach work best at mid to high tide, while Scarweather Reef is a low-tide spot.
Thanks to Porthcawl’s exposure to Atlantic swells, it picks up consistent waves year-round, though autumn and winter bring the biggest and most powerful surf.
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