1st October 2018 by @emilerossouw

Best Winter Surfing Destinations

The UK winter is less than ideal for surfers. Even in the parts of the country where swell is high, it is rarely reliable and always cold; often too chilly even with a wetsuit. But there are a whole host of destinations around the world which enjoy the dependable weather, world-class waves, and paradise beaches. Don’t suffer indoors or in freezing water this winter; here are the best winter surfing destinations.

Algarve, Portugal

Praia do Amado, The Algarve, Portugal.

The Algarve is close to home (flight times average 3 hours from the UK) and is nicknamed “the Brazil of Europe” not only for its warm weather and amazing beaches but for its impressive Atlantic swells. In fact, the region is home to Praia do Norte, Nazaré, which boasts the largest waves ever surfed in the world.

While the Algarve is perfect for holidaying and surfing all year round, the best time to visit is between October and April. The water is a little on the chilly side, but the sunshine is still warm. Winter is also when the waves are at their strongest, making it perfect for surfers.

Praia Amado is close to Carrapateira, so there is lots to do when you’re not surfing, while the beach is beautiful, sheltered, and has a nearby campsite, so you can surf from dawn until dusk. Meanwhile, Praia do Zul is great for all experience levels. Depending on the direction of the waves, swells can be calm for beginners or reach 2m tall for the experienced. Either way, the tropical palm trees and access to nearby bars make it a fun seaside getaway.

Costa Rica

Pacific Sunset off the coast of Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a surfer’s paradise for a number of reasons.

1. The water is a consistent 30+˚C.
2. The surroundings of lush jungle, curious wildlife, and volcanic backdrops make it one of the most picturesque locations on Earth.
3. Surfing conditions are ideal and widespread.

Because of Costa Rica’s central location and geography, it has a number of regional coasts: the Caribbean, the Central Pacific, the North Pacific and the South Pacific. Of the four zones, the Caribbean Coast probably has the most unreliable swell, although it is still better than most others around the world. Either way, all regions enjoy their best waves during European winter.

Northerly Playa Guiones is one of Central America’s most celebrated surf spots. However, Bocca Barranca and Playa Esterillos are more centrally located, making them the better choices for surfers who want to explore some of Costa Rica’s popular inland sites.

Canary Islands

Surf off the coast of Lanzarote.

The northernmost shore of Fuerteventura is often referred to as “Europe’s answer to Hawaii” and with a frequent sun, golden-yellow beaches, and world-class surf, it is not hard to see why. The island is the most recommended for water sports enthusiast visiting the Canaries because of the reliable surf. Beginners can head to Playa Morro for long and gentle waves. More intermediate surfers should prioritise Playa Cotillo, where the waves are a little larger. Meanwhile, hoping for some white water will test their talent at the Acid Drop or the Bubble.

However, the famous surges of the Atlantic can be enjoyed throughout the Canary Islands, not just Fuerteventura. La Cicer on Gran Canaria, El Arenal on Tenerife, and Famara on Lanzarote are all renowned locations for beginners. Meanwhile, El Quemao on Lanzarote, or El Confital on Gran Canaria, are just some of the many more advanced spots.

Cuba

Kitesurfing in Cuba | Courtesy of Lasovarga.

Cuba is another Caribbean country with warm sunshine throughout the year, making it a great winter break location. The European summer coincides with Cuba’s worst weather: the air temperature is often in the mid to high 30s, making it staggeringly hot and humid; and hurricane season brings heavy rains and strong winds. Fortunately, come the UK winter, the skies clear in Cuba and the temperature is comfortably in the low to mid-20s. November to April is also the time of year when the swell of the Atlantic from the northeast is at its finest, making for some excellent surf.

Playas del Este and Calle 70 are the beaches most easily accessible from Havana, but the waves aren’t as reliable, so we only advise heading here if you are short of time. Yumuri and La Setenta are some of the best-known locations among surfers. If you are heading south, then Baconao is the best location for surfing.

Cape Verde

Ponta Preta, Sal Island, Cape Verde | Courtesy of brunobarbato.

For somewhere as accessible as the Algarve or the Canary Islands, but more untouched, Cape Verde is the perfect place for winter surfing: an archipelago of islands; reliable sunshine; powerful reef breaks in a gorgeous setting; and one of the safest countries in the African continent.

Every year, Cape Verde garners a stronger reputation as a surfer’s paradise. Sal Island is the most popular, so has the best facilities for accommodation and food, too, although some of the best surf spots, like Ponta Preta, are tricky to access (but worth it). Boa Vista Island is better for beginners and intermediates, not only because of the smaller crowds, but the waves and low winds are ideal for practising new skills. Santa Monica and Praia do Chaves are ideal for all levels, too.

Whether you’re a boarding beginner or a long-time pro, make sure to take advantage of some of the best holiday deals this winter, so you can enjoy some warm sunshine, golden beaches, and seasonal surf.