Choose a month
Five countries with the best season, and the waves to go for.
JanuarySpain · Portugal · France
FebruarySpain · Portugal · France
MarchSpain · France · Portugal
AprilSpain · Portugal · France
MayIndonesia · Costa Rica · Panama
JuneIndonesia · Panama · Costa Rica
JulyIndonesia · Panama · Costa Rica
AugustIndonesia · Panama · Costa Rica
SeptemberIndonesia · Costa Rica · Panama
OctoberSpain · France · Portugal
NovemberSpain · Portugal · France
DecemberSpain · Portugal · FranceThe 5 best countries to surf in January
January is the middle of the North Atlantic winter. Portugal, Spain and France get their biggest and coldest swells, the Canaries stay warm, and it's the dry season on Costa Rica's Pacific coast and on Panama's Caribbean side.
01 · At its best
Spain
Six zones are at their best in January, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias. In Basque Country (Oct-Mar): consistent, powerful NW-W swell, cold but firing.
In Fuerteventura (Oct-Mar): biggest, most consistent NW swell from Atlantic storms. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. On the north coast the water is cold and a 4/3 wetsuit with boots is the norm; the Canaries are a few degrees warmer, and a 3/2 is enough there.
02 · At its best
Portugal
Six zones are at their best in January, including Lisbon Coast, The Algarve and Azores. In Lisbon Coast (Oct-Mar): consistent NW-W swell, mild city winter.
In The Algarve (Oct-Apr): consistent NW-W swell, mild Algarve winter, fewer crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. The Atlantic is cold at this time of year, so you'll want a 4/3 wetsuit.
03 · At its best
France
Four zones are at their best in January, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany). In Landes (Hossegor) (Oct-Mar): biggest, most powerful groundswell, quieter off-season.
In Côte Basque (Oct-Mar): big, powerful swell, mild Basque winter. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. Bring a 4/3 wetsuit, and boots and gloves if you feel the cold, especially in Brittany.
04 · At its best
Morocco
Taghazout & Imsouane, Aglou & Sidi Ifni and Safi & Oualidia are at their best in January, and Casablanca & Rabat and Essaouira are also good. In Taghazout & Imsouane (Oct-Mar): north-west groundswell, morning offshores, the points work.
In Aglou & Sidi Ifni (Oct-Mar): the same swells as Taghazout, with almost nobody out. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Panoramas, Banana Point and Banana Beach. The water is cooler than the sunshine suggests: bring a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 if you feel the cold.
05 · At its best
Costa Rica
Limón and Guanacaste are at their best in January, and Golfo de Nicoya and Central Puntarenas are also good. In Limón (Dec-Mar): main season, NE-E storms off Colombia fire Salsa Brava and the reefs.
In Guanacaste (Dec-Apr): dry season, offshore mornings, sunshine, clean NW-fed 3-4ft waves almost daily. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Westfalia, Playa Negra (Cahuita) and Playa Cocles. No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
The rest
Panama still has some surf in January, mainly in Bocas del Toro, but the five above are a better bet. Indonesia is out of season in January: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in January, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in February
February is still full winter in Europe, with some of the biggest swells of the year on the Atlantic coast. On the other side of the ocean, Guanacaste is dry and offshore and the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica and Bocas del Toro are at their best.
01 · At its best
Spain
Six zones are at their best in February, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias. In Basque Country (Oct-Mar): consistent, powerful NW-W swell, cold but firing.
In Fuerteventura (Oct-Mar): biggest, most consistent NW swell from Atlantic storms. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. On the north coast the water is cold and a 4/3 wetsuit with boots is the norm; the Canaries are a few degrees warmer, and a 3/2 is enough there.
02 · At its best
Portugal
Six zones are at their best in February, including Lisbon Coast, The Algarve and Azores. In Lisbon Coast (Oct-Mar): consistent NW-W swell, mild city winter.
In The Algarve (Oct-Apr): consistent NW-W swell, mild Algarve winter, fewer crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. The Atlantic is cold at this time of year, so you'll want a 4/3 wetsuit.
03 · At its best
France
Four zones are at their best in February, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany). In Landes (Hossegor) (Oct-Mar): biggest, most powerful groundswell, quieter off-season.
In Côte Basque (Oct-Mar): big, powerful swell, mild Basque winter. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. Bring a 4/3 wetsuit, and boots and gloves if you feel the cold, especially in Brittany.
04 · At its best
Morocco
Taghazout & Imsouane, Aglou & Sidi Ifni and Safi & Oualidia are at their best in February, and Casablanca & Rabat and Essaouira are also good. In Taghazout & Imsouane (Oct-Mar): north-west groundswell, morning offshores, the points work.
In Aglou & Sidi Ifni (Oct-Mar): the same swells as Taghazout, with almost nobody out. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Panoramas, Banana Point and Banana Beach. The water is cooler than the sunshine suggests: bring a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 if you feel the cold.
05 · At its best
Costa Rica
Limón and Guanacaste are at their best in February, and Golfo de Nicoya and Central Puntarenas are also good. In Limón (Dec-Mar): main season, NE-E storms off Colombia fire Salsa Brava and the reefs.
In Guanacaste (Dec-Apr): dry season, offshore mornings, sunshine, clean NW-fed 3-4ft waves almost daily. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Westfalia, Playa Negra (Cahuita) and Playa Cocles. No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
The rest
Panama still has some surf in February, mainly in Bocas del Toro, but the five above are a better bet. Indonesia is out of season in February: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in February, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in March
March is the last full month of European winter swell. Guanacaste is still in its dry season, the Caribbean breaks are still working, and Indonesia's wet season is coming to an end.
01 · At its best
Spain
Six zones are at their best in March, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias. In Basque Country (Oct-Mar): consistent, powerful NW-W swell, cold but firing.
In Fuerteventura (Oct-Mar): biggest, most consistent NW swell from Atlantic storms. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. On the north coast the water is cold and a 4/3 wetsuit with boots is the norm; the Canaries are a few degrees warmer, and a 3/2 is enough there.
02 · At its best
France
Four zones are at their best in March, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany). In Landes (Hossegor) (Oct-Mar): biggest, most powerful groundswell, quieter off-season.
In Côte Basque (Oct-Mar): big, powerful swell, mild Basque winter. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. Bring a 4/3 wetsuit, and boots and gloves if you feel the cold, especially in Brittany.
03 · At its best
Portugal
Five zones are at their best in March, including Lisbon Coast, The Algarve and Azores. In Lisbon Coast (Oct-Mar): consistent NW-W swell, mild city winter.
In The Algarve (Oct-Apr): consistent NW-W swell, mild Algarve winter, fewer crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. The Atlantic is cold at this time of year, so you'll want a 4/3 wetsuit.
04 · At its best
Morocco
Taghazout & Imsouane and Aglou & Sidi Ifni are at their best in March, and Casablanca & Rabat, Safi & Oualidia and Essaouira are also good. In Taghazout & Imsouane (Oct-Mar): north-west groundswell, morning offshores, the points work.
In Aglou & Sidi Ifni (Oct-Mar): the same swells as Taghazout, with almost nobody out. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Panoramas, Banana Point and Banana Beach. The water is cooler than the sunshine suggests: bring a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 if you feel the cold.
05 · At its best
Costa Rica
Limón and Guanacaste are at their best in March, and Golfo de Nicoya and Central Puntarenas are also good. In Limón (Dec-Mar): main season, NE-E storms off Colombia fire Salsa Brava and the reefs.
In Guanacaste (Dec-Apr): dry season, offshore mornings, sunshine, clean NW-fed 3-4ft waves almost daily. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Westfalia, Playa Negra (Cahuita) and Playa Cocles. No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
The rest
Panama still has some surf in March, mainly in Bocas del Toro, but the five above are a better bet. Indonesia is out of season in March: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in March, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in April
April is a month of change. Europe gets smaller and calmer, Indonesia's dry season starts, and the first southern hemisphere swells reach the Pacific coast of Central America.
01 · At its best
Spain
Lanzarote and Galicia are at their best in April, and Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias are also good. In Lanzarote (Oct-Apr): biggest, most consistent NW-N swell, dry warm climate.
In Galicia (Sep-Apr): wide-open Atlantic swell window, consistent and powerful. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Arrieta, Famara and Pantín. On the north coast the water is cold and a 4/3 wetsuit with boots is the norm; the Canaries are a few degrees warmer, and a 3/2 is enough there.
02 · At its best
Portugal
The Algarve and Porto & the North are at their best in April, and Lisbon Coast, Azores and Ericeira are also good. In The Algarve (Oct-Apr): consistent NW-W swell, mild Algarve winter, fewer crowds.
In Porto & the North (Sep-Apr): consistent swell from multiple directions, cold but reliable. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Amado, Monte Clérigo and Odeceixe. The Atlantic is cold at this time of year, so you'll want a 4/3 wetsuit.
03 · At its best
France
Finistère (Brittany) is at its best in April, and Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Gironde are also good. In Finistère (Brittany) (Sep-Apr): wide swell window catches groundswell from most directions.
In Landes (Hossegor) (Apr-Jun, Sep): reliable swell, milder crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Porsmilin, Le Minou and La Sud. Bring a 4/3 wetsuit, and boots and gloves if you feel the cold, especially in Brittany.
04 · At its best
Costa Rica
Guanacaste is at its best in April, and Golfo de Nicoya, Central Puntarenas and Golfo Dulce are also good. In Guanacaste (Dec-Apr): dry season, offshore mornings, sunshine, clean NW-fed 3-4ft waves almost daily.
In Golfo de Nicoya (Dec-Apr): dry season, cleaner conditions and WNW pulses, though smaller than the summer swell. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Playa Grande, Tamarindo and Ostional. No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
05 · At its best
Panama
Southwest Panama is at its best in April, and West Panamá Province is also good. In Southwest Panama (Apr-Jun): s-SW swell arriving, offshore mornings, Santa Catalina firing almost daily.
In West Panamá Province (Apr-Jun): s-SW swell building; the narrow window means it's smaller than Santa Catalina. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Sandbar, Hawaiisito (Little Hawaii) and Panamá La Vieja. The water is warm on both coasts, so leave the wetsuit at home.
The rest
Morocco still has some surf in April, mainly in Aglou & Sidi Ifni, but the five above are a better bet. Indonesia still has some surf in April, mainly in Java, but the five above are a better bet.
Every zone in season in April, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in May
In May the dry season gets going across Indonesia and south swells start hitting the Pacific coast of Central America, while Europe's Atlantic coast turns smaller and warmer.
01 · At its best
Indonesia
Four zones are at their best in May, including Bali, Lombok and Sumbawa. In Bali (May-Jun): pumping SW swell, offshore trades, crowds still civilised.
In Lombok (May-Sep): dry season: everything works, Deserts possible, trades offshore in the bays. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Canggu-Batu Bolong, Kuta Beach and Medewi. The water is warm all year, so boardshorts or a bikini and a rash vest against the reef and the sun are enough.
02 · At its best
Costa Rica
Golfo de Nicoya and Central Puntarenas are at their best in May, and Guanacaste and Golfo Dulce are also good. In Golfo de Nicoya (May-Jul): green season SW groundswell fires the points and beachbreaks; offshore mornings.
In Central Puntarenas (May-Jul): green season S-SW groundswell fires Dominical and the points; offshore mornings. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Playa Coyote, Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen (Mal País). No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
03 · At its best
Panama
Southwest Panama is at its best in May, and West Panamá Province is also good. In Southwest Panama (Apr-Jun): s-SW swell arriving, offshore mornings, Santa Catalina firing almost daily.
In West Panamá Province (Apr-Jun): s-SW swell building; the narrow window means it's smaller than Santa Catalina. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Sandbar, Hawaiisito (Little Hawaii) and Panamá La Vieja. The water is warm on both coasts, so leave the wetsuit at home.
04 · Good
Spain
Six zones are good in May, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias, though not at their peak. In Basque Country (Apr-Jun, Sep): reliable swell, milder crowds.
In Fuerteventura (Apr-Jun, Sep): smaller swell, still warm and windy. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. Take a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 early and late in the season.
05 · Good
France
Four zones are good in May, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany), though not at their peak. In Landes (Hossegor) (Apr-Jun, Sep): reliable swell, milder crowds.
If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. A 3/2 wetsuit is enough most days, a 4/3 on colder ones.
The rest
Portugal still has some surf in May, mainly in Azores, but the five above are a better bet. Morocco still has some surf in May, mainly in Aglou & Sidi Ifni, but the five above are a better bet.
Every zone in season in May, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in June
June is the start of peak season in Indonesia, with steady swell and offshore trade winds. Panama's Pacific points are in their best stretch, and Europe is small and summery.
01 · At its best
Indonesia
Seven zones are at their best in June, including Bali, Mentawai Islands and Sumatra-Nias. In Bali (May-Jun): pumping SW swell, offshore trades, crowds still civilised.
In Mentawai Islands (Jun-Aug): peak season: maximum swell, maximum boats, book long ahead. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Canggu-Batu Bolong, Kuta Beach and Medewi. The water is warm all year, so boardshorts or a bikini and a rash vest against the reef and the sun are enough.
02 · At its best
Panama
Southwest Panama is at its best in June, and West Panamá Province and Bocas del Toro are also good. In Southwest Panama (Apr-Jun): s-SW swell arriving, offshore mornings, Santa Catalina firing almost daily.
In West Panamá Province (Apr-Jun): s-SW swell building; the narrow window means it's smaller than Santa Catalina. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Sandbar, Hawaiisito (Little Hawaii) and Panamá La Vieja. The water is warm on both coasts, so leave the wetsuit at home.
03 · At its best
Costa Rica
Golfo de Nicoya and Central Puntarenas are at their best in June, and Guanacaste and Golfo Dulce are also good. In Golfo de Nicoya (May-Jul): green season SW groundswell fires the points and beachbreaks; offshore mornings.
In Central Puntarenas (May-Jul): green season S-SW groundswell fires Dominical and the points; offshore mornings. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Playa Coyote, Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen (Mal País). No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
04 · Good
Spain
Six zones are good in June, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias, though not at their peak. In Basque Country (Apr-Jun, Sep): reliable swell, milder crowds.
In Fuerteventura (Apr-Jun, Sep): smaller swell, still warm and windy. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. Take a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 early and late in the season.
05 · Good
France
Four zones are good in June, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany), though not at their peak. In Landes (Hossegor) (Apr-Jun, Sep): reliable swell, milder crowds.
If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. A 3/2 wetsuit is enough most days, a 4/3 on colder ones.
The rest
Portugal still has some surf in June, mainly in Azores, but the five above are a better bet. Morocco is out of season in June: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in June, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in July
July is Indonesia's busiest month, with the most reliable swell and the biggest crowds. Southern swells keep the Pacific coast of Central America working, while most of Europe's Atlantic coast is small and crowded with holidaymakers.
01 · At its best
Indonesia
Seven zones are at their best in July, including Bali, Mentawai Islands and Sumatra-Nias. In Bali (Jul-Aug): peak everything: waves, crowds and prices. Book ahead.
In Mentawai Islands (Jun-Aug): peak season: maximum swell, maximum boats, book long ahead. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Canggu-Batu Bolong, Kuta Beach and Medewi. The water is warm all year, so boardshorts or a bikini and a rash vest against the reef and the sun are enough.
02 · At its best
Panama
West Panamá Province and Southwest Panama are at their best in July, and Bocas del Toro is also good. In West Panamá Province (Jul-Sep): peak S-SW season, best NZ lows send the optimum ~210° swell; onshore afternoons.
In Southwest Panama (Jul-Sep): peak roaring-forties swell, biggest and most consistent, but wettest. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Hawaiisito (Little Hawaii), Panamá La Vieja and Mojon Beach. The water is warm on both coasts, so leave the wetsuit at home.
03 · At its best
Costa Rica
Golfo de Nicoya, Central Puntarenas and Golfo Dulce are at their best in July, and Limón and Guanacaste are also good. In Golfo de Nicoya (May-Jul): green season SW groundswell fires the points and beachbreaks; offshore mornings.
In Central Puntarenas (May-Jul): green season S-SW groundswell fires Dominical and the points; offshore mornings. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Playa Coyote, Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen (Mal País). No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
04 · Quiet
Portugal
July is a quiet month here: the waves are mostly small, which suits beginners better than experienced surfers. In Lisbon Coast (Jun-Aug): smaller waves, packed beaches, strong summer thermal wind at Guincho.
The small waves suit learners, at places like Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. The water is at its warmest, though still cool for the Atlantic, so a 3/2 wetsuit is the norm.
05 · Quiet
France
July is a quiet month here: the waves are mostly small, which suits beginners better than experienced surfers. In Landes (Hossegor) (Jul-Aug): smaller swell, packed beaches and high prices.
The small waves suit learners, at places like La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. The water is at its warmest, and a 3/2 wetsuit or a springsuit is enough.
The rest
Spain is out of season in July: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable. Morocco is out of season in July: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in July, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in August
August is much like July: Indonesia and the Pacific side of Central America are at their best, and Europe is warm, busy and usually small. Mentawai boats and camps are fully booked months ahead.
01 · At its best
Indonesia
Seven zones are at their best in August, including Bali, Mentawai Islands and Sumatra-Nias. In Bali (Jul-Aug): peak everything: waves, crowds and prices. Book ahead.
In Mentawai Islands (Jun-Aug): peak season: maximum swell, maximum boats, book long ahead. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Canggu-Batu Bolong, Kuta Beach and Medewi. The water is warm all year, so boardshorts or a bikini and a rash vest against the reef and the sun are enough.
02 · At its best
Panama
West Panamá Province and Southwest Panama are at their best in August, and Bocas del Toro is also good. In West Panamá Province (Jul-Sep): peak S-SW season, best NZ lows send the optimum ~210° swell; onshore afternoons.
In Southwest Panama (Jul-Sep): peak roaring-forties swell, biggest and most consistent, but wettest. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Hawaiisito (Little Hawaii), Panamá La Vieja and Mojon Beach. The water is warm on both coasts, so leave the wetsuit at home.
03 · At its best
Costa Rica
Golfo de Nicoya, Central Puntarenas and Golfo Dulce are at their best in August, and Limón and Guanacaste are also good. In Golfo de Nicoya (Aug-Oct): peak S-SW swell, most consistent and biggest, but the wettest months.
In Central Puntarenas (Aug-Oct): peak, most consistent S-SW swell, and the wettest, greenest months. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Playa Coyote, Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen (Mal País). No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
04 · Quiet
Portugal
August is a quiet month here: the waves are mostly small, which suits beginners better than experienced surfers. In Lisbon Coast (Jun-Aug): smaller waves, packed beaches, strong summer thermal wind at Guincho.
The small waves suit learners, at places like Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. The water is at its warmest, though still cool for the Atlantic, so a 3/2 wetsuit is the norm.
05 · Quiet
France
August is a quiet month here: the waves are mostly small, which suits beginners better than experienced surfers. In Landes (Hossegor) (Jul-Aug): smaller swell, packed beaches and high prices.
The small waves suit learners, at places like La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. The water is at its warmest, and a 3/2 wetsuit or a springsuit is enough.
The rest
Spain is out of season in August: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable. Morocco is out of season in August: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in August, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in September
September is one of the best months of the year for choice. Indonesia still has good swell with fewer people, and the first autumn swells start reaching Europe's Atlantic coast while the water is still warm.
01 · At its best
Indonesia
Four zones are at their best in September, including Mentawai Islands, Lombok and Sumbawa. In Mentawai Islands (Sep-Oct): still good swell, fewer boats.
In Lombok (May-Sep): dry season: everything works, Deserts possible, trades offshore in the bays. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Tanjung A'an, Inside Gerupuk and Canggu-Batu Bolong. The water is warm all year, so boardshorts or a bikini and a rash vest against the reef and the sun are enough.
02 · At its best
Costa Rica
Golfo de Nicoya, Central Puntarenas and Golfo Dulce are at their best in September, and Guanacaste is also good. In Golfo de Nicoya (Aug-Oct): peak S-SW swell, most consistent and biggest, but the wettest months.
In Central Puntarenas (Aug-Oct): peak, most consistent S-SW swell, and the wettest, greenest months. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Playa Coyote, Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen (Mal País). No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
03 · At its best
Panama
West Panamá Province and Southwest Panama are at their best in September. In West Panamá Province (Jul-Sep): peak S-SW season, best NZ lows send the optimum ~210° swell; onshore afternoons.
In Southwest Panama (Jul-Sep): peak roaring-forties swell, biggest and most consistent, but wettest. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Hawaiisito (Little Hawaii), Panamá La Vieja and Mojon Beach. The water is warm on both coasts, so leave the wetsuit at home.
04 · At its best
France
Finistère (Brittany) is at its best in September, and Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Gironde are also good. In Finistère (Brittany) (Sep-Apr): wide swell window catches groundswell from most directions.
In Landes (Hossegor) (Apr-Jun, Sep): reliable swell, milder crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Porsmilin, Le Minou and La Sud. The water is at its warmest, and a 3/2 wetsuit or a springsuit is enough.
05 · At its best
Spain
Galicia is at its best in September, and Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias are also good. In Galicia (Sep-Apr): wide-open Atlantic swell window, consistent and powerful.
In Basque Country (Apr-Jun, Sep): reliable swell, milder crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Pantín, Doniños and A Frouxeira (Valdoviño). A 3/2 wetsuit is enough on the north coast, and some days a springsuit will do.
The rest
Portugal still has some surf in September, mainly in Porto & the North, but the five above are a better bet. Morocco still has some surf in September, mainly in Aglou & Sidi Ifni, but the five above are a better bet.
Every zone in season in September, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in October
October is when Europe's Atlantic coast comes back to life, with proper groundswell, water that's still bearable and far fewer tourists. Indonesia's season is winding down and Central America's Pacific coast still gets some south swell.
01 · At its best
Spain
Six zones are at their best in October, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias. In Basque Country (Oct-Mar): consistent, powerful NW-W swell, cold but firing.
In Fuerteventura (Oct-Mar): biggest, most consistent NW swell from Atlantic storms. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. Take a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 early and late in the season.
02 · At its best
France
Four zones are at their best in October, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany). In Landes (Hossegor) (Oct-Mar): biggest, most powerful groundswell, quieter off-season.
In Côte Basque (Oct-Mar): big, powerful swell, mild Basque winter. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. A 3/2 wetsuit is enough most days, a 4/3 on colder ones.
03 · At its best
Portugal
Five zones are at their best in October, including Lisbon Coast, The Algarve and Azores. In Lisbon Coast (Oct-Mar): consistent NW-W swell, mild city winter.
In The Algarve (Oct-Apr): consistent NW-W swell, mild Algarve winter, fewer crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. A 3/2 wetsuit works most days; take a 4/3 if you feel the cold.
04 · At its best
Morocco
Taghazout & Imsouane and Aglou & Sidi Ifni are at their best in October, and Casablanca & Rabat, Safi & Oualidia and Essaouira are also good. In Taghazout & Imsouane (Oct-Mar): north-west groundswell, morning offshores, the points work.
In Aglou & Sidi Ifni (Oct-Mar): the same swells as Taghazout, with almost nobody out. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Panoramas, Banana Point and Banana Beach. A 3/2 wetsuit or a springsuit is enough.
05 · At its best
Costa Rica
Golfo de Nicoya and Central Puntarenas are at their best in October, and Guanacaste and Golfo Dulce are also good. In Golfo de Nicoya (Aug-Oct): peak S-SW swell, most consistent and biggest, but the wettest months.
In Central Puntarenas (Aug-Oct): peak, most consistent S-SW swell, and the wettest, greenest months. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Playa Coyote, Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen (Mal País). No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
The rest
Indonesia still has some surf in October, mainly in Mentawai Islands, but the five above are a better bet. Panama still has some surf in October, mainly in Southwest Panama, but the five above are a better bet.
Every zone in season in October, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in November
November is a quiet month in the tropics, with the rainy season in Indonesia and some of the wettest weeks in Costa Rica. In Europe it's the opposite: the Atlantic coast is fully in season.
01 · At its best
Spain
Six zones are at their best in November, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias. In Basque Country (Oct-Mar): consistent, powerful NW-W swell, cold but firing.
In Fuerteventura (Oct-Mar): biggest, most consistent NW swell from Atlantic storms. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. On the north coast the water is cold and a 4/3 wetsuit with boots is the norm; the Canaries are a few degrees warmer, and a 3/2 is enough there.
02 · At its best
Portugal
Six zones are at their best in November, including Lisbon Coast, The Algarve and Azores. In Lisbon Coast (Oct-Mar): consistent NW-W swell, mild city winter.
In The Algarve (Oct-Apr): consistent NW-W swell, mild Algarve winter, fewer crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. The Atlantic is cold at this time of year, so you'll want a 4/3 wetsuit.
03 · At its best
France
Four zones are at their best in November, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany). In Landes (Hossegor) (Oct-Mar): biggest, most powerful groundswell, quieter off-season.
In Côte Basque (Oct-Mar): big, powerful swell, mild Basque winter. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. Bring a 4/3 wetsuit, and boots and gloves if you feel the cold, especially in Brittany.
04 · At its best
Morocco
Taghazout & Imsouane, Aglou & Sidi Ifni and Safi & Oualidia are at their best in November, and Casablanca & Rabat and Essaouira are also good. In Taghazout & Imsouane (Oct-Mar): north-west groundswell, morning offshores, the points work.
In Aglou & Sidi Ifni (Oct-Mar): the same swells as Taghazout, with almost nobody out. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Panoramas, Banana Point and Banana Beach. The water is cooler than the sunshine suggests: bring a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 if you feel the cold.
05 · Good
Panama
West Panamá Province is good in November, though not at its peak. In West Panamá Province (Oct-Nov): onshore south winds increasingly dominate late in the season.
If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Hawaiisito (Little Hawaii), Panamá La Vieja and Mojon Beach. The water is warm on both coasts, so leave the wetsuit at home.
The rest
Indonesia still has some surf in November, mainly in Lombok, but the five above are a better bet. Costa Rica is out of season in November: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in November, with costs and beginner spots →
The 5 best countries to surf in December
December brings winter swell to Europe and the start of the dry season in Costa Rica and on Panama's Caribbean side.
01 · At its best
Spain
Six zones are at their best in December, including Basque Country, Fuerteventura and Asturias. In Basque Country (Oct-Mar): consistent, powerful NW-W swell, cold but firing.
In Fuerteventura (Oct-Mar): biggest, most consistent NW swell from Atlantic storms. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Arena, Sopelana and Plentzia. On the north coast the water is cold and a 4/3 wetsuit with boots is the norm; the Canaries are a few degrees warmer, and a 3/2 is enough there.
02 · At its best
Portugal
Six zones are at their best in December, including Lisbon Coast, The Algarve and Azores. In Lisbon Coast (Oct-Mar): consistent NW-W swell, mild city winter.
In The Algarve (Oct-Apr): consistent NW-W swell, mild Algarve winter, fewer crowds. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Carcavelos, Praia das Maçãs and Costa da Caparica. The Atlantic is cold at this time of year, so you'll want a 4/3 wetsuit.
03 · At its best
France
Four zones are at their best in December, including Landes (Hossegor), Côte Basque and Finistère (Brittany). In Landes (Hossegor) (Oct-Mar): biggest, most powerful groundswell, quieter off-season.
In Côte Basque (Oct-Mar): big, powerful swell, mild Basque winter. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at La Sud, Notre-Dame and Le Prévent. Bring a 4/3 wetsuit, and boots and gloves if you feel the cold, especially in Brittany.
04 · At its best
Morocco
Taghazout & Imsouane, Aglou & Sidi Ifni and Safi & Oualidia are at their best in December, and Casablanca & Rabat and Essaouira are also good. In Taghazout & Imsouane (Oct-Mar): north-west groundswell, morning offshores, the points work.
In Aglou & Sidi Ifni (Oct-Mar): the same swells as Taghazout, with almost nobody out. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Panoramas, Banana Point and Banana Beach. The water is cooler than the sunshine suggests: bring a 3/2 wetsuit, or a 4/3 if you feel the cold.
05 · At its best
Costa Rica
Limón and Guanacaste are at their best in December, and Golfo de Nicoya and Central Puntarenas are also good. In Limón (Dec-Mar): main season, NE-E storms off Colombia fire Salsa Brava and the reefs.
In Guanacaste (Dec-Apr): dry season, offshore mornings, sunshine, clean NW-fed 3-4ft waves almost daily. If you're learning, the gentlest waves are at Westfalia, Playa Negra (Cahuita) and Playa Cocles. No wetsuit needed: the water is warm, and a rash vest or a thin top protects you from the sun.
The rest
Panama still has some surf in December, mainly in Bocas del Toro, but the five above are a better bet. Indonesia is out of season in December: the waves are mostly small and the conditions less reliable.
Every zone in season in December, with costs and beginner spots →