Autumn is here, winter is just around the corner and it's time to dig out the down jackets in many northern hemisphere countries. For surfing fans, it's with a certain nostalgia that we put our boards in the garage. What if we took advantage of winter to go surfing where the temperatures are still mild and the sea awaits surfing enthusiasts with its most beautiful waves! Yes, when you're a surfer at heart, there's always a place on the globe where you can take on the rollers and enjoy a change of scenery, whatever the time of year. It's still summer somewhere, so here are 10 destinations where you can go surfing in winterin 2024.
1. Surfing in Australia, an obvious choice
It's winter in Europe... The good news is that it's summer in Australia. Have you stocked up on Surf Shop equipment? Head for the island-continent, renowned for attracting surfers from all over the world. There's plenty of choice for tackling the waves and enjoying the friendly atmosphere of the coastal resorts. The best spots include Surfers Paradise in Queensland, Byron Bay in New South Wales and Torquay in southern Victoria. As you'll see, surfing is almost a second religion in many of the coastal cities of this immense country.
2. California, surfing's El Dorado
It's mild in winter in Southern California. And in any case, a good neoprene wetsuit keeps you comfortable in the cool waters of the Pacific. The beaches get plenty of sunshine and the waves are constant in the great state of the American West. Here's a tip: rent a car, put the Beach Boys on the radio, follow the Pacific Coast Highway and stop off at the best surf spots in Malibu, Santa Barbara, Santa Monica, Santa Cruz and Oceanside. Whether you're an amateur or an experienced surfer, discovering California through the prism of surfing is always a memorable experience.
3. Lanzarote, the "Hawaii of Europe
TheCanary archipelago offers the chance to surf after just a 4-hour flight from Paris. The island of Lanzarote, where temperatures are mild all year round, is a winter meeting place for European surfers. The waves and swell are generous. Located at the foot of the impressive Risco cliff, the volcanic Playa Famara welcomes both beginners and those wishing to perfect their technique. For particularly powerful tubes, don't hesitate to take the road to Morro Negro, south-west of the Isleta peninsula. Less well known is El Pollon on Isla Graciosa, which boasts excellent waves.
4. Morocco, another sunny surf trip
When it comes to Morocco, surfing isn't necessarily on everyone's mind. And yet, the North African country has some excellent spots. It's hard not to have heard of Taghazout, just 40 minutes from Agadir, when you're in the surf. This white-and-blue fishing village is bursting with sunshine in winter. It's a meeting place for slow-lifers who want to make summer last, with the added bonus of waves made for surfing at Anchor Point or Killer Point. In the south of the country, the Dakhla peninsula also has some surprises in store for surfers. Foum Labouir, Aarich and La Sarga are not-to-be-missed spots for tackling the waves. The setting is also idyllic, with the ocean in front and the desert behind.
5. Mexico, surfing on the Pacific coast
Mexico is a great destination for those looking for sunshine and warm temperatures in winter. What's more, the South American country boasts some of the best beaches in the world for surfing. On the Pacific coast, Puerto Escondido is known as the surfing capital of Mexico. La Punta beach, with its long, slow waves, is a great place to practice. Experts, on the other hand, love Zicatela beach, which requires a certain level of expertise. The state of Nayarit is another great place to hit the waves. In the village of San Francisco, San Poncho beach offers board rentals. It's also easy to take lessons in Sayulita, the neighboring village.
6. Peniche, surfing in Portugal's mild climate
It's hard to imagine surfing in Europe in winter. But well-equipped, some places are ideal for this nautical activity. Like Peniche, one of Portugal's largest traditional fishing ports. Once you've enjoyed its historic center and main monuments, such as the sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, the churches of São Pedro and da Misericórdia and the fortress, head for the beach to enjoy the rollers. Praia dos Supertubos has perfect tube-shaped waves. The beaches of Consolação and Molhe Leste are other options for winter surfing. In fact, this is when the waves are at their best in Peniche.
7. Barbados, waves in the Caribbean Sea
In the eastern Caribbean, Barbados enjoys ideal surfing conditions, with perfect temperatures and swells that feed the coastline. As a result, surfers love to gather here to enjoy waves that suit all levels, depending on the beach and wind intensity. The best spots are Soup Bowl, Duppies, Freights Bay and South Point. It's easy to see that surfing is one of the must-do activities of a stay in Barbados. Between two hikes to one of its peaks or two scuba-diving sessions.
8. Senegal, surfing on the rise
Senegal is already known to some old surfers for its top-quality spots. It's a must-see country for winter surfing, especially if you plan to enjoy Dakar at the same time. The capital, located on a peninsula, offers ideal conditions for catching waves. You can alternate between the north and south coasts, depending on the winds and tides. It's always good to know that surfing isn't limited to the Dakar peninsula, with many popular spots along the Atlantic coast, including Somone, Duck Point and Kayar. A great opportunity to see the country!
9. Sri Lanka, surfing in complete privacy
Few people would think of Sri Lanka if they imagined surfing in the middle of winter. Yet not only is it warm all year round, but some beaches welcome surfers with open arms. The good news is that the country's surf spots are still untouched by the crowds. Let's hear it! Located around 100 km from Colombo, Hikkaduwa is the place to be. What's more, it's a lively seaside resort. Some Australians have realized that the waves in Sri Lanka are top-notch. That's why more and more of them are coming to Arugam Bay, a pretty fishing village. For those wishing to surf off the beaten track, there's one name to remember: the small town of Tangalla and the beach of Amanwella. At least you'll be able to surf in peace!
10. Cantabria, Spain's turbulent sea
In Spain, people like to come to Catalonia to enjoy the clear, calm waters of the Mediterranean. Cantabria, on the other hand, is a surf-lover's paradise. Equipped with your best wetsuit and board in winter, you'll make a stopover in Somo, a surfing spot renowned throughout Europe. The beaches of Somo, Loredo and los Tranquilos are popular for their waves and rollers in all seasons. What's more, you can take advantage of your trip to visit Santander on the other side of the bay. A city distinguished by its architecture, cultural offerings, tapas and beautiful stretches of sand.
