Europe offers some incredible surf destinations, with consistent waves for all skill levels, making it ideal for beginners and intermediates. Among the best are Les Landes on the French coast and Oyambre on Spain’s north shore. These spots are renowned not only for their wave consistency but also for their welcoming surf culture, beautiful scenery, and perfect conditions for progressing your surfing skills.
1. Les Landes, France: A Playground for Beginners and Intermediates
Location and Overview
Les Landes stretches along the southwestern coast of France, running from Biarritz to Arcachon. Known for its miles of sandy beaches and dunes, this area has become a haven for surfers of all levels. Towns like Hossegor and Capbreton are internationally recognized as surf hotspots, hosting competitions like the Quiksilver Pro France.
Why Les Landes is Perfect for Beginners and Intermediates?
– Consistent Beach Breaks: Les Landes features long stretches of beach break with plenty of room for surfers, reducing crowding and offering safer conditions.
– Gentle Waves at Certain Beaches: While Les Landes is known for powerful waves, there are specific beaches and times of the year where the swells are smaller and perfect for newer surfers, especially during summer and early autumn.
– Surf Schools and Rentals: The area has numerous surf schools, particularly around Hossegor and Seignosse, making it easy for beginners to find lessons. Equipment rentals and beginner-friendly boards are also widely available.
Best Spots for Beginners and Intermediates
– Seignosse: Known for its sandy bottom, Seignosse is ideal for learning without the risk of reef or rock hazards. The waves are typically smaller and friendlier for beginners during summer.
– Hossegor (La Sud Beach): La Sud is often calmer and more sheltered than other beaches in Hossegor, with mellow waves ideal for beginners and intermediates.
– Moliets-Plage: The beach is consistently hit by summer swells, making it ideal for first-time surfers and those looking to improve their skills.
What to Expect: Surf Conditions and Seasonality
– Best Time to Visit: From late spring to early autumn, when the waves are smaller and gentler.
– Water Temperature: In summer, the water temperature reaches around 22°C (72°F), making it possible to surf comfortably in a light wetsuit or boardshorts.
2. Oyambre, Spain: A Hidden Gem on the Northern Coast
Location and Overview
Located in the Cantabria region, just west of Santander, Oyambre is a serene surf spot with spectacular mountain and ocean views. The area is less crowded than southern beaches, offering a peaceful, nature-rich environment. The waves here are consistent, and the sand-bottom beach provides a safe learning experience.
Why Oyambre is Perfect for Beginners and Intermediates?
– Mellow, Consistent Waves: Oyambre has a gentle beach break that makes it easy for surfers to practice popping up and riding smaller waves, especially during spring and summer.
– Surf Camps and Laid-Back Vibes: There are surf camps catering to beginners and intermediates, with instructors that create a friendly, relaxed learning atmosphere.
– Natural Beauty: Oyambre is part of the Oyambre Natural Park, offering views of lush green landscapes and the Picos de Europa mountains, making it an ideal destination for surfers looking for a scenic getaway.
Best Spots for Beginners and Intermediates
– Oyambre Beach: The main beach itself is ideal, with soft, rolling waves and a long sandy bottom, making it forgiving and beginner-friendly.
– Comillas: Nearby Comillas also has beginner-friendly waves and is another excellent location for those looking to try different breaks.
What to Expect: Surf Conditions and Seasonality
– Best Time to Visit: The most consistent conditions for beginners are from late spring to early autumn.
– Water Temperature: The water here is cooler than in Les Landes, averaging around 18°C (64°F) in summer, so a spring wetsuit is recommended.
3. Tips for Surfing in Les Landes and Oyambre
– Pick the Right Season: For both spots, aim for late spring to early autumn, as the waves are more manageable for beginners and intermediates.
– Choose Beaches with Sand Bottoms:Both destinations have beaches with sandy bottoms, which are safer for beginners to avoid injuries.
– Take a Lesson: Both areas offer surf schools where instructors know the safest, most beginner-friendly spots.
– Respect the Local Surf Etiquette: These are popular surfing destinations, so be mindful of the local surf rules and etiquette, especially during the busier months.
For beginner and intermediate surfers, Les Landes in France and Oyambre in Spain offer some of the best, most consistent waves in Europe. These spots provide not only ideal conditions for skill-building but also rich cultural experiences, incredible natural scenery, and a sense of peace away from busier beaches. Whether you’re riding your first wave or working on your cutbacks, both destinations have something special to offer every level of surfing ability. And that’s exactly why we have chosen these locations as home to our surf camps. Check them out below!
