Summer is the perfect time to get back out in the water. Whether you’re planning your next surf holiday or just looking for the best waves in Europe and beyond, we want to talk about three incredible summer surf destinations that cater to all levels of surfers: Cornwall, Morocco, and Portugal.
Surfing in Cornwall: Rugged Coastlines and Laid-Back Vibes
When it comes to surfing in the UK, Cornwall tops the list. With consistent swells, dramatic cliffs, and a buzzing surf culture, Cornwall is perfect for a summer surf trip.
The water may not be tropical, but the surf scene is warm and welcoming. Expect mellow summer swells, ideal for longboarders and beginners, especially during July and August. Off the water, you’ll find independent cafés, surf schools, and a community obsessed with saltwater living.
With over 300 beaches spread across more than 250 miles of coastline, Cornwall is going to have something that you love, whether that’s in bustling Newquay, or more secluded spots like Sennen or Polzeath.
Top Tip: Don’t forget your wetsuit. Surfing in Cornwall is warm by UK standards, but it’s still the Atlantic!
Surfing in Morocco: The Ultimate Culture Trip
Looking for warm water surfing and a dose of adventure? Surfing in Morocco delivers. While winter is Morocco’s peak surf season, summer still offers long, cruisy waves, especially perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers.
Best Summer Surf Spots in Morocco:
- Taghazout – A laid-back surf town with mellow beach breaks.
- Tamraght – Less crowded than Taghazout, with reliable summer waves.
- Imsouane – Home to the iconic “Magic Bay,” one of the longest right-handers in the world.
Summer in Morocco is hot and dry, but the Atlantic breeze and consistent swell make it an epic off-season escape. Between sessions, explore the souks, enjoy a tagine, and drink mint tea by the ocean.
Top Tip: Stay flexible. Different spots work better on different tides or winds, so chasing the right break is part of the fun.
Surfing in Portugal: Europe’s Powerhouse
Portugal is one of Europe’s top surf travel destinations, offering an unbeatable mix of wave variety, vibrant coastal towns, and sunny weather. Summer brings clean, smaller swells that are ideal for beginner and intermediate surfers, with plenty of opportunity for progression.
Lagos is a standout for Summer surfing in the Algarve, offering stunning cliffs, warm water, and a variety of surf breaks within easy reach.
Often overlooked, surfing in Porto is perfect for city surfers looking to blend culture with wave-chasing. Head to Matosinhos Beach for consistent beginner-friendly waves, or explore nearby spots like Espinho for something punchier.
For the more experienced, Ericeira (a World Surfing Reserve) and Peniche deliver world-class conditions. Even in summer, these regions offer fun peaks and an unbeatable surf town atmosphere.
Top Tip: Portugal has some powerful waves, so starting with a qualified instructor will help you to find the right surf spots for your level!
Plan Your Summer Surf Trip
Whether you’re after surfing in Cornwall with its wild coastline, Moroccan surf adventures under the African sun, or a Portugal surf holiday full of beach breaks and pastel de nata, these destinations have you covered.
Don’t forget to book early: summer surf camps and surf hostels fill up fast. We’ve put together some recommendations of where you can book to get your Summer Surf fix.
Summer Surf Destinations You Should Book:
I Surf Portugal
Porto
I Surf Portugal
Location: Porto, Portugal
Escape to a surf adventure like no other at I Surf Portugal’s Glamping Surf Camp in Porto!
Wake up in a stylish tipi tent, fuel up with delicious meals, and hit the waves with expert coaching tailored to all levels. After a day of surfing, unwind by the campfire, swap stories with fellow wave riders, and soak in the good vibes.
Nestled in a picturesque fishing village just north of Porto, their camp offers the perfect balance of adventure and comfort. A short walk takes you to the local beach, while a quick drive brings you to the region’s best surf spots.
The surf camp package includes daily surf lessons, cosy glamping accommodation, healthy breakfast & dinner, beach transfers, top-quality surf gear, and fun activities around the campfire.
Join I Surf Portugal for an unforgettable surf escape where adventure, nature, and relaxation come together effortlessly!
Amayour Surf & Yoga
Morocco
Amayour Surf & Yoga
Location: Taghazout, Morocco
When it comes to endless sunshine, warm water, and good vibes, Morocco’s summer waves deliver every time—and so does Amayour Surf. With locations in Taghazout, Tamraght, and a tranquil mountain escape in Tamazirt, Amayour offers something for every kind of surf soul.
Summer is all about party waves and playful peaks, perfect for beginners or those looking to keep it cruisy. Start your day with rooftop yoga, fuel up on fresh Moroccan meals, and hit the beach with our ISA-certified coaches who know exactly where to find the best summer swell.
Choose from Full Moon (surf & yoga), Half Moon (surf only), deal for those chasing salty days and chill nights. With a welcoming community, epic sunsets, and good times guaranteed, Amayour is your ultimate summer surf escape.
The Surf Experience
Portugal
The Surf Experience
Location: Lagos, Portugal
The Surf Experience, Portugal’s original surf camp, has over 30 years of experience in creating unforgettable surf trips.
Situated on the SW coast of Portugal, The Surf Experience is wedged within a short distance from both coastlines of Europe’s liquid dreams. The Algarve is exposed to both north and south swells, so if one beach is flat or blown out, there’s often a better break just a short drive away, so the team can always find the best conditions for you!
There’s a number of accommodation options to choose from. TSE runs yoga weeks, surf safaris, longboarding stays, and a ‘New Year’s Surfing Bonanza.‘
On one of their camps you’ll enjoy full days of surfing led by their experienced team, followed by evening activities, whether that’s going to some of the best restaurants in Lagos, or enjoying a three course dinner on the rooftop cooked by their experienced chefs. They offer a friendly vibe with a sprinkle of aprés surf, promising that you’ll have the opportunity to boogie before you leave.
Gather & Glide
Cornwall
Gather & Glide
Location: Cornwall
Gather & Glide offer progressive surf coaching designed specifically for women and non-binary surfers. Run by a team of passionate surf coaches with over 26 years of experience, their mission is to help you build confidence, feel good, and take your surfing to the next level.
With small group intakes on every course, you’ll get plenty of time with your coach, to provide the support you need to truly progress.
Each course combines on-land theory, insightful video feedback, and in-water coaching to provide a clear path for your surfing journey.
But it’s not just about technique. Gather & Glide creates space for open, honest conversations around the mental side of surfing: the frustrations, the breakthroughs, and the emotional highs and lows that come with the sport.
Gather & Glide believe surfing should nourish your mind, body, and soul. On their courses, you will find a community, make new friends, and reconnect with yourself.
Align with Nature
Morocco
Align With Nature
Location: Imsouane, Morocco
Join Ines in the stunning beach town of Imsouane for a transformative week of yoga, surfing, and exploration. The ‘Align with Nature’ retreat invites you to connect deeply with nature through yoga practices inspired by the elements of earth, air, fire, and water, creating harmony within yourself and with the world around you.
Each day, you’ll practice yoga on a beautiful rooftop, focusing on Asanas, Pranayama, and meditation. These sessions are designed to ground you and awaken your inner balance.
Surfing will be an integral part of the journey as you connect with the ocean and learn valuable lessons from its powerful presence. Surf classes will be led by experienced longboard surfer Abdo Laanaya. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills, this retreat is for all levels.
A week of rejuvenation, growth, and connection—whether through yoga or surf, this retreat is open to everyone.
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