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Best surfing destinations in Europe

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Nazaré
Giant Waves and Coastal Charm
8.1
An underwater canyon off this town gathers and focuses ocean swell into huge waves. Praia do Norte is listed in Guinness World Records for the biggest waves ever surfed. Sebastian Steudtner rode a 26.2 metre wave there in 2020. The lighthouse at Fort São Miguel Arcanjo is a popular place to watch the surfers.
Highlights:
  • 🐟 Sample fresh grilled sardines at a seaside restaurant
  • 🚠 Ride the funicular to Sítio for panoramic coastal views
  • 🏄‍♂️ Surf on the world's biggest surfable waves
Biarritz
Surf, Style and Basque Flair
8.3
In 1957 a Californian friend of Peter Viertel rode a surfboard off this city. Viertel was in town to film The Sun Also Rises. The ride is recognised as the first time surfing was practised in Europe. Today the Côte des Basques beach hosts the Biarritz Surf Festival, founded in 1993.
Highlights:
  • 🚶‍♀️ Stroll the elegant promenade along Grande Plage
  • 🌅 Watch the sunset from the Rocher de la Vierge
  • 🏄‍♂️ Surf the legendary waves at Côte des Basques
Ericeira
Europe’s Surf Sanctuary by the Sea
7.9
Since 2011 this town has been named a World Surfing Reserve. About forty beaches nearby have good surfing conditions. Ribeira d'Ilhas, about 2 kilometres north of town, has hosted World Tour events. The town started as a fishing port and is about 35 kilometres northwest of Lisbon.
Highlights:
  • 🌅 Watch sunsets from Miradouro de Ribeira d’Ilhas viewpoint
  • 🚶‍♀️ Stroll historic old town’s cobbled streets and white houses
  • 🏄‍♂️ Surf legendary waves at Praia Ribeira d’Ilhas beach
Canary Islands
Spain's volcanic paradise year-round
9.0
Fast hollow waves form tubes over a volcanic seabed on Fuerteventura. El Confital on Gran Canaria is a right-hand reef break on volcanic rock. Izquierda de Las Palmeras on Tenerife has long left-handers and surf schools. Lanzarote has El Quemao, a fast break for experienced surfers near the fishing village of La Santa.
Highlights:
  • 🐬 Explore the marine life at Loro Parque, Tenerife
  • 🌋 Visit Timanfaya National Park’s volcanic landscape in Lanzarote
  • ⛰️ Hike to the summit of Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak
Algarve
Golden cliffs and azure waters
8.5
Tonel, near Sagres, faces west and catches Atlantic swells. Gentler spots like Mareta and Martinhal are good for beginners because swells lose power around the headland. Arrifana has a beach break and many surf schools. Both coasts of this region have surf, since swells also wrap around the Sagres headland to the south.
Highlights:
  • 🏰 Visit Lagos Old Town and its historic fortifications
  • 🌊 Relax on Praia da Marinha, one of Europe’s best beaches
  • ⛱️ Explore the stunning sea caves and cliffs of Benagil
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