Numb fingers, fumbling with a rusty lockbox that you swore you’d oil back in warmer summer days. A desperate attempt to grasp a set of jangling keys and escape the biting winter wind. The dream of a warm shower is all that keeps you moving.
If you surf in the UK during the winter, then I’m sure you are familiar with the post-surf-carpark-dance. Whether you’re brand new to surfing, or have been riding waves since you were just a little grom, it’s highly unlikely that 5mm rubber, complete with hood, boots and gloves, and 8 degree waters, is your dream of surfing. Whilst we can consider ourselves extremely lucky to have year-round waves here on the British Isles, the dark depths of a British winter can be off-putting for many. It is for this reason that a lot of British surfers head overseas to warmer climes in the winter months - whether that is for a week, a month, or perhaps even the entire season. If you are new to surfing you might feel unsure or overwhelmed by the options for a winter surf trip. Keep reading, for some important things to consider and some destinations ideas.
Before booking your trip, be sure to check out….
Swell forecast - Make sure the surf is right for your level, at the time of year you plan to visit. There is no point in heading to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, in May unless you are looking for triple overhead waves. Likewise, if you want to improve your shortboarding, you shouldn’t plan a trip to a mellow break when the swell is at its smallest. There are a multitude of websites offering information about swell and conditions, based on time of year. Some we recommend checking out are:
Break type - There are three types of surf breaks to be aware of:
Beach breaks – Everyone can enjoy a fun beach break, but this type of wave tends to be the best option for beginner surfers, as there will be plenty of white water for practicing pop-ups and only soft sand beneath the water when you fall. These waves are formed by swell breaking over sandbars, and as sand can shift around, they can be inconsistent and messy at times.
Point breaks – These waves are found where a piece of land (or jetty) juts out into the sea. They are formed by swell wrapping around the headland, and tend to create long and well-formed waves that are more consistent than beach breaks. Point breaks are ideal for advanced beginners and intermediate surfers, but beware – the take-off zone (the area where we pop-up onto a wave) will be smaller than at a beach break, meaning more surfers competing for the same wave.
Reef breaks – Created by waves breaking over rock or coral reefs, these breaks tend to be better suited to advanced surfers (especially when the water is shallow), or confident intermediate surfers. As the rock or coral surface doesn’t move, waves break cleanly and consistently, providing a playground of opportunity for surfers that come to enjoy what’s on offer.
Weather conditions - Rainy season is a common feature of the tropics, so make sure you check the seasonal climate before planning a trip. You don’t want to be showing up in southern Nicaragua in September just as the torrential rains arrive. That defeats the point of leaving England, doesn’t it?
Accessibility - Check how far the surf break is from your accommodation. Sometimes there are a variety of surf spots, and the beginners break could be a car ride away from town, or your accommodation. In this case, you might want to consider renting a car (don’t forget to bring soft-straps so you can move surfboards around) or signing up with a surf school or surf guide.
The vibe - there are spots that are known for localism and as a beginner it might be best to avoid these.
Speaking with other surfers, particularly those that have done a lot of surf travel, is a great way to get an insight before planning a trip. Surfers love to share their tales of adventure, and most people will have a spot or two to recommend. Now you know what to consider when booking your winter surf trip. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:
Budget-friendly Surf Trips
Imsouane, Morocco
Morocco feels like a world away from the UK – with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes and bustling towns, full of bright colours and exotic aromas. Morocco’s Atlantic coastline also makes it perfect for a budget-friendly winter surf-trip from the UK. There are a number of surf spots to choose from, but Imsouane is an ideal place to start for beginner and intermediate surfers, thanks to its world-famous, long, peeling right-hand point break. Flights are frequent and affordable from London to Agadir (many of the budget airlines fly this route, including Ryanair and EasyJet) - plus you’ll be there in under four hours. The once sleepy fishing village of Imsouane is now a mecca for surfers from around the world and the fast-growing town is set up for surf tourism, with a wide variety of surf camps and hostels offering accommodation, board rental, lessons, guiding and delicious Moroccan food. There are two breaks to choose from and both are walking distance from town, so you won’t need a car to get around. You will need a wetsuit during the winter, but a 4mm (perhaps even a 3mm depending on your tendency to run hot or cold) will suffice.
If you fancy a trip to Imsouane but don’t want to worry about all the logistic then why not book onto our February Morocco retreat? Not only will you enjoy being taken care of by our amazing Rewilding crew, but you’ll also meet a wonderful group of likeminded individuals that you’ll share this adventure with. Details can be found here.
Arrifana, Portugal
Portugal is another great winter surf destination that can be visited on a budget. Whilst most foreign visitors flock to the Algarve, in the south, the less-visited region of Aljezur, on the western coast, has some of the most picturesque coastline (and surf spots) in all of Europe, minus the crowds! Arrifana is one of Rewild Retreats’ favourite destinations - this sheltered bay offers consistent waves year round, against an incredible backdrop of dramatic cliffs and golden sands. Arrifana provides a beach break that is perfect for all levels, with plenty of gentle rollers for newbies and some more challenging swell for experienced chargers. We are offering a Portugal retreat this October and are excited to share some of the magic that Arrifana has to offer! Click here for more information.
Mid-Budget Surf Trips
Lanzarote, Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are located off the north west coast of Africa and provide a great winter escape for European surfers that don’t want to head too far afield. Numerous budget airlines run flights to the islands and they can be reached in approximately 4 hours. The island of Lanzarote is a popular choice for surfers, and has a variety of surf spots to suit all levels. Head north to Playa de Famara – a large beach break with plenty of space and waves for all abilities. Famara is a cute surf town, offering lots of surfer friendly accommodation, surf camps, board rentals and yoga studios. If you have some surf experience under your belt, and a set of wheels, then we recommend heading to La Santa. This spot consists of three waves (La Santa Left, La Santa Right and La Santa Centre). While the left and right waves are powerful and best for advanced surfers, the central wave is mellow and a perfect spot for intermediate surfers wanting to try out a reef break.
High-Budget Surf Trips
Weligama, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a magical island that can be characterized by its vibrant colours, lush green landscape and the warm smiles of its inhabits. Wherever you go, you’ll be accompanied by the aromas of homemade dahl or burning incense. This island nation has a great deal to offer, and that is before you even get in the surf. Direct flights from London take around 11 hours and are operated by Sri Lankan Airlines; cheaper options are available if you are willing to have a layover. There are two main surf regions in Sri Lanka and the one you visit is going to be dependent on the time of year you are travelling. The south coast is generally best from November to April and the east coast from April to October. Over the British winter, you will want to head south, and Weligama is a perfect place to base yourself. A wide sandy beach, lined with colourful fishing boats and tropical palm trees – there is plenty of space to practice surfing whether you are a beginner or more experienced wave rider. Tuk tuks are the transportation of choice and local drivers will whizz you between the local surf breaks. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of warm air brushing your face as you cruise along the coastal road, surfboards strapped to the roof, anticipating a tropical December surf.
If you want to get away this winter, and would like us to take care of the logistics, then make sure to check the Rewild website for full details of our winter surf retreats. We’d love you to join our Rewild family on an epic winter adventure!
That’s all from me – make sure to look out for the next month’s Rewild Newsletter.
Nikki and the Rewild Team
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