Cantabria Surfing: A Beginner's Guide

Cantabria has a real claim to being where Spanish surfing began — the first boards were ridden on this coast back in the 1960s, and the region even declared one of Europe's first official Surf Reserves. Happily for beginners, it is also blessed with gentle, sandy beaches perfect for a first wave.

Where do beginners learn in Cantabria?

The classic beginner hub is Somo, across the bay from Santander, famous for peaks suited to every level — though it is a good hour's drive from the Cabuérniga valley. Closer to Casa Agara, the beaches around Oyambre and Comillas (about half an hour away) offer beginner-friendly zones in beautiful, protected surroundings — check with the school which beach and peak suits your level on the day.

Is Cantabria good surf, or just a fallback?

It is genuinely good — a proper Atlantic surf coast with a deep local culture, not a consolation prize. For a beginner, its mix of gentle beach breaks and stunning scenery is hard to beat.

When should a beginner come?

Summer — the smaller, warmer swell from June to September is the friendliest for learning. You will still want the wetsuit the schools provide.

Do I need to bring anything?

Just swimwear; boards and wetsuits come with the lesson.

*Ask us about learning here, or see the Green Spain weeks on Spice Escapes →.