The best surfing destinations in Europe, with low emissions and without breaking the bank!
Jean-Pierre Vernhes
4 min de lecture
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Introduction
Surfing is a passion that can sometimes be expensive, between equipment, transport and accommodation. Fortunately, it's possible to enjoy exceptional waves while limiting your expenses and carbon footprint. By choosing European destinations accessible by train, bus or carpool, surfers can reduce their environmental impact while living their passion. Here's a selection of the best affordable surf spots in Europe.
1. Peniche, Portugal
Peniche is one of the best surfing destinations in Spain.
Europe and remains very affordable.
With spots like Supertubos and Baleal, it offers a wide variety of waves for all levels. What's more, it can be reached by train or bus from Lisbon, reducing the carbon footprint of the journey.
Best period: September to April
Wave types: beach breaks and reef breaks
Level: beginner to expert
Average cost: cheap hostel accommodation, cheap food
Eco-friendly transport: bus or train from Lisbon
2. Hossegor, France
Hossegor is a European reference for surfing, renowned for its world-class beach breaks. Easily accessible by train from Bordeaux or Paris, it avoids the need to fly. Outside the peak summer season, the cost of living is reasonable, with numerous affordable youth hostels and campsites.
Best period: September to November
Wave type: beach breaks
Level: intermediate to expert
Average cost: youth hostels and cheap campsites
Eco-friendly transport: direct train from Paris and Bordeaux
3. Ericeira, Portugal
Listed as a world surfing reserve, Ericeira is an ideal destination for eco-responsible surfers. The town offers eco-friendly accommodation and is accessible by bus from Lisbon. Its varied waves make it a must-see spot for surfers of all levels.
Best period: September to April
Wave types: beach breaks and reef breaks
Level: beginner to expert
Medium cost: budget accommodation and affordable local restaurants
Eco-friendly transport: bus from Lisbon
4. San Vicente de la Barquera, Spain
Less crowded than other Spanish spots, San Vicente de la Barquera offers a relaxed atmosphere and waves accessible to all. Located in Cantabria, the town can be reached by train or bus from Bilbao or Santander, making it an excellent option for an eco-responsible surf trip.
Best period: September to June
Wave type: beach breaks
Level: beginner to intermediate
Average cost: budget hostels and pensions
Eco-friendly transport: train and bus from Bilbao or Santander
5. Biarritz, France
Biarritz, the surfing capital of France, offers mythical surf spots accessible all year round. Its major ecological advantage is its efficient public transport network, which means that car use is limited. To keep costs down, youth hostels and off-season camping are excellent options.
Best period: September to November
Wave types: beach breaks and reef breaks
Level: beginner to expert
Average cost: inexpensive hostels and campsites
Eco-friendly transport: direct train from Paris and Bordeaux, local buses
6. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Lanzarote is an affordable surf destination for those who want to avoid far-flung destinations while enjoying a pleasant year-round climate. With affordable accommodation and food, it remains a good option when it comes to offsetting the emissions of air travel.
Best period: October to April
Wave types: reef breaks and beach breaks
Level: intermediate to expert
Average cost: budget accommodation and meals
Eco-friendly transport: opt for direct flights and offset your carbon emissions
7. Newquay, United Kingdom
Newquay, Cornwall, is a popular surf spot in the UK. Accessible by train from London, it allows you to avoid flying and enjoy a relaxed surfing atmosphere without leaving Europe. Prices are reasonable, and there's plenty of budget accommodation on offer.
Best period: May to October
Wave type: beach breaks
Level: beginner to intermediate
Average cost: affordable hostels and campsites
Green transport: train from London
Conclusion
Travelling to surf doesn't have to mean spending a fortune or harming the environment. By favoring public transport, choosing eco-friendly accommodation and limiting long-haul flights, it's possible to reduce your carbon footprint while enjoying exceptional waves. These affordable European destinations are ideal for a responsible and affordable surf trip.
