Surf in Castellon: Best beaches and prices

Castellon is one of those hidden gems the Mediterranean has in store for sea lovers. While many people associate it with calm beaches and sunny weather, the truth is that surf in Castellon has taken off in recent years, thanks to its consistent waves, laid-back vibe, and a wide range of surf spots spread across Benicassim, Oropesa del Mar, Burriana, and Peniscola.

This Valencian province blends the warmth of the Mediterranean coastline with ideal conditions for learning or improving your skills on the board. Its beaches are wide, sandy-bottomed, and free of dangerous currents, making them perfect both for beginners and for surfers who want to enjoy the waves without the crowds.

In this guide, we’ll show you where to find the best spots for surf in Castellon, the best times of year to catch waves, how much it costs to practice the sport in the area, and how to get started in this corner of Spain’s eastern coast that’s quickly earning a reputation as one of the country’s most relaxed and authentic surf destinations.

What are the best places to surf in Castellon?

While the Mediterranean doesn’t have the raw power of the Atlantic, Castellon offers an ideal mix of gentle waves, warm weather, and open beaches that make surfing possible for much of the year. Swell usually arrives with easterly and southeasterly winds, creating perfect conditions for beginners and intermediate surfers.

From Benicassim to Peniscola, the province boasts around a dozen spots that work well with incoming swell, and where a growing surf vibe can be felt year after year. This rising surf culture is reflected in a solid number of specialist surf shops, as well as a variety of events and competitions held throughout the province. Castellon’s beaches also stand out for their many seafront restaurants and bars, perfect for refueling after a long day.

If you are considering Castellon as a surfing destination, take note of the following beaches:

Gurugú Beach – Castellon de la Plana

Just north of the city, about a 10-minute drive from downtown, Gurugú Beach is a favorite among surfers in the provincial capital. Its long, wide stretch of sand and consistently gentle waves make it perfect for beginners and longboard enthusiasts alike.

When easterly or northeasterly winds pick up, the waves usually range from about 0.5 to 1.5 meters, making for fun and safe surfing sessions. The beach also has showers, parking, and several nearby beach bars.

You can rent boards here, join intensive programs, or book private lessons throughout the year. The area also has all the comforts of a city beach, with beach bars that stay open late, plenty of services, and even a nearby park for children. Lifeguards are on duty, which is especially reassuring when you’re out in the water.

In short, it is an excellent place to start your visit to the city of Castellon.

Serradal Beach – Castellon de la Plana

Separated from Gurugú by a protected dune system, Serradal Beach offers a quieter, less crowded atmosphere. It’s easy to reach by road and has free parking available.

The waves here tend to be faster and cleaner than at Gurugú, especially when there’s a southeast swell. That’s why it’s a go-to spot for local intermediate surfers looking for laid-back sessions without too many people in the lineup.

In the surrounding area, you can also find rental equipment or contact independent instructors who operate during the high season.

El Pinar Beach – Castellon de la Plana

Another highly regarded urban spot among local surfers, Pinar Beach sits between Gurugú and Serradal and delivers short but reliable waves when easterly winds blow.

It’s easy to get to, with nearby parking and plenty of bars and restaurants just a short walk away. In winter, when the coast picks up more energy, the waves can be surprisingly good. It’s a great option for quick sessions if you’re staying in the city.

Benicassim Beach – Torreón and Els Terrers

Benicassim is the surfing hub of the province. Just 15 minutes from Castellon, it features two standout areas. Torreón Beach is perfect for beginners thanks to its sandy bottom and long, mellow waves, while Els Terrers is known for its angled breaks that form small right-handers, ideal for working on turns and short maneuvers.

During the fall and winter months, when the sea gains strength, you will often see groups of local surfers taking advantage of the swells.

Several surf schools operate here, including Beni Surf Club and Costa Azahar Surf School, offering group lessons and board rentals. The area also has beachside bars, changing rooms, and all the services you need right by the sand, making it easy to spend the entire day in and out of the water.

Morro de Gos Beach – Oropesa del Mar

About 30 minutes north of Castellon, Morro de Gos Beach offers easy access and consistent waves, especially in autumn. You can reach it directly from the seafront promenade, which also has areas with free parking.

With a sandy bottom and sections that produce clean, well-shaped one-meter waves, it’s a great spot for intermediate surfers and longboarders. It’s usually less crowded than Benicassim, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for more room in the lineup.

During peak season, surf schools run courses and camps for all ages, often including paddleboarding and skate sessions to enhance the experience.

Arenal Beach – Burriana

Further down the coast, Burriana’s Arenal Beach stands out as a prime surf spot in Castellon. Its long, expansive shoreline and southeast-facing position make it especially good when easterly winds pick up.

When the swell is mild, the beach delivers long, gentle waves that are perfect for beginners and surf schools. In winter and spring, as the sea picks up strength, it can also provide fun sessions for intermediate surfers.

The Burriana Surf School, located next to the port, offers courses and equipment rental, as well as surfskate lessons to improve your balance out of the water.

Norte Beach – Peniscola

At the northern tip of the province, Norte Beach in Peniscola is famous for its views dominated by the Papa Luna castle and for being one of the few Mediterranean spots where surfing meets historic tourism. It’s an urban beach with all the amenities you’d expect, including lifeguards and rescue services.

When an easterly swell rolls in, the waves can reach a meter or more, breaking over a sandy bottom with smooth, predictable sections. It’s perfect for longboarders and beginner surfers.

Along the seafront, you’ll find several surf and paddle schools offering lessons year-round, as well as board and wetsuit rentals. The area is also ideal for combining water sports with hiking or cultural visits.

Russo Beach – Alcossebre

Tucked inside the Serra d’Irta Natural Park, Russo Beach is one of Castellon’s most untouched surf spots. Getting there requires a drive along a dirt road from Alcossebre, but the reward is a breathtaking natural setting, perfect for those who love unspoiled landscapes and good surf.

The waves break over a rocky bottom and tend to be faster, making this spot best suited for intermediate and advanced surfers. In other words, it’s perfect for those looking for more technical surfing in a natural setting away from the crowds. Keep in mind, though, that there are no lifeguard services here.

Romana Beach – Alcossebre

Further north, Romana Beach is another option with reliable waves in autumn and winter. Its sandy bottom creates long, gentle waves, ideal for longboarders and beginners.

The area has a few surf schools that run seasonal, small-group lessons, especially on weekends when conditions are more consistent.

Carregador Beach – Alcossebre

Just a short walk from the town center, this beach is one of the most accessible and reliable in the area. When easterly winds blow, it produces waves between 0.5 and 1.2 meters, perfect for relaxed sessions with beginners and families.

The area offers all the usual amenities, along with equipment rentals during peak season, making it a great spot to combine surfing with relaxation or a full day at the beach.

In short, Castellon offers a wide range of beaches where you can surf nearly year-round, with well-established schools, safe waves, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s not a destination for big waves, but it is a paradise for laid-back surfers, beginners, and longboarders looking to enjoy the Mediterranean with a true surf vibe.

Connectivity in Castellon – Staying connected

Castellon is a province with a long, wide coastline, where beaches stretch for dozens of kilometers and surfing can take you from one end to the other, from Peniscola to Burriana, through Benicassim or Alcossebre. That’s why having internet access is essential for surfers traveling with their board and phone as their guide.

In the main towns, Castellon de la Plana, Benicassim, Oropesa del Mar, Burriana, and Peniscola, mobile reception is strong, and most hotels, cafés, and surf camps provide free WiFi. In contrast, more remote spots like the Serra d’Irta Natural Park or some secluded beaches near Alcossebre may have a weak signal or none at all.

If you plan to hop between different beaches or stay in a camper van, a Holafly eSIM is the perfect companion. It gives you unlimited data across Spain and can be activated in minutes without swapping your physical SIM. This way, you can check surf reports, get in touch with surf schools, or share your sessions without worrying about roaming or signal issues.

Plus, if your trip takes you to other Mediterranean spots like Valencia or Alicante, the eSIM keeps working with no extra charges. However, if you plan to visit other surf destinations, such as Peniche in Portugal, or want to mix remote work with your surf sessions, a monthly unlimited data plan is ideal. This way, you’ll have internet not just in Spain, but across Europe and many other countries, allowing you to cross borders without losing your connection.

Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

When is the best season for surfing in Castellon?

You can surf in Castellon almost all year round, but conditions vary depending on the season. Being in the Mediterranean, the sea is heavily influenced by the wind and storms coming from the east, so some days the waves are strong and lively, while on others the water is calm and gentle.

The best time to surf in Castellon is from October to April, when easterly and northeasterly swells become more frequent. During these months, beaches in Benicassim, Oropesa, Burriana, and Castellon de la Plana enjoy consistent waves ranging from 0.5 to 1.5 meters. Water temperatures are mild, around 18 °C, and the coastline stays calm, far from the summer crowds.

In winter, the waves are usually more consistent and powerful, though the water drops to around 14–15 °C, so a 4/3 mm wetsuit is recommended. This is the favorite season for local surfers, as the beaches are nearly empty and you can enjoy long, uninterrupted sessions.

Spring and autumn are also great times to surf, especially if you’re looking for a balance between pleasant weather and stable conditions. The sea starts to pick up, and surf schools reopen their group lessons, particularly in Benicassim and Peniscola, where the waves stay gentle and consistent.

Summer, on the other hand, is perfect for beginners or longboarders. The waves are smaller, but the water warms up to 24–26 °C, making it possible to surf without a wetsuit. Surf lessons become more frequent, and the beaches are full of amenities, making it an ideal time for families and those just starting out.

All in all, Castellon is a laid-back yet versatile surf destination. If you’re after consistent waves and fewer crowds, autumn and winter are your best bet. If you prefer warm weather and a relaxed vibe, summer offers gentle but unforgettable sessions on the Mediterranean.

How much does it cost to surf in Castellon?

Castellon is a great place to learn to surf without breaking the bank. Unlike the more crowded northern provinces of Spain, prices here are more affordable, and surf schools offer a friendly, welcoming atmosphere with local instructors and small groups.

Most surf lessons come with everything you need, including a board, wetsuit, leash, and insurance, so there is no need to bring your own gear. Costs depend on the course type, duration, and season, but overall, prices are lower than in regions like the Basque Country or the Canary Islands. Here are some examples to give you an idea:

• Private lesson for beginners: Around $38 to $50 per hour. These usually include a private instructor, all the necessary equipment, and insurance. Most surf schools in Castellon offer lessons like this.
• Beginners group course (2 days): Around $65 to $87 for two 90-minute sessions. These typically include a board, wetsuit, insurance, and a basic technical review. They are usually held in small groups of up to six people, making them a great option for beginners, families, or friends.
• Board and wetsuit rental: Prices vary between schools, but on average they are around $16 to $22 per hour or $32 to $38 per day. This includes a board, wetsuit, and leash.
• Sunset longboard lesson: Around $43 to $54 per session (1 hour 30 minutes). This includes a longboard instructor, all necessary equipment, and photos of your experience.
• Surf & Yoga Experience: Some surf schools in the province offer this experience. It’s a unique package that includes a surf lesson, a yoga session, and relaxation by the sea, perfect for anyone looking to combine physical and mental balance.

On average, surfing in Castellon costs between $32 and $108 depending on the type of lesson, with prices staying fairly consistent throughout the year. The advantage is that the mild climate makes it possible to surf almost any month, so there are always schools open and good conditions to enjoy the Mediterranean on a board.

How to start surfing in Castellon?

Learning to surf in Castellon is easier than it seems. The province’s beaches have sandy bottoms, gentle waves, and experienced surf schools, making it an ideal spot for beginners. If it’s your first time on a board, it’s best to take a few lessons with a local instructor, who will help you get comfortable in the water and build confidence from your very first session.

The easiest way to get started is with a beginner lesson, typically lasting one to two hours. You’ll learn the fundamentals, like paddling, finding your stance, popping up on the board, and reading the waves. Surf schools in Benicassim, Burriana, and Castellon de la Plana are great for this, offering year-round group or private lessons in spots with gentle, predictable waves.

The gear you need is simple: a softboard for stability and safety, and a 3/2 mm wetsuit during the colder months. In summer, you can even surf without one. All schools provide the equipment, so all you need to bring is sunscreen, water, and plenty of enthusiasm.

The key is to stay consistent and patient. Mediterranean waves don’t come every day, but when they do, they’re perfect for relaxed practice. Spend a couple of weekends in a row, and you’ll notice your balance improving and the sea starting to feel familiar. The best part is that Castellon still offers the calm and open space that many other surf destinations have long lost.

Frequently asked questions about surfing in Castellon

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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