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If you’re thinking about taking on the waves of the Cantabrian Sea, surfing in Suances has become one of the most sought-after experiences in northern Spain. The area offers beaches suited to every level, from complete beginners stepping on a board for the first time to experienced surfers looking for more challenging conditions. In this guide, you’ll find the best spots to surf in Suances, the ideal seasons to catch the waves at their best, what to expect in terms of lesson and equipment rental prices, and practical tips to help you get started if you’re new to surfing.

By the time you finish reading, you will have everything you need to enjoy surf in Suances like a local and get the most out of every day in the ocean.

Best places to surf in Suances

Before jumping into the water, it’s a good idea to find out where the best places to surf in Suances are, each with its own charm and level of difficulty.

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Best places to surf in Suances. Source: Shutterstock

Los Locos Beach

If there is one beach that truly stands out in Suances, it is Los Locos. Set beneath dramatic cliffs, it is a magnet for surfers chasing powerful waves. The ocean here rarely disappoints, with solid conditions throughout the year. While winter can be demanding, summer is more forgiving and ideal if you want to push your skills a bit further. The beach has a genuine surf vibe, and it often hosts competitions and events that add even more energy to the experience.

La Concha Beach

La Concha Beach is the most convenient choice if you want to surf without leaving the heart of Suances. Its waves are gentler and more consistent than those at Los Locos, making it a great spot for beginners as well as for relaxed, easygoing sessions.

In the summer months, it’s usually the perfect spot for learning, while the rest of the year it’s a great alternative when the waves at other beaches get too strong. The beach also comes alive with quirky events like the Surfing Dogs Championship, adding a fun and unique twist to the local surf scene.

Tagle Beach (El Sable)

If you’re looking for a more natural setting with fewer crowds, Tagle Beach is the place to be. This secluded cove, surrounded by cliffs, offers stunning scenery and a much calmer atmosphere than the other beaches in Suances. The waves here tend to be stronger, so some experience is recommended before taking them on. But when the conditions are right, surfing at Tagle is an unforgettable experience, far from the hustle and bustle of the busier spots.

La Tablía

Smaller and more tucked away, La Tablía is the kind of beach that surprises you. Getting there isn’t the easiest, but once you arrive, you’ll find a spot full of character, perfect for experienced surfers. With no facilities or lifeguards, it offers a wilder, more authentic experience. It’s one of those spots that capture the true surfing spirit of Suances and is worth visiting if you’re looking for something different.

Suances Estuary Mouth

The Suances Estuary Mouth offers a different kind of surfing experience. Here, the waves form at the river’s mouth, creating a more sheltered environment that can sometimes be gentler than the open beaches. On calm days, it’s perfect for beginners or anyone who prefers soft, long waves, like longboarders. Just keep in mind that after heavy rains, water quality isn’t always ideal.

Connectivity while surfing in Suances

Surfing in Suances is the perfect way to unplug and enjoy the ocean, but having a reliable internet connection can still be useful for sharing your waves, keeping in touch with friends, or checking live surf conditions. If you are traveling from abroad, a Holafly eSIM is a convenient option that gives you mobile internet as soon as you arrive in Spain.

With Holafly’s monthly plans, you can choose the duration that best fits your trip without worrying about physical SIM cards or roaming charges. Simply activate the eSIM and start browsing. If Spain is your main destination, there is a dedicated Spain eSIM, perfect for staying connected while enjoying your surf sessions in Suances or exploring other spots along the Cantabrian coast.

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! 🚀🌍

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Recommended seasons for surfing in Suances

The waves in the Cantabrian Sea change a lot throughout the year. Here’s a seasonal guide showing the best months, the key days to watch for, and the advantages of visiting at each time.

  • Fall (September–November): A safe bet. This is when the best, most consistent waves arrive, the winds are more favorable, and the beaches are less crowded than in summer. If you have some experience, it’s the perfect time to enjoy Los Locos and the nearby coves. October, in particular, often brings excellent conditions at Tagle.
  • Winter (December–March): For advanced surfers. The waves get powerful and demanding, with long sets and challenging conditions, but the payoff is top-quality, less crowded peaks. This is peak season in the Cantabrian surf scene, and big-wave spots like La Vaca Gigante in Santander can put on an epic show.
  • Spring (April–May): Good waves and a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll still get some exciting swells mixed with calmer days, making it a great balance for those who want surf without the crowds and more budget-friendly prices outside the high season.
  • Summer (June–August): Gentle waves make this the perfect time for beginners. The weather is at its most stable, with smaller waves and plenty of calm days, ideal for lessons, longboarding, or just relaxed sessions at La Concha. The water is warmer, around 20–21 °C from July to September, and the seafront is full of life.

Days and dates to consider for your trip:

  • Beach lifeguard service: Usually open daily from June 16 to September 15 (11:30 AM–7:30 PM), and on weekends from May 31 to June 15 and September 16 to 30. If you visit during these periods, the main beaches will have active lifeguard coverage.
  • Events and atmosphere: In mid-June, Suances hosts the DingoDog Surf, the European Surfing Championship for Dogs, at La Concha (June 14–15, 2025), making it a fun event to enjoy along the seafront.

In short, autumn brings the most consistent waves, winter is for those chasing power, spring offers a mix of surf and calm, and summer is ideal for beginners and for soaking up the lively beach atmosphere with warmer water.

Costs for surfing in Suances

One of the biggest advantages of surfing in Suances is that you don’t need to bring all your gear. There are plenty of surf schools and camps where you can rent boards and wetsuits, and some even offer complete packages with lessons and accommodation.

  • Equipment rental: Renting a surfboard usually costs between $6 and $15 per hour, or around $20–30 for a full day in the water. A wetsuit adds about $8–12 per day. Many schools also offer board and wetsuit packages for roughly $20–30, depending on how long you rent them.
  • Surf lessons: If it’s your first time or you want to improve your technique, group lessons usually cost around $30–35 for a two-hour session, with all equipment included. Booking multiple lessons often comes with discounts.
  • Surf camps and complete packages: If you’re looking for a more immersive experience, multi-day packages start at around $110–130 during the low season. It’s a great way to live surf life around the clock and meet like-minded people.

Prices are quite affordable compared to other European surf destinations, with options for those who just want to try a single lesson as well as for those planning to spend a full week enjoying the waves in Suances.

Tips for optimizing your budget

  • If you sign up for several classes or a full course, many schools offer discounts or cheaper rates per session.
  • Some schools offer discounts on rentals if you are a student in their courses (for example, Bio Surf Camp offers a 30% discount for students).
  • If you plan to spend several days in Suances, booking a surf camp package with lodging, lessons, and gear often works out cheaper per day than paying for separate sessions.

How to start surfing in Suances

If you are new to surfing in Suances, starting with a local surf school is the easiest way to get started. They provide everything you need, including an instructor, a soft board, and a wetsuit, so you can quickly learn how to paddle, stand up, and move safely in the water.

When it comes to equipment, you do not need to buy anything at the beginning. Boards and wetsuits can be rented at the surf schools for a reasonable price. The thickness of the wetsuit depends on the season, with lighter suits around 3/2 mm in summer and thicker ones like 4/3 or 5/4 mm in winter, since the water can get quite cold.

Before heading out, it’s a good idea to check the surf report and the tides. This will help you pick the best time of day to catch the waves and avoid any surprises. It’s also important to follow the lifeguards’ instructions, who are on duty at the main beaches during the high season from June to September.

When it comes to beaches, La Concha is ideal for beginners thanks to its gentler waves. If you have some experience and are looking for more of a challenge, Los Locos or Tagle offer tougher conditions.

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Images of surfing in Suances. Source: Shutterstock

Frequently asked questions about surfing in Suances

What is the best beach for surfing in Suances if I am a beginner?

La Concha Beach is the most recommended for beginners, as its waves tend to be gentler and more manageable.

Where do the most experienced surfers go in Suances?

Advanced surfers usually choose Los Locos or Tagle, beaches with more powerful and challenging waves.

Do I need to bring my own surfing equipment?

No, there are several schools and surf camps in Suances that rent boards and wetsuits by the hour or day.

Can I learn to surf in just a few days?

With a few lessons, you can get up on the board and start enjoying yourself. Your progress depends on your consistency and the sea conditions.

Do I need to book lessons or equipment in advance?

We recommend booking in summer, as demand is high. Outside of peak season, there is usually more availability.

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Paula Henderson

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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