AI Summary
Autumn and winter in Europe are not just colder seasons, they are secret surf heaven. While summer crowds head home, surfers who love adventure grab their boards, jump into a motorhome, and chase the best breaks across the continent. Traveling by RV or motorhome makes the journey even better, turning a surf trip into a full on road trip adventure.
Why Surf Europe in the Off Season?
First, the waves. Autumn and winter bring stronger swells across the Atlantic, which means bigger and more consistent surf. Besides, you will find lineups less crowded, so you can enjoy more waves with just a few fellow riders. In fact, traveling by campervan in these months adds comfort, warm showers, cozy beds, and even portable heaters keep you stoked after a chilly session.
Also, Europe’s coastal roads are perfect for slow, scenic drives. From Portugal’s dramatic cliffs to France’s pine forests and Spain’s golden beaches, every stop can be your next surf camp. With Indie Campers’ unlimited mileage, you do not need to worry about distance. Just follow the swell, wherever it takes you.
Portugal: The Atlantic Playground
Portugal is Europe’s top surf destination, and autumn and winter make it shine. Peniche turns into a global surf stage every October, with waves at Supertubos that barrel like crazy. Besides, Ericeira, a World Surfing Reserve, keeps the stoke alive with reef breaks for every level. And down south, the Algarve offers warmer water and mellow surf spots, perfect for beginner sessions.
You can also find some epic hidden gems like Praia de Adraga near Sintra, with dramatic cliffs and punchy waves, or Praia do Amado on the Costa Vicentina, a favourite for all levels. Secret bays such as Arrifana and Castelejo in the Algarve fire up in winter, offering powerful surf with smaller crowds.
The best part? With a campervan, you can park near the coast, cook your own meal with a kitchen kit, and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.
France: Endless Beach Breaks
The southwest coast of France is another autumn winter paradise. Hossegor is known as the “European Pipeline” for its heavy beach breaks, attracting pros and ambitious travellers alike. However, if you drive a little further down the Landes coastline, you will discover quieter beaches where waves peel gently and the vibe is more relaxed.
Around Bayonne and Biarritz, there are also secret spots that locals love, offering quality waves with smaller crowds. And when the swell takes a break, you can practice your moves in the epic surf skate parks in the area, practicing with your carver/surf skate until the next waves arrive.
Traveling in a motorhome here is a dream. With campsites tucked between pine forests and dunes, you can wake up, walk over the dune, and paddle straight out.
Spain: Cantabria and the Basque Spirit
Spain’s northern coast, from Santander to San Sebastián, is full of surf culture. Autumn brings crisp air, consistent swell, and tasty tapas waiting after each session. Mundaka is the jewel, famous for its legendary left hand barrel, but there are also mellow surf spots where beginners can practice.
Secret treasures like Sopelana, Zarautz, and Playa de Somo offer consistent waves and lively surf culture. For those who seek more hidden corners, beaches near Laga or little coves around Getaria can deliver powerful waves with smaller crowds.
The Basque Country especially suits road trips. Every town has its own surf personality, and with one way options available, you do not need to loop back, you can just keep moving with the swell.
Canary Islands: The Eternal Spring
These Spanish islands in the Atlantic are a paradise for surfers.
For those chasing sunshine, the Canary Islands are unbeatable. While mainland Europe cools down, these islands stay warm year round. Each island has its own surf identity. In Fuerteventura, the north shore brings long reef breaks and playful points. Lanzarote is famous for its lava reefs, with El Quemao being one of the heaviest waves in Europe.
Gran Canaria has a strong surf and bodyboard culture. At El Frontón, you can see the Bodyboard World Championships every October. The island also offers hidden gems such as Playa del Hombre, La Cicer, and El Vagabundo in the north. Tenerife, on the other hand, is famous for long rides at Las Américas, a great place to practice turns and style. Each island has its own flavour, giving you a clear playground for winter surf.
Here is the cool part: you can travel in a camper and enjoy both surf and volcanic landscapes. Drive from black sand beaches to lava fields, then relax under palm trees. It is like summer never ended.
The Campervan Edge
Surf trips are all about freedom, and nothing gives you more than a motorhome. With Indie Campers you get more than wheels, you get a rolling surf base! Think racks for your boards, outdoor showers to rinse off, and space to chill with friends. Plus, you can pick extras like surfboards, wetsuits, or even camping chairs to make your trip smoother.
Another win is the digital platform: easy booking, trip management in your client area, and even last minute one way relocations with discounts. That means more surf, more comfort.
Ready to Chase Waves?
Europe in autumn and winter is not just about colder days, it is about epic surf, cozy camper nights, and discovering a wilder side of the European coastline. Whether you are paddling into a heavy barrel in France, gliding across glassy waves in Portugal, or enjoying warm waters in the Canaries, your RV is the ultimate travel companion.
So pack your board, hit the road, and ride the waves your way. With Indie Campers, the best surf trip is just waiting to happen. If you want to explore more, check out the Indie Campers RVs, discover all our locations here, or simply get inspired on the Indie Campers website.
