Surfing in Europe: Your Ultimate November Guide for Intermediate Surfers

As autumn leaves fall and temperatures drop, many surfers pack away their boards until spring.

But here’s a secret: November can be one of Europe’s most rewarding surf seasons – if you know where to go.

Let’s dive into the best destinations for intermediate surfers seeking that perfect November wave.

Why November?

Before we explore specific locations, let’s talk about why November surfing in Europe is special. The month marks the sweet spot between autumn and winter, bringing consistent swells without the harsh winter conditions. You’ll find fewer crowds, better wave consistency, and some of the most dramatic coastal scenery as nature transitions to winter.

Top Destinations for Intermediate Surfers

1. Portugal’s Silver Coast

Best spots: Peniche, Ericeira, Algarve region

Average water temperature: 17°C (63°F)

Swell direction: NW to W

Crowd factor: Moderate

Portugal’s Silver Coast is a November surf paradise. While Nazaré might be grabbing headlines with its monster waves, spots like Supertubos in Peniche offer perfectly manageable conditions for intermediate surfers. The region benefits from consistent groundswells and offshore winds, creating clean, organized waves.

Pro tip: Base yourself in Peniche – you’ll find spots suitable for different wind directions within a 20-minute drive.

2. Canary Islands

Best spots: Famara (Lanzarote), El Cotillo (Fuerteventura)

Average water temperature: 21°C (70°F)

Swell direction: N to NW

Crowd factor: High

Don’t let their African latitude fool you – the Canaries are technically part of Europe and offer the continent’s warmest November surfing. Famara Beach in Lanzarote is particularly well-suited for intermediates, with its long, peeling waves and forgiving sandy bottom.

Pro tip: Morning sessions here are your best bet – winds typically pick up by early afternoon.

3. French Basque Country

Best spots: Anglet, Guéthary

Average water temperature: 15°C (59°F)

Swell direction: W to NW

Crowd factor: Moderate

While Hossegor might steal the spotlight, nearby spots offer excellent conditions for intermediate surfers. Anglet’s beach breaks provide variety, while Guéthary’s reef breaks offer more challenging options when you’re feeling confident (more suitable for advanced surfers)

Pro tip: The beaches here are exposed to multiple swell directions – check several spots before committing to one.

Essential November Surf Gear

Wetsuit Requirements

• Portugal and France: 4/3mm full suit with boots
• Canary Islands: 3/2mm full suit
• Optional but recommended: 2mm wetsuit gloves, hood for early sessions

Also check our wetsuit guide.

Additional Equipment

• Warm changing robe (trust me, you’ll thank me later)
• Thermal rashguard for extra warmth
• Hot water bottle for post surf warmup, but also afterwards.

Beyond the Surf: Practical Tips

Weather Considerations

November weather in Europe can be unpredictable. Pack for both sunny 20°C days and stormy 10°C conditions. The upside? Dramatic skies make for incredible surf photos.

Check de the European Surf Forecast.

Accommodation Strategy

• Book accommodations with board storage.
• Look for places with heating (not all European beach accommodations have it).
• Consider staying slightly inland for better prices – most spots are less crowded, so the extra few minutes’ drive won’t cost you waves. But overlooking the ocean from your appartment is priceless, right?

Timing Your Sessions

• Dawn patrols often offer the cleanest conditions
• Mid-morning sessions typically have the best combination of light, tide, and wind
• Always check local tide tables – some spots only work on specific tides

Making the Most of Your Trip

Local Etiquette

• Respect priority rules – they’re taken seriously in Europe
• Learn basic greetings in the local language
• Follow local parking regulations – many beach parking areas have strict rules

Common November Surf Challenges

Challenge 1: Changing Conditions

November can bring rapid weather changes. Solution: Always have a backup plan and know several spots in the area.

Challenge 2: Cold Water

While not Arctic, it’s definitely not summer anymore. Solution: Invest in a quality wetsuit and consider a thermal rash vest.

Challenge 3: Short Days

November days are significantly shorter. Solution: Plan your sessions around daylight hours and always have a good set of eyes on the lineup.

Conclusion

November surfing in Europe offers a perfect blend of consistent swells, manageable crowds, and beautiful autumn conditions. For intermediate surfers, it’s an ideal time to progress your skills without the summer crowds or winter’s harsh conditions. Pack the right gear, stay flexible with your spot selection, and you might just score some of your best sessions of the year.

Remember: The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun – and with proper preparation, that could be you this November.

About the Author: This guide was created based on extensive research and real experiences from European surf spots. While conditions can vary, these insights should help you make the most of your November surf adventure.