April marks the return of fine weather and the first milder swells in Europe. In the south, temperatures rise and surf camps come back to life. Further afield, in tropical destinations, the season is still in full swing: warm water, accessible waves and a surf camp atmosphere.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for easy waves or an intermediate looking to progress, April is the perfect time to plan your surf trip. Here are our 5 must-surf destinations in April, in Europe, Africa, America and Asia.
Surfing in April, the 5 best destinations
Dakhla (Morocco) – surfing and a change of scenery in the middle of the desert
Between the Atlantic Ocean and the Saharan dunes, Dakhla offers a unique setting. Far from the hustle and bustle of the tourist trade, the long, soft waves are ideal for gentle progress. The lagoon is famous for kiteboarding, but the ocean side offers a wide range of spots for safe surfing.
In April, temperatures are mild (22-24°C in the air, 18°C in the water), so a 3/2 mm wetsuit is all you need. The atmosphere is authentic: friendly surf camps, quiet evenings and desert excursions round off your stay perfectly.
- Temperature: 22-24°C air / 18°C water
- Waves: Long and soft, accessible
- Access: Flight via Casablanca to Dakhla
- Budget: €450 – €650
- Atmosphere: Nature & authenticity
Discover our guide to surfing in Dahkla.
Nosara (Costa Rica) – the gentle Pacific tropics
Famous for its zen atmosphere and spectacular sunsets, Nosara is a top destination for beginner surfers. Playa Guiones, an immense sandy beach, rolls out regular waves, perfect for learning and progressing.
In April, the air is warm (32°C), the water 27°C, and you can surf in your bathing suit all day long. The atmosphere is tropical and relaxing: yoga, friendly surf camps and immersion in Costa Rican nature are the order of the day.
- Temperature: 32°C air / 27°C water
- Waves: sandy and regular
- Access: Flight to Liberia + 2h30 drive
- Budget: €600 – €850
- Atmosphere: Tropical & relaxing
All you need to know about where to surf in Costa Rica.
Mentawai (Indonesia) – an exclusive surfer’s paradise
A mythical archipelago off the coast of Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands are renowned for their perfect waves. While many spots are aimed at advanced surfers, some areas offer gentle, accessible waves, perfect for beginners/intermediate surfers under supervision.
In April, the air is 30°C, the water 28°C: shorty or swimsuit is all you need. The trip requires a higher budget, but the experience is unique: surfing in a paradise-like setting, island ambiance and unforgettable sessions.
- Temp: 30°C air / 28°C water
- Waves: Rolling and accessible
- Access: Flight to Padang + ferry
- Budget: €900 – €1,200
- Atmosphere: Paradise & exclusive
Algarve (Portugal) – Spring surfing in Southern Europe
With its golden cliffs and wild beaches, theAlgarve is one of Europe’s best options for a surf trip in April. Spots like Arrifana and Amado offer sandy waves suitable for beginners and intermediates.
In April, temperatures reach 22°C in the air and 17°C in the water, so a 3/2 mm suit is all you need. Surf camps are plentiful and affordable, and the atmosphere is very friendly.
- Temperature: 22°C air / 17°C water
- Waves: Progressive beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Faro or Lisbon
- Budget: €400 – €600
- Atmosphere: Southern Europe & surf camp
San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua) – surfing and Latin lifestyle
San Juan del Sur, a small village that has become Nicaragua’s surfing capital, attracts surfers from all over the world. The surrounding beaches, such as Playa Hermosa and Maderas, offer progressive waves perfect for beginners and intermediates.
In April, temperatures are summery (33°C in the air, 28°C in the water) → swimsuit surfing guaranteed. The atmosphere is international, festive and friendly, punctuated by surf camps, parties and local culture.
- Temperature: 33°C air / 28°C water
- Waves: Progressive and regular
- Access: Flight to Managua + shuttle bus
- Budget: €500 – €750
- Atmosphere: Festive & surf lifestyle
Comparison chart – Surfing destinations in April
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Type of waves | Budget | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dakhla (Morocco) | 22-24°C / 18°C | Long and soft | 450 – 650 € | Nature & authenticity |
| Nosara (Costa Rica) | 32°C / 27°C | Sandy, regular | 600 – 850 € | Tropical & relaxing |
| Mentawai (Indonesia) | 30°C / 28°C | Rolling, accessible | 900 – 1200 € | Heavenly & exclusive |
| Algarve (Portugal) | 22°C / 17°C | Progressive beach breaks | 400 – 600 € | Southern Europe & surf camp |
| San Juan del Sur (Nicaragua) | 33°C / 28°C | Progressive, regular | 500 – 750 € | Festive & surf lifestyle |
Why surf in April?
- Pleasant climate: in Europe, temperatures rise; in the tropics, the water is warm.
- Accessible spots: perfect for learning and progressing.
- Fewer people than in summer: more waves for you.
- Flexible budget: from the budget Algarve to the exclusive Mentawai.
Tips for a surf trip in April
- In Europe, wear a 3/2 mm suit; in the tropics, surf in a swimsuit.
- Remember to book your surf camp early for popular destinations (Costa Rica, Nicaragua).
- Choose your trip according to your level: Algarve and Dakhla for learning, Mentawai for a unique experience.
- Take advantage of your trip to explore the local culture: Moroccan desert, Costa Rican jungles, Nicaraguan festive atmosphere.
April is the perfect month to launch or relaunch your surfing season. Whether you choose the proximity of theAlgarve or the change of scenery of the Mentawai Islands, or the tropical heat of Costa Rica or Nicaragua, all these destinations offer accessible waves, sunshine and an ideal atmosphere in which to progress.
So, are you ready to turn your April into an unforgettable surf trip?
Perhaps you’re planning your trip for a different period? Also check out our monthly guides: where to surf in March, where to surf in May and where to surf in June.