February is the heart of winter in Europe: short days, gloomy weather, freezing water. Yet it’s also one of the best months to
In this guide, discover 5 must-see destinations where you can surf in February. From Europe to the tropics, each one combines accessibility, atmosphere and suitable waves to help you progress in complete serenity.
The 5 best surfing destinations in February
Essaouira, Morocco – surfing roots and cultural ambience
Essaouira is a unique destination, a blend of Moroccan culture, UNESCO-listed medina and windswept beaches. For surfing, the best time to go is in the morning: conditions are calmer and the waves long, gentle and accessible to beginners.
In February, the air oscillates between 19 and 21°C, the water between 17 and 18°C, and the surf camps offer affordable packages. It’s the perfect place to discover surfing in an authentic setting, far from the crowds of Taghazout.
- Temperature: 19-21°C air / 17-18°C water
- Waves: Long and regular, suitable for beginners
- Access: Flight to Marrakech + 3-hour drive
- Budget: €400 – €600
- Atmosphere: Cultural & rootsy
For more choice: Discover our surf spots in Morocco.
Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka – tropical ambience and festivities
On the south coast of Sri Lanka, Hikkaduwa is one of the most popular surf spots in February. Beach breaks are regular, easy and perfect for progressing. With water temperatures of 28-29°C, you can forget about your wetsuit and enjoy sessions in your swimsuit.
Beyond the surf, Hikkaduwa has a lively atmosphere with restaurants, music, bars and Sri Lankan culture. It’s the ideal destination if you want to learn to surf in a tropical and social setting.
- Atmosphere: Tropical & lively
- Temperature: 29-31°C air / 28-29°C water
- Waves: Easy, regular
- Access: Flight to Colombo + 2h drive
- Budget: €350 – €550
Discover our complete guide to where to surf in Sri Lanka.
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica – Bohemian surfing at the end of the world
Santa Teresa is the wild, bohemian version of Tamarindo. Imagine: a sandy road, endless beaches, fiery sunsets… and soft waves, perfect for learning and progressing.
In February, the water is 27°C and the air around 31°C. Surf camps abound and the atmosphere is international, attracting surfers, yogis and travelers from all over the world. The area is more remote (6 hours’ drive from San José), but the change of scenery is well worth the detour.
- Atmosphere: Bohemian & natural
- Temperature: 31°C air / 27°C water
- Waves: sandy beach breaks, accessible
- Access: Flight to San José + 6-hour drive
- Budget: €600 – €850
Our complete guide to surfing in Costa Rica.
Tenerife, Canaries – surfing in the European sun
For a surf trip that’s easy and accessible from Europe, Tenerife is a sure bet in February. The surf schools of Playa de las Américas andEl Médano welcome beginners and intermediates in a sunny setting, with rolling, steady waves.
The air is mild (20-22°C) and the water around 19°C: a 3/2 wetsuit is all you need. It’s the ideal destination if you want to learn without going too far from France, while enjoying a pleasant climate in the middle of winter.
- Atmosphere: Spanish & accessible
- Temperature: 20-22°C air / 19°C water
- Waves: Rolling, for all levels
- Access: Direct flight from France
- Budget: €500 – €700
Discover our complete guide to all the surf spots in Tenerife.
Lombok, Indonesia – Bali’s unspoilt little sister
Often overshadowed by Bali, Lombok is still an authentic gem for surfers in search of calm. In February, you’ll find accessible waves, few people in the water and spectacular scenery. Spots like Selong Belanaks areperfect for beginners.
The water is warm (28°C), the air hovers around 30°C, and the atmosphere is relaxed. Less tourism, more nature: Lombok is the slow surf trip version of Indonesia.
- Atmosphere: Nature & authenticity
- Temp: 30°C air / 28°C water
- Waves: Simple, few people in the water
- Access: Flight to Denpasar + domestic flight to Lombok
- Budget: €400 – €600
Comparison chart – February surf destinations
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Type of waves | Budget | Atmosphere |
| Essaouira (Morocco) | 19-21°C / 17-18°C | Long, soft | 400 – 600 € | Culture & roots |
| Hikkaduwa (Sri Lanka) | 29-31°C / 28-29°C | Easy, regular | 350 – 550 € | Tropical & lively |
| Santa Teresa (Costa Rica) | 31°C / 27°C | Molles, beach breaks | 600 – 850 € | Bohemia & nature |
| Tenerife (Canaries) | 20-22°C / 19°C | Unwinders, for all levels | 500 – 700 € | Spanish & accessible |
| Lombok (Indonesia) | 30°C / 28°C | Simple, few people in the water | 400 – 600 € | Nature & authenticity |
Why surf in February?
- Escape the European winter: guaranteed sunshine, hot water elsewhere.
- Accessible conditions: gentle waves in all these destinations.
- Fast progression: fewer people in the water = more waves for you.
- Surf camp atmosphere: perfect for meeting other travelers.
Tips for a surf trip in February
- Take distance into account: Tenerife or Essaouira = easy, Lombok or Costa Rica = more exotic but longer trips.
- Adapt your equipment: 3/2 suit for Europe, lycra or swimsuit in the tropics.
- Choose a surf camp to progress quickly and meet new people.
- Discover the local culture: Essaouira medina, Sri Lankan temples, Costa Rican jungles, Canarian volcanoes…
February is the perfect time to escape winter and discover surfing in perfect conditions. From Morocco to Indonesia, via Costa Rica, each destination combines sunshine, accessible waves and a friendly atmosphere.
Whether you choose a nearby option such as Tenerife or Essaouira, or head off for an adventure in Sri Lanka or Lombok, the essential remains the same: learn to read the ocean, make progress and enjoy every wave.
So why not start your year with a new passion?
Not sure when to go surfing? Explore our monthly guides: where to surf in January, where to surf in March and where to surf in April.