Winter in Europe is often synonymous with short, cold, gray days. However, January is the perfect month for a surf trip and a return to the sun. Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle waves or already comfortable on your board, some destinations offer the perfect conditions: pleasant climate, warm water, friendly atmosphere and affordable prices outside school vacations.
In this guide, discover 5 destinations where you can surf in January to learn, progress and enjoy an unforgettable trip.
The 5 best surfing destinations in January
Taghazout, Morocco – winter in the sun, 3 hours from Paris
A small fishing village turned Morocco’s surfing capital, Taghazout is a sure bet for a surf trip in January. You’ll find long, mellow waves there — perfect for improving your skills without any pressure. The water is cool but manageable with a light wetsuit, and sunny days average around 20°C.
As well as surfing, Taghazout is a destination with a chill atmosphere, human-sized surf camps and Moroccan gastronomy (tajines, couscous, grilled fish). It’s also an accessible destination: short flights and very affordable prices.
- Temperature: 20-22°C / 17-19°C
- Waves: Long, straight, gentle and regular
- Access: Flight to Agadir + 45 min drive
- Budget: €400 – €600
- Atmosphere: Authentic & friendly
Further information: Discover our complete guide to surfing in Morocco.
Weligama, Sri Lanka – beginners’ bay
Weligama is a paradise for beginner surfers. Its large, sheltered bay offers small, steady waves, perfect for chaining together your first take-offs without pressure. The water is warm all year round (27-29°C), and the backpacker atmosphere attracts travelers from all over the world.
In addition to surfing, you can enjoy Sri Lankan culture and spicy curries, and even combine your trip with a detour to tea plantations or Buddhist temples.
- Temperature: 28-30°C / 27-29°C
- Waves: Small, soft and regular
- Access: Flight to Colombo + 3-4h drive
- Budget: €300 – €500
- Atmosphere: Backpacker & zen
All you need to know about where to surf in Sri Lanka.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica – pura vida in surf mode
A famous seaside resort on the Pacific coast, Tamarindo is an accessible and lively surfing destination. Its sandy beach offers easy waves, ideal for beginners and advanced surfers alike.
The big plus: the “pura vida” atmosphere, a mix of surfing, tropical nature and festive evenings. You’ll be able to do one session after another, then head off on excursions to nearby nature parks to see howler monkeys, turtles and crocodiles.
- Temperature: 30°C / 27°C
- Waves: Easy, sandy and regular
- Access: Flight to Liberia + 1h30 drive
- Budget: €600 – €900
- Atmosphere: Tropical & festive
Learn everything about surfing in Tamarindo in our dedicated guide.
Fuerteventura, Canaries – easy surfing in Europe
If you want sun in the middle of winter without leaving Europe, Fuerteventura is unbeatable. The island boasts a mild climate all year round and numerous spots suitable for beginners and advanced surfers alike. The waves are progressive and safe, perfect for learning.
With its white sandy beaches, volcanic landscapes and small Spanish villages, Fuerteventura easily combines surfing and a change of scenery, just a few hours’ flight from France.
- Temperature: 20-22°C / 18-20°C
- Waves: Progressive and secure
- Access: Direct flight from France
- Budget: €450 – €650
- Atmosphere: European & sunny
Go further: check out our complete guide to surfing in Fuerteventura.
Canggu, Bali – surfing and bohemian lifestyle
Canggu is undoubtedly the trendiest spot for a surf trip in January. Its gentle beach breaks are perfect for beginner surfers, while the bohemian atmosphere attracts an international community of digital nomads, yogis and travelers.
Between sessions, you’ll enjoy trendy cafés, spectacular sunsets and Bali’s unique atmosphere. The cost of living remains affordable, making it a popular destination for a long stay.
- Temperature: 30°C / 28°C
- Waves: Soft, long and regular
- Access: Flight to Denpasar
- Budget: €350 – €600
- Atmosphere: Bohemian & international
Our complete guide to surfing in Bali is now online.
Comparative table of surf destinations in January
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Type of waves | Budget | Atmosphere |
| Taghazout (Morocco) | 20-22°C / 17-19°C | Soft, long straight lines | 400 – 600 € | Authentic & chill |
| Weligama (Sri Lanka) | 28-30°C / 27-29°C | Small and regular | 300 – 500 € | Backpacker & zen |
| Tamarindo (Costa Rica) | 30°C / 27°C | Easy, sandy | 600 – 900 € | Tropical & comfort |
| Fuerteventura (Canaries) | 20-22°C / 18-20°C | Progressive and secure | 450 – 650 € | European & sunny |
| Canggu (Bali) | 30°C / 28°C | Soft and long | 350 – 600 € | Bohemian & trendy |
Why go surfing in January?
- Sunshine is guaranteed in most of our destinations, a real contrast to the European winter.
- Perfect conditions for progress: soft waves, warm water, numerous surf schools.
- Less crowded than in high season (except in certain ultra-tourist spots like Bali).
- More affordable prices outside school vacations.
Tips for a surf trip in January
- Choose your destination according to your level: calmer swells for beginners (Sri Lanka, Canaries) or more powerful swells for intermediates (Morocco, Costa Rica).
- Check the weather conditions and adapt your equipment (3/2 wetsuit for Morocco, shorty or lycra elsewhere).
- Anticipate long-haul flights: often cheaper in early January after the holidays.
- Don’t forget travel insurance with surf coverage, essential outside Europe.
Going surfing in January means turning winter into an opportunity: sun, accessible waves and unforgettable experiences. Whether you choose Morocco for its proximity, Sri Lanka for its Zen atmosphere or Bali for its unique lifestyle, each destination has its own assets.
So get your board ready, book your ticket and get out there: the first waves of the year are waiting for you! And if you’re planning your trip for a different time of year, check out our monthly guides: where to surf in December, where to surf in February and where to surf in March.