June is a pivotal time for surfers. In Europe, summer is approaching, the days are getting longer and the air is getting warmer, but the ocean is still nice and steady. The beaches remain calm before the tourist influx of July and August, making it the perfect time for a surf trip.
It’s also an excellent time to travel further afield: some tropical regions are in high season with long, accessible waves, ideal for making progress in a relaxed atmosphere.
Here are our 5 must-see destinations where you can surf in June, whether you’re looking for authentic wilderness, a European surf camp atmosphere or a complete change of scenery in the tropics. If you’re looking for a place to go surfing, you’ve come to the right place.
Surfing in June: the 5 best pre-summer destinations
Brittany (France) – La Torche and the Crozon peninsula
In June, Brittany reveals all its beauty. North Atlantic swells still ensure regular waves, and the great beaches like La Torche and the Crozon creeks offer conditions accessible to beginners and intermediates alike.
With 18°C in the water, wetsuits are still mandatory, but the air is pleasant (20-22°C). The advantage: fewer crowds than in summer, a warm local atmosphere and the chance to combine surfing with coastal walks and cultural discoveries.
- Atmosphere: Nature & authenticity
- Temperature: 20-22°C air / 18°C water
- Waves: regular beach breaks
- Access: Flight or train to Brest/Quimper
- Budget: €350 – €550
Galicia (Spain) – wild authenticity
Far from the crowds of the Canaries or Portugal, Galicia is a discreet gem for surfers. With its secluded coves and long sandy beaches, the region offers gentle but consistent waves, ideal for progressing without pressure.
In June, temperatures are pleasant (22°C in the air, 18°C in the water), perfect for surfing in a light wetsuit. The atmosphere is friendly, with fishing villages, generous gastronomy and welcoming local schools.
- Atmosphere: Wild & authentic
- Temperature: 22°C air / 18°C water
- Waves: Gentle and regular
- Access: Flight to Santiago or Porto
- Budget: €400 – €600
Algarve (Portugal) – golden cliffs and friendly surf camps
TheAlgarve is one of Europe’s best options in June. Beaches on the west coast, such as Arrifana, Amado or Cordoama, roll out accessible waves, perfect for beginners and intermediates.
With 23-25°C in the air and 18°C in the water, conditions are ideal for surfing in a light wetsuit. Surf camps are in full swing, the atmosphere is international but relaxed, and you can enjoy spectacular scenery between ochre cliffs and white villages.
- Temperature: 23-25°C air / 18°C water
- Waves: Progressive beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Faro or Lisbon
- Budget: €400 – €650
- Atmosphere: Southern European & friendly
Lombok (Indonesia) – the peaceful alternative to Bali
While Bali continues to attract more and more people, Lombok remains a more authentic alternative. Around Kuta Lombok and Gerupuk, the spots are varied but often gentle, perfect for learning or improving in an unspoilt setting.
June is the dry season: guaranteed sun, 31°C in the air, 28°C in the water → boardshort surfing all day long. The atmosphere is more rootsy and local than Bali, ideal if you’re looking for a less touristy tropical surf trip.
- Atmosphere: Nature & authenticity
- Temperature: 31°C air / 28°C water
- Waves: gentle, regular beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Mataram via Bali
- Budget: €400 – €650
Arugam Bay (Sri Lanka) – the perfect season on the east coast
From June to September, Sri Lanka’s east coast takes over from the western spots. Arugam Bay is at the height of its season: long, steady straights, warm water and a relaxed backpacker atmosphere. It’s the ideal place to work on your take-offs and progress with confidence.
With 32°C in the air and 29°C in the water, you’ll be surfing in your swimsuit in a tropical atmosphere. The village attracts an international surfing community, but retains a cool, authentic atmosphere.
- Atmosphere: Backpacker & chill
- Temperature: 32°C air / 29°C water
- Waves: Long, straight and regular
- Access: Flight to Colombo + 7h drive
- Budget: €350 – €550
Our complete guide to surfing in Sri Lanka.
Comparison chart – Where to surf in June
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Wave type | Budget | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brittany (France) | 20-22°C / 18°C | Regular beach breaks | 350 – 550 € | Nature & authenticity |
| Galicia (Spain) | 22°C / 18°C | Soft and regular | 400 – 600 € | Wild & authentic |
| Algarve (Portugal) | 23-25°C / 18°C | Progressive beach breaks | 400 – 650 € | Southern & friendly Europe |
| Lombok (Indonesia) | 31°C / 28°C | Gentle beach breaks | 400 – 650 € | Nature & authenticity |
| Arugam Bay (Sri Lanka) | 32°C / 29°C | Long straight | 350 – 550 € | Backpacker & chill |
Why surf in June?
Juin combines the best of both worlds:
- In Europe, you’ll enjoy a summer climate but still quiet spots.
- Swells are less powerful than in winter, perfect for learning or improving.
- The surf camps are in full swing, and the atmosphere is friendly and international.
- Outside Europe, some tropical destinations (Sri Lanka, Indonesia) are in high season.
It’s the ideal month for a well-balanced surf trip: good conditions, pleasant weather and limited crowds.
Practical tips for June
- In Europe, a 3/2 mm combi is still comfortable, but in southern Portugal, a 2/2 may suffice.
- In the tropics (Sri Lanka, Indonesia), surf in boardshorts or swimsuits all day long.
- Anticipate bookings at surf camps → June attracts more and more travelers.
- If you’re just starting out, aim for Galicia, the Algarve or Arugam Bay; if you want to progress, choose Brittany or Lombok.
- Combine your surf trip with local activities: hiking in Brittany, tapas in Galicia, cliffs in the Algarve, jungles in Lombok or safaris in Sri Lanka.
Whether you’re staying in Europe or heading to the other side of the world, June is an ideal month for surfing. Brittany, Galicia and the Algarve offer perfect conditions for making progress without the summer crowds, while Lombok and Arugam Bay guarantee sun and tropical waves.
Perhaps you’re planning your trip for a different period? Check out our monthly guides: where to surf in May, where to surf in July and where to surf in August.