May is that pivotal moment when nature comes back to life. The days grow longer, the sun warms the beaches, and in southern Europe we’re already breathing in the summer air. For surfers, it’s a blessed time of year: the Atlantic swells are still strong, the spots are revitalized and the surf camps reopen after the winter. Above all, the summer crowds are not yet here: you can enjoy the waves in a calmer, friendlier atmosphere.
Whether you’re dreaming of a surf trip not too far away in Europe, or an exotic getaway just a few hours away by plane, May is a sure-fire way to get back in the water. Here are five destinations that combine sunshine, accessible waves and surfing at its best.
Surfing in May: the 5 best destinations
Capbreton (France) – Springtime beach breaks
Often overshadowed by neighboring Hossegor, Capbreton is one of the best choices for surfing in May. With its long sandy beaches and shifting banks, the town offers waves for all levels, from beginners supervised by a surf school to intermediate surfers looking for more powerful sessions.
In May, the air is pleasant (20-24°C) even if the water remains cool (16-17°C) → full wetsuit compulsory. The advantage of Capbreton: a more relaxed atmosphere than its neighbors, a lively harbor where you can enjoy fresh fish after the session, and a real immersion in Landes surf culture.
- Temperature: 20-24°C air / 16-17°C water
- Waves: Beach breaks varied according to the sandbanks
- Access: Train or flight to Biarritz/Bordeaux
- Budget: €350 – €600
- Atmosphere: Surf culture & conviviality
Find all the info in our guide to surfing in Capbreton.
Ericeira (Portugal) – Europe’s Mecca
Less than an hour from Lisbon, Ericeira is a must for every surfer in Europe. Listed as a world surfing reserve, the town combines a dozen surf spots within a radius of just a few kilometers. Beginners will enjoy sandy beaches such as Foz do Lizandro, while intermediates can venture onto gentle reefs such as Ribeira d’Ilhas.
In May, the air is mild, the waves steady and the atmosphere international. You can easily go from a surf session to a plate of grilled fish in a local tavern, or a stroll through the narrow cobbled streets of this lively village.
- Temperature: 22-24°C air / 17°C water
- Waves: sandy bays and accessible reefs
- Access: Flight to Lisbon + 45 min drive
- Budget: €400 – €650
- Atmosphere: International & surf camp
Canaries – summer before its time
If you want to be sure of finding sun and waves in May, head for the Canaries. Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote… each has its own particularities, but all guarantee a mild climate and accessible waves. In Fuerteventura, large beaches like El Cotillo offer the perfect playground for beginners. In Tenerife, Playa de las Américas combines reefs and beach breaks for gentle progress.
Add to this direct flights from France, spectacular volcanic scenery and an international atmosphere, and the Canaries are a sure bet for surfing in shorts before your time.
- Temperature: 23-25°C air / 20-21°C water
- Waves: Easy beach breaks, progressive reefs
- Access: Direct flight from France
- Budget: €450 – €700
- Atmosphere: Sunny & international
Find all the info in our guide to surfing in the Canaries.
Algarve (Portugal) – golden cliffs and surf camp
With its ochre cliffs and wild beaches, the Algarve is a picture-postcard setting for a spring surf trip. Spots on the west coast, such as Arrifana and Amado, are ideal for beginners, while intermediates venture onto the more consistent waves of Carrapateira.
In May, the days are already warm, the water still a little cool but bearable. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the Algarve without the summer crowds. Between two sessions, you can explore white villages, enjoy seafood on terraces and savor the gentle Portuguese way of life.
- Temperature: 22-25°C air / 17-18°C water
- Waves: regular, accessible beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Faro or Lisbon
- Budget: €400 – €600
- Atmosphere: Southern Europe & surf camp
Morocco (Taghazout & Imsouane) – Extending winter in the sun
Just a 3-hour flight from France, Morocco remains a classic in May. Taghazout retains its surf camp atmosphere, with long straights accessible to all levels. Further north, Imsouane still rolls out its mythical wave, perfect for beginners who want to string together take-offs and progress without pressure.
The climate is warm, the water just right for surfing in a light wetsuit, and the cost of living unbeatable. Add to this the colorful souks, Moroccan gastronomy and friendly locals, and you’ve got a surf trip with a change of scenery at an affordable price.
- Temperature: 24-27°C air / 19-20°C water
- Waves: Long, gentle straights
- Access: Flight to Agadir
- Budget: €400 – €600
- Atmosphere: Authentic & friendly
For more information on Taghazout and Imsouane, see our guide to surfing in Morocco.
Where to surf in May
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Type of waves | Budget | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capbreton (France) | 20-24°C / 16-17°C | A variety of beach breaks | 350 – 600 € | Surf culture & local |
| Ericeira (Portugal) | 22-24°C / 17°C | Accessible bays & reefs | 400 – 650 € | International & surf camp |
| Canary Islands | 23-25°C / 20-21°C | Beach breaks + reefs | 450 – 700 € | Sunny & international |
| Algarve (Portugal) | 22-25°C / 17-18°C | Regular beach breaks | 400 – 600 € | Southern Europe & chill |
| Morocco (Taghazout/Imsouane) | 24-27°C / 19-20°C | Long, smooth straights | 400 – 600 € | Authentic & friendly |
Why choose May for your surf trip?
May is a privileged time for surfers. In Europe, the air is already mild, the ocean still retains some of its winter power, but becomes more accessible. It’s the perfect compromise between solid conditions to make progress and a pleasant climate to enjoy.
It’s also a month when the beaches are not yet overrun. Sessions are more relaxed, prices are lower and surf camps are once again welcoming motivated travelers. It’s an ideal time to make progress, meet other surfing enthusiasts and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere than in midsummer.
Practical tips for surfing in May
- In Europe, you’ll need a 3/2 mm full-body suit; in the Canaries and Morocco, a shorty is usually sufficient.
- Take advantage of the May bank holidays to plan a week-long surf trip with little time off.
- Choose your spots according to your level: Capbreton or Ericeira for intermediates, Algarve or Imsouane for beginners.
- If you want to make rapid progress, go for a surf camp: a friendly atmosphere, adapted lessons and accelerated progress.
- Combine surfing and discoveries: Portuguese gastronomy, Moroccan medinas, Landes forests or volcanic hikes in the Canaries.
May is undoubtedly the ideal month to launch your surfing season. The conditions are perfect for learning or improving, the climate is pleasant and the destinations accessible. Whether you choose the French Atlantic coast, the Portuguese cliffs, the volcanic landscapes of the Canaries or the Moroccan sun, your surf trip will be marked by quality waves and a friendly atmosphere.
So why wait until summer when you can already experience your first surf trip of the year in May?
Perhaps you’re planning your surf travel at another time? Check out our monthly guides: where to surf in April, where to surf in June and where to surf in July.