October is the perfect month for a surf trip. The Atlantic wakes up after the summer, the swells pick up again, and yet the beaches are quieter than in July-August. Temperatures remain pleasant in many regions, and for those who want to travel far afield, it’s also the perfect season to discover tropical destinations.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for gentle waves or an intermediate looking to progress, October offers ideal conditions for combining surf, sun and travel.
Discover our 5 top destinations for surfing in autumn From Europe to the tropics, they’re all waiting for you with accessible waves and an unforgettable atmosphere.
The 5 best surfing destinations in October
Ericeira, Portugal – Europe’s surfing capital accessible to all
Classified as a “World Surfing Reserve”, Ericeira is often associated with powerful waves such as Coxos. However, October is the perfect month to discover its accessible spots: Foz do Lizandro and Praia do Sul welcome beginners and intermediates in ideal conditions.
The weather is still mild (22-24°C) and the water is still surfable in 3/2 mm. The surf camp atmosphere is omnipresent: you can easily find friendly accommodation with lessons, equipment and a good atmosphere.
- Temperature: 22-24°C air / 19-20°C water
- Waves: Varied, from gentle beach breaks to more substantial spots
- Access: Flight to Lisbon + 45 min drive
- Budget: €400 – €650
- Atmosphere: Surf camp & international
Imsouane, Morocco – the country’s longest wave
If you dream of long, endless straights, Imsouane is the perfect destination. In October, the swell picks up again, but the waves remain gentle and accessible, ideal for beginners and intermediates. You can easily string together rides lasting more than a minute on the famous “Bay”, a real joy for progress.
The setting is magical: a small fishing village, an authentic atmosphere and friendly surf camps. Life here is simple and peaceful, far removed from mass tourism.
- Temperature: 25-27°C air / 21-22°C water
- Waves: Long straight ones, perfect for progressing
- Access: Flight to Agadir + 1h30 drive
- Budget: €400 – €600
- Atmosphere: Authentic & relaxed
To find out more: Discover our guide to surfing in Morocco.
Cape Verde (Sal island) – tropical waves and surf camp atmosphere
Still little-known, Cape Verde is an excellent alternative for a surf trip in October. The island of Sal offers progressive, sandy waves, perfect for beginners. Conditions are regular at this time of year, and the tropical climate (28-30°C) makes sessions even more enjoyable.
Relaxed atmosphere guaranteed: surf camps, local music, convivial evenings. It’s an ideal destination for a sun + surf holiday at an affordable price.
- Temperature: 28-30°C air / 26-27°C water
- Waves: Progressive, suitable for beginners
- Access: Direct flight from Europe (Sal)
- Budget: €500 – €750
- Atmosphere: Tropical & friendly
To find out more: Discover our guide to surfing in Cape Verde.
California (San Diego) – the cradle of surf culture
It’s impossible to talk about surfing without mentioning California. In October, the weather is perfect: 25°C in the air, 20-21°C in the water, and regular beach breaks on the south coast (San Diego, Encinitas, Huntington Beach).
It’s the ideal combo for beginners/intermediates: ultra-professional surf schools, accessible waves and an American-style surf culture. In between sessions, enjoy tacos, skateboarding and the unique atmosphere of the Californian coast.
- Temperature: 24-26°C air / 20-21°C water
- Waves: regular, accessible beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Los Angeles or San Diego
- Budget: €900 – €1,200
- Atmosphere: Surf culture & Californian lifestyle
Philippines (Siargao) – tropical ambience and accessible waves
Siargao is famous for Cloud 9, a powerful spot reserved for advanced surfers. But the island also abounds in beach breaks perfect for beginners and intermediates (Jacking Horse, Guiwan, Pacifico). October is still a good season, with regular swells and little rain.
Beyond surfing, it’s a total immersion in a tropical lifestyle: coconut palms, turquoise lagoons, a warm and festive atmosphere. The cost of living is low, which compensates for the price of the plane ticket.
- Temperature: 30°C air / 28°C water
- Waves: a variety of beach breaks suitable for beginners
- Access: Flight to Manila + connection to Siargao
- Budget: €600 – €900
- Atmosphere: Bohemian & festive
Comparison of surfing destinations in October
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Type of waves | Budget | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ericeira (Portugal) | 22-24°C / 19-20°C | Varied, beach breaks | 400 – 650 € | Surf camp & international |
| Imsouane (Morocco) | 25-27°C / 21-22°C | Long straight | 400 – 600 € | Authentic & relaxed |
| Cape Verde (Sal) | 28-30°C / 26-27°C | Progressive & sandblasting | 500 – 750 € | Tropical & friendly |
| California (San Diego) | 24-26°C / 20-21°C | Regular beach breaks | 900 – 1200 € | Surf culture & lifestyle |
| Philippines (Siargao) | 30°C / 28°C | A variety of beach breaks | 600 – 900 € | Bohemian & festive |
Why go surfing in October?
- Regular swells: the Atlantic wakes up, the tropics still offer accessible waves.
- Ideal climate: long summer in southern Europe, tropical heat elsewhere.
- Less crowds: say goodbye to the summer rush, and make way for quieter sessions.
- Lower prices: outside the school vacations, surf camps and flights become more affordable.
- Rapid progress: conditions are right for learning or improving your surfing.
Tips for a surf trip in October
- Adapt your material: 3/2 mm for Europe, lycra in the tropics.
- If you’re a beginner, choose sandy, protected spots (Imsouane, Foz do Lizandro, Siargao beach breaks).
- Take the time toexperience thelocals: tajines in Morocco, tacos in California, island life in the Philippines.
- Book early for remote destinations (Philippines, California) to get good prices.
October is undoubtedly one of the best months of the year for surfing. Between the steady swells of the Atlantic and the tropical destinations still in full season, you’re spoilt for choice. Whether you’re looking for the softness of Imsouane, California surf culture or the bohemian ambience of the Philippines, your autumn surf trip is bound to be unforgettable.
So get your board and passport ready: the best waves in October are waiting for you!
If you’re looking for a different time to go surfing, take a look at our dedicated articles: where to surf in September, where to surf in November and where to surf in December.