An Introduction To Cadiz Surf
Cadiz surf offers a perfect combination of relaxed charm, walkability, & diverse waves, making it an ideal destination for surfers seeking an accessible & picturesque experience. Situated on Spain’s stunning Atlantic coastline, Cadiz is a historic city steeped in culture & natural beauty. Its location provides surfers with a range of beach breaks, all easily reachable on foot or by bike, making it a fantastic choice for those who prefer a car-free surf adventure.
The city’s most iconic surf spot, La Caleta Beach, is ideal for beginners. Nestled between historic fortresses, this small, scenic beach features gentle waves perfect for practicing basic surf techniques. La Caleta’s calm waters & relaxed atmosphere make it a great starting point for those new to surfing, while its location near the heart of the city allows visitors to combine their surf sessions with cultural explorations of Cadiz’s charming old town.
For intermediate surfers, Playa de Santa María del Mar is a fantastic option. Known for its consistent & more powerful waves, this beach offers an exciting challenge without being too intimidating. With a vibrant local surf community & breathtaking view of Cadiz’s coastline, Santa María del Mar captures the essence of the city’s surf culture. The beach is lined with walkable paths & is close to numerous cafes & surf shops, ensuring a convenient & enjoyable experience.
More advanced surfers will find their thrill at Playa de la Victoria & Cortadura Beach. These expansive stretches of sand are known for their larger swells, especially during the winter months when the Atlantic delivers its most powerful waves. Playa de la Victoria, in particular, is a popular destination for experienced surfers looking for long, clean rides, while Cortadura offers a more rugged, untamed vibe with fewer crowds. Both beaches are easily accessible via Cadiz’s excellent bike paths, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a surf-friendly destination
In This Guide
Best Time For Cadiz Surf
Seasons:
- Autumn (September-November): Consistent swells with light offshore winds in the morning.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit.
- Winter (December-February): The most consistent swells & favourable winds.
- Attire Needed: 4/3mm wetsuit.
- Spring (March-May): Transition season, still offers some good swells but less consistent.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit.
- Summer (June-August): Smaller swells, great for beginners, but occasional larger days.
- Attire Needed: Boardshorts/bikini or 3/2mm wetsuit.
Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves typically range from 2 to 8 foot, best with north-westerly swells.
- Break Type: Mix of beach breaks & point breaks.
- Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide. Offshore winds from the east keep the waves clean.
- Skill Required: Ranges from beginner to advanced depending on the spot.
Cadiz Surf Spots Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Cadiz | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Playa Santa María del Mar |
Approx. 0.5km (0.3mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Playa de la Victoria |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
La Caleta Beach |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) northwest |
1-3 foot |
Soft beach break |
Beginner |
|
Playa de Cortadura |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south |
3-8 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Access To Cadiz Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Playa Santa María del Mar |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
|
Playa de la Victoria |
Approx. 20 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
|
La Caleta Beach |
Approx. 40 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
Approx. 30-40 min.
(Local Bus from Cadiz city centre)
|
|
Playa de Cortadura |
Approx. 60 min. |
15-20 min. |
Bus or train to nearby Cortadura station |
Accommodation in Cadiz
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€25 to €50 |
$28 to $55 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€80 to €150 |
$85 to $160 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€180 to €500 |
$195 to $550 |
How To Get To Cadiz
How to get to Cadiz from Jerez Airport (XRY)
The most convenient airport for Cadiz is Jerez Airport (XRY), located just a short distance from the city. Alternatively, travellers can fly into Seville Airport (SVQ) (More information further below), which is around 1.5 hours away by train or bus
Distance: Approx. 45km (28mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 30-40 min.
- Cost: Approx. €30-50 ($32-$53 USD)
- Public Transport (Train or Bus) (Best Option):
- Time: 45-60 min.
- Cost: Approx. €5-€10 per person ($5-$11 USD)
- Shuttle Service:
- Time: 40-50 min.
- Cost: Approx. €15-€25 per person ($16-$26 USD)
How to get to Cadiz from Seville Airport (SVQ)
Seville Airport (SVQ) is one of the main international gateways to Southern Spain & provides convenient access to Cadiz. Although it is a bit further than Jerez Airport, it remains a great option for travellers looking to explore the surf spots of Cadiz.
Distance: Approx. 125km (78mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 1.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. €130-150 ($140-$160 USD)
- Public Transport (Train + Bus) (Best Option):
- Time: 1.5 to 2 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. €25-€45 per person ($27-$48 USD)
- How to: Take a bus or taxi from Seville Airport to Seville’s main train station (Santa Justa), then board a direct train to Cadiz.
- Shuttle Service:
- Time: 1.5 to 2 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. €35-€50 per person ($37-$53 USD)
Discover Cadiz: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf is down, there are plenty of activities to explore in Cadiz. Here are three recommended pursuits to make the most of your time.
Explore the Historic Old Town:
Wander through Cadiz’s ancient streets, visiting the Cadiz Cathedral, Roman theater, and Torre Tavira for panoramic views of the city. The Old Town’s vibrant squares and traditional tapas bars capture the spirit of Andalusian culture.
Relax at La Caleta Beach & Visit the Castle of San Sebastián:
La Caleta Beach, located in the historic center, is a picturesque spot with calm waters, ideal for relaxing. Nearby, the Castle of San Sebastián, accessible via a scenic walkway, offers historical insight and incredible views.
Sample Local Cuisine & Discover Flamenco:
Enjoy Cadiz’s renowned seafood, such as fried fish (pescaíto frito) and fresh tuna from local markets, and experience a live flamenco show in one of the city’s intimate venues for a taste of Andalusian culture.
Exploring Seville: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit
For a multi-day break in the surf, Seville is just a short trip away, where you can dive into Spanish culture, history, and nightlife. This vibrant city provides a perfect blend of attractions, from the Alcazar to the lively Triana neighborhood, making it a worthwhile excursion when the waves are on hold.
Explore the Alcazar:
Wander through this stunning palace complex with its Moorish architecture, lush gardens, and historical significance.
Visit the Seville Cathedral & Giralda Tower:
This Gothic cathedral, one of the largest in the world, houses Christopher Columbus’s tomb and offers panoramic views from the Giralda Tower.
Experience Flamenco in Triana:
Triana, Seville’s flamenco hub, features intimate performances in traditional venues, giving visitors a taste of authentic Andalusian music and dance.