An Introduction To Ribadesella Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | March 24, 2025
Ribadesella surf becomes one of the region’s most accessible and scenic surf spots in northern Spain. Tucked under the Asturian coastline, the town offers mellow and fairly powerful waves in close proximity. The compact walkable layout and coastal nature of it are perfect for a car-free surf trip.
Santa Marina Beach and Playa de Ribadesella are just a five minute walk from town, giving consistent beach breaks that are great for beginners to learn their art and intermediates to work on their skills. Add picture perfect scenery with the Picos de Europa in the background, and it is hard to compete.
Vega, for more advanced surfers, is a 30 minute bike ride or a short bus ride away with stronger waves and a more rugged feel. Another possibility is Arenal de Morís, with easy beach breaks and accessibility by bus or taxi. Ribadesella surfing brings together convenience, variety, and an abundance of natural beauty into one priceless package.
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Best Time To Surf Ribadesella
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Peak Ribadesella Surf Season | October to May
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Ribadesella surf peaks from October through May, when powerful Atlantic swells arrive from the northwest, delivering consistent waves in the 3 to 8-foot range. Winter months see the most energy, with long-period swells creating excellent conditions for experienced surfers. Offshore winds, particularly from the south, help shape clean, well-defined waves, making this an exciting time for those seeking quality Ribadesella surf.
The region’s beach & reef breaks light up with strong, punchy waves that can offer both hollow barrels & long, fast walls. While conditions are generally excellent, winter storms can bring strong onshore winds, leading to occasional choppy surf. The crowds remain relatively low outside of holiday periods, ensuring plenty of opportunities to score great waves.
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Shoulder Ribadesella Surf Season | June & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
June & September bring a mix of smaller, but still rideable, waves in the 2 to 5-foot range in Ribadesella surf. While the swell lacks the power of peak season, these months still offer fun, clean surf with occasional lingering winter energy in June & early autumn swells arriving in September. Offshore winds help shape glassy, well-formed waves, especially in the mornings before the sea breezes pick up.
These transitional months provide a great balance, fewer crowds, fun waves, and reliable conditions for all skill levels. While experienced surfers may not find the same heavy waves as in winter, this is an ideal time for a more relaxed surf experience with consistently rideable conditions.
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Low Ribadesella Surf Season | July to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
During the summer months, Ribadesella surf sees smaller, less frequent swells, with wave heights generally staying between 1 & 3 feet. The Atlantic often experiences extended flat spells, making this the least consistent time for experienced surfers. However, the mellow waves create the perfect environment for beginners & longboarders, with soft, forgiving conditions ideal for learning.
Morning offshore winds can still deliver clean, fun waves on sandbanks that hold smaller swells well. While high-performance surf is limited, the warm weather & friendly waves make this a great time for easygoing sessions & relaxed summer surfing.
Ribadesella Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Ribadesella Surf Temperature:
18–21°C (64–70°F)
What To Wear:
A 2–3 mm wetsuit is best for summer, though some warmer days allow for a shorty or boardshorts.
Rainfall:
Moderate rainfall, with around 4–7 rainy days per month. Surf conditions are calmer, making it ideal for beginners.
Ribadesella Surf Temperature:
16–19°C (61–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit provides comfort as the water cools.
Rainfall:
Rainfall increases to 7–12 rainy days per month. Swells improve, producing more powerful waves with fewer crowds.
Ribadesella Surf Temperature:
13–16°C (55–61°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit is necessary, with booties optional.
Rainfall:
The wettest season, with around 10–15 rainy days per month. The strongest swells arrive, making this the best season for experienced surfers.
Ribadesella Surf Temperature:
14–17°C (57–63°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit works well, though early spring may require a 4/3 mm on cooler days.
Rainfall:
Rainfall decreases slightly, averaging 6–10 rainy days per month. Waves are still good, with consistent surf & improving conditions.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Ribadesella
| Ribadesella Surf Spots | Distance from Ribadesella | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Playa de Santa Marina |
In town centre |
2-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
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Playa de Ribadesella |
In town centre |
2-4 foot |
Smaller, mellow break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Playa de Vega |
Approx. 7km (4.3mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Fun beach break |
All levels |
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Arenal de Morís |
Approx. 14km (8.7mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Consistent beach break |
Beginner & intermediate |
Further Information To Ribadesella Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa de Santa Marina is a picturesque beach break that provides a mix of mellow & punchy waves, making it a versatile spot for surfers of all levels. At mid tide, with a solid northwest swell & favorable south winds, the waves form fun, rippable peaks that can offer both open-faced rides & occasional barrels.
The sandy bottom makes it a forgiving wave, while different sections of the beach cater to various skill levels. Though not as crowded as some of the more famous spots in northern Spain, Santa Marina does attract a steady number of surfers, particularly in summer & during solid winter swells.
The beach is easily accessible, & its scenic setting near the town of Ribadesella adds to the overall experience. For those looking for a consistent, enjoyable surf session with beautiful surroundings, Playa de Santa Marina is an excellent choice.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa de Ribadesella is a long, sandy stretch offering reliable beach break peaks that work best at mid to high tide with a solid northwest swell. The waves here can range from mellow, rolling sections perfect for beginners to punchier peaks that cater to intermediates & advanced surfers. With good sandbanks, the break can occasionally offer short but fun barrels when conditions align.
South winds help keep the waves clean, & while the spot isn’t as crowded as more well-known surf destinations, weekends & summer months can see an increase in surfers. The town of Ribadesella is nearby, making access convenient, with facilities & a relaxed surf atmosphere.
This is an excellent option for those looking for a well-rounded surf spot that accommodates different skill levels.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: All tides
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Arenal de Morís is a quiet, scenic beach break that offers fun, consistent waves with minimal crowds. Working best at mid tide, this spot thrives under a northwest swell & light south winds, creating clean, well-shaped waves ideal for intermediate surfers. The sandy bottom makes it a safe & inviting location, while its relatively uncrowded nature ensures plenty of waves to go around.
During bigger swells, the waves can pack a bit more punch, providing opportunities for short, hollow rides. Access to the beach is easy, with parking & amenities nearby, though it remains off the radar for many traveling surfers. Arenal de Morís is an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful surf session away from busier breaks, with a mix of relaxed waves & occasional surprises when conditions align.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: North-northeast
- Swell Direction: Southwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Playa de Cortadura is the longest & most unspoiled beach in Cadiz, stretching over several kilometers along the coastline. Its natural dunes & lack of urban development provide a serene & wild atmosphere, making it a favorite among surfers seeking tranquility away from the bustling city beaches. The beach features beach break waves that can vary in quality depending on the sandbanks & prevailing conditions.
Mid tide often offers the most consistent & rideable waves, as low tide can lead to closeouts, & high tide may cause the waves to lose their form. Offshore winds from the north or northeast help in cleaning up the waves, making them more manageable & enjoyable. The beach’s orientation allows it to receive swells from the southwest effectively, providing ample opportunities for surfers throughout the year.
Due to its expansive nature & distance from the city center, Playa de Cortadura remains relatively uncrowded, even during peak seasons, offering surfers a more solitary & immersive connection with the ocean. However, it’s essential to be mindful of the lack of facilities & the potential for strong currents, so surfing with a buddy is advisable.
Rating: 3.5/5
Travel Time To Ribadesella Surf Spots
| Ribadesella Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Playa de Santa Marina |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Playa de Ribadesella |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Playa de Vega |
Not advised |
Approx. 30 min. |
10 min. (Taxi) or 30 min (Local bus) |
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Arenal de Morís |
Not advised |
Approx. 45 min. |
20 min. (Taxi) or 45 min (Local bus) |
Accommodation In Ribadesella
Trip.com is a great place to find places to stay near the beach for your surf trip to Spain. From high end hotels to plain hostels, they have everything. Book your lodging now so you can just enjoy surfing without worrying.
For those surfers who are looking for more raw experience in Spain, Tripaneer surf camps have coaching, good accommodations, and social events. They bring you closer to improving your skills while experiencing Spain and Ribadesella surf culture in its entirety.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€60 to €150 |
$65 to $170 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€200 to €350+ |
$220 to $380+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Ribadesella Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Santa Marina Surf Camp delivers expert instruction on the pristine beach of Santa Marina, focusing on skill development and safety. Surf Camp Ribadesella combines lessons with a warm, community-driven atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking a well-rounded surfing experience.
Vega Surf Academy is known for its personalized coaching, ensuring each student progresses at their own pace while enjoying the beauty of Ribadesella surf. Escuela de Surf La Surferita provides a welcoming and friendly environment, perfect for beginners and intermediates looking to refine their techniques.
With its variety, Ribadesella surf schools are perfect for anyone looking to learn or improve their surfing skills amidst stunning coastal scenery.
Ribadesella Surf Camp
Ribadesella is home to some of the best surf camps in the region, providing immersive experiences for those looking to combine surf lessons with a vibrant community atmosphere.
Santa Marina Surf Camp stands out with its high-quality coaching, comfortable accommodations, and access to one of the best Ribadesella surf breaks. Surf Camp Ribadesella offers a similar experience, blending professional surf instruction with opportunities to connect with fellow surfers.
These camps are designed to cater to all skill levels, ensuring both beginners and seasoned surfers feel at home. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, the Ribadesella surf camps provide the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and learning.
Gijon, which is less than an hour away, offers one of the best surf camp experiences in northern Spain. Set along the stunning Asturian coastline, this camp provides expert coaching alongside a vibrant & social atmosphere. More information can be found below through our dedicated Gijon surf page.
Ribadesella Surfboard Hire
Ribadesella surfboard hires offers many options, making it convenient for visitors to hit the waves. Santa Marina Surf Camp and Surf Camp Ribadesella both provide high-quality boards for hire, ensuring you have the right equipment to suit local conditions.
Vega Surf Academy offers a range of well-maintained surfboards for all skill levels, while Escuela de Surf La Surferita also provides board rentals alongside their lessons.
These Ribadesella surfboard hires cater to surfers of all experience levels, making it easy to enjoy the surf and the town without having to bring a thing.
Ribadesella Surf Report & Surf Cam
Ribadesella surf sessions get better with the correct information. Surf-Forecast supplies information regarding tides and those surges, while Surfline live cams give real-time surf views at popular Spain surf breaks, available by subscription.
With a Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, you’ll be online as soon as you land and don’t need to buy local SIM cards. So, you can check your forecasts, watch live cams, and share your very own Spain surf moments anywhere and keep everything connected and trouble-free for your surf trip.
How To Get To Ribadesella Surf
- Asturias Airport (OVD) To Ribadesella Surf
Distance: 100km (62mi)
To reach Ribadesella surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Asturias Airport (OVD) & then take a local bus or taxi to your destination. Below is a quick guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Ribadesella based on your preferences.
Public Transport
Approx. 2.5-3.5 hrs.
Details:
There is no direct public transport from Asturias Airport to Ribadesella, but you can get there via a combination of bus & train. First, take the ALSA airport bus to Oviedo or Gijón (30–45 minutes).
From either city, you can take a Renfe Feve regional train towards Llanes or Santander, stopping at Ribadesella. The train ride takes approximately 2 hours from Oviedo & 1.5 hours from Gijón. While cheap, this route involves transfers & may require checking schedules in advance, as train services can be infrequent.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
Several private transfer services, such as HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups, offer direct rides from Asturias Airport to Ribadesella. Shared shuttle options are limited, so booking a private transfer in advance is recommended.
Spain Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
From the Basque Country to the Canary Islands, Spain offers diverse surf, but it’s worth knowing the essentials. The Euro is used nationwide, and card payments are easy. Tap water is safe. English is spoken in tourist areas, though Spanish is still the main language.
For the full list of 7 essentials, including health system tips, visa policies, and safety advice, visit our Spain surf page before you go.
Travel Insurance For Your Ribadesella Surf Trip
Of course, it’s not only beginners who are having trouble on surf trips-any seasoned traveler will tell about delays, injuries, or lost equipment messing up their plans. VisitorsCoverage can help you get the program you want, so you can focus on rides and not risks.
Take five minutes to pin down a plan to protect yourself from health emergencies, cancellations, and more. Worth it? Yes! Enjoy Spain surf even more without second guessing that backup plan!
Discover Ribadesella: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
Even when the waves aren’t rolling in, Ribadesella offers plenty of ways to enjoy your stay. Below are some 3 activities to try.
For even more experiences, check out GetYourGuide for options like guided nature tours, cultural excursions, and scenic day trips around the region.
Exploring Asturias: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
When the surf remains flat for days, it is the ideal time to discover the famous and culturally rich area of Asturias. Below are four important highlights.
For even more ways to discover these areas, visit GetYourGuide and Viator for guided tours, nature excursions, and regional day trips.