An Introduction To Cadiz Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | March 15, 2025
Cadiz surf is one of the rare combinations of accessibility with attractiveness and a variety of waves. Located on Spain’s Atlantic coastline, this historic town would make a perfect option for surfers seeking walkable beach breaks along a car-free lifestyle coupled with cultural surroundings.
Best for beginners, La Caleta Beach is located between old fortresses and provides mellow waves and calm conditions close to city center, great for practicing the fundamentals and soaking in the scenery.
Playa de Santa María del Mar is where the first big jump from beginners to intermediates happens. More consistent and powerful for fun, and also a close walk from shops and cafes.
Playa de la Victoria and Cortadura Beach are the places where advanced surfers chase stronger swells. These long, open stretches pick up solid winter swell and remain lightly crowded, both accessible on the excellent bike paths throughout the city.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Cadiz
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Peak Cadiz Surf Season | October to May
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Cadiz surf enjoys its best conditions from October through May, as powerful Atlantic swells roll in from the northwest & west. Waves during this period consistently reach 3 to 8 foot, providing excellent surf for more experienced riders. Winter months bring the most energy, with strong low-pressure systems generating long-period swells that light up the region’s beach & reef breaks. Offshore winds, especially from the east, help shape clean, well-defined waves, creating ideal conditions for those seeking powerful surf.
The variety of breaks ensures options for different skill levels, though some heavier spots demand experience. While conditions are generally favorable, occasional storms can bring strong onshore winds & choppier surf. Crowds are manageable outside holiday periods, making this the prime window for quality waves in Cadiz.
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Shoulder Cadiz Surf Season | June & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
June & September mark the Cadiz surf shoulder season, offering a blend of small but rideable waves alongside lingering swells from peak months. While conditions lack the power of winter, surfers can still enjoy fun, clean waves in the 2 to 5-foot range, shaped by offshore winds. September often brings early autumn swells, while June retains late-season energy, keeping the surf engaging.
Mornings typically deliver the best conditions, with glassy waves before afternoon sea breezes pick up. Though not as consistent as peak months, the Cadiz surf shoulder season provides a great opportunity to enjoy quality waves with fewer crowds, making Cadiz surf a fantastic destination year-round.
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Low Cadiz Surf Season | July to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
The summer months in Cadiz bring smaller, less consistent waves, with the Atlantic occasionally going flat for extended periods. Wave heights typically range from 1 to 3 feet, making this the least reliable season for experienced surfers. However, the gentle conditions create an inviting environment for beginners looking to get started with Cadiz surf.
Warm water & soft waves make it perfect for learning, while offshore winds in the morning can still produce fun, glassy sessions. Though advanced surfers may find the lack of power limiting, the relaxed Cadiz surf summer season is ideal for longboarding & easygoing rides, ensuring enjoyable surf sessions in Cadiz.
Cadiz Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Cadiz Surf Temperature:
20–22°C (68–72°F)
What To Wear:
A 2–3 mm wetsuit is ideal, though on warmer days, a shorty or even boardshorts might be comfortable
Rainfall:
This is the driest time of the year, with only 1–3 rainy days per month. Winds can be strong, particularly the Levante, which affects wave conditions
Cadiz Surf Temperature:
18–21°C (64–70°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is usually sufficient, though early autumn can still allow for lighter gear.
Rainfall:
Rainfall starts to increase slightly, with 4–8 rainy days per month. This season brings more consistent surf, with cleaner waves & less summer crowding.
Cadiz Surf Temperature:
15–18°C (59–64°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit is necessary, especially on colder days. Booties may be optional but can help in extended sessions.
Rainfall:
The wettest season, with 6–12 rainy days per month. Larger swells arrive, producing the best surf of the year.
Cadiz Surf Temperature:
16–19°C (61–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit works well, offering flexibility & warmth.
Rainfall:
Rainfall gradually decreases, with around 4–7 rainy days per month. Surf conditions improve with more moderate swells & lighter winds.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Cadiz
| Cadiz Surf Spots | Distance from Cadiz | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Playa Santa María del Mar |
Approx. 0.5km (0.3mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Playa de la Victoria |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) south |
2-6 foot |
Beach break |
All levels |
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La Caleta Beach |
Approx. 3km (1.9mi) northwest |
1-3 foot |
Soft beach break |
Beginner |
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Playa de Cortadura |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south |
3-8 foot |
Powerful beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
Further Information To Cadiz Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: Northeast
- Swell Direction: South to southwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Playa Santa María del Mar is a relatively small beach nestled between two rocky groynes, which help in sand accumulation & shaping the sandbanks. This setup contributes to short but intense beach break waves that can be quite powerful, especially during favorable swell conditions.
The beach’s orientation makes it receptive to south to southwest swells, & the presence of northeast offshore winds further enhances wave quality. However, during high tide, surfers may experience backwash, & larger swells can lead to closeouts, making low to mid tide the optimal times to surf here.
The local surfing community is known for being intense & competitive, which can make the lineup crowded & challenging for newcomers. Despite its size, Playa Santa María del Mar offers a dynamic surfing experience, but it’s essential to be mindful of the local etiquette & the beach’s specific conditions.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East-northeast
- Swell Direction: West to southwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate to high
Playa de la Victoria is one of Cadiz’s most renowned urban beaches, stretching approximately 3 kilometers along the city’s coastline. Its expansive sandy shore & consistent beach breaks make it a popular spot for surfers of varying skill levels.
The beach is best surfed during mid to high tide when the waves tend to be more forgiving & less prone to closing out. Light offshore winds, particularly from the east, can groom the waves to perfection, offering clean faces ideal for both longboarders & shortboarders.
The beach’s orientation allows it to pick up swells from the west to southwest, providing regular surfable conditions throughout the year. Due to its urban setting & accessibility, Playa de la Victoria can become quite crowded, especially during weekends, holidays, & the summer months.
Facilities such as showers, lifeguard services, & nearby eateries add to its appeal, making it not only a surfing destination but also a hub for beachgoers seeking leisure & recreation.
Rating: 3/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: East-northeast
- Swell Direction: Northwest to west
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
La Caleta Beach is a picturesque & historically rich beach located in the heart of Cadiz’s old town. Flanked by two castles, Castillo de Santa Catalina & Castillo de San Sebastián, this small beach offers a unique surfing experience amidst a stunning backdrop. The beach is sheltered, which means it requires specific swell directions, particularly from the northwest to west, to produce surfable waves.
When conditions align, La Caleta can offer mellow waves suitable for beginners & longboard enthusiasts. The optimal time to surf here is during mid to high tide, as low tide can expose rocks & make the waves less rideable. The surrounding architecture & the presence of traditional fishing boats, known as “barkos,” add to the cultural ambiance of the surfing experience.
Due to its location & the limited size of the beach, it can become crowded during peak tourist seasons, but the surf crowd remains relatively moderate. La Caleta’s charm lies not only in its waves but also in its rich history & the vibrant local culture that surrounds it.
Rating: 2.5/5
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 Cadiz Surf Spots
| Cadiz Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Playa Santa María del Mar |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Playa de la Victoria |
Approx. 20 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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La Caleta Beach |
Approx. 40 min. |
Approx. 10 min. |
Approx. 30-40 min.
(Local Bus from Cadiz city centre)
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Playa de Cortadura |
Approx. 60 min. |
15-20 min. |
Bus or train to nearby Cortadura station |
Accommodation In Cadiz
Let Trip.com help you find the ideal beach-side accommodation for your stress free Cadiz surf journey. They provide lodging options ranging from luxury resorts to friendly guest houses for everyone. Booking in advance ensures a smooth trip and more time in water.
For surfers who want to spark up their skills in Spain, Tripaneer runs surf camps that comprise lessons, lodging, and community events. These camps make you completely absorb the Spainish surf culture while enhancing your style with others in an atmosphere of support.
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€25 to €50 |
$28 to $55 |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€80 to €160 |
$85 to $160 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€180 to €500+ |
$190 to $550+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Cadiz Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Cadiz surf schools provide an ideal setting for surfers of all levels to develop their skills while enjoying the region’s vibrant coastal atmosphere. AUREA Surf School & Shop offers professional surf instruction in a friendly environment, making it a favorite for beginners and intermediates eager to improve their skills.
The instructors focus on technique, safety, and fun, ensuring every lesson is engaging. Frus Surf Cadiz Escuela de Surf & Bodyboard provides a comprehensive surf experience with lessons tailored to individual needs, blending traditional instruction with a relaxed vibe.
With their expert instruction & friendly atmosphere, Cadiz surf schools make learning to surf an unforgettable experience along this stunning stretch of coastline.
Cadiz Surf Camp
6 Day Cadiz Surf Camp With Surf Club El Palmar
Ride the waves & embrace the laid-back surf culture of El Palmar with this 6-day surf camp in southern Spain. Set against the stunning backdrop of Cadiz’s Atlantic coastline, this experience offers expert coaching for all levels, daily surf lessons, & a surf skate session to refine your skills.
Stay in a vibrant surf community with a back-to-basics camping experience that keeps you close to nature while providing essential amenities. With organized activities, social gatherings, & easy access to El Palmar’s renowned surf breaks, this surf camp is the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, & connection in one of Spain’s top surfing destinations.
What’s included: This immersive experience includes five nights of accommodation, daily surf lessons, a surf skate session, & unlimited use of surf equipment. Guests can enjoy access to common areas, organized events, & a lively social atmosphere, all just steps from El Palmar’s top surf breaks. Find Out More
Cadiz Surfboard Hire
Cadiz surfboard hire makes it easy for surfers of all levels to find the right equipment for the area’s reliable waves. AUREA Surf School & Shop is a trusted choice, offering a range of boards to match your skill level and wave conditions.
Frus Surf Cadiz Escuela de Surf & Bodyboard provides well-maintained boards, ensuring you’re prepared to tackle Cadiz’s consistent breaks. With plenty of options for Cadiz surfboard hire, you’ll always be prepared to enjoy the region’s fantastic waves.
Cadiz Surf Report & Surf Cam
To surf the shining Cadiz with success, all connection and information become a must. Surf-Forecast gives accurate forecasts, whereas subscription based live cams from Surfline deliver real-time visuals of Spain’s most popular surf breaks.
Connectivity is made easy with the Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, they activate digitally once you land, so there is no need to find a local SIM. Whether you are checking tide charts, watching live cams, or sharing your surf clips, this setup keeps you in the know and connected to the Spain surf scene throughout the day.
How To Get To Cadiz Surf
- Jerez Airport (XRY) To Cadiz
Distance: 45km (28mi)
Jerez Airport (XRY) is the closest airport to Cadiz surf, making it a convenient option for travelers. Here’s how to get there:
Public Transport
Approx. 1-1.5 hrs.
Details:
The most affordable way to reach Cadiz surf from Jerez Airport is by train or bus. A short walk from the airport terminal leads to Jerez de la Frontera train station, where Renfe services run directly to Cadiz in around 50 minutes.
Alternatively, the M-050 & M-051 buses connect Jerez Airport to Cadiz, though they are less frequent. Public transport is inexpensive but may require waiting for the next available service, so checking schedules in advance is recommended.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 40-60 mins.
Details:
Several private companies offer shuttle transfers from Jerez Airport to Cadiz, with both shared & private options. Shared shuttles may include stops along the way, making the journey slightly longer, while private transfers provide a direct & comfortable ride.
Reserve your shuttle before you fly through HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to guarantee a waiting vehicle when you land. This makes getting from the airport to the beach easier & stress-free, especially after long travel.
- Seville Airport (SVQ) To Cadiz
Distance: 125km (80mi)
Seville Airport (SVQ) is a major hub for international & domestic flights, offering multiple transport options to Cadiz surf.
Public Transport
Approx. 2-3 hrs.
Details:
The most budget-friendly way to get to Cadiz surf from Seville Airport is by bus & train. First, take the EA bus from the airport to Sevilla-Santa Justa train station (about 35 minutes). From there, Renfe operates direct trains to Cadiz, taking 1.5–2 hours depending on the service.
Alternatively, ALSA runs long-distance buses from Seville to Cadiz, but they tend to be slower than trains. Public transport is cost-effective but may require waiting for connections, so checking timetables in advance is recommended.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 2-2.5 hrs.
Details:
Shuttle services such as Suntransfers & local operators offer both shared & private transfers from Seville Airport to Cadiz. Shared shuttles are a budget-friendly alternative but may include multiple stops along the way, increasing travel time.
Pre-book your shuttle service with HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups to have your ride ready when you arrive. This hassle-free option helps you get to the beach from the airport quickly & without waiting.
Spain Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Surfing in Spain offers a mix of great waves and modern convenience. The currency is the Euro, and card payments are accepted almost everywhere. Spanish is the national language, and English is commonly spoken in popular surf towns. Tap water is safe to drink. Emergency services are efficient and reachable by dialing 112.
For visa information, health tips, and other important details, our Spain surf page outlines all 7 essentials you should know before planning your trip.
Travel Insurance For Your Cadiz Surf Trip
Going on a surf trip to Spain sounds like fun but you can very easily suffer an injury or fall ill and ruin that plan. A single awkward tumble or anything as innocent as a bug in the stomach could derail your ambition. Travel insurance is prepared to offer maximum assistance with regards to medical care, damage to equipment, and guarding against any trip delays.
VisitorsCoverage is dependable coverage, making sense to adventurous travelers who want to surf without worrying. Very small step, but here is a big payoff, for keeping the focus on oceans rather than hurdles.
Discover Cadiz: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf is down, Cadiz offers plenty of ways to enjoy your time off the water. From historic sites and local markets to coastal walks and tapas tastings, below are three recommendations.
For even more experiences, check out GetYourGuide and Viator, where you’ll find walking tours, day trips, and cultural activities to help you make the most of your visit.
Exploring Seville: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
For a multi-day break from the surf, Seville is just a short trip away and offers a rich dose of Spanish culture, history, and nightlife.
For even more ways to experience the city, check out GetYourGuide and Viator, where you’ll find guided tours, flamenco shows, food tastings, and cultural day trips.