An Introduction To Cadiz Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | March 15, 2025
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 surf 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
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In This Guide
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 |
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. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your technique, these schools offer expert instruction to help you progress in the waves.
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.
Slow Escuela de Surf stands out for its personalized coaching approach and commitment to creating a fun and safe learning environment.
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
Discover your ideal surf camp below—compare options across Spain and around the world!
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. With a variety of rental options available, you’ll have no trouble securing a board that suits your skill level & the local conditions.
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.
Slow Escuela de Surf also offers rental options, making it convenient for surfers to find quality equipment. 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
While you’re enjoying your time, staying updated on Cadiz surf conditions is key to making the most of your sessions. Websites like Surf-Forecast and Surfline provide detailed weather and Cadiz surf reports, including swell size, wind direction, and tide times, to help you plan your day.
For those wanting a real-time view of the waves, Surfline offers live surf cameras at many popular breaks. However, access to these cameras requires a paid subscription. Despite the cost, Surfline’s cameras can be a valuable tool for surfers who want to check conditions before heading out. With these resources, you’ll always be in the know about the best times to hit the water.
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 | Cheapest Option
- Time: 1-1.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $5-$10 USD per person
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
- Time: 40-60 mins.
- Cost: Approx. $20-$40 USD per person
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.
Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons. Some hotels in Cadiz also arrange shuttle services for guests.
- 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 | Cheapest Option
- Time: 2-3 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $15-$25 USD per person
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
- Time: 2-2.5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. $30-$70 USD per person
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.
Private shuttles provide a more direct & comfortable ride. Booking ahead is highly recommended, especially in summer when demand is high. Some hotels in Cadiz also arrange transfers for their guests.
Accommodation In Cadiz
| 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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Find Your Perfect Stay
When planning your stay at Cadiz, Tripaneer should be your first stop, offering a seamless booking experience for surf camps and unique local adventures that truly capture the spirit of the coast. Tripaneer’s curated options ensure you start your journey with the best blend of excitement and comfort.
For those interested in a wider array of accommodation, Booking.com presents a range of luxurious beachfront properties and cozy apartments just steps away from the sand, while Hostelworld caters to budget-conscious travellers with its selection of affordable hostels and social surf lodges.
Spain Travel Information: The 7 Essentials You Need To Know
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.
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.