An Introduction To Gijon Surf
Gijon surf combines the allure of Spain’s northern coast with the convenience of a walkable & bike-friendly city. Located in the Asturias region, this vibrant coastal destination offers a range of surf spots accessible without the need for a car, making it an excellent choice for surfers seeking a laid-back yet urban experience. With its stunning beaches & welcoming atmosphere, Gijon is a hidden gem for wave enthusiasts.
Playa de San Lorenzo, Gijon’s main surf spot, is a favorite among locals & visitors alike. This expansive beach offers a variety of wave conditions, catering to surfers of all skill levels. Beginners can enjoy the smaller, manageable swells closer to shore, while more experienced surfers can take advantage of the larger, more powerful waves further out. For those starting their surfing journey, the nearby Playa del Arbeyal provides gentle waves in a calm setting. Intermediate surfers looking for a bit more of a challenge will appreciate Playa de Peñarrubia, a short bike ride from the city center, where slightly stronger waves await.
Beyond the surf, Gijon’s lively cultural scene & natural beauty enhance its appeal. The city offers a mix of traditional Asturian charm & modern attractions, with beachfront cafes, bustling restaurants, & scenic coastal paths just steps from the waves. Whether you’re catching waves at San Lorenzo or soaking in the local vibe, Gijon is a surf destination that perfectly blends adventure, relaxation, & accessibility.
In This Guide
Best Time For Gijon Surf
Seasons:
- Autumn (September-November): Consistent swells with offshore winds in the morning.
- Attire Needed: 4/3mm wetsuit.
- Winter (December-February): The most powerful swells & favourable winds.
- Attire Needed: 5/4mm wetsuit.
- Spring (March-May): Some good swells but less consistent.
- Attire Needed: 4/3mm wetsuit.
- Summer (June-August): Smaller swells, better for beginners, with occasional bigger days.
- Attire Needed: 3/2mm wetsuit or boardshorts/bikini.
Surf Conditions:
- Wave Size & Swell Direction: Waves typically range from 2 to 8 foot, best with northwesterly or westerly swells.
- Break Type: A mix of beach breaks & reef breaks.
- Tide & Wind: Best at mid to high tide, with offshore winds from the southeast.
- Skill Required: Ranges from beginner to advanced depending on the surf spot.
Surf Spots Gijon Around Within a 5km Radius
| Best Surf Spots | Distance from Gijon | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Playa de San Lorenzo |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) north |
2-8 foot |
Consistent beach break |
All levels |
|
Playa de Poniente |
Approx. 1.5km (0.9mi) west |
2-5 foot |
Fun beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
|
Playa de Peñarrubia |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) east |
3-6 foot |
Consistent beach break |
Intermediate to advanced |
|
Playa del Arbeyal |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) west |
1-3 foot |
Soft, mellow beach break |
Beginner |
|
Playa de Serín |
Approx. 5km (3.1mi) east |
2-4 foot |
Smaller, mellow break |
Beginner to intermediate |
Access To Gijon Surf Spots
| Best Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Playa de San Lorenzo |
5-10 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
|
Playa de Poniente |
Approx. 20 min. |
5-10 min. |
Approx. 15 min. (Local Bus) |
|
Playa de Peñarrubia |
Approx. 50 min. |
Approx. 20 min. |
Approx. 10 min. (Taxi) |
|
Playa del Arbeyal |
Approx. 50 min. |
Approx. 30 min. |
Approx. 30 min. (Local Bus)
Approx. 10 min. (Taxi) |
|
Playa de Serín |
Approx. 60 min. |
Approx. 25 min. |
Approx. 30 min. (Local Bus)
Approx. 15 min. (Taxi)
|
Accommodation in Gijon
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range per night (EUR) | Price Range per night (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
€30 to €50 |
$33 to $55 |
|
Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€70 to €140 |
$75 to $140 |
|
Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€180 to €280+ |
$195 to $300+ |
How To Get To Gijon
How to get to Gijon from Asturias Airport (OVD)
To reach Gijon, the most convenient route is to fly into Asturias Airport (OVD) & then take a local bus to your destination.
We’ve compiled a guide with estimated costs & various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Gijón based on your preferences & budget.
Distance: Approx. 40km (25mi)
- Taxi or Ride-share:
- Time: 30-40 min.
- Cost: Approx. €40-€60 ($45-$65 USD)
- Public Transport (Bus) (Best Option):
- Time: 45-60 min.
- Cost: Approx. €8-€12 per person ($9-$13 USD)
- Shuttle Service:
- Time: 40-50 min.
- Cost: Approx. €20-€30 per person ($21-$32 USD)
How to get to Gijon from Madrid
To reach Gijon from Madrid, there are convenient travel options by train, bus, or car, each with its own cost & time advantages. Here’s a guide with estimated costs & travel times.
Distance: Approx. 475km (295mi)
- Train (Best Option):
- Time: 4-5 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. €30-€70 per person ($32-$75 USD)
- Details: The direct train from Madrid to Gijón offers a quick & comfortable journey, with several departures daily from Madrid’s Chamartín station.
- Bus:
- Time: 5-6 hrs.
- Cost: Approx. €25-€40 per person ($27-$45 USD)
- Details: Buses from Madrid to Gijón are an economical option with frequent departures from the Madrid Estación Sur bus terminal.
- Flights (Madrid-Barajas Airport to Asturias Airport):
- Time: 1 hr. flight + 45-60 min bus or taxi from Asturias Airport to Gijón
- Cost: Approx. €50-€150 per person ($55-$160) for the flight, plus €8-€60 (USD $9-$65) for airport transfers
- Details: A quick option, though including airport transfers makes it longer & more costly than train or bus for most travelers.
Discover Gijon: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf is flat Gijon offers a mix of cultural, scenic, & historical highlights along its northern coast. Here are the top 5 things to do.
Cimavilla Historic Neighborhood
Wander through Gijon’s oldest quarter, with cobblestone streets, colorful houses, & a lively local atmosphere.
Termas Romanas de Campo Valdés
Step back in time at these Roman baths, a fascinating archaeological site showcasing ancient Gijon’s bathing culture.
Elogio del Horizonte
Admire this iconic Eduardo Chillida sculpture, perched on a hill overlooking the sea, offering stunning panoramic views.
Laboral City of Culture
Explore this cultural complex with a mix of art galleries, a theater, & exhibitions on Gijon’s industrial history.
Jardín Botánico Atlántico
Relax in this beautiful botanical garden featuring native Atlantic flora, serene walking paths, & seasonal blooms.
Exploring Asturias: The Best Sights & Landmarks To Visit
Here are four standout activities around Gijon that showcase the best of Asturias:
Covadonga & the Picos de Europa
Venture to the scenic Covadonga Lakes & Basilica, nestled in the Picos de Europa mountains. This area offers incredible hiking trails, breathtaking views, & historical significance as a pilgrimage site.
Oviedo’s Historic Center
Just a short drive from Gijon, Oviedo’s Old Town features charming plazas, the stunning Oviedo Cathedral, & quaint streets lined with traditional cider bars & shops.
Cider Route in Villaviciosa
Experience the heart of Asturias’s cider culture by visiting traditional cider houses in Villaviciosa, where you can learn about & taste sidra, a regional specialty.
Playa del Silencio
This secluded cove, known for its dramatic cliffs & crystal-clear water, is perfect for a scenic walk & offers gorgeous coastal views away from Gijon’s main beach areas.