An Introduction To Suances Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | April 05, 2025
Suances offers a perfect mix of wave variety, scenery, and convenience on Spain’s northern coastline in the region of Cantabria. The town is small enough to warrant exploration of the various breaks without the need of a car. Suances maintains reliable year round surf conditions in a mellow atmosphere, attracting surfers from all walks of life and skill level.
Playa de Los Locos is the main surf spot in town, famed for its consistency and being most popular among intermediate and advanced surfers. A few minutes walk from there is Playa de La Concha, where the waves are a little milder for beginners or easy-going sessions.
For power and solitude, Playa de Los Caballos is about a 20-minute bike ride away. A few advanced surfers may also choose to test their mettle at Playa de La Tabla, a technical reef break just 10 minutes by bike.
Surf shops, local restaurants, and accommodation are all just a walk away. So whether you want to chase barrels or cruise smaller waves, Suances truly delivers a well rounded and easy going surf experience on Spain’s rugged northern coast.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Suances
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Peak Suances Surf Season | October to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Suances surf hits its stride from October through March, when North Atlantic swells roll in with power & consistency. During this season, waves often reach 4 to 10 feet, lighting up the town’s mix of beach & reef breaks. Hollow walls & fast-breaking peaks are common, offering excellent conditions for more experienced surfers.
Suances surf in winter is ideal for those chasing punchy, long rides across multiple peaks. The breaks demand skill, especially during stormy periods that produce heavy waves & strong currents. While the weather is colder & more rugged, the reward is uncrowded lineups & some of the best surf the region sees all year. For dedicated surfers, this is the season when Suances surf truly shines.
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Shoulder Suances Surf Season | April, May & September
Suited For All Skill Levels
Summer signals a slower rhythm for Suances surf. From June to August, waves generally hover between 1 & 3 feet. While swells do still appear, especially after short-lived systems, the season is marked by more frequent flat spells & weaker conditions. That said, Suances surf in summer is perfect for beginners & longboarders seeking small, clean waves to practice on.
The town becomes a buzzing tourist hub, & while the crowds swell on the beach, early sessions still offer a peaceful vibe. Advanced surfers may want to travel further afield during this time, but for relaxed, fun sessions under sunny skies, Suances surf in summer delivers.
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Low Suances Surf Season | June to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
Summer signals a slower rhythm for Suances surf. From June to August, waves generally hover between 1 & 3 feet. While swells do still appear, especially after short-lived systems, the season is marked by more frequent flat spells & weaker conditions. That said, Suances surf in summer is perfect for beginners & longboarders seeking small, clean waves to practice on.
The town becomes a buzzing tourist hub, & while the crowds swell on the beach, early sessions still offer a peaceful vibe. Advanced surfers may want to travel further afield during this time, but for relaxed, fun sessions under sunny skies, Suances surf in summer delivers.
Suances Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Suances Surf Temperature:
18–21°C (64–70°F)
What To Wear:
A 2–3 mm wetsuit is ideal, with some warmer days allowing for a shorty.
Rainfall:
Around 4–7 rainy days per month, with smaller swells making this a better season for beginners.
Suances Surf Temperature:
16–19°C (61–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm wetsuit is best as the water cools.
Rainfall:
Rainfall increases to 7–12 rainy days per month. Suances surf conditions improve, bringing more consistent waves & fewer crowds.
Saunces Surf Temperature:
13–16°C (54–61°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm wetsuit is necessary, & booties are optional but helpful on colder days.
Rainfall:
Winter is the wettest season, with 10–15 rainy days per month. Powerful swells make this the best time for experienced surfers.
Suances 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.
Rainfall:
Rainfall starts to decrease, with 6–10 rainy days per month. Waves remain consistent, offering a mix of good conditions.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Suances
| Suances Surf Spots | Distance from Suances | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Playa de los Locos |
Approx. 1km (0.6mi) northwest |
3-8 foot |
Consistent, powerful waves |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Playa de la Concha |
Approx. 0.5km (0.3mi) north |
2-5 foot |
Mellow beach break |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Playa de los Caballos |
Approx. 2km (1.2mi) northeast |
4-8 foot |
Powerful right-hand break |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Playa de la Tablía |
Approx. 1.2km (0.7mi) west |
4-8 foot |
Hollow, challenging reef break |
Intermediate to advanced (sharp rocks) |
Further Information To Suances Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: High
Playa de Los Locos is one of the most well-known surf spots in northern Spain, offering powerful, fast-breaking waves that can produce hollow barrels in the right conditions. This exposed beach break works best with a solid northwest swell at mid tide, with south winds ensuring clean, well-formed waves. The waves can be heavy, making it more suitable for intermediate & advanced surfers rather than beginners.
During bigger swells, the currents can get strong, & the take-offs become critical. Due to its popularity, Playa de Los Locos can get quite crowded, especially in summer & during prime swells. The beach is easily accessible via a short walk down from the cliffs, providing a beautiful backdrop to an already impressive wave. If you’re looking for one of the best & most consistent waves in the region, this is a must-surf spot.
Rating: 4.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Playa de la Concha is a more sheltered beach break in Suances, providing a mellower alternative to Playa de Los Locos. The waves here work best at mid to high tide with a northwest swell & clean south winds. Due to its more protected nature, it is an excellent spot for beginner & intermediate surfers looking for fun, manageable waves.
The sandy bottom & long, rolling waves make it a great learning spot, but it can still offer some punchier peaks when the swell picks up. The beach itself is spacious, with good facilities & easy access from the town. Crowds are common, especially in the summer months, but there is usually enough space to spread out. For a relaxed & enjoyable surf session, Playa de la Concha is a solid choice.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low
Playa de los Caballos is a hidden gem in Suances, offering powerful, well-shaped waves in a scenic & remote setting. Best surfed at mid tide with a northwest swell & favourable south winds, this spot delivers high-quality waves with strong, fast-breaking sections. The mix of sandy & rocky bottom adds some unpredictability, making it better suited for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Due to its remote access, requiring a walk down a steep trail, it remains relatively uncrowded even when conditions are good. The waves can pack a punch, with hollow sections forming during stronger swells, making it an exciting option for those looking for something more challenging. If you’re after a more adventurous surf experience with fewer people in the lineup, Playa de los Caballos is a fantastic choice.
Rating: 4/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Low to mid tide
- Wind: South
- Swell Direction: Northwest
- Crowd Factor: Low to moderate
Playa de la Tablia is a more secluded & less crowded surf spot in Suances, known for its fun, peaky waves that break over a mix of sand & rock. It works best at low to mid tide when a northwest swell meets light south winds, producing clean & well-shaped waves. This spot offers both lefts & rights, with sections that can provide rippable shoulders & occasional hollow sections.
While it is not as well-known as Playa de Los Locos, it can offer quality waves when the conditions align, especially for intermediate surfers looking to escape busier breaks. Access requires a short walk down from the cliffs, adding to its uncrowded nature. If you’re looking for a more peaceful surf session in Suances with great wave potential, Playa de la Tablia is worth checking out.
Rating: 4/5
Travel Time To Suances Surf Spots
| Suances Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
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Playa de Los Locos |
5-10 min. |
5 min. |
Not required |
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Playa de la Concha |
5 min. |
Not required |
Not required |
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Playa de la Tablía |
Approx. 20 min. |
5-10 min. |
Not required |
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Playa de los Caballos |
Approx. 35 min. + paddle across Ría de San Martín de la Arena |
Not advised |
25 min. (Taxi) |
Accommodation In Suances
Are you thinking of a Spain surf trip? Planning the accommodations close to the ocean is easy, courtesy of Trip.com. You can choose from their wide selection of luxury hotels or charming guesthouses. Booking early will save you from the last-minute stress, allowing you to spend more time surfing instead.
Tripaneer offers surf camps all over Spain to help surfers sharpen their skills at all levels. Lessons, accommodation, and a great community come together at these camps for you to fully embrace the Spanish and Suances surf lifestyle to the most!
| 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 |
€80 to €150 |
$90 to $160 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€200 to €380+ |
$220 to $400+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Suances Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Suances surf schools provide the perfect foundation for anyone eager to catch waves along Spain’s northern coast. Surf Los Locos, an official Billabong surf school, is renowned for its professional instruction and high-quality facilities, making it a standout option for learning to ride the waves.
Totora Surf School Suances delivers tailored lessons, focusing on individual progression and fostering a love for surfing. Solar Surf School combines expert coaching with a warm and welcoming environment, ideal for surfers looking to enhance their skills.
Bio Surf Camp provides an eco-friendly surf learning experience, blending top-notch instruction with a focus on sustainability. With access to consistent waves & breathtaking beaches, Suances surf schools ensure an enriching & memorable learning experience.
Suances Surf Camp
Bio Surf Camp
Escape to the lush landscapes of Cantabria for an unforgettable surf experience at Bio Surf Camp in Suances. Nestled in a peaceful green area just minutes from the beach, this adult surf camp blends adventure & relaxation in a serene natural setting. With expert-led surf lessons, small-group coaching, & unlimited access to surf equipment, you’ll have everything you need to progress in the waves.
Off the board, unwind in the camp’s Zen garden, sauna, or yoga area, or socialize at the barbecue & outdoor cinema. Whether you stay for 4-days, 7-days, or 8 days, you’ll enjoy comfortable eco-friendly accommodations, a vibrant surf community, & easy access to Suances’ lively summer scene.
4 Day Suances Surf Camp With Bio Surf Camp
Enjoy 3 nights of eco-friendly accommodation, daily buffet breakfasts, & 2.5-hour surf lessons with all equipment & insurance. You’ll also have unlimited access to surf gear outside of lessons, plus use of the kitchen, gazebos, sauna, yoga space, surf library, & communal areas. Discounts are available for groups & returning guests. Find Out More
7 Day Suances Surf Camp With Bio Surf Camp
Stay for 6 nights in eco-friendly accommodations, enjoy daily buffet breakfasts, & take part in 2.5-hour surf lessons each day with all equipment & insurance. Outside of lessons, you’ll have unlimited use of surf gear, access to the yoga area, sauna, surf library, & communal spaces. Discounts apply for groups & returning guests. Find Out More
8 Day Suances Surf Camp With Bio Surf Camp
This package includes 7 nights of eco-friendly accommodation, daily buffet breakfasts, and 2.5-hour surf lessons with all equipment & insurance. You’ll also enjoy unlimited board rental outside of lessons, plus full access to the camp’s kitchen, gazebos, sauna, yoga area, surf library, & communal spaces. Discounts are available for groups & returning guests. Find Out More
Suances Surfboard Hire
Suances surfboard hire makes it easy for visiting surfers to enjoy the region’s consistent waves without needing to bring their own gear. Surf Los Locos provides a variety of high-quality boards for rent, catering to all skill levels and preferences.
Totora Surf School Suances also offers a selection of well maintained surfboards, ensuring a seamless surfing experience. Solar Surf School makes it easy to hit the water with a range of boards suited for local conditions.
Bio Surf Camp’s rental service complements its eco-friendly ethos, providing reliable equipment for surfers exploring Suances’ pristine beaches. With these well-located & professional services, Suances surfboard hire offers everything you need to get in the water stress-free.
Suances Surf Report & Surf Cam
All your surf day planning for Spain could not be easier with Surf-Forecast and Surfline. Surf-Forecast provides detailed tide, wind and swell prediction, while the live cams from Surfline allow you to see the waves in real time for Spain’s best surf breaks via a subscription.
Also, staying online is quick and easy with Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM, which gets activated as soon as you arrive, thus avoiding the hassle of getting a local SIM card. This combo keeps you informed and able to share your surf clips uninterrupted so that your surf trip to Suances is smooth and connected.
How To Get To Suances Surf
- Santander Airport (SDR) To Suances
Distance: 30km (19mi)
To reach Suances surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Santander Airport (SDR) and then take a local bus to your destination. Below is a quick guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Suances based on your preferences.
Public Transport
Approx. 1.5-2 hrs.
Details:
There is no direct bus from Santander Airport to Suances surf, so you’ll need to take a two-step journey. First, take the S-4 bus from the airport to Santander’s central bus station (15 minutes, around $2 USD). From there, ALSA operates direct buses to Suances, with a journey time of 50 minutes to 1 hour.
Buses run several times a day, but schedules may be limited on weekends. If you prefer to take the train, you can catch a Renfe Cercanías train from Santander to Torrelavega (20 minutes) & then a short taxi or bus ride to Suances. While budget-friendly, this route requires some planning to align with bus & train timetables.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 30-50 mins.
Details:
Some airport transfer services, such as HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups, offer pre-booked shuttles to Suances. Private transfers provide a direct, comfortable ride, while shared options may include stops at other coastal destinations.
Spain Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Surfing in Spain is simple to navigate, but some essentials are still worth noting. Currency is the Euro, and cashless payments are common. Tap water is safe across the country. English is widely spoken, especially in surf towns, but Spanish remains the primary language.
Want to travel smart? Our Spain surf page has all 7 essentials, including visa info, health services, and safety tips to help you plan a worry-free trip.
Travel Insurance For Your Suances Surf Trip
A long awaited surf trip to Spain could be derailed due to a sudden fever or a broken board. Medical bills can really add up in case of these occurrences if they have no cover. And, replacing your gear on such short notice? It surely doesn’t come cheap! This is where travel insurance would come to your rescue.
With VisitorsCoverage, surfers can find flexible options to fit trips that are so unpredictable in nature. A policy can cover you for anything from missing a flight to being on the sidelines with an injury. And your surf trip in Spain is certainly better with a safety net.
Discover Suances: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in Suances there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Here are 3 recommended activities to make the most of your time.
Exploring Santander: The Best Sights & Landmarks to Visit
For a multi-day break from the surf, Santander is just a short trip away and offers a great mix of Spanish culture, history, and coastal beauty. Below is 4 recommended activities to make the most of your time.
For even more ways to experience the city, check out GetYourGuide and Viator for walking tours, boat trips, and cultural excursions throughout Santander and the surrounding region.