When people think of surfing, people think of a tropical destination such as Hawaii, but did you know that you can also surf well in the north of Europe? You have to exchange your summer surf shorts for a wetsuit more often and brave the natural elements such as cold, rain and sometimes even snow, but some surfers see that as an extra challenge. They travel to the far north especially for cold water surfing. Would you also like to take up that challenge? Then read on for the best surf spots in Scandinavia!
Hawaii, Australia, Indonesia and Portugal are the most popular surfing destinations worldwide. They meet the perfect picture for surfing enthusiasts: warm temperatures, white sandy beaches, turquoise water, palm trees and of course good waves. But for those looking for a new surfing challenge, Scandinavia is the place to take a look. You’ll be surprised how many good surf spots there are and how different the experience is when you encounter the natural elements of the far north. So pack your winter wetsuit and plan your trip with our best surf spot tips!
#1 Cold Hawaii (Denmark)
Although you might not expect it so quickly, Denmark is one of the best surfing spots in all of Europe. Along the northwest coast you will find more than 30 surf spots between the seaside resorts of Agger and Hanstholm! This area is therefore also known as Cold Hawaii. Due to the differences in location and wind, there are always good spots to be found for both novice and advanced surfers. Still, the best time to surf here is in winter. It may be colder and a wetsuit is certainly recommended, but due to the weather conditions at sea, the chance of a ‘swell’ and therefore good waves is greatest between the months of November and March.
Read more about Cold Hawaii’s best surf spots in Denmark here
#2 Unstad Beach (Norway)
This is perhaps one of the most special locations for surfing: Unstad Beach. Here you surf above the Arctic Circle and that means that this surf spot is on the bucket list of many surfers. Moreover, Lofoten is definitely a bucket list destination, because it is incredibly beautiful! Surfing can be done here all year round and every season has its charm. For example, in winter there is snow on the beach and you can surf under the magical northern lights, while in summer you can enjoy surfing 24/7 during Midsummer Night. Near the beach you will find a surfing school where you can take lessons and rent a surfboard. Don’t forget to visit Unstad Arctic Surf where they say they serve the tastiest cinnamon rolls in the world.
#3 Hoddevik (Norway)
Located on the Stadlandet peninsula on the west coast of Norway you will find this Scandinavian surfing paradise. The waves are not that challenging for the advanced surfer, but that should certainly not spoil the fun. The location is beautiful! The beach is beautifully hidden between the Norwegian cliffs and the water is azure blue in color. Something you wouldn’t expect from such a northern surfing location. Hoddevik has a number of surf camps and the waves are especially suitable for the novice surfer, but as mentioned, the advanced surfer will certainly also enjoy catching a wave here.
#4 Knäbäckshusens Beach (Sweden)
Knäbäckshusens Beach, also called Rörums Beach, is a narrow strip of sand along the southeastern coast of Sweden and runs from the fishing village of Vik up to 3 kilometers further to Stenshuvuds National Park. What is special about Knäbäckshusens Strand is the dense deciduous forest that flows into the sea via a narrow sand strip. With so much greenery on the beach, you would almost think you are along the northeast coast of Australia instead of in the north of Europe. A wonderful and beautiful place to enjoy the beach and surfing.
#5 Torö Stenstrand (Sweden)
This beach is home to several national surfing championships and for good reason. This popular surf spot is located in the archipelago of the capital Stockholm and has a rocky reef off the coast. This means that there are large ‘swells’ regularly, especially in autumn and winter, which leads to high waves that are loved by many advanced surfers. Although the pebble beach does not really invite you to hang out on the beach, it is certainly a surf spot to try when you are near Stockholm.
#6 Apelviken (Sweden)
Apelviken is located on the west coast of Sweden. The beach is located near the charming town of Varberg in the province of Halland. The city is a nice destination to visit all year round, including the Varberg Fjort, but Apelviken beach is also known as one of the best surfing spots in Sweden. The beach is long, wide, has white sand and there is often a lot of wind. This place is popular with wave surfers, windsurfers and kite surfers. In the Halland area you will also find a lot of nice beach clubs, cafes and restaurants, as well as the largest surf shop in Sweden!
