Cantabria is an established destination on the European surf circuit and, as such, a regular venue for festivals, championships and gatherings throughout the year. This guide explains what types of events you can find on its coastline, how to take part or attend as a spectator, and why this competitive scene enriches the surf experience in the region.
Why Cantabria Is a Hub for Surf Events
The Cantabrian coast offers consistent and varied waves throughout the year, with internationally renowned beaches such as Somo, Liencres and Salinas (in neighbouring Asturias), and a very active surfing community. This combination explains why federations, schools and associations maintain a stable annual calendar of competitions and festivals.
Types of Events on Offer
Surf festivals
Annual events combining competition, live music, exhibitions, workshops and a market. They tend to have a family-friendly character, a festive atmosphere and take place mainly in summer on beaches such as Somo.
Federation championships
Official competitions across junior, senior, longboard, kneeboard and parasurfing categories, organised by the Federation and schools. A space where national and international surfers compete.
Longboard contests
A classic discipline with a very loyal following. Cantabria and the Atlantic coastline host events that attract riders from many countries, with a more artistic and aesthetic atmosphere.
Adaptive surfing
Parasurfing contests and inclusive events that demonstrate surfing is accessible to everyone. They are usually integrated into larger festivals or held as standalone events.
Junior meetings
Competitions designed specifically for children and teenagers, where local schools present their pupils in a safe and educational environment.
Themed festivals
Events centred on a specific discipline (kneeboard, bodyboard) with contests, music, gastronomy and an international community travelling specifically for that weekend.
Where Events Are Concentrated
Beaches with the strongest tradition
- Somo (the historic centre of surfing in Cantabria)
- Loredo
- Liencres
- Suances and Los Locos
- El Sardinero
When events typically take place
- May and June: season openers
- July and August: large-format festivals
- September: federation championships
- Autumn: competitions with more consistent waves
- Occasional winter events when swell conditions are good
How to Participate as a Surfer
Identify your level and category: under-12, junior, under-18, senior, master, longboard, parasurf, etc. Each event defines specific categories.
Check the official entry details: on the websites of the Cantabrian Surf Federation, official schools and organisers of each festival. Dates, deadlines and requirements are listed there.
Register early: places in official events are often limited. Registering in advance avoids waiting lists and allows time to sort out logistics.
Prepare equipment and licence: many competitions require a federation licence, a medical certificate or parental consent for minors. Checking these requirements in advance avoids last-minute problems.
Arrive early on the day of the event: getting to know the spot, warming up, speaking with judges and attending the briefing are all part of your performance.
How to Attend as a Spectator
Most events are free and held outdoors, making them a perfect family outing. It is worth arriving early to get a good spot on the sand or at a viewpoint, and bringing sun protection, water and binoculars if you want to follow the heats closely. Festivals usually complement the competition with children’s activities, music and a food area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there competitions specifically for children and teenagers?
Yes. There are junior and under-12 categories within federation championships, and many schools organise internal training events where their pupils compete in a safe, educational environment.
Where is the best place to watch events as a spectator?
Beaches with an elevated promenade or high dune — Somo, Liencres, El Sardinero — offer a comfortable view of the heats. A spectator area with a public address system is usually set up close to the competition peak.
What level do you need to take part?
It depends on the event. Some festivals have an open category for amateurs, whilst federation championships have a higher standard. Local schools can advise surfers on which event matches their level.
Is a federation licence required to compete?
In official events a licence is usually required and, in some cases, a medical certificate. In open festivals, registration and acceptance of the conditions is sufficient. Each event details its own requirements.
What time of year has the most events?
Summer (July and August) concentrates the festivals with the largest family turnout and festive atmosphere, whilst autumn and early winter tend to host more technical competitions with better-quality waves.
Surf and Community at Natuaventura Camps
If you would like your child to discover the Cantabrian surf scene in the best possible way, our surf camps work with official schools right in the heart of Somo and Santander.
We organise trips for primary, secondary and high school
School Trips
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