Surf Events and Competitions in Cantabria: The Complete Guide

Discover the Best Surf Competitions in Cantabria

Cantabria is a paradise for surf enthusiasts. The northern coast of Spain, bathed by the Bay of Biscay, is famous for its quality waves. But surfing in Cantabria is not just about its waves; it is also about being part of the exciting competitions and events that take place throughout the year. From high-level championships to surf festivals, this region has everything for lovers of the sea and the waves.

Surfing in Cantabria is a unique experience that attracts surfers from around the world and exciting events. Join us as we explore the most noteworthy surf events and competitions that take place in this beautiful region. Whether you are a surf enthusiast or a passionate spectator, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Cantabria.

Contents

1. Surfing in Cantabria: A Paradise for Sport Lovers
2. Main Annual Events
3. Featured Competitions
4. Junior Surf Competitions
5. Adaptive Surfing
6. How to Take Part

Surfing in Cantabria: A Paradise for Sport Lovers

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Cantabria boasts an extensive coastline along the Cantabrian Sea, impressive for practising this exciting water sport. Whether you are passionate about surfing or simply want to give it a go, Cantabria is the perfect place for you.

Optimal Conditions for Surfing

What sets Cantabria apart as an exceptional surf destination are its ideal conditions for the sport all year round. The region’s geography and its exposure to the Atlantic generate consistent and varied waves that suit all levels of surfer, from beginners to experts. Whether you prefer gentle waves to learn on or more challenging ones to test your skills, Cantabria has something for you.

Variety of Surf Beaches

Cantabria is home to a great number of beaches suitable for surfing. From the iconic Playa de Somo to the stunning Playa de Liencres, every corner of the Cantabrian coast offers a unique experience. Many of these beaches are also ideal for families, meaning you can enjoy surfing with your loved ones in a safe and pleasant environment.

Surf Schools and a Friendly Community

For those who are just starting out in the world of surfing, Cantabria offers a variety of well-regarded surf schools. Experienced instructors will guide you through your first steps on a board and help you develop your skills in the water. The surfing community in Cantabria is warm and welcoming, making it easy to make new friends and feel part of the surf culture.

Cultural Richness and Gastronomy

Surfing in Cantabria is not just about riding waves; you can also explore the region’s rich culture. Visit charming fishing villages, discover local architecture and enjoy the delicious Cantabrian cuisine in restaurants overlooking the sea. There is nothing quite like trying fresh seafood dishes after a day of surfing.

Main Annual Events

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Part of Cantabria’s appeal lies in the exciting events and competitions held throughout the year. These events and festivals offer a unique glimpse into the region’s surf culture, combining music, art and the beauty of the Cantabrian coast.

Open Surf Festival de Surf de Somo

This event, organised by the Escuela Cántabra de Surf, is a true annual celebration of surf culture held on the beautiful beach of Somo. It is a fun-filled festival that attracts surfers, music lovers and families alike.

During the festival, the beach becomes the hub of surf-related activities, including surf competitions, exhibitions and workshops for beginners. The campsites next to the surf beaches and the coastal villages of Cantabria fill with tents and campervans, creating a sense of community.

The festival also offers live music, a competition for the Copa de España de Parasurfing (24 August), skate festivals, activities for children and a variety of food, clothing and surf equipment stalls. If you are looking for an introduction to the world of surfing or simply want to enjoy a relaxed atmosphere by the sea, the Somo Surf Festival is an excellent choice.

• Most recent edition: 33rd anniversary, 24–31 August 2023

Salinas International Longboard Festival

If you are a longboard lover, this event is a must. The Playa de Salinas fills with internationally renowned longboard surfers who compete in one of the most exciting championships in Europe. In addition to the competition, the Salinas Festival offers live music, art and surf culture, along with a unique atmosphere that draws enthusiasts from around the world.

• Most recent edition: 26–30 July 2023

XVI Cantabria International Kneeboard Festival

The XVI Cantabria Kneeboard Festival, held for the sixteenth consecutive year on the beach of Somo, brings together a varied community of kneeboarders from the Cantabrian coast, the Canary Islands, France, the United Kingdom, the United States, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, Malta and Australia.

The festival kicks off with a warm welcome ceremony at «La Casa del Surf», a friendly reception with a barbecue and live music. The main competition takes place on the second day of the festival. At the end of the day, the traditional «Twinning» ceremony is held at La Casa del Surf, with a hearty paella and a live concert. The celebrations continue at «La Mar Salada» with a lively evening party, open to the public and accompanied by great music and kneeboarding projections.

The final day is the prize-giving ceremony, which includes prize draws for technical and clothing gear, as well as the chance to win two gleaming «Sneilboard» kneeboard boards.

This event is a genuine benchmark in Europe for kneeboard surf enthusiasts. The number of female participants has also grown considerably, as has the presence of young kneeboarders who are securing the future of this discipline.

• Most recent edition: 6–8 October 2023

OA2 FUSSSION BY PLEA

The OA2 FuSSSion stands out as a truly exceptional event on a global scale, encompassing the disciplines of surfing (at Playa de El Sardinero), skating (Skatepark Indoor Obsession) and snowboarding (Alto Campoo) over an exciting three consecutive days in Cantabria.

The experience takes place in both Santander and the Alto Campoo Ski and Mountain Resort, with its base camp at Plea Beach House (a hostel in Loredo, Somo). Professionals, adaptive athletes and sportspeople of all ages take part in this event.

The current edition runs from 10 to 12 March, with registration and the first competition or exhibition scheduled for Friday afternoon, and activities concluding on Sunday morning the 13th. The event is flexible, always adapting to weather conditions to ensure the best possible setting for each competition.

Registration for the OA2 FuSSSion includes a commemorative T-shirt, insurance, access to all competitions, Saturday breakfast and lunch, a Saturday evening gala dinner, as well as Sunday breakfast and lunch. Transfers and a ski pass for Alto Campoo are also included.

• Most recent edition: 10–12 March 2023

Copa Cantabria de Surfing

This series of competitions is held on various beaches across the region throughout the year. Each event is an opportunity for surfers of all ages and levels to show their skill in the water.

The Copa Cantabria de Surfing is an opportunity to discover new talent and experience the passion that local surfers have for their sport. The competitions include categories such as shortboard, longboard and bodyboard, meaning there is something for every taste and ability.

On the official website of the Cantabrian Surf Federation you can find information on dates and updates for the most notable events and competitions in Cantabria.

These are just some of the main annual events that make Cantabria an exciting and dynamic surf destination. Whatever your level of experience, these events give you the opportunity to connect with other enthusiasts, enjoy the competitive atmosphere and immerse yourself in Cantabria’s surf culture.

So if you are planning a trip to Cantabria and love surfing, make sure you check the events calendar to get the most out of it. Attending one of these festivals is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the passion this region has for surfing and the ocean.

Featured Competitions

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Its reputation has made Cantabria one of the most sought-after locations for international-level surf competitions. Its waves, beaches and wind conditions make the Cantabrian coast ideal for high-level events and competitions that attract elite surfers from all over the world. If you are ready to test your skills on the waves or simply enjoy the competitive atmosphere, these are the featured competitions you cannot miss:

La Vaca Gigante Championship

La Vaca Gigante is a prestigious international big-wave surf championship that takes place on the impressive cliffs of La Cantera-Cueto, Santander (Cantabria). This thrilling event takes place when the minimum wave height and safety conditions are met (waves can reach up to 6 or 8 metres), during the waiting period spanning from November to May.

The 22–23 edition, ultimately held in March, crowned Nano Riego as champion on the memorable date of 23 March. The pandemic has helped consolidate La Vaca Gigante, alongside other extreme events, as one of the few of its kind in Spain with international recognition.

Invitations are issued by the organising club ObsessionA2, pitting 9 local surfers against 9 international ones, in an exciting competition that attracts thousands of spectators in person and online.

A notable new feature is the increase in the prize fund to €10,000, demonstrating the commitment to rewarding the best surfers and ensuring the event’s safety.

• Most recent edition: 23 March 2023

Cantabria Regional Surf Championship

The stunning Playa de Luaña, located in the charming town of Cobreces, will play a decisive role in selecting the first representatives of Cantabria who will compete in the upcoming Spanish Championships across various disciplines.

Participation options include: male surf, female surf, masters surf, mixed kneeboard, male longboard, female longboard, junior longboard, male bodyboard, female bodyboard, junior bodyboard, mixed bodysurf, male SUP waves, female SUP waves, junior SUP waves and parasurfing.

Each participant may only compete in one category within a discipline, and it is compulsory to hold a valid licence with the Cantabrian Surf Federation in order to enter. Furthermore, a minimum of four athletes is required for a category to go ahead; if that number is not reached, the category will become mixed or open.

In 2023 this was due to be held on 6 and 7 May, but had to be postponed due to a lack of waves.

• Most recent edition: 14 and 15 May 2022

Cantabria: International-Level Competitions

Cantabria has the privilege of hosting major competitions on the international surf calendar, including stops on the WSL, which are decisive points on the professional circuit. The Playa de Los Locos in Suances is a representative venue for this competition, where world-renowned surfers compete in a spectacular setting.

Surfing in Ribamontán al Mar reaches an international level, having joined the World Surf Cities Network. As a member of this network alongside other leading cities, Somo focuses on promoting local surfing, driving employment, sustainability, innovation and social inclusion. It actively collaborates with other leading surf cities, gaining international recognition. Furthermore, Ribamontán al Mar already participates in various national and international associations, hosting numerous surf events and championships each season.

It is worth noting that in 2023, the Swiss National Surf Championship was held at Playa de Somo from 16–20 October; and the Belgian National Surf Championship on 29 October and 3 November.

Sarro’s Contest

The first edition of the Sarro’s Contest surf and bodyboard championship, organised by the Escuela de Surf Santander and the Cantabrian Surf Federation, takes place at Playa de El Sardinero in Santander. It offers open male and female surf categories, as well as under-18, female, dropknee, masters and open bodyboard categories.

It is an exciting spectacle spread across two March weekends (18, 19, 25 and 26 March), choosing the days with the most optimal conditions to put on the best possible show. Playa de El Sardinero is one of the best beaches for surfing in winter on the Cantabrian coast.

The extensive beach, almost 2 kilometres long, sits right in the centre of Santander and offers impressive views of the Magdalena Peninsula and the Mataleñas area.

This event promises an exciting spectacle with prizes, gear, prize draws and excellent waves. Federation membership is compulsory to participate.

• Most recent edition: 26 March 2023

La Invernal de Laredo Championship

The eighth edition of La Invernal de Laredo in 2023 is a well-established international event and a benchmark in the Cantabrian and national surf world. It will run from 30 October to 12 November, making the most of the best wave conditions at the Laredo beach.

The Federation gives the green light and confirms the competition on 4 November at 8am in the Pinos area. Registrations are made via the @fedcantabrasurf surf federation account and close two days before the event.

The competition offers €6,000 in prize money for the male and female categories, thanks to the collaboration of the Government of Cantabria, CANTUR, Laredo Town Council and the support of the Cantabrian Surf Federation.

• Most recent edition: 4 November 2023

What makes these competitions even more exciting is the presence of elite surfers. These include household names in the surf world, such as Kelly Slater, Stephanie Gilmore, John John Florence and other world champions. Not to mention that the atmosphere surrounding these events is infectious; the energy and excitement are palpable as the crowd cheers on their favourite surfers.

Make sure you keep an eye on the dates and registration requirements for these competitions, as participation may vary depending on the event. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, you will find the perfect competition for you in Cantabria.

Junior Surf Competitions

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There is always room for the youngest participants, and in Cantabria even more so. Exciting junior surf competitions where young talents take on the waves in impressive championships and events.

Cantabria Regional Junior Surf Championship

This event is designed for the surf world’s young talents. Junior surfers compete across various categories according to their age and skill level. It is an opportunity for the youngest participants to show their skill in the water and advance their careers in the world of surfing.

The Playa de Los Locos was the venue for the 2023 Cantabria Regional Junior Surf Championship on Sunday 16 April, in the middle of a sunny day with consistent waves at this beautiful beach.

The competing categories include both male and female athletes, provided a minimum of four participants per category is met. These categories are SUB 10 (born in 2012 or later), SUB 12 (born in 2011 and 2010), SUB 14 (born in 2009 and 2008), SUB 16 (born in 2007 and 2006) and SUB 18 (born in 2005 and 2004).

The entry fee is €10 and the champions in each category earn a direct place in the Spanish Championship.

• Categories: Sub10, Sub12, Sub14, Sub16 and Sub18.
• Format: Male and Female (a minimum of 3 participants, otherwise the category becomes mixed).
• Requirements: Valid Cantabrian Surf Federation licence, registered as a resident of Cantabria.
• Most recent edition: Playa de Los Locos, 15 and 16 April 2023. Registrations closed on 12 April at 23:59.

Buena Onda Junior Surf Championship

The Buena Onda Junior Surf Championship is held on the beautiful Playa de Merón in San Vicente de la Barquera.

The Buena Onda Surf Championship is a highly significant event that attracts a notable number of competitors — talented surfers in the under-18, under-14 and under-10 categories, in both male and female divisions.

This competition has established itself as a points-scoring event for the Cantabrian Junior Circuit, organised by the Cantabrian Surf Federation, and is eagerly awaited in the regional grassroots surf calendar.

The reason for its great success lies in the exceptional friendliness and hospitality of the Escuela de Surf Buena Onda, one of the most long-standing schools on the western coast. Over the years, this championship has established itself as one of the most well-attended events in the regional calendar, thanks to its focus on promoting and nurturing emerging talent in the world of surfing.

• Most recent edition: The XV edition was held on 23 and 24 September 2023

RIP CURL GROMSEARCH

Rip Curl GromSearch was born in 1999 in Torquay, Australia — an international competition for young surfers under 16 years old from around the world, in countries such as Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, South Africa, New Zealand, the United States and Europe. Once the regional circuits and the European final are complete, the International Grand Final is held at the iconic Bells Beach in Australia the following spring.

This competition has proven to be a genuine talent discovery platform for young surfers, including prominent figures such as Stéphanie Gilmore, Gabriel Medina, Tyler Wright and Jordy Smith, among others.

It is worth noting that each participant may only compete in one category. The entry fee is €15 and is payable at the beach on check-in day. The categories are SUB16 male and female, SUB14 male and female, and SUB12 male and female.

In 2022 it was held at Playa de Somo, and in 2023 it celebrated its 24th anniversary at the Playa de los Locos. Champions in the Sub-16, Sub-14 and Sub-12 categories, in both male and female divisions, earn the privilege of competing in the European final, which was held in August of that year in Anglet, France.

• Most recent edition: 21–23 April 2023

Xpeedin Pro Kids Surfing Contest by Rip Curl

Xpeedin Surf announces the Xpeedin Pro Kids Surfing Contest, a surf championship counting towards the Cantabrian Surf Federation Circuit.

This exciting event took place in 2023 at the beautiful Playa de Somo, Cantabria, over the weekend of 30 September and 1 October. The championship includes competitions in the male and female under-18, under-14 and under-10 categories.

With a continuous dedication to surfing since 1977, Xpeedin Surf has been a pioneer in the Spanish surf world. Over the years, they have organised championships and events with great tradition, including this exciting Pro Kids format. This is a must-attend event for all passionate supporters of high-quality surfing.

• Most recent edition: 30 Sept / 1 Oct 2023

Loredo Open Surf Championship (Junior)

The main mission of this championship is to promote surfing at the beautiful Playa de Loredo, with a triple purpose in mind: to promote grassroots sport in Cantabria; to showcase the charming village of Loredo, situated at the heart of the Surf Reserve declared in 2012 as the main surf destination in Cantabria; and also to extend the surf tourism season beyond the summer months.

The regional surf championship is organised by the Cantabrian Surf Federation. The event dates are strategically selected to attract a national audience, encouraging the attendance of athletes and sport enthusiasts. Loredo is recognised as an emblematic place for surf-loving families, as surfing is part of the daily life of its residents.

Furthermore, autumn is considered the ideal season for surfers, with the best waves and conditions. This helps to promote the region in the off-season and encourage regional tourism. The ongoing collaboration of surf schools and local business people in organising the event has consolidated its success over time.

The categories are male and female Sub-10, Sub-14 and Sub-18. A welcome pack and trophies are included for winners in each category. At the end of the event, prize draws will take place including surfboards, wetsuits and other surf equipment. Participants, friends and families will be able to enjoy a delicious paella at the skate championship area in Loredo’s skate park, organised in collaboration with Life Skate Farm.

• Most recent edition: 12 and 13 October 2023

Taking part in a surf competition not only gives you the chance to show off your skills, but also introduces you to part of Cantabria’s culture. You will discover the camaraderie among surfers and the support of the audience as you face your first waves. Go for it!

Adaptive Surfing

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Adaptive surfing in Cantabria offers an exciting experience for people with disabilities, providing the opportunity to enjoy the waves of the Cantabrian Sea. With expert instructors and specialist equipment, this Spanish coastal region is an inclusive and exciting destination for those who want to experience the magic of adaptive surfing.

INCLUSEA International Adaptive Surfing Summit

The International Adaptive Surfing Summit 2023, organised by Inclusea, will take place at Playa de Somo at the end of April. Over four days, Spain’s first Surf Reserve and a leading surf city in Europe will host workshops, conferences and outdoor activities led by experts in adaptive surfing, surf therapy, ocean health and the environment.

This international summit will offer academic content combining theory and practice, presenting research findings and evidence-based recommendations for adaptive surfing programmes. It will bring together instructors, athletes, scientists and other stakeholders to test and improve inclusive surfing programmes in a stunning coastal setting.

• Most recent edition: 27–30 April 2023

BLUESURFEST

From 7 to 9 September, San Vicente de la Barquera hosted Bluesurfest, a European festival that fuses adaptive surfing and ocean culture. The purpose is to promote inclusion in sport, improve access to the sea and foster sustainability in «blue communities» in Spain, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy and Portugal. It also serves to test the ‘Inclusea’ methodology for adaptive surfing instruction for people with physical disabilities.

This project is backed by €300,000 in funding from the European Commission through the Erasmus+ Sport programme. It includes sporting activities, cultural events and educational seminars aimed at removing barriers to sporting and social inclusion. The festival also incorporates adaptive surfing sessions, conferences and concerts.

• Most recent edition: 7–9 September 2023

How to Take Part

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If you are keen to enter one of the competitions or events on the beautiful beaches of Cantabria, here are some key steps to getting involved:

1. Stay Informed

The first step to taking part in surf events and competitions in Cantabria is to stay informed. Follow the social media accounts of local surf organisations, websites dedicated to surfing in Cantabria and surfer associations, where the calendar with festival and competition dates is published. These resources will provide you with up-to-date information on dates, locations and registration details for upcoming events.

2. Registration Requirements

Each event or competition may have specific registration requirements, so make sure you review the details for each one. In general, you will need to complete an online registration form and pay an entry fee. Make sure you meet the age and skill-level requirements, as some events, as already mentioned, are aimed at specific categories such as junior, open or longboard.

3. Prepare Your Equipment

Before taking part, make sure you have the right equipment. This includes your surfboard, wetsuit, leash and other important items such as sunscreen or board wax.

Make sure your board is in good condition and that you have spares available in case they are needed. Safety is a priority, so check that your equipment is in perfect working order before competing.

4. Training and Preparation

Even if you are a professional surfer, it is essential to prepare thoroughly for competitions. Dedicate time to training and refining your skills before the event. Practise your moves, study the wave conditions at the event location and work on your physical fitness. It is also a good idea to attend training sessions or seek advice from local coaches.

5. Enjoy the Experience

Once you have registered and are ready to compete, enjoy the experience to the full. Meet other surfers, watch the professionals in action and immerse yourself in the excitement of a healthy competition. It does not matter whether you win or lose; the most important thing is to enjoy your passion for surfing and learn from every experience.

Whether you are an experienced surfer or simply a beach lover, Cantabria has something exciting to offer. It is a unique opportunity to enjoy the surf culture and coastal lifestyle without necessarily riding the waves.

From entertainment-filled festivals to food markets and activities for children, these events offer a complete experience that celebrates Cantabria’s passion for surfing and its marine environment. Memorable beach days for spectators, surf enthusiasts and families looking for fun.

Taking part in surf events and competitions in Cantabria is a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, improve your skills and become part of a passionate community of surfers. So get ready for an exciting journey through the waves of Cantabria and be part of the region’s surf community!

More about surf summer camps:

• Santander Surf Fortnight Summer Camp
• Santander Surf 10-Day Summer Camp
• Surf Events and Competitions in Cantabria: The Complete Guide
• Surf and Sustainability: Protecting the Beaches of Cantabria
• Campsites in Cantabria near Surf Beaches

Other sources:

• Wikipedia — What is surfing?
• Sustainable Surfing in Cantabria — El Diario Montañés
• Cantabrian Surf Federation Calendar
• Where to eat at Playa de Somo
• Cronsurfboards — Surfboards in Cantabria