Best time to surf in Somo

If you’re thinking of surfing at Somo and Loredo beaches, one of the first questions you’ll ask yourself is: When is the best time to surf at Somo?  The answer depends on your skill level, your preferences and what you’re looking for. This comprehensive guide tells you everything you need to know about each season at one of Spain’s best surf spots.

Why is Somo a year-round surfing destination?

Somo Beach, located in Cantabria, is renowned as one of the most consistent surf spots in northern Spain. Stretching for over 4 kilometres and enjoying more than 300 days of waves a year, Somo offers exceptional surfing conditions all year round.

Recognised as Spain’s premier surfing destination, Somo offers a wide range of spots suitable for all levels, from complete beginners to experienced surfers. Its location, facing north and north-westerly swells, guarantees consistent waves almost all year round.

Spring in Somo (March–May): ideal conditions for all levels

What are the waves like in spring?

Spring marks the start of the surfing season in Somo. During these months, the waves begin to ease off after a harsh winter, offering ideal conditions for intermediate surfers and those looking to hone their technique.

Key features:

• Wave height: 0.5 m – 1.5 m (with occasional larger swells)
• Water temperature: 12°C – 15°C
• Room temperature: 12 °C – 18 °C
• Wind: Mainly south-easterly (offshore)
• Visitor numbers: Moderate, with no overcrowding

What kind of wetsuit do I need?

In spring, a 4/3 mm wetsuitis recommended. Although the days are getting longer and warmer, the water in the Cantabrian Sea remains cold. Wearing booties is optional, but recommended.

The benefits of surfing in spring

Spring is one of the best times to learn to surf in Somo. The days are longer, the temperatures are pleasant, and the beaches are less crowded than in summer. What’s more, the countryside is ablaze with vibrant colours, making every session a unique experience.

Summer in Somo (June–August): The high season

Is summer the best time for beginners?

Absolutely. Summer is the ideal season for beginners or anyone looking for a more relaxed and friendly surfing experience. The waves are smaller and gentler, perfect for learning the basics without being intimidated by big swells.

Key features:

• Wave height: 0.3 m – 1 m (gentler, more consistent waves)
• Water temperature: 18°C–20°C
• Room temperature: 20 °C – 26 °C
• Tourist numbers: High, especially in July and August
• Atmosphere: Lively, festive and international

The summer atmosphere in Somo

During the summer, Somo becomes a real surfing hotspot. The beach fills up with surfers from all over the world, creating a multicultural and festive atmosphere. It’s the perfect time to meet people, make friends and immerse yourself in authentic surf culture.

What equipment do I need in summer?

A wetsuit with a 3/2 mm thickness will do the job. On warmer days in July and August, some surfers even opt for shorty wetsuits. The conditions are pleasant and allow for long sessions without getting cold.

Important considerations

Don’t forget that summer is the peak season. Popular spots like ‘El Muro’ can get very busy, especially at midday. We recommend arriving early to enjoy quieter sessions with fewer people in the water.

Autumn in Somo (September–November): the golden season

Why do experts say autumn is the best season?

Autumn is considered by many surfers to be the best time of year for surfing in Somo . It is the time of year when all the ideal conditions come together: consistent, high-quality waves, fewer people and spectacular natural surroundings.

Key features:

• Wave height: 1 m – 2 m (with strong swells reaching up to 3 m)
• Water temperature: 15°C – 18°C
• Room temperature: 14 °C – 20 °C
• Wind: Common conditions offshore
• Traffic: Moderate to light
• Wave quality: Excellent

The perfect balance

September and October offer the perfect balance: the summer crowds have gone, but the water is still pleasantly warm. The Atlantic swell begins to build, producing bigger, more consistent waves without reaching the extremes of winter.

What level do I need for the start of the new school year?

Autumn is the ideal season for intermediate and experienced surfers looking to hone their technique on better-quality waves. However, Somo also offers spots suitable for beginners, particularly on days with moderate swells.

Recommended equipment

For comfort, a 4/3 mm wetsuitis recommended. As November progresses, some surfers prefer to wear booties and gloves for longer sessions.

The visual spectacle of autumn

The autumn landscapes of Cantabria are breathtaking. The forests are ablaze with a thousand colours, the air is filled with the scent of damp earth, and the sunsets over the sea are bathed in unique hues. Surfing in Somo in autumn is much more than just a sport: it is a complete sensory experience.

Winter in Somo (December–February): for experienced surfers

Is winter only for experts?

Winter in Somo is a paradise for experienced surfers. The Cantabrian Sea rages, producing swells of up to 5 to 6 metres on days when there are heavy storms.

Key features:

• Wave height: 2 m – 6 m (depending on the storm)
• Water temperature: 11°C – 13°C
• Room temperature: 6 °C – 14 °C
• Weather conditions: changeable, with a mix of stormy and sunny days.
• Crowds: Very quiet, with only locals and keen surfers.
• Required level: Advanced

The Winter Challenge

Winter waves are powerful, fast and demanding. They require experience, a good understanding of the sea and respect for the conditions. However, on days when the conditions are right, Somo offers some of the best waves of the year.

What equipment do I need?

In winter, a full-body wetsuit 5/4 mm is essential, as are booties, gloves and a hood. Proper preparation makes all the difference between a successful session and a pointless, freezing experience.

The true essence of winter

Surfing in winter offers an authentic Cantabrian experience: away from the crowds, mingling with the locals, in a more intimate setting. It’s the perfect time to connect deeply with the ocean and the very essence of surfing.

How to choose the best time based on your level

For complete beginners

Best time to visit: Summer (June – August)

• Gentle little waves
• Hotter water
• A lively atmosphere and support from the surf schools
• Safe learning conditions

For intermediate surfers

Best time to visit:spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October)

• Regular, medium-sized waves
• Fewer people
• Ideal conditions for progress
• A wide range of products

For experienced surfers

Best time to visit:autumn (October–November) and winter (December–February)

• Powerful and challenging waves
• Constant Atlantic swell
• Top quality with fewer staff
• Opportunity to surf big waves

Other factors to consider when planning your trip

Tides and timetables

Somo works well at different tide levels, but each spot has its own preferences. ‘El Muro’, the most popular spot, is generally best at high or medium tide. Always check the tide forecast before your session.

Wind direction

Southeasterly winds (offshore) are ideal for Somo: they smooth out the waves and create perfect conditions. Northerly and north-westerly winds can reduce the quality of the waves and make them choppy.

Wave forecast

Tools such as Windguru, Surfline and Magicseaweed will help you plan your sessions. In Somo, a north-westerly swell is generally particularly favourable.

Events and competitions

Somo hosts around 25 surfing competitions a year, mainly between spring and autumn. If you’d like to experience the competitive atmosphere, check the events calendar. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, avoid these dates.

Practical tips for surfing in Somo all year round

Respect local customs

Somo has a very lively community of local surfers. Please follow the basic rules of surfing: don’t cut in on others, respect others’ turns and be courteous. Respect breeds respect.

Accommodation

If you’re planning a trip to Somo, we recommend staying at a surf camp or surf house. At Latas Surf, we offer accommodation to suit all tastes, from shared rooms to more private options, all designed with surfers’ comfort in mind.

Surf schools

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your technique, taking lessons with qualified instructors will help you make rapid and safe progress. At Latas Surf, we have experienced instructors who teach all levels throughout the season.

Surfing equipment

You don’t need to bring all your own equipment. In Somo, you’ll find board and wetsuit hire services to suit every season and all ability levels.

When would be the best time for you?

There is no ‘best time’ to surf in Somo; it depends on what you’re looking for:

• If you’re a beginner : summer is the perfect time of year.
• If you’re looking for quality away from the crowds : autumn is perfect.
• If you want the mild weather to improve: spring is the perfect time.
• If you’re an experienced skier looking for a challenge : winter awaits you.

One thing is certain: Somo is an ideal surfing destination all year round, with over 300 days of waves a year and conditions suitable for all levels. Whichever time of year you choose, we guarantee you an authentic surfing experience at one of Spain’s best spots.

Fancy a spot of surfing in Somo? Somo Surf Camp welcomes you with accommodation, lessons and everything you need to make the most of the Cantabrian waves. Come and discover why Somo is Spain’s number one surfing destination!