The Mediterranean and the concept of surfing might not be the most logical combination, but did you know that (with the right conditions) the Mediterranean has some great waves? And what is even better, in some stunning settings! Let me explain a bit about surfing in the Natural Park of Cabo de Gata, in Almeria province. However, before I go ahead I want to tell you that I will only mention those peaks that are already known to many people. Out of respect to the local surfers and to encourage you to go and explore for yourself, those spots are more hidden I will not talk about in this blog. Furthermore, always respect the locals. Of course, don´t let them treat you like bullocks either, but respect them, be nice to them: you are a guest in their spot!)
Out of all the Spanish Mediterranean provinces, Almeria might be the least known, especially when it comes to the surf circuit. However, the majority of the over 200km of coast in Almeria consists of volcanic bottoms, making you could be surprised by a superclean and uncrowded tube!
The two spots I will explain below are both spots that work well with a ´levante´ swell. To check whether these spots are working, I recommend looking at Magic Sea Weed surf forecasts.
Surfing in beautiful surroundings
The most famous (and for good reason) spot is Mojácar. Within the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, with a strong swell, the waves can rise up to two meters. These days it is giving away long breakers and even tubes both to the right and to the left. In the wintertime, you can park (and potentially sleep) in your van right in front of the peak. In the summertime, you will have to find an alternative. Since this peak is getting popular, it can get a bit crowded here on the ´on´ days and locals are keen to defend their spot. But again, be nice, wait your turn, and respect.
The second beach is the one of Los Genoveses, near the town of San José, also in the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park. This beach has a sandy bottom and above all, set in an absolutely stunning environment. It´s also called one of the most beautiful spots to surf in Southern Spain. When you enter the beach, all the way to the left is the surf spot, making it quite protected from the (often quite rough) wind. The wave is mellow and is especially perfect for longboarders, soft borders, beginners, and/or boards with quite some volume. We went on a very much ´on´ day and were ok with our 25 and 28l boards. A day later, when the super swell went down a bit, 28l already required quite some work.
Surf schools in the area
Most of the schools (offering surf, kite, and paddle surfing) are close to the area of El Ejido and the city of Almeria. There are some schools in Roquetas de Mar as well.
Then, there are a few schools within the Natural Park. Examples are Cabo de Gata Adventures surf school, La Casa Surf Center, and Candalix Beach Sailing School (the last one is in Mojacar).
What if it´s too windy?
This is very much a possibility in Almeria as it tends to be fairly windy. This is why kitesurfing is BIG in Almeria as well. If it´s great, but there is no swell, go rent a paddleboard and enjoy the beautiful coastline and transparent waters. And finally: there are lots of hikes to make around the Natural Park.
So whether you go surfing in Cabo de Gata Natural Park in Almeria, or choose another activity: all I can say is: don´t just go for one day 😉
Also, when you´re in the area, don´t forget to visit Granada and Salobreña! For more info on the most photogenic spots, click on the links!
