Written by Jeppe – surf blogger and former coastal lifeguard on the Danish west coast for 5 years. More about Jeppe.
If you can’t wait to head south and feel the waves, there are fortunately good options for surfing in Denmark. Although Denmark is not known for big waves, there are many great surf spots and strong surf communities – especially along the west coast.
One of the most popular places is Cold Hawaii in Thy, which is known for its unique surf culture and consistent waves. Both beginners and experienced surfers can have a fantastic experience here.
If you are planning a trip from Copenhagen, read our guide to surftrips from Copenhagen.
But you don’t need to travel all the way to Thy – there are many great places for surfing all around Denmark.
If you need to know where the optimal surf destination for you is, try our surf calculator.
Where can you surf in Denmark?
Denmark rarely has large, clean waves. When the waves are big, they are often:
- Choppy
- Difficult to read
- Short-lived
On the other hand, Denmark is perfect for wind-based surfing such as:
- Windsurfing
- Kitesurfing
The constant wind makes it possible to surf year-round in many parts of the country.
🌊 Best Surf Area in Denmark: Cold Hawaii
The most famous surf destination in Denmark is Cold Hawaii, located in Klitmøller in northern Jutland.
Klitmøller is known for:
- The most consistent waves in Denmark
- A strong international surf community
- Surf spots like Hanstholm and Nørre Vorupør
- Regular competitions and surf culture
👉 Cold Hawaii is the only place in Denmark where you can regularly surf ocean-style waves.
Downside: It is remote and far from major cities, making it best suited for surf trips or weekends.
🏄 Best Surf Spots in Denmark
Cold Hawaii (Thy / Klitmøller)
Cold Hawaii in Klitmøller is without doubt the most well-known surf area in Denmark. The area stretches along the coast of Thy and includes spots such as Hanstholm and Nørre Vorupør.
Here you’ll find:
- The best waves in Denmark
- A strong local surf community
- Good conditions for both beginners and experienced surfers
Cold Hawaii is particularly known for its consistent swell conditions compared to the rest of Denmark. It is also where international surf competitions are held.
One downside is the location, as the area is far from the major cities. This makes it an ideal weekend or holiday destination.
Ringkøbing Fjord (Hvide Sande & Søndervig)
Ringkøbing Fjord is one of the most versatile places for surfing in Denmark. Here you get both:
- Flat water in the fjord (perfect for beginners)
- Waves at the North Sea in Hvide Sande
The fjord is enclosed and relatively safe, meaning you won’t drift away with the current. This makes the area ideal for learning.
The area around Søndervig and Hvide Sande is known for its cosy atmosphere, good facilities and a strong local surf community. If you want to learn to surf or improve your technique, Blue Spirit in Hvide Sande is a great place to start – they offer courses for all levels and equipment rental, so you can get straight out on the water.
👉 Perfect for progression and safe practice conditions.
Løkken
Løkken is one of the most sought-after summer cottage areas in Denmark. Løkken town is wonderful with:
- A charming town centre
- A great ice cream shop
- Beautiful nature
- A fantastic beach
Waves for surfing can be found near the pier, but you can also windsurf and kitesurf in Løkken.
A recommendation is to book a sauna on the beach afterwards and sit back enjoying the view over the sea while you sweat – especially on the cold days.
If the wind drops, Rubjerg Knude Lighthouse makes for a great excursion in the area.
Rømø
Rømø is known for its enormous, wide beaches and shallow water. This makes the area ideal for beginners who want to learn kitesurfing or windsurfing.
The water is often shallow far out, which provides a sense of security, while the large open areas make it easy to find space – even when there are many people around.
In summer, be aware of tourists and swimming areas where surfing is not permitted. There are lifeguards on the beach and it is important not to surf within their marked zones.
⚠️ Be aware of strong tidal changes (waterline can move significantly during the day).
East Jutland (Aarhus & Ebeltoft)
Although the west coast is best for surfing, there are also good options on the east coast.
The area around Ebeltoft and Aarhus Bay is well suited for:
- Windsurfing
- Kitesurfing
- Surfski
The water here is often calmer, but with the right wind you can still get good sessions. The area is also perfect for kayaking and nature experiences – you might even be lucky enough to spot porpoises.
Copenhagen & Zealand
Although Copenhagen is not a classic surf city, there are still good options.
Valbyparken (Sydhavn)
Right in the heart of Copenhagen lies Valbyparken and the Sydhavn Windsurfer Club. There is the opportunity for windsurfing in shallow water here.
If you live in Copenhagen and are passionate about surfing, this is a great club to join.
Be aware that there is a waiting list for membership, so sign up quickly to get on the water.
It is of course also possible to visit Valbyparken with your own equipment and get out on the water.
Note that the area is closed for surfing from 1 November to 31 March.or city-based water sports rather than traditional surfing.
Amager Strandpark
Another great spot in central Copenhagen is Amager Strandpark, where you can enjoy:
- Windsurfing
- Kitesurfing
- Courses via Copenhagen Surfschool
Køge Bay
In Køge Bay there is also a good alternative surf scene with:
- Long beaches
- Easy access
- Good wind conditions
🌊 Types of Surfing in Denmark
Windsurfing
Windsurfing in Denmark is an exciting sport where you ride a board with a large sail. It can be difficult to learn at first, but once you’ve got the hang of it, it becomes both fun and a great workout. There are several windsurfing clubs around Denmark where you can try the sport, and equipment is often available to borrow on site.
A minimum wind speed of around 5 m/s is needed for a good windsurfing experience. Windsurfing is not just exercise – it is also a fantastic way to enjoy nature, feel the wind and the waves, and have an active outdoor experience.
👉 Combines technique, balance, and wind control.
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing in Denmark is a growing water sport that is becoming increasingly popular among young people and adults alike. It is relatively easy to learn but requires some equipment and a bit of practice. In kitesurfing you fly across the water with a large kite, which allows for high speeds, jumps and tricks.
There are several places in Denmark where you can try kitesurfing with instructors and equipment, but it requires a minimum wind speed of around 6 m/s. Kitesurfing combines an adrenaline rush with physical training and provides a unique experience on the water.
👉 One of the most accessible extreme sports in Denmark.
Surfski (Ocean Kayaking)
A surfski is a specially designed kayak that is perfectly suited to riding waves. It can also be used as a regular kayak, but its shape and design make it optimal for surfing on ocean waves.
A recommended place to surfski in Denmark is Aarhus Bay, where the Molslinjen ferry often creates good waves that are perfect for the sport. Surfski combines technique, balance and strength, and it is a fun way to experience the water – for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
🌊 Surf Conditions in Denmark
Surf conditions in Denmark are very different from southern Europe:
- Waves are often wind-generated
- Conditions can be short and unpredictable
- Best surf is found on west-facing coastlines
👉 When conditions align, sessions can be surprisingly good.
🌊 Surfing in Winter in Denmark
Yes, surfing is possible year-round.
Winter requires proper gear:
- 5/4 mm wetsuit
- Boots
- Gloves
- Hood
👉 Winter surfing often offers:
- Fewer crowds
- Stronger winds
- More consistent storms
If you are looking for a surf destination with a warmer water, than Denmark in the winter, Madeira, Morocco or Cape Verde, would be optimal to examine.
🌊 How to Get Started Surfing in Denmark
The easiest way to start is:
- Join a local surf club
- Take beginner lessons
- Rent equipment first
👉 Learning with instructors is highly recommended due to changing conditions.
🌊 Is Surfing in Denmark Worth It?
While Denmark is not a classic surf destination, it is excellent for:
- Learning water sports
- Wind-based surfing (kite/wind)
- Short surf trips
- Training for Atlantic surf destinations
👉 Many Danish surfers eventually progress to destinations like Peniche for more consistent waves.
❓ FAQ
Can you surf in Denmark?
Yes, it is absolutely possible to surf in Denmark. Although the country is not known for big waves like Portugal or Spain, there are still good options – especially on the west coast of Jutland.
Here you can do classic wave surfing when conditions are right. Denmark is also one of the best places in Europe for windsurfing and kitesurfing, as the wind is often stable and strong. You can therefore find surfing opportunities all over the country, not just at the North Sea.
Can you learn surfing in Denmark?
Yes, it is entirely possible to learn to surf in Denmark, whether you are a complete beginner or have some experience.
On the west coast you can learn wave surfing, while many places around the country offer courses in:
- Windsurfing
- Kitesurfing
There are several surf schools and clubs where you can get instruction, rent equipment and learn the basic techniques in a safe environment.
Is surfing possible in winter?
Yes, you can surf in winter in Denmark, and in fact many surfers do.
You should however be prepared for the cold water. This requires the right equipment, including:
- A hood
- A thick wetsuit (typically 5/4 mm)
- Neoprene gloves
- Neoprene boots
On the upside, there are often fewer people in the water, and conditions can be really good on windy winter days.
How do you get started with surfing in Denmark?
The best way to start surfing in Denmark is by taking a course or joining a surf club.
You can:
- Contact local surf clubs
- Sign up for beginner courses
- Rent equipment to start with
This makes it easier to learn correct technique and get a safe start in the sport.
Is surfing expensive in Denmark?
Surfing can be both cheap and expensive – it depends on how you choose to approach it.
If you buy all new equipment and travel a lot, it can quickly become costly. But there are also budget-friendly options:
- Club membership from around 900 DKK per year
- Access to shared equipment
- The option to buy second-hand equipment
Once you have your own equipment, it often lasts for many years, making surfing a relatively affordable sport in the long run.