First Surf Trip Guide for Beginners | What to Know Before You Go
Dreaming of riding your first waves, feeling the wind in your sail, or flying across the water with a kite? A first surf trip for beginners is unforgettable—but getting started the right way requires some planning.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- How to choose the right type of surfing
- The best surf destinations in Europe
- What a surf trip costs
- Essential safety tips for beginners
👉 Not sure where to go?
Use our surf destination calculator to find the perfect spot based on your level, budget, and preferences.
New · May 2027
Make your first surf trip easy: Surf Week 2027
Nervous about planning your first surf trip alone? Join a small group in Porto for a whole week, with beginner lessons every day and me – a former lifeguard – as your host. Choose week 19 (10–16 May) or week 20 (17–23 May). €800–1,000 per person, including your stay, surf lessons all week and a group dinner.
Free and non-binding.
🏄♂️ Which Type of Surfing Is Best for Your First Trip?
Before you book anything, decide which type of surfing your first trip should focus on. Here are the three most popular options:
🌊 Wave Surfing (Classic Surfing)
This is the traditional form of surfing most people think of. It’s all about balance, timing, and technique as you paddle out, catch a wave, and stand up on the board.
✔ Best for: Beginners looking for the classic first surf trip experience
✔ Challenge level: Physically demanding but very rewarding
🪁 Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing is growing rapidly in popularity. You use a large kite to harness the power of the wind, allowing for high speeds and big jumps—even on flat water.
✔ Best for: Adrenaline seekers
✔ Advantage: Easier to get started in some conditions
🌬️ Windsurfing
Windsurfing combines elements of sailing and surfing. You stand on a board with an attached sail and can cruise, race, or perform tricks.
✔ Best for: Versatility
✔ Ideal for: Flat water and windy conditions
🌍 Best Surf Destinations in Europe for Your First Trip
Choosing the right destination is crucial for your first surf trip. You want beginner-friendly conditions, reliable schools, and an overall setup that makes learning fun.
Portugal: Europe’s Surf Capital
Portugal is one of the best surf destinations in the world, especially for beginners. It offers consistent Atlantic waves and plenty of surf schools.
- Porto – Great beaches and vibrant city life
- Ericeira – A World Surfing Reserve with waves for all levels
- Peniche – Reliable surf thanks to unique geography
👉 Read our full guide: Surfing in Portugal
Denmark: Hidden Surf Gems Close to Home
You don’t always need to travel far for your first surf trip. Denmark offers excellent conditions—especially for wind-based surfing.
- Cold Hawaii (Klitmøller) – Scandinavia’s surf capital
- Amager Beach Park – Perfect for kitesurfing near Copenhagen
- Ringkøbing Fjord – Ideal for beginners due to shallow, flat water
👉 Read our full guide: Surfing in Denmark
🧰 Equipment and Lessons: What You Need to Know
Rent vs Buy on Your First Surf Trip
As a beginner on your first surf trip, you can rent most equipment:
- Surfboard
- Wetsuit
👉 Renting saves money, avoids travel hassle, and lets you try different boards before you commit to buying.
Take Surf Lessons
Booking a surf school is highly recommended:
- Learn basic techniques (like the “pop-up”)
- Understand waves and ocean conditions
- Improve faster and stay safe
⚠️ Safety First: What Beginners Must Know
The ocean is powerful—respect it.
- Always check local conditions
- Never surf alone
- Take lessons if you’re new
- Be a confident swimmer
🧴 Essential Surf Gear (What to Buy)
Even if you rent most gear, these items are worth owning:
- Wetsuit – A proper fit keeps you warm
- Zinc sunscreen – Stays on in water
- Rashguard – Prevents skin irritation
- Surf poncho – Easy changing at the beach
👉 Pro tip: A 4/3mm wetsuit is perfect for both Denmark and Portugal.
💸 Price Guide for Your First Surf Trip (7 Days)
Budget vs Comfort (per person)
| Expense | Budget | Comfort |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €200–€350 | €550–€950 |
| Surf lessons | €250–€350 | €400–€600 |
| Equipment | Included | €150–€250 |
| Food & drinks | €200–€300 | €400–€700 |
| Flights | €100–€250 | €300–€500 |
| Total | €750–€1,500 | €1,800–€3,000 |
👉 Use this overview to estimate a realistic budget for a 7-day first surf trip, whether you travel on a budget or prefer more comfort.
❓ FAQ: Your First Surf Trip
How long does it take to learn surfing?
Most beginners can stand up after 2–3 lessons on their first surf trip, but mastering surfing takes years.
Do you need to be a strong swimmer?
Yes—being comfortable in the water is essential.
When is the best time to go?
For a first surf trip in Europe, summer and early autumn (June–September) usually offer the most beginner-friendly conditions.
Where are the most beginner friendly destinations in Europe?
- Porto, Portugal
- San Sebastián, Spain
- Klitmøller, Denmark
🚀 Ready to Plan Your First Surf Trip?
Not all surf destinations are right for a first trip.
👉 Use our surf destination calculator to find the perfect match based on:
- Your level
- Budget
- Travel style
- Best season
Remember: the goal of your first surf trip is to have fun, feel safe, and build confidence in the water.
The best surfer in the water is the one having the most fun.