April marks the return of fine weather and the first milder swells in Europe. In the south, temperatures rise and surf camps come back to life. Further afield, in tropical destinations, the season is still in full swing: warm water, accessible waves and a surf camp atmosphere.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for easy waves or an intermediate looking to progress, April is the perfect time to plan your surf trip. Here are our 5 must-surf destinations in April, in Europe, Africa, America and Asia.
All our useful surfing destination guides
🌍 Ideal destinations for surfing in AprilWhere to surf in Madeira · Where to surf in Costa Rica · Where to surf in the Mentawai Islands · Where to surf in Madagascar ·
📅 Other periods to explore Where to surf in March · Where to go surfing in May ·
Where to go surfing in June
🏄 Select your destination based on your level.
Surfing level beginner · Surfing level intermediate
👉 For a complete overview: Where to surf month by month
Surfing in April, the 5 best destinations
MADEIRA – SURFING AND WILD NATURE IN THE HEART OF THE ATLANTIC
Off the coast of Portugal, Madeira combines volcanic cliffs, lush forests and small coves that open onto the ocean. Far from the crowds, you can enjoy a variety of spots with consistent, clean waves, perfect for improving your technique without pressure. The island is best known for its spectacular scenery, but when it comes to surfing, it has some wonderful surprises in store.
In April, conditions are comfortable: around 20-22°C in the air and around 18-19°C in the water. A 3/2 mm wetsuit is more than enough. The atmosphere is relaxed: small coastal villages, welcoming surf houses and hikes along the levadas are the perfect way to round off a session.
- Temperature: 20–22°C air / 18–19°C water
- Waves: Clean, regular, varied spots
- Access: Direct flight or via Lisbon to Funchal
- Budget: €450 – €650
- Atmosphere: Nature & the good life
Discover our guide to surfing in Madeira.
Nosara (Costa Rica) – the gentle Pacific tropics
Famous for its zen atmosphere and spectacular sunsets, Nosara is a top destination for beginner surfers. Playa Guiones, an immense sandy beach, rolls out regular waves, perfect for learning and progressing.
In April, the air is warm (32°C), the water 27°C, and you can surf in your bathing suit all day long. The atmosphere is tropical and relaxing: yoga, friendly surf camps and immersion in Costa Rican nature are the order of the day.
- Temperature: 32°C air / 27°C water
- Waves: sandy and regular
- Access: Flight to Liberia + 2h30 drive
- Budget: €600 – €850
- Atmosphere: Tropical & relaxing
Everything you need to know about the best surfing spots in Costa Rica.
Mentawai (Indonesia) – an exclusive surfer’s paradise
A mythical archipelago off the coast of Sumatra, the Mentawai Islands are renowned for their perfect waves. While many spots are aimed at advanced surfers, some areas offer gentle, accessible waves, perfect for beginners/intermediate surfers under supervision.
In April, the air is 30°C, the water 28°C: shorty or swimsuit is all you need. The trip requires a higher budget, but the experience is unique: surfing in a paradise-like setting, island ambiance and unforgettable sessions.
- Temp: 30°C air / 28°C water
- Waves: Rolling and accessible
- Access: Flight to Padang + ferry
- Budget: €900 – €1,200
- Atmosphere: Paradise & exclusive
If you are an experienced surfer, you can venture to the surf spots in the Mentawai Islands.
Algarve (Portugal) – Spring surfing in Southern Europe
With its golden cliffs and wild beaches, theAlgarve is one of Europe’s best options for a surf trip in April. Spots like Arrifana and Amado offer sandy waves suitable for beginners and intermediates.
In April, temperatures reach 22°C in the air and 17°C in the water, so a 3/2 mm suit is all you need. Surf camps are plentiful and affordable, and the atmosphere is very friendly.
- Temperature: 22°C air / 17°C water
- Waves: Progressive beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Faro or Lisbon
- Budget: €400 – €600
- Atmosphere: Southern Europe & surf camp
Anakao (Madagascar) – perfect reef and wild vibes
Anakao, a small, isolated village in southwestern Madagascar, is a haven for surfers seeking perfect waves and a pristine environment. Its reefs, exposed to the first southern swells, offer the first real swells of the season in April, with clean, consistent lines that awaken spots like Flameballs, the legendary tubular left, or the long right of Anakao Reef.
In April, the glassy sunrise sessions return: warm water around 27–28°C, light morning breezes, and a totally relaxed atmosphere. Here, there are no crowds, just a few surfers, a boat to reach the reefs, and the raw beauty of a still-wild coastline. The pace is calmer than in Central America: life revolves around the tides, the dugout canoes, and Malagasy hospitality.
Temperature: 30°C air / 27–28°C water
Waves: Powerful reefs, consistent barrels (intermediate to advanced)
Access: Flight to Tuléar + boat to Anakao
Budget: €450–700 (excluding flight)
Atmosphere: Authentic, peaceful, and wild
Discover surfing in Anakao for your next surf trip.
Comparison chart – Surfing destinations in April
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Type of waves | Budget | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dakhla (Morocco) | 22-24°C / 18°C | Long and soft | 450 – 650 € | Nature & authenticity |
| Nosara (Costa Rica) | 32°C / 27°C | Sandy, regular | 600 – 850 € | Tropical & relaxing |
| Mentawai (Indonesia) | 30°C / 28°C | Rolling, accessible | 900 – 1200 € | Heavenly & exclusive |
| Algarve (Portugal) | 30°C / 27°C | Progressive beach breaks | 400 – 600 € | Southern Europe & surf camp |
| Anakao (Madagascar) | 33°C / 28°C | Powerful reefs, consistent tubes | €450-750 | Authentic, peaceful & wild nature |
Why surf in April?
- Pleasant climate: in Europe, temperatures rise; in the tropics, the water is warm.
- Accessible spots: perfect for learning and progressing.
- Fewer people than in summer: more waves for you.
- Flexible budget: from the budget Algarve to the exclusive Mentawai.
Tips for a surf trip in April
- In Europe, wear a 3/2 mm suit; in the tropics, surf in a swimsuit.
- Remember to book your surf camp early for popular destinations (Costa Rica, Nicaragua).
- Choose your trip according to your level: Algarve and Dakhla for learning, Mentawai for a unique experience.
- Take advantage of your trip to explore the local culture: Moroccan desert, Costa Rican jungles, Nicaraguan festive atmosphere.
April is the perfect month to launch or relaunch your surfing season. Whether you choose the proximity of theAlgarve or the change of scenery of the Mentawai Islands, or the tropical heat of Costa Rica or Nicaragua, all these destinations offer accessible waves, sunshine and an ideal atmosphere in which to progress.
So, are you ready to turn your April into an unforgettable surf trip?
Perhaps you’re planning your trip for a different period? Also check out our monthly guides: where to surf in March, where to surf in May and where to surf in June.
