June is a pivotal month for surfers. In Europe, summer is approaching, the days are getting longer and the air is getting warmer, but the ocean still remains fairly consistent. The beaches are quiet before the tourist influx in July and August, making it the perfect time for a surf trip.
It’s also an excellent time to travel further afield: some tropical regions are in high season with long, accessible waves, ideal for making progress in a relaxed atmosphere.
Here are our 5 must-see destinations where to surf in June, if you are looking for untamed authenticity, the European surf camp atmosphere or a complete change of scenery in the tropics. If you are looking for somewhere to go surfing, you are in the right place.
All our useful surfing destination guides
🌍 Ideal destinations for surfing in JuneWhere to surf in Sri Lanka ·
📅 Other periods to explore Where to surf in May · Where to go surfing in July ·
Where to go surfing in August ·
👉 For a complete overview: Where to surf month by month
Surfing in June: the 5 best pre-summer destinations
Brittany (France) – La Torche and the Crozon peninsula
In June, Brittany reveals all its beauty. The swells of the North Atlantic still provide regular waves, and large beaches such as La Torche or the coves of Crozon offer conditions that are accessible to beginners and intermediate surfers alike.
With 18°C in the water, wetsuits are still mandatory, but the air is pleasant (20-22°C). The advantage: fewer crowds than in summer, a warm local atmosphere and the chance to combine surfing with coastal walks and cultural discoveries.
- Atmosphere: Nature & authenticity
- Temperature: 20-22°C air / 18°C water
- Waves: regular beach breaks
- Access: Flight or train to Brest/Quimper
- Budget: €350 – €550
Galicia (Spain) – wild authenticity
Loin de la foule des Canaries ou du Portugal, la Galice est une perle discrète pour les surfeurs. Avec ses criques isolées et ses longues plages de sable, la région propose des vagues douces mais consistantes, idéales pour progresser sans pression.
In June, temperatures are pleasant (22°C in the air, 18°C in the water), perfect for surfing in a light wetsuit. The atmosphere is friendly, with fishing villages, generous gastronomy and welcoming local schools.
- Atmosphere: Wild & authentic
- Temperature: 22°C air / 18°C water
- Waves: Gentle and regular
- Access: Flight to Santiago or Porto
- Budget: €400 – €600
Algarve (Portugal) – golden cliffs and friendly surf camps
The Algarve is one of the best European options in June. The beaches along the west coast, such as Arrifana, Amado and Cordoama, offer accessible waves, perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers.
With temperatures of 23-25°C in the air and 18°C in the water, conditions are ideal for surfing in a light wetsuit. Surf camps are in full swing, the atmosphere is international but relaxed, and you can also enjoy spectacular scenery between ochre cliffs and white villages.
- Temperature: 23-25°C air / 18°C water
- Waves: Progressive beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Faro or Lisbon
- Budget: €400 – €650
- Atmosphere: Southern European & friendly
Lombok (Indonesia) – the peaceful alternative to Bali
While Bali continues to attract more and more people, Lombok remains a more authentic alternative. Around Kuta Lombok and Gerupuk, the spots are varied but often gentle, perfect for learning or improving in an unspoilt setting.
In June, it is the dry season: sunshine guaranteed, 31°C in the air, 28°C in the water → surf in boardshorts all day long. The atmosphere is more down-to-earth and local than Bali, ideal if you are looking for a tropical surf trip that is less touristy.
- Atmosphere: Nature & authenticity
- Temperature: 31°C air / 28°C water
- Waves: gentle, regular beach breaks
- Access: Flight to Mataram via Bali
- Budget: €400 – €650
Arugam Bay (Sri Lanka) – the perfect season on the east coast
From June to September, Sri Lanka’s east coast takes over from the western spots. Arugam Bay is then at the peak of its season: long, steady rights, warm water, and a relaxed backpacker vibe. It’s the ideal place to work on your take-offs and progress with confidence.
With 32°C in the air and 29°C in the water, you’ll be surfing in your swimsuit in a tropical atmosphere. The village attracts an international surfing community, but retains a cool, authentic atmosphere.
- Atmosphere: Backpacker & chill
- Temperature: 32°C air / 29°C water
- Waves: Long, straight and regular
- Access: Flight to Colombo + 7h drive
- Budget: €350 – €550
Our comprehensive guide to surfing in Sri Lanka.
Comparison chart – Where to surf in June
| Destination | Air/water temperature | Type of waves | Budget | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brittany (France) | 20-22°C / 18°C | Regular beach breaks | 350 – 550 € | Nature & authenticity |
| Galicia (Spain) | 22°C / 18°C | Soft and regular | 400 – 600 € | Wild & authentic |
| Algarve (Portugal) | 23-25°C / 18°C | Progressive beach breaks | 400 – 650 € | Southern & friendly Europe |
| Lombok (Indonesia) | 31°C / 28°C | Gentle beach breaks | 400 – 650 € | Nature & authenticity |
| Arugam Bay (Sri Lanka) | 32°C / 29°C | Long straight | 350 – 550 € | Backpacker & chill |
Why surf in June?
Juin combines the best of both worlds:
- In Europe, you’ll enjoy a summer climate but still quiet spots.
- The swells are less powerful than in winter, perfect for learning or improving.
- The surf camps are in full swing, and the atmosphere is friendly and international.
- Outside Europe, certain tropical destinations (Sri Lanka, Indonesia) are in full season.
This is the ideal month for a balanced surfing trip: good conditions, pleasant weather and still limited crowds.
Practical tips for June
- In Europe, a 3/2 mm wetsuit remains comfortable, but in southern Portugal, a 2/2 may suffice.
- In the tropics (Sri Lanka, Indonesia), surf in boardshorts or swimsuits all day long.
- Anticipate bookings at surf camps → June attracts more and more travelers.
- If you are a beginner, aim for Galicia, the Algarve or Arugam Bay; to improve, choose Brittany or Lombok.
- Combine your surf trip with local activities: hiking in Brittany, tapas in Galicia, cliffs in the Algarve, jungles in Lombok or safaris in Sri Lanka.
Whether you stay in Europe or travel to the other side of the world, June is an ideal month for surfing. Brittany, Galicia and Algarve offer the perfect conditions for improving without the summer crowds, while Lombok and Arugam Bay Lombok and Arugam Bay guarantee sunshine and tropical waves.
Perhaps you’re planning your trip for a different period? Check out our monthly guides: where to surf in May, where to surf in July and where to surf in August.
