Where to surf in September? The best back-to-school surfing destinations

September marks the return of the big Atlantic swells, but without the summer crowds. The days are still long, the temperatures pleasant and the prices milder than in high season. It’s undoubtedly one of the best months for a surf trip, whether you’re a beginner or already comfortable on your surfboard.

In this guide, discover 5 ideal destinations for early autumn surfing: from Europe to North Africa, not forgetting more remote options, all offer you perfect conditions to progress and enjoy.

The 5 best destinations for surfing in September

Hossegor, France – Europe’s surfing capital

In September, Hossegor regains all its power. The autumn swells awaken its famous beach breaks, renowned for their powerful and tubular waves. But don’t worry: the neighboring spots such as Capbreton and Seignosse also offer more accessible waves for beginners. Want to take beautiful photos of surfing in Hossegor? Book your private shoot with Surf Memoriz.

The atmosphere is unique: Quiksilver Festival, surf shops, cafés and lively evenings. And bonus: outside the summer vacations, the beaches are much less crowded.

• Temperature: 23-25°C / 20-21°C
• Waves: powerful beach breaks, beginners’ options nearby
• Access: Flight to Biarritz or Bordeaux + train/bus
• Budget: €400 – €700
• Atmosphere: Surf culture & party

Also read: Our complete guide to surfing in France.

Taghazout, Morocco – Moroccan autumn gets off to a flying start

September is the month when Morocco comes back to life as far as surfing is concerned. In and around Taghazout, the waves wake up after the calm summer, with accessible but regular swells. Temperatures remain summery (25-28°C), perfect for combining surfing and relaxation in the sun.

Surf camps reopen after the summer, creating a friendly atmosphere ideal for meeting other travelers. And at just a 3-hour flight from Paris, it’s the easiest destination for an exotic surf trip in September.

• Temperature: 25-28°C / 21-23°C
• Waves: Long straight, gentle but more regular
• Access: Flight to Agadir + 45 min drive
• Budget: €450 – €700
• Atmosphere: Chill & surf camp

Also read: Our complete guide to surfing in Morocco.

Find your best surf camp in Morocco

Peniche, Portugal – back to surfing season

Nicknamed the “Mecca of Portuguese surfing”, Peniche is perfect in September. The weather remains mild, autumn swells settle in and the variety of spots means there’s something for everyone: Supertubos for advanced surfers, Baleal for beginners.

The town lives to the rhythm of surfing, with its surf schools, surf camps and seafood restaurants. And prices drop after the summer, making it an excellent compromise between budget and quality.

• Temperature: 24-26°C / 19-21°C
• Waves: Powerful tubes (Supertubos) + beaches for beginners
• Access: Flight to Lisbon + 1h30 drive
• Budget: €400 – €650
• Atmosphere: Surf camp & international

Discover the best surf spots in Portugal.

Find your best surf camp in Portugal

Bali, Indonesia – perfect wave season

In September, Bali is still in the middle of the dry season: powerful swells, almost permanent offshore wind and dream waves on the Bukit reef breaks (Uluwatu, Padang Padang). For beginners, spots like Canggu and Batu Bolong remain accessible.

The atmosphere is as unique as ever: a mix of Balinese culture, trendy cafés, yoga and digital nomads. A surf trip to Bali in September means total immersion in the surf lifestyle.

• Atmosphere: Bohemian & international
• Temperature: 30°C / 28°C
• Waves: Powerful reefs for experts, gentle beach breaks for beginners
• Access: Flight to Denpasar
• Budget: €600 – €900

Our comprehensive guide to the best spots for learning to surf in Bali.

Find your perfect surf camp in Bali.

Fuerteventura, Canaries – gentle autumn

For an easy, sunny European surf trip, Fuerteventura remains a safe bet. In September, temperatures are still summery, the water is pleasant and the spots are starting to work better after the calm summer.

It’s an ideal destination for combining surfing progress, heavenly beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. And bonus: no need for long-haul flights, as flights from France are fast and affordable.

• Temperature: 26-28°C / 22-23°C
• Waves: Progressive and safe, accessible to all
• Access: Direct flight from France
• Budget: €450 – €700
• Atmosphere: Sunny & relaxed

Also read: Our complete guide to surfing in the Canaries.

Find your best surf camp in the Canary Islands

Comparative table of surf destinations in September

Why is September the perfect month for surfing?

• Fewer people on the water: the back-to-school season frees up the line-ups.
• More affordable air travel : summer fares come to an end.
• Optimal conditions: autumn swells arrive, but temperatures remain pleasant.
• Variety of choices: Europe, Africa, Asia… there’s a wave for every taste.

Tips for your surf trip in September

• Check swell size: some spots are becoming powerful (Hossegor, Bali).
• Get the right suit: 3/2 in France and Portugal, shorty in the Canaries, lycra in the tropics.
• Book your accommodation in advance in popular areas (Hossegor, Peniche).
• Combine surfing with cultural discovery (tajines in Morocco, temples in Bali, tapas in Portugal).

September is the perfect month for a surf trip: quality waves, sunshine, fewer people and lower prices. Whether you choose to stay in Europe (France, Portugal, Canary Islands) or go further afield (Morocco, Bali), it’s the ideal time to make progress and enjoy memorable sessions.

Prepare your surfboard, your ticket and your desire for waves: the surf season really starts in September!

A surftrip at another time of year? Check out our monthly guides: where to surf in August, where to surf in October and where to surf in November.