El Palmar
El Palmar is Andalusia's surf oasis—a long, sandy beach near Cadiz that catches Atlantic swells wrapping around from the northwest before they enter the Mediterranean through the Strait of Gibraltar. The wave offers consistent beachbreak peaks in a region known more for wind sports than surfing. The bohemian village vibe, warm water compared to northern Spain, and reliable winter swells make El Palmar a favorite escape for those seeking Spanish surf without Basque Country crowds.
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Location & Conditions
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Spot Details
Swell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Direction range
- 240° - 310°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 2.3m
- Height multiplier
- 0.97×
- Ideal period
- 13s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 50° - 130°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- mid
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2m
- Danger above
- 2.5m
Water temp
16°C
Wetsuit
4/3mm fullsuit
Difficulty
5/10
Crowd level
7/10
👥 Summer Holidays (Jun 20 – Sep 7) — expect extra crowds
Access: Beach village access. Near Tarifa kite/wind hub.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Oct, Mar
Winter Atlantic swells. Tarifa wind zone.