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.
El Palmar surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (270°)
- Direction range
- 240° - 310°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.5m
- 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
Access: Beach village access. Near Tarifa kite/wind hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at El Palmar?
The El Palmar profile favors mid tide, ideally between 0.5m and 2m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session. The profile also flags a high-tide limit above 2.5m.
What wind direction is offshore at El Palmar?
The El Palmar profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 50° to 130°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at El Palmar?
The El Palmar scoring profile favors swell from W (240° to 310°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3m, and a reference period of 13s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf El Palmar?
The main season at El Palmar is Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb. A secondary window runs Oct, Mar. Winter Atlantic swells. Tarifa wind zone.
How do I get to El Palmar?
The spot profile lists XRY as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 90 minutes. Beach village access. Near Tarifa kite/wind hub.
What kind of wave is El Palmar?
El Palmar is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 5/10.
Best Season
Peak: Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb
Secondary: Oct, Mar
Winter Atlantic swells. Tarifa wind zone.