Conil Surf Camp & Surfing

Introduction to Conil de la Frontera

Conil de la Frontera is just a few minutes' drive from El Palmar, where our surf camp is located. Even from a distance, the white houses of the small town shine out at visitors. Conil is located directly by the sea on the Costa de la Luz. The town is small and dreamy and offers everything you need for a relaxing day: in addition to good waves and a beautiful beach, there are romantic alleyways, bars and restaurants, an artistic scene and several sights.

Geographical location and general information

Conil de la Frontera is a picturesque small town on the Costa de la Luz in the province of Cádiz, Andalusia, in the south of Spain. The town is located directly on the Atlantic Ocean and is around 40 kilometers from the provincial capital of Cádiz. Conil is known for its endless golden sandy beaches and year-round mild climate, making it an ideal destination for sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts.

The geographical location of Conil allows visitors to enjoy both the rugged Atlantic waves and the relaxed atmosphere of a Spanish coastal town. The town offers a perfect balance between natural beauty and cultural richness, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

Weather

The weather in Conil de la Frontera is fantastic all year round. Due to its proximity to Africa, the sun shines 300 days a year in Andalusia. It is rarely cold here. Even in winter, temperatures rarely fall below 20 degrees. So you can look forward to plenty of sunshine all year round. It is even very likely that you will be strolling through the streets in a T-shirt at Christmas or in January.

Brief history and cultural highlights

Conil de la Frontera has a rich history dating back to Phoenician and Roman times. Originally founded as a fishing village, Conil has its roots in tuna fishing, a tradition that lives on to this day. In the Middle Ages, Conil became an important fortified town, which is still visible today in the well-preserved town gates and fortifications.

The town was an important trading center for a long time and benefited from its proximity to the ports of Cádiz and Seville. Conil de la Frontera was reconquered by King Ferdinand III of Castile in the 13th century and has been an important part of Spanish history and culture ever since.

Culturally, Conil offers a wide range of sights and activities. Particularly noteworthy are the white houses decorated with flowers, the narrow streets of the old town and the impressive historical buildings such as the church of Santa Catalina and the Torre de Guzmán, an old watchtower that now serves as a lookout point.

The town is also known for its lively artistic scene and its numerous fiestas, including the famous spring festival Feria de Primavera and the Semana Santa Holy Week. These festivals offer visitors a deep insight into the local culture and traditions.

In summary, with its geographical location, rich history and cultural highlights, Conil de la Frontera offers an ideal combination for anyone who not only wants to enjoy the waves of the Atlantic, but also immerse themselves in authentic Andalusian culture. This makes "Conil Surfing" not only a sporting experience, but also a cultural voyage of discovery.

Why Conil is a top destination for surfing

If you want to spend your next surfing vacation in Spain, you can't really go past Conil de la Frontera. Andalusia is really suitable for surfing all year round. In summer, the waves are very small and ideal for anyone who has never stood on a board before. From September to June, even advanced surfers will find fantastic waves. But there is always a small wave or white water for beginners too. While Conil itself has a few surf spots, the much more exciting surf spot is located one town away - in El Palmar.

3000

sunshine hours every year

22°

average temperature

15+

nearby surf spots for all levels

100+

places of interest in the area

Why you should surf in Conil

Optimal surfing conditions (wind, waves, weather)

Surfing in Conil is ideal because the town offers a variety of optimal surfing conditions. The region is known for its constant and reliable waves, which are generated by the strong Atlantic surf. These conditions make Conil an excellent place for surfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. El Palmar in particular, just 5 minutes from Conil, is a surfer's paradise.

The weather in Conil is mild all year round, which means that surfing is possible all year round. Summers are warm but not too hot, with temperatures rarely rising above 30°C, while winters remain mild, making surfing pleasant even in the colder months. The wind in Conil often comes from westerly directions, creating perfect offshore conditions for many of the local surf spots.

The tides also play an important role in Conil's surfing conditions. With a significant tidal range, waves can vary greatly depending on the state of the tide, allowing for a variety of surfing conditions throughout the day.

8km long beach break

Comparison with other surf spots in Spain and Europe

Compared to other surf spots in Spain and Europe, Conil has some outstanding advantages. While places like Mundaka in the Basque Country or Nazaré in Portugal are known for their extreme waves, Conil offers a more accessible and diverse surfing experience. Surfing in Conil is ideal for all levels of surfers as there are relaxed beginner waves as well as big and fast waves for intermediate and advanced surfers (especially in fall and winter).

Another advantage of surfing in Conil compared to other European surf spots is that it is less crowded. While popular surf spots such as Biarritz in France or the Algarve in Portugal are often overcrowded, Conil offers a more relaxed atmosphere with less crowded line-ups. This allows surfers to enjoy the waves in peace and experience a more authentic connection to nature and the sport.

In addition to the surfing conditions, Conil offers a rich cultural experience. The combination of great food, Spanish joie de vivre and a vibrant surf scene makes Conil a unique destination. The local gastronomy, fresh seafood and traditional Andalusian dishes complement the surfing experience perfectly.

All in all, surfing in Conil offers an ideal mix of excellent waves, pleasant weather and a relaxed, culturally rich environment. These factors make Conil one of the best surfing destinations in Spain and Europe, with plenty to offer for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Beautiful houses in Conil

The best surf spots in Conil

Playa El Palmar

Description of the spot: Just a 5-minute drive from Conil and you are in El Palmar, the surf mecca of Andalusia. Playa El Palmar is one of the best-known and most popular surf spots near Conil de la Frontera. Here you will actually find fantastic surfing conditions. So fantastic that surfers even travel from Seville to surf here at the weekends. Thanks to the large beach (it stretches all the way to Conil on one side), there is always a secluded peak where you can let off steam.

In general, the atmosphere in El Palmar is quite relaxed if you follow the usual surfing etiquette. In addition to beautiful waves, there are also several surf stores, yoga with sea views, bars, restaurants, surf schools and surf camps. The vibe is relaxed and you immediately notice that surfing is the order of the day here.

Best seasons and conditions: The best surfing conditions at Playa El Palmar are in fall, winter and spring, when the waves are at their most consistent and the wind often blows from the west. During the summer, the waves are often smaller and the beaches are crowded. In winter, the waves can get bigger and more challenging, which makes this time of year particularly attractive for experienced surfers.

That's why El Palmar is the ultimate surf spot

Constant waves: El Palmar often has more consistent and powerful waves, which are ideal for surfers of all skill levels.
Long sandy beach: The beach in El Palmar stretches for several kilometers, which means more space for surfing and less crowds.
Less tourists: El Palmar is less crowded compared to Conil, which offers a more relaxed surfing experience. The beach of El Palmar is often deserted, especially in the low season.
Diversity of spots: There are several surf spots in El Palmar that offer different wave conditions, while Conil has more limited options.
Surf schools and rental: There is a good selection of surf schools and rental stations in El Palmar that can help beginners and advanced surfers.
Friendly atmosphere: The surfing community in El Palmar is relaxed and friendly.
Natural surroundings: El Palmar offers a picturesque backdrop with few built-up areas, which makes surfing in a beautiful environment more enjoyable.
Favourable accommodation options: There are often cheaper accommodation options in El Palmar close to the beach.

Overall, El Palmar is an excellent choice for surfers looking for a more relaxed atmosphere and good waves!

Fuente de Gallo

Fuente de Gallo

A great surf spot with a beach break. There are right and left-hand waves that break relatively flat and are therefore very suitable for boards with more volume. You will have a lot of fun there, especially with a minimalibu, a fishboard or a longboard. This surf spot is usually at its best at low tide.

Cabo Roche

Special features and challenges: Cabo Roche is a surf spot known for its breathtaking scenery and challenging waves. The spot is located just outside Conil and is surrounded by steep cliffs and rocky bays. The waves here can be powerful and fast, making this spot more suitable for experienced surfers.

Safety aspects: Caution is advised when surfing in Cabo Roche, as the currents can be strong and the waves unpredictable. There are also rocky areas that can be dangerous when the water level is low. It is recommended to surf this spot only in suitable conditions and after sufficient experience. Surfers should always surf in groups or at least with a partner and inform themselves about the current weather and water conditions.

Learn to surf in Conil

If you want to learn to surf in Conil, you are spoiled for choice, so to speak. There are numerous surf schools here that can teach you how to surf. If you want to learn to surf directly at the best surf spot, we recommend a surf course in El Palmar. There you simply have the most consistent swell and the best wave quality.

Surf schools & surf courses

A-Frame Surfcamp

Course offers and prices: The A-Frame Surfcamp in El Palmar, near Conil de la Frontera, offers a wide range of surf courses tailored to different levels of experience. From beginner and intermediate courses to special courses for advanced surfers or children, the offer covers all needs. At A-Frame Surfcamp you can book a whole week's surfing vacation or just a surf course on request. The all-inclusive vacation package not only includes a 5-day surf course but also

accommodation
catering
all surf equipment such as surfboard and wetsuit
video analysis
surf theory
optional yoga classes, surf photos, massages with an osteopath

Book your surf vacation here

The surf courses at A-Frame Surfcamp

You can also book the surf courses at A-Frame without the camp. However, the all-inclusive package is actually the bestseller par excellence because you get the all-round package and can simply enjoy your surfing vacation. In the surf courses, we cater to everyone individually, teach in small groups and choose the best time to surf for our surf courses every day.

Surf courses

The A-Frame surf camp is located right on the beach. All you have to do is grab your surfboard and off you go! You will learn to surf in small groups. The surf coaches are highly trained and will give you individual attention. Quality is really important here

.

Surf theory & video analysis

In surf theory, you will learn all about currents, the formation of wind and waves and the shakes of different surfboards. Each surf course also includes a video analysis. These are really helpful, as they make it much easier to understand which mistakes have crept in.

Surfing for children

Of course, not only adults but also children can learn to surf. As mentioned above, the A-Frame surf camp attaches great importance to a high standard. Children and families are in good hands here. The Family Weeks take place several times a year, where the focus is even more on families. This is when a particularly large number of children are guests and friendships are quickly formed.

Family surf camp

Good to know for all moms and dads: Because we know how flexible you have to be with (small) children, the accommodations are all equipped with a kitchen and washing machine. Thanks to the location right on the beach, there's no need to pack - if you forget something, you don't have to go far. A family vacation at a surf camp really is a very special experience that will leave you with wonderful memories as a family. Meals are included, by the way, so parents can take a vacation too.

Family surf camp

Accommodation for surfers in Conil

Surfing in Conil is enriched by a variety of surf camps that offer both accommodation and comprehensive surf lessons. These camps are ideal for surfers looking for an intense and sociable surfing experience, often combined with a lively community life and additional activities.

Surf camps

A-Frame Surfcamp: offers and special features

The A-Frame Surfcamp is one of the best-known camps in the region and offers an ideal combination of first-class surf lessons and comfortable accommodation. The camp is located in El Palmar, just a few minutes away from the best surf spots.

Offers and special features:

Accommodation: Various accommodation options, from cozy rooms to stylish apartments.
Catering: Full board with healthy and delicious meals, often using local produce.
Surf lessons: Lessons for all levels of experience, from beginner to advanced. Qualified coaches offer personalized lessons.
Additional activities: Yoga sessions, beach volleyball and communal evenings around the campfire create a relaxed atmosphere and promote a sense of community.

Other surf camps in Conil de la Frontera:

There are many other surf camps in Conil with different focuses and offers. In the wide selection, everyone is sure to find the most suitable offer for them.

Hotels and vacation apartments

For surfers who prefer more independence, there are a variety of hotels and vacation apartments in Conil that are close to the best surf spots.

Recommendations for different budgets:

Budget accommodation: Hostels such as the Hostal Campito offer affordable rooms and are ideal for young travelers and backpackers.
Mid-range: Hotel Tres Jotas offers comfortable rooms and is just a short walk from the beaches.
Luxury: Hotel Fuerte Conil-Costa Luz offers upscale amenities and direct access to the beach, perfect for surfers looking to relax after a challenging day on the water.

Proximity to surf spots

The choice of accommodation often depends on proximity to the best surf spots. Many of the surf camps and hotels mentioned above are located close to Playa El Palmar, Playa de la Fontanilla and Fuente de Gallo, allowing quick access to the waves.

In summary, Conil de la Frontera offers a wide range of accommodation for surfers, covering every preference and budget. Whether you are looking for an intensive camp experience, want to be more independent or prefer the luxury of a hotel, Conil Surfing has the right accommodation for everyone close to the best surf spots.

Leisure activities besides surfing in Conil

Conil de la Frontera not only offers excellent surfing conditions, but also a wide range of leisure activities to enrich your stay and provide variety. Here are some of the best activities you can enjoy in Conil besides surfing:

To Dos & Must Seens in Conil de la Frontera

In addition to surfing, there is plenty to do in Conil. It's best to just let yourself drift and discover the town on your own. Here are a few tips and the favorite places of our A-Frame team. A tip first: it's best to plan your visit after the siesta (around 2-5 pm). This is when the stores are open again and you can enjoy a bite to eat in one of the many good restaurants after your surf. Here are our ultimate tips for Conil de la Frontera:

The alleys of the old town

onil de la Frontera is known for its white houses and narrow streets. Here you can simply let yourself drift. As you stroll through Conil, you can almost breathe in its Muslim past.

There are also many stores, small restaurants and the houses are decorated with bougainvilleas, geraniums and carnations. It is also worth taking a look at the backyards. These are often decorated with beautiful tiles and lots of plants.

Iglesia de Santa Cantalina

The Iglesia de Santa Catalina was built in the 15th century and stands on the square of the same name in Conil de la Frontera. However, not everything of the original has been preserved. The church was restored in the 19th century and today contains different architectural styles. The Iglesia de Santa Catalina is now the art and cultural center of Conil, where exhibitions by famous artists take place. Admission is free of charge.

Torre de Guzmán

At the opposite of the Iglesia de Santa Catalina and hard to miss is the Torre de Guzmán, an old watchtower from the 14th century. The tower was long used as a defense against pirate attacks. The climb to the top is well worth it, as the view from the top is fantastic.

Market

Want to feel like a local? Then I can recommend a visit to the wholesale market or food market in Conil de la Frontera. Here you will find fruit and vegetables as well as tuna, sausages, meat and fish. Opening hours from Monday to Saturday, in the morning. The market is now located in the La Bodega shopping area.

Relaxing on the beach in Conil

There are beautiful beaches in and around Conil. The beaches on the Costa de la Luz are wild and untouched. This is because the coast here is undeveloped and therefore more natural than the beaches towards the Mediterranean. The Playa de Fontanilla beach in Conil is particularly beautiful. Other beautiful beaches around Conil de la Frontera are Cala del Aceite and Fuente del Gallo as well as Roche beach. You can discover small coves on a cliff hike.

Hiking on the cliffs

How about a hike with a sea view? At the top of the Calas de Roche cliffs, you can easily walk from cove to cove. The cliffs are located between the port of Conil and the settlement of Roche, where small rocky coves are hidden at the foot of the cliffs. The beaches are accessible via steps. Access to some of the beaches is difficult, but it's worth it, as you are sheltered from the wind by the Levante. Sometimes you have a bay all to yourself.

Tip: The sunsets here are a dream.

Best restaurants and bars

Conil may be small, but it is full of good restaurants. In summer, the streets are full and everyone sits outside eating tapas, tuna or drinking a glass of wine. Out of season, Conil de la Frontera is a little quieter. You need to know which restaurants are still open. Here are our favorites among the restaurants in Conil.

Vascook - Steak , Fish & Desserts

Do you love steak, fish, lovingly decorated food and sophisticated desserts? At Vascook you get everything at once. You decide whether it's rare or medium rare. Because your steak is brought to your table, including the flame, and you can sear it just the way you like it. The salt-baked tuna is also very tasty and we recommend the "Orgasmo" dessert for anyone with a sweet tooth ;-)

La Ola - Eating tuna on the beach

Bluefin tuna from traditional almadraba fishing is one of the region's real delicacies. The tuna is caught off the coast of Cádiz and is not only delicious, but also of high quality. In the La Ola restaurant, guests can eat directly on the beach and watch the sunset. There is a huge hotel behind you, but the view of the sea and the excellent food more than make up for it.

La Fontanilla

The La Fontanilla restaurant is the right place for fish lovers. The selection is huge, the fish fresh and the service friendly. La Fontanilla is located right on the beach and the view through the panoramic windows is magical. Couples and romantics can enjoy a dinner with a view of the sun setting over the Atlantic. The restaurant is particularly known for its tuna specialties such as Almadraba bluefin tuna carpaccio or Almadraba bluefin tuna tartare.

El Mirlo

El Mirlo is run by a Spanish brother and sister. All guests are warmly welcomed here and the service is really great. The same goes for the food - if you like authentic tapas, this is the place for you. We particularly recommend the tuna skewers, Secreto Iberico and the prawn tortillitas. But it's best to try it out for yourself and feast your way through the menu.

Los Hermanos

If you really love tapas, we have another recommendation for you: Los Hermanos is a real Spanish experience. Here you order at the bar and take your freshly prepared tapas with you. The selection of tapas is huge, and the pulpito with olive oil and garlic is particularly delicious. The menu is only in Spanish, but with Google on your smartphone, translation shouldn't be a problem.

Coffee and cupcakes at Canela y Miel

Whenever someone from our surf camp team has a birthday (or we simply fancy something sweet), we like to get a cake from Canela y Miel. The cakes from here are little works of art, actually too good to eat. Luckily, they are not only pretty but also incredibly tasty.

Meat & Steak Blanco y Verde

We always recommend this restaurant to our surf camp guests. If you like large portions and meat dishes, you should definitely eat here.

Churrería La Chana

Are you hungry? Time for churros! In Conil de la Frontera, churros are part of everyday life. Churrería La Chana is a real institution here and even the locals treat themselves to a portion for breakfast - it's actually just a small stall, but the churros are best wrapped in paper anyway. You'll find the churreria in Calle Pascual Junquera, a little way up the street on the right-hand side. Incidentally, the churreria in Conil de la Frontera is only open in the morning, from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm. I just managed to get the last churros during my visit at 13:10.

Activities for families and children

Family-friendly activities:

Playground Parque de La Atalaya: This park offers a nice playground for children, shaded walking paths and picnic areas for the whole family.
Aqualand Bahia de Cadiz: A water park near Conil that offers fun and entertainment for children and adults alike. Numerous slides and pools make for an exciting day out.
Horse riding on the beach: Several local providers offer guided rides along the beaches and through the picturesque landscape of Conil. An unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Tips and tricks for surfers in Conil

Best time to travel

When to go surfing in Conil

Optimal surfing conditions: The best time to go surfing in Conil is between fall and spring, especially from September to April. During these months, the waves are the most consistent and the Atlantic brings powerful swells suitable for surfers of all levels. Summer (June to August) offers warm weather and smaller waves that are ideal for beginners, but the beaches can be more crowded at this time.

Climatic conditions: Conil de la Frontera enjoys a mild climate all year round. In fall and spring, temperatures are a pleasant 15-25°C, while winter is slightly cooler but still surfable. Summer brings temperatures above 30°C, making it perfect for relaxing after surfing.

Equipment tips

Wetsuits: The choice of wetsuit varies depending on the season and water temperature. In fall and spring, a 3/2mm suit is usually sufficient. In winter, when the water gets cooler, a 4/3mm suit is recommended. In summer, a shorty or even just board shorts and a rashguard are often sufficient.

Surfboards: Larger boards such as longboards or mini-mals are best suited for beginners, as they are more stable and easier to maneuver. Advanced surfers can use shorter boards such as fish or shortboards, which are more agile and better suited to larger waves.

Accessories:

Leash: A good leash is essential to avoid losing the board in the event of a fall.
Wax: Wax helps to ensure proper adhesion to the board.
Sun protection: As the sun can be very strong in Conil, good sun protection, such as waterproof sun cream and a hat, is essential.

Conclusion on surfing in Conil

Conil de la Frontera is a true paradise for surfers and offers much more than just great waves. The combination of ideal surfing conditions, charming historical sights, delicious local cuisine and a variety of leisure activities makes Conil a perfect destination for any surfer. Whether you're a beginner looking to ride your first waves or an experienced surfer looking for new challenges, Conil has something for everyone.

To make the most of your stay in Conil, we recommend our A-Frame Surfcamp. Here you can enjoy professional surf lessons, relax in cozy accommodation and experience the relaxed atmosphere and community that makes this camp so special.

Book a surf camp here

Fancy a surfing vacation?

Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience! Book your stay at the A-Frame surf camp now and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of surfing in Conil de la Frontera. Click here to reserve your place at the camp and start the adventure of a lifetime!

View all surf packages here