Escuela Cántabra de Surf's local guide to Somo
First-hand advice from Nacho and the Escuela Cántabra de Surf team, who teach here every day.
What's the best spot for beginners and why?
“It depends a lot on conditions and tides, but the left side of the beach usually has less swell and softer waves to learn on. Really, the whole of Somo beach, a seven-kilometre stretch of sand, is ideal for getting started.”
Best months to learn, and which would you avoid?
“Avoid winter, when the cold and the big waves work against you, and if possible July and August, when there are more people in the water. June, September, October and November are very good months.”
How does the wind behave, and what does that mean for a beginner?
“Bad weather usually comes with north wind or what locals call gallego, a westerly. Those days the sea is rougher and harder, though the school still surfs. On hot summer days the northeasterly is the classic wind here. In October and November southerly offshore winds are common, which are harder for learning and need more technique. Somo is a very open, exposed beach, so the wind matters every single day.”
The most common beginner mistake you see on the water?
“Choosing the wrong board and the wrong place to start. People go where they see other people, and that's rarely the best place to learn. Many end up in currents on boards that aren't right for them, which is why learning with a school matters, especially at the start.”
Where would you recommend staying?
“Somo has options for every budget. The school runs several places to stay: the Aloha Surf Hostel, the closest to the beach, plus surf cabins, a surf camp, a surf house and the recently opened Somo Surf apartments.”
A local tip that isn't in the guides?
“Respect the locals. Somo is Spain's first surf reserve, with a strong surf tradition and people who have spent their whole lives here. Protect the beaches and nature, and enjoy it. There are countless magical corners to discover, and the best things about this area are the people, the food and, of course, the waves.”