In brief
Surfing and skateboarding in a single day... Two activities that we love to practice at Widsuits and that go together perfectly.
Complementary sports, deeply connected by their history and traditions. These practices have become increasingly common since the late 2000s and have continued to grow over the years. But if we go back further, in California, surfers and skaters have been merging for years. In 1963, the "Z-boys," the first asphalt surfers, organized the first skate contests, featuring legendary figures like Stacy Peralta and Tony Alva, who were also avid surfers. "Surf like you skate and skate like a surfer..."
Nowadays, it is possible to engage in both sports in a single day almost anywhere in the world. Here are some examples of spots not to be missed on our Atlantic coasts and in Europe.
In this article, we will focus on skateparks, excluding 100% street skate spots (with a few exceptions) or the skate pump tracks that are popping up all over France like mushrooms.
The spots in France and along the coast
Generally located near the Atlantic or Mediterranean coasts, you will encounter skateparks along your route, from seaside street plazas to simple flat grounds for some fun. The choices are abundant, all just in front of or a few steps away from various surf spots.
Let's start our little tour with Capbreton. In Capbreton, you will find a 650m2 skatepark recently expanded with a large bowl and a substantial street section (rail, downhill curve, manual table, etc.). One of its significant advantages is the presence of internationally renowned surf spots in the area, such as Santocha, Le Prévent, La Piste, and in nearby Hossegor La Gravière, La Centrale, La Nord (for the chargers when it's firing), Les Culs Nuls, and many others.
Staying in the Southwest, just a few kilometers away, you will find the skatepark in Seignosseprecisely at Le Penon. It primarily features curves, providing excellent training for surfers, surfskate enthusiasts, or simply bowl lovers. Additionally, the surf spot at Penon is literally a 59-second walk from the skatepark. Just cross the sand dune, and you'll see the spot right in front of you. A jam-packed day between concrete curves and water ones.
Another skatepark that recently celebrated its inauguration (after significant renovation and expansion) is the skatepark in Vieux BoucauxThis brand-new complex is located near numerous surf spots as well, including Vieux-Boucau Sud and Nord, Soustons Plage, and Messanges, just 10 minutes further north.
Heading up the Atlantic coast, you will reach Gironde, specifically the Bassin d'Arcachon, where you can enjoy various water activities such as surfing, kitesurfing, or wing-foiling, as well as other sports like skateboarding.
First, in the “South Bassin”, you'll find Pereire Beach near Arcachon where a new skatepark has recently appeared. Rebuilt on the old one, this beachside park was renovated in 2019. Not far from there, a bit further south of the Dune du Pilat, you'll discover the surf spots at Salie Nord and Salie SudThe website https://bassin-arcachon.com/ will provide you with more information about these spots.
A little further north of the Bassin, near Lège-Cap-Ferretthere is a recently built skatepark (just before the COVID-19 crisis) that is a 10-15 minute drive from Grand CrohotAccessible and of high quality, both the skatepark and the surf spot come highly recommended by the Wildsuits team.
Unfortunately, we cannot mention all the surfable and skateable places in France (because yes, there are many). We'll let you do your own research and explore the different locations yourself (you won't be disappointed!)
En Europe
In Europe, there are also numerous places where you can practice both of these sliding sports in the same location. After extensive research and testing, several spots have made their way into our list, and they are worth mentioning. So, we have selected our favorites and places that we find interesting to share with you!
Portugal
As you probably know, Portugal is a must-visit destination in Europe for surfing, but not only that. Although less known for its skateparks, the Portuguese coast is not overlooked. Regarding this area, we have consulted Wildsuits' director, Olivier, who spends a lot of time there.
EriceiraEriceira. A small village with a little over seven thousand five hundred inhabitants, located by the sea not far from the capital (40 minutes from LisbonneVery calm and peaceful in the low season (but be mindful of the locals, especially at Coxos...), this fishing village turns into a tourist haven in July and August. This is mainly because it is a place full of incredible surf spots and breathtaking panoramas. You can find an article on our website that specifically talks about this spot by clicking on this link.
The skatepark of Ericeira. Located in front of Matador (don't be fooled by the name, it's more of a beginner-friendly surf spot), you will find the surf shop Boardrider, which has a beautiful skatepark with a street section and a deep bowl at the end of the skatepark. It is designed for the most experienced skaters!
And here's a hidden gem for bowl lovers (including Olivier). Little-known even among the Portuguese, it is located 20 minutes north of Ericeira in the small town of São pedro da cadeira There's a small 8-shaped bowl that is lit 24/7 (there's also a rail and two small modules...). It is very rare to come across people, and it will be the perfect spot to work on your lines and maneuvers repeatedly without pressure. As for surfing, we recommend the splendid Praia Azul beach located in Santa Cruz, about 15 minutes from the "secret skatepark."
Staying in Portugal, but to the south of Lisbon (20 minutes away), there's another place where you can showcase your skills in surfing in the morning and skateboarding in the afternoon (or vice versa). It is Costa da CaparicaLocated in the southern area after crossing the 25 de Abril Bridge (one of the most famous bridges in Europe), the left bank of the Tagus River known as "margem sul" by the locals. Between Costa da caparica and Almada, you have the choice of multiple surf spots, more or less crowded, and only one skatepark in Almada. The area is in dire need of another skatepark in Costa da Caparica. This is often a project under study, aided by numerous petitions. Costa da Caparica is a dream spot for surfers, with many surf schools eager to help you practice. One such local partner is Gota Dagua, which is not only a surf school but also a surf camp offering many other activities and accommodations.
In terms of skateboarding, skate park d’Almada drive from the surf house. It is complete, with curves of different sizes and numerous ledges and rails to learn rather technical tricks. Lessons are also available on-site for all skill levels.
Another skatepark close to an iconic beach in Portugal is the Skatepark de Estoril (Parque das Gerações do Estoril), which is 10 minutes from Carcavelos.
Furthermore, a road project is currently putting this skatepark at risk. If you want to defend it, I invite you, like us, to sign the petition Here.
Espagne
Bilbao, a city that blends urbanism and nature, shopping streets and beautiful sandy beaches, concrete skateparks, and world-renowned surf spots. In short, it offers a perfect symbiosis for the practice of both surfing and skateboarding.
This city is located on the northern coast of Spain, along the Atlantic Ocean, which provides it with a good number of surf spots and beaches to enjoy. In particular, we recommend visiting the famous spot of Mundaka which is a 45-minute drive from the city center of Bilbao. It is a unique place with world-class waves and breathtaking beauty (however, this spot can be quite challenging depending on the conditions, so be cautious).
A morning session is enough for a good surf session. Afterward, you can take a short drive back to Bilbao and go skateboarding in the city center, where several skateparks will be at your disposal (suitable for all levels). For example, I recommendAlgortaIt is one of the most well-known parks in Spain, located by the sea, with a perfect structure for capturing impressive sports photos. Although it can be challenging, it is still very enjoyable to skate. This makes for an idyllic day and destination to indulge in both your passions for surfing and skateboarding.
More known for skateboarding and less for surfing, Barcelone is a city where you can surf a few spots in the Mediterranean and, most importantly, skate on world-famous and renowned spots. First, regarding surfing in Barcelona, it is important to know that the conditions often vary, but the best period for practicing this sport (and other water sports) is from late August to early January/February.
It is recommended to regularly check the conditions before getting into the water. As for the spots, you have the choice between the well-known ones (usually crowded) and the more secret spots (but be mindful of the locals and the distance from your starting point).
Among the famous waves, you have Barceloneta and Mar Bella, which are unavoidable tourist destinations and often crowded. Otherwise, we recommend renting a car and heading about 15 minutes north or south (keeping in mind that the north is slightly more renowned for surfing but attracts more people). You will find the spot of Sitges to the south of Barcelona, and further north, you will have access to spots around Montgat. There are multiple versatile spots awaiting you.
Now let's talk about skateboarding. Barcelona is indeed one of the European skateboarding capitals, thanks to its numerous internationally renowned street spots, such as the famous MACBA museum with its long ledge, set of stairs, and the gap with the three blocks, etc.
But there are also other iconic skateboarding spots in Barcelona, including Plaça Universitat with its long marble curb and perfect flatground for cruising. I won't mention more spots because otherwise, the list will be endless, so here's a website that lists all the skate spots: la skateosphère 😉
England
Less known but equally cool, you can experience the English vibes by heading to Cornwall where water activities are highly present.
With average swells, offshore winds, and occasional sunshine, you arrive at Porthtowan BeachFacing northwest, the swells generally come from the west and southwest, providing nice left-handers when conditions align. The water is generally cool but manageable with a good wetsuit. With our 4/3 mm wetsuit, you'll stay warm throughout your entire session without any issues.
In the same day, you can drive 10 minutes to reach Mount Hawke (reservation required), where you'll have access to both an outdoor and an indoor section (in case it rains). Here's the website of this place where you can find all the necessary information: https://www.mounthawkeskatepark.com/
A bit further southwest from the previous spot, you'll reach St-IvesIt's a charming coastal village with a marina, fishing activities, and vacation vibes. With just over eleven thousand residents, this English seaside resort offers exactly what we're looking for: a surf spot and a skatepark (or a spot to practice).
First, you have the recently renovated skatepark de St Ives which features numerous ramps of varying difficulty levels, as well as some curbs and rails for street practice. It's a complete skatepark suitable for all skill levels, with high-quality modules and concrete.
Just five minutes by car or about fifteen minutes by bike, you'll access the beach and the surf club de St Ives The St Ives Surf Club operates during the summer season and provides the opportunity to try out surfing. While the waves are generally not too dangerous (although there's always a chance of a big swell coming in the height of summer), this spot is more suitable for beginners and those starting out. However, it's still a very fun spot to surf, and you'll definitely have a great time. That's guaranteed!
If the English experience appeals to you, check out our dedicated article on the best surf spots in Cornwall!
These are four European countries that are different from each other but equally exceptional and absolutely cool to visit. We hope we have awakened the adventurous side in each of you.
Link :
https://skategang.blog/2020/12/28/skatepark-capbreton/
https://bassin-arcachon.com/une-journee-entre-skate-surf-a-vos-planches/
https://www.mounthawkeskatepark.com/
https://www.shbarcelona.fr/blog/fr/ou-faire-du-surf-a-barcelone/
https://www.trucksandfins.com/en/spots/skateparks/Sao-Pedro-da-Cadeira-skatepark/2168
