In this article we talk about…

• Aritz Aranburu’s impact on Spanish surfing: Aritz not only opened the doors of professional surfing for Spain by qualifying for the Championship Tour in 2007, but he has also inspired generations of surfers through his technique, international achievements and work as an ambassador for surfing in the Basque Country.
• The rise of extreme surfing with Natxo González and Laura Coviella: Natxo, with his mastery of giant waves like those of Nazaré, and Laura, as the first Spanish woman to surf them, have brought Spanish extreme surfing to the international scene, standing out for their courage and meticulous preparation.
• The advancement of Spanish women’s surfing: Nadia Erostarbe and Laura Coviella are examples of the growth of women’s surfing in Spain. From Nadia’s Olympic qualification to Laura’s efforts to promote gender equality, both show that Spanish surfing is inclusive, competitive and full of promise.

Aritz Aranburu, Natxo González and Laura Coviella lead a generation that is taking Spanish surfing to the world elite, combining historic achievements with the promotion of gender equality and sustainability in this booming sport.

Surfing in Spain has experienced a spectacular boom in recent years, consolidating itself as one of the most vibrant and exciting sports in the country. From the giant waves of the Cantabrian Sea to the paradisiacal breaks of the Canary Islands, the Spanish coasts have given rise to a generation of surfers who are making their mark both nationally and internationally.

In this article, we will explore the trajectory of five outstanding figures who represent the present and future of Spanish surfing, showing how their talent and dedication have taken the sport to new heights.

Aritz Aranburu: the pioneer of Spanish surfing

Aritz Aranburu, originally from the Basque Country, is not only a pioneer of surfing in Spain, but also a symbol of excellence in the sport. His qualification for the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour in 2007 marked a before and after in Spanish surfing.

During his career, Aritz has proven to be a fierce competitor, taking on iconic waves such as Pipeline in Hawaii and J-Bay in South Africa, where he has achieved outstanding results. In addition, his technical and strategic approach has made him one of the most respected surfers internationally.

Aritz is also an ambassador for surfing in Spain. Through local initiatives in the Basque Country, he has promoted surfing among young talent, creating opportunities for future generations to develop in the sport.

His participation in documentaries and international events has helped give visibility to Spanish waves and beaches as ideal surfing destinations. His humility and connection to his roots make him an inspirational figure in and out of the water.

Read also: Playa el moro in Fuerteventura is a surfer’s paradise!

Natxo González: the hunter of giant waves

Natxo Gonzalez, also born in the Basque Country, has built his career around a passion for risk and adventure. A specialist in giant waves, Natxo has managed to surf waves of more than 20 meters, such as the legendary walls of water in Nazaré, Portugal.

This achievement places him among the best big wave surfers in the world. His courage, combined with impeccable technique, has allowed him to face extreme conditions where few dare to venture.

In addition to his skill in the water, Natxo is known for his meticulous approach to preparation. Before each session, he spends hours studying weather conditions and wave formation. This, along with rigorous physical training, ensures that he is ready to face extreme challenges.

His participation in international giant wave competitions, such as the Big Wave Tour, has brought the name of Spain to the world’s extreme surfing elite. Natxo also uses his social networks to share his experiences and encourage other surfers to explore the possibilities of this sport.

Nadia Erostarbe: an Olympic pioneer

Nadia Erostarbe, born in Zarautz, one of the cradles of surfing in Spain, has emerged as one of the greatest promises of Spanish female surfing.

His qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games represents not only a personal achievement, but a giant step forward for surfing in Spain.

From a young age, Nadia has stood out for her fluid style and her ability to adapt to different types of waves, which has allowed her to compete successfully both in Europe and in international events.

Throughout her career, Nadia has accumulated numerous titles, including victories in European junior circuit competitions. Her focus on technique and mental training has helped her excel in a sport where the pressure can be intense.

In 2022, her performance at the ISA World Championship in Puerto Rico, where she reached the semifinals, cemented her position as one of Spain’s most promising female surfers. Her commitment to the environment and the promotion of surfing among women make her an inspirational leader within the surfing community.

Laura Coviella: dominating the waves of Nazaré

Laura Coviella, from the Canary Islands, has achieved what many considered impossible: surfing the giant waves of Nazaré. This feat made her the first Spanish woman to face one of the most challenging waves in the world.

Her bravery and technical ability have made her stand out in a field where women face additional barriers to recognition. Laura has proven that women’s surfing can be just as daring and competitive as men’s surfing.

In addition to Nazaré, Laura has competed in several international big wave events, obtaining solid results and earning the respect of her peers and rivals. Her dedication goes beyond the water; Laura actively works to inspire young female surfers, organizing workshops and events to promote gender equality in surfing.

Her focus on physical and mental training, combined with an unwavering passion for the sea, make her a role model for surfers of all ages.

Andy Criere: the national champion

Andy Criere, born in France but raised in the Basque Country, has been a constant figure in Spanish surfing over the last decade. His recent national championship win at the King & Queen of the Bay in La Coruña reaffirmed his position as one of Spain’s top surfers.

Andy is characterized by his versatile style, which allows him to perform in all kinds of conditions, from small waves to more powerful breaks.

In addition to competing, Andy spends time developing his career outside of the water. He is an ambassador for several international brands and uses his platform to promote a sustainable lifestyle and ocean protection. His connection to surfing as an art form leads him to collaborate on creative projects, from photography to board design.

In international competitions, Andy has proudly represented Spain, obtaining outstanding results in European and world events. His professional approach and passion for surfing has inspired a generation of young surfers to follow in his footsteps.

Read also: Tips and tricks for choosing your surfboard if you are a beginner.

Conclusion

Surfing in Spain continues to grow, driven by exceptional talents such as Aritz Aranburu, Natxo Gonzalez, Nadia Erostarbe, Laura Coviella and Andy Criere.

Each of them brings a unique style and an inspiring story, showing that Spain can compete at the highest level on the world surfing scene.

With an expanding community and spectacular beaches, the future of Spanish surfing looks brighter than ever.

If you want to get into the exciting world of surfing or improve your technique, our surf courses in Fuerteventura are perfect for you: with certified instructors, you will enjoy surfing the waves in a safe and fun-filled way.

---

Top 5 Spanish surfers – FAQ

Who is Aritz Aranburu and what is his contribution to Spanish surfing?

Aritz Aranburu is a pioneer of surfing in Spain, originally from the Basque Country. He was the first Spanish surfer to qualify for the World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour in 2007, which was a milestone in the history of Spanish surfing. In addition, Aritz has promoted surfing among young talent in the Basque Country and has helped to make Spain’s waves and beaches more visible as surfing destinations.

What distinguishes Natxo González in the world of surfing?

Natxo Gonzalez, born in the Basque Country, is a giant wave specialist. He has surfed waves of more than 20 meters in places like Nazaré, Portugal, and stands out for his technique and meticulous preparation. His detailed approach to preparation and his participation in international giant wave competitions have positioned Spain among the elite of extreme surfing.

What is Nadia Erostarbe’s most important achievement?

Nadia Erostarbe, born in Zarautz, is one of the most important promises of Spanish women’s surfing. Her qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games marks a huge step forward for surfing in Spain. Nadia has excelled in competitions both in Europe and internationally, and has also been a semifinalist at the ISA World Championship in Puerto Rico.