Surfing in Estonia
Estonia is a country located in Northern Europe and bathed by the Baltic Sea. Estonia’s long and winding coastline is perfect for enjoying nature walks, but together with the neighboring countries Estonia is actually putting the Baltic surfing on the map. The surf conditions are usually inconsistent in summer, freezing in winter and with shallow coastal waters, the beaches are better suited for kites and windsurfers. Estonia's best surfing spots are located in Kõpu Peninsula in Ristna Island. This small island receives the biggest waves in the Baltic Sea and due to its size is easy to get around in the search of the best surf spot of the day.
Surfing in Estonia is getting more popular year after year but the truth is that will never be an epic surf destination and the only reason to surf in the country is for the novelty of catching some waves in the Baltic Sea.
Climate in Estonia
The climate in Estonia is continental with warm, dry summers and very cold winters. January is the coldest month and temperatures during winter can be quite cold and far below zero. The weather is often windy and humid due to the proximity of the Baltic Sea. In summer the weather can be warm with average temperatures around 20-25°C and sometimes higher, reaching 30°C or more. During this time of the year the weather is mostly dry and sunny. Rainfall often happens during autumn in the form of heavy thunderstorms that can occur in the afternoon. The best time to surf in Estonia is also the coldest during autumn and winter. During summer the baltic sea is usually calm and it’s rare to have any decent sized waves that can be ridden. If you are surfing in Estonia make sure you have a good wetsuit, boots, gloves and a hoodie.
Best surf spots in Estonia
The best surf spots in Estonia are Stroomi Beach and Vääna-Jõesuu.
Budget Planning
Meal price range
Simple meals start at $5 USD. Mid-range meals start at $11 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $30-50 USD.
Equipment rental
You should bring your own gear.
Prepaid SIM cards
Elisa is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from supermarkets, kiosks, and official retailers.
Prepaid packages start at $5 USD.
Public transport
The bigger cities have efficient public transport systems, and the whole country is very bicycle-friendly.
Taxis are easy to find, you should agree on a price before you start. Uber and other ride-sharing companies are available as well.
Cycling is a great way to get around and bikes are easy to rent.
Although the rail network is limited, trains are as fast as buses and slightly cheaper for long distances.
Gas prices
$0.93 USD a liter.
Types of risks
Frigid water.
How to prepare
Visa
Citizens from 62 countries, including the US, and Australia, can enter Latvia without a visa for up to 90 days.
Vaccines
Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella.
Things to know
Language & Currency
Estonian is the official language.
The currency is the Euro (€).
Best time to go
The best time to surf in Estonia is also the coldest during autumn and winter.
Checking Surf forecast
Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.
Do I need pack a pharmacy kit
You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.
Travel/Surf Insurance
World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.
Emergency
Dial 112.
Check surf pictures of Estonia at #surfestonia.
