The lazy Brit holiday has become a stereotype that many of us aren’t keen to live up to. As we strive to live a healthier lifestyle (both inside and out), we are choosing to keep ourselves active in every way possible – even when it comes to our holidays. With attractive offers of complimentary watersports and yoga sessions at many hotels, it’s no longer just about what you can do by the water’s edge but also in, under and on it too.

If the thought of activity holidays fill you with dread then have no fear! Surfing holidays offer the perfect opportunity to discover hidden bays, meet the locals and witness a country’s beauty and culture looking from the outside in – what’s not to love? With the help of Love Holidays, we’ve put together a list of 7 surprising surf spots that are totally ideal.

Tenerife

If Tenerife rouses thoughts of the famous waterpark, volcanic scenery and friendly resorts, you’d be right – but there’s plenty to do off the coast too. The warm weather, great conditions and numerous surfing schools make it an ideal destination for those looking to combine a beach holiday with an unforgettable surfing experience. The popular surf spot in La Izquierda – also known as Spanish Left – is a wave you definitely want to catch if you are staying near Playa de las Americas and you can handle boisterous waters. Avoid peak times during evenings and weekends to enjoy the surf without the local crowds that aren’t keen to share their patch. Alternatively, if you want a real taste of Tenerife (and a great photo opportunity!) then head to Playa del Socorro where you can surf into its signature black sands before relaxing in the popular beach bar that overlooks the bay.

Morocco

Morocco is perhaps the most surprising surf destination on our list. Known for its rich culture, exclusive resorts and vast stretches of desert, it’s hard to imagine that there’s any surf to be found. However, the region of Taghazout has beaches to suit every level of surfer and with the best time to visit falling between December and March, it’s perfect for affordable winter holidays too. For the advanced surfer, Anchor Point is a great spot to catch some impressive barrels with a backdrop of stunning scenery on shore. If you’re still trying to find your surfing feet, then Devil’s Rock has some fun and gentle waves that are perfect for beginners or a family day out with a difference.

Portugal

We wouldn’t blame you for thinking that the only side to Portugal is its upper-class hotels and A-list worthy beaches. If you look beneath this glossy exterior, you’ll find that its shores are home to some of the best surf spots in Europe. With great beaches on your doorstep, the Algarve is the ideal surfing destination with options for every surfing ability. For gentle waves, plenty of space and rock-free waters head to Meia Praia’s long sandy shore – perfect for both beginners and families. If you’re an experienced surfer looking for an extreme ride then Peniche’s famous Superturbos are for you. Although you need a car to get there, the fantastic wave range and year-long conditions make it worth the trip!

Fuerteventura

Thanks to its tropical climate, secluded bays and strong winds, Fuerteventura is the perfect destination for surfing holidays. Whether you’re a first-timer looking to test the waters or a pro surfer keen to explore foreign seas, Fuerteventura’s waves won’t fail to impress. If you’re a beginner looking for an easy ride then El Cotillo is for you – its shores are relatively empty and the soft sands beneath are sure to cushion any fall. However, if you fancy yourself an expert then head for ‘The Bubble’ in the region of Corralejo where you’ll find lots of locals waiting for the perfect tube wave.

Lanzarote

With ragged cliffs jutting into the waves, undiscovered sandy coves and a volcano emerging in the distant horizon, Lanzarote is an exciting alternative to the classic surfer’s paradise. For great scenery on surfing holidays in Lanzarote, you should head to Famara Beach. Sitting at the foot of dramatic cliffs overlooking its wide pebble bay, it’s perfect for beginners who need a bit of space. If your surf is up to scratch and you don’t mind dodging the locals, then head to San Juan where the Islas Canarias Santa Pro surf competition was held in 2009. For a quieter ride, La Santa has some of the best tides in Lanzarote – fantastic 3ft tube waves roll over the sandy seabed, but without the crowds of other beaches in the region.

Spain

With Spain being so close to home, it’s a brilliant option for an action-packed trip that doesn’t break the bank. Spain offers the perfect combination of sun, surf and sand for unforgettable active holidays with a twist. Most of the best beaches are in the north and on the west coast of the country, nestled away from the thousands of sun-seeking tourists and the popular all-inclusive resorts that hug its south eastern coastline. Northern Mundaka is an ideal spot for pro surfers that are seeking a thrill, thanks to its powerful waves and rocky reef. But don’t let that put you off – if you’re brave enough to risk it you’ll be rewarded with world-class waves in return. For budding surfers, head for Playa de Gros where sandy shores meet fun waves in this beginners’ hotspot.

Whether you’re a pro surfer or you are looking to add a little adventure to you next beach holiday, these surprising surf spots are bursting with beautiful scenery, great culture and even better waves.