Atlantic Europe
Portugal
Portugal
Often a sweet spot of swell, warmth and space.
- Surf
- 10 out of 10
- Dive
- 7 out of 10
- Freedive
- 6 out of 10
- Best months
- Apr to Oct
September · Shoulder + strong surf
Where to Go in September: Late-Summer Surf and Diving
Late-summer and early-autumn premium travel.
September overview
The ocean in September
September is one of the best months for European ocean travel. Atlantic swells start to return, the water is at its warmest, beaches empty after the school holidays and several long-haul seasons are still running.
Climate and conditions
Atlantic swells typically become more meaningful; Azores and Madeira water is often at its warmest. Fiji and Indonesia remain in season.
For European travellers
After school holidays, prices and crowds typically ease, a premium window for couples and surfers.
Best-fit destinations
Where to go in September
-
- Atlantic Europe
Portugal
Azores
Warm water and the end of offshore dive season.
- Surf
- 8 out of 10
- Dive
- 9 out of 10
- Freedive
- 7 out of 10
- Best months
- Jun to Oct
- Atlantic Europe
Portugal
Madeira
Warm water and returning swell.
- Surf
- 8 out of 10
- Dive
- 9 out of 10
- Freedive
- 7 out of 10
- Best months
- Jan to Nov
- South Pacific
Fiji
Fiji
Late surf season.
- Surf
- 10 out of 10
- Dive
- 10 out of 10
- Freedive
- 8 out of 10
- Best months
- Apr to Oct
- Southeast Asia
Indonesia
Bali + Nusa Penida
Late dry season, quieter than summer.
- Surf
- 10 out of 10
- Dive
- 9 out of 10
- Freedive
- 9 out of 10
- Best months
- Apr to Oct
- Central America
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Green season swells for experienced surfers.
- Surf
- 9 out of 10
- Dive
- 6 out of 10
- Freedive
- 6 out of 10
- Best months
- Dec to Sep
Selected regions of Indonesia beyond Bali also work well in September.
Also often in season in September
Read next
Best Autumn Ocean Holidays for European Travellers
The European summer rush is over, but the ocean does not stop being interesting. Why autumn may be the best time of all.
Azores vs Madeira: Which Portuguese Island Is Better for Surf & Diving?
Same country, completely different feeling. Polished and dramatic, or wild and far out in the Atlantic.
How Many Days Do You Need for a Luxury Surf Trip?
The longer the journey, the more important it is to stay longer. A simple framework for European surfers.
Surf and Dive
Plan Your Next Ocean Escape
Shortlisted a destination for September? Read its destination page for surf, diving, freediving, luxury and planning notes.