When I first arrived at Gijón Surf Hostel, I thought I was coming for the waves and the sunsets. And while both of those things are incredible, what truly made me fall in love with this place was the people.
Every single day, guests from all over the world walk through the doors of this surf hostel, and each week feels like a new chapter full of cultures, stories, and unexpected friendships. Whether I’m sharing a surfboard, a bunk bed, or a beer, this hostel constantly reminds me how easy it is to connect with others, even when you come alone.
Yes, you can absolutely come here solo — I did. And honestly, that might be the best way to experience Gijón Surf Hostel. From the moment I checked in, I felt like I was part of something. There’s just something in the atmosphere here. Maybe it’s the sound of the ocean in the background or the happiness that comes with the arrival of summer. Whatever it is, it makes people feel instantly welcome. Some people plan to stay a few nights and end up staying for weeks.
More Than Just a Hostel
The common areas like the terrace and the lounge at this surf hostel are always full of life. It’s totally normal to hear different languages at once, see someone cooking a dish from their country, or walk into a spontaneous dance session. There’s always something happening: someone inviting you to the beach, asking if you want to cook dinner together, or suggesting a pub crawl or a pool competition. You never feel like a stranger for long.
Surfing Is Just the Beginning
Surfing is a huge part of the experience at Gijón Surf Hostel, but even if you’ve never touched a board in your life, this is the perfect surf hostel to start. The instructors are friendly, patient, and genuinely excited to see everyone improve. There’s nothing like the feeling of catching your first wave with people you just met cheering you on.
And if you already surf, you’ll love the local spots like Playa de Rodiles or Playa de Peñarrubia — and the crew is always ready to go with you.
Evenings Full of Magic
Evenings are when the real magic happens. After a day in the water or exploring Gijón, everyone gathers. Sometimes for a group dinner, other times for a night out, or just to sit on the terrace with drinks and good conversation.
I’ve had deep chats about life with people I’d just met a few hours earlier. I’ve danced, laughed, played games, and made spontaneous plans to travel with people from totally different backgrounds. The connections happen fast here — and they feel real.
Unexpected Cultural Exchange
It’s special how everyone brings a bit of their world with them. One day a Brazilian is teaching you how to dance funk, the next a Taiwanese volunteer is sharing tips on brewing the perfect bubble tea. Soon after, an Italian guest is showing you how to make pasta from scratch, and then you find yourself debating which country makes the best tacos with a Mexican friend while everyone laughs and joins in.
It’s the kind of cultural exchange you can’t plan — it just happens.
Goodbyes Are the Hardest Part
The connections you make here form quickly, almost without you noticing. One day you’re meeting someone for the first time over breakfast, and the next it feels like you’ve known them for years. That’s what makes it so special — and also what makes goodbyes the hardest part.
People arrive, you share days full of laughter, surf, and late-night talks, and then suddenly it’s time for them to go. You promise to meet again somewhere in the world, but the empty bunk or the quiet seat at the table is still felt.
“It is always painful to part from people whom one has known for a brief space of time. The absence of old friends one can endure with equanimity, but even a momentary separation from anyone to whom one has just been introduced is almost unbearable.”
— Oscar Wilde, The Importance of Being Earnest
A Place You’ll Always Come Back To
And yet, it’s always worth it — because you leave with new friends, great memories, and the feeling that Gijón Surf Hostel will always be a place you can return to.