Unstadvika, Arctic beach in Vestvågøy, Norway.
Unstadvika is a bay in Vestvågøy with a sandy beach framed by steep mountains rising on both sides. The cove opens directly to the Norwegian Sea, where waves regularly reach the shore.
Local surfers brought wave riding to Unstad in the 1960s after returning from Australia with handmade boards. This marked the start of the first Arctic surfing community in the area.
The beach hosts the annual Lofoten Masters surfing competition, which has drawn international competitors since 2007. This event has become a gathering place for the global surfing community.
Water temperatures range from 8 to 15 degrees Celsius, so a thermal wetsuit is necessary for protection from the cold. Visitors should prepare for rough conditions and bring appropriate gear.
Between February and October, surfers can ride waves under the Northern Lights, experiencing two natural phenomena in one location. This combination makes it a rare place for such a distinctive blend of action and sky display.
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