Exploring Costa Rica: A Surf Adventure at Playa Hermosa
Join me on an unforgettable journey to Costa Rica, where we dive into the surfing scene at Playa Hermosa. In this blog, we will explore the beach’s features, local accommodations, and what to expect when hitting the waves.
The Journey Begins
Our adventure starts with a bus ride from Fontalenas to Jaco. The excitement builds as we anticipate our arrival at Playa Hermosa. The journey is filled with laughter and the occasional struggle of carrying our surfboards through the bustling town.
Arriving at Playa Hermosa
Finally, we made it to Playa Hermosa! The first sight of this stunning beach, with its black sand and rolling waves, takes our breath away. However, our excitement is met with a small hiccup: the hostel is closed, and we are left wondering about our next steps.
Costa Rica is a paradise for surfers and nature lovers alike. The vibrant culture, friendly locals, and stunning landscapes make every moment special. From the lush greenery to the sound of the waves crashing, it’s a sensory overload in the best way.
As we settle in, we check out the surf conditions. Unfortunately, the waves are small, but we remain hopeful for a bump in swell. The beach is quiet, with only a few surfers out, giving us a chance to familiarize ourselves with the area.
After a quick coffee, it’s time to hit the waves. The anticipation builds as we prepare our boards. Even with the small surf, there’s nothing like the thrill of paddling out into the ocean.
The surf session begins, and it’s a mix of closeouts and small waves. While it’s not the epic surf we hoped for, we embrace the challenge. Each wave offers a new experience, and we learn to adapt our skills to the conditions.
As we ride the small waves, we realize that every experience in Costa Rica adds to our skills. Surfing here is unique; the waves break quickly over the sandbar, making it tricky but exciting. We laugh and cheer each other on, making the best of the situation.
After an hour and a half in the water, we come back to shore, energized yet exhausted. The waves may have been small, but the joy of surfing in such a beautiful location is unmatched. We share stories of our rides and plan for the next session, hoping for better conditions.
The vibe at Playa Hermosa is laid-back, perfect for unwinding after a surf day. We explore the beach, enjoying the black sand and the sound of the waves. As the sun sets, we grab a drink at a local beach bar, soaking in the atmosphere.
Despite the small waves, our trip to Costa Rica has been filled with memorable moments. From the bus rides to the surf sessions, every experience is a testament to the beauty of this country. We can’t wait to see what the next day brings!
Stay tuned as we continue our journey through Costa Rica. The adventure is just beginning, and we have more waves to catch and stories to share!
Understanding Surf Conditions
Surf conditions can vary greatly, and understanding them is key to having a great time in Costa Rica. At Playa Hermosa, we quickly learned that the waves can change from day to day. Factors such as wind direction, swell size, and tide all play crucial roles.
Small Waves, Big Adventures
During our stay, we encountered mostly small waves. While it was disappointing at first, we adapted our surfing style to make the most of every opportunity. The closeouts offered a unique challenge, pushing us to refine our skills.
Waiting for the Perfect Swell
Patience is essential for surfers. We spent time watching the ocean, waiting for that perfect swell to arrive. Each day was a mix of anticipation and excitement, as we hoped for better surf conditions.
Traveling to Playa Hermosa is an adventure in itself. The most common route is to take a bus to Jaco, then a short taxi or local bus ride to the beach. This journey offers stunning views of Costa Rica’s landscapes.
Transportation Tips
Check bus schedules ahead of time.
Keep small change for local buses.
Consider renting a bike for local exploration.
Accommodation Options
Finding the right place to stay can enhance your surfing experience. Playa Hermosa offers various accommodations, from hostels to upscale hotels. We opted for a cozy spot called Sunny’s Hostel, which provided a budget-friendly option with a great café.
Where to Stay
Sunny’s Hostel: Affordable, friendly atmosphere, close to the beach.
Luxury Resorts: For those seeking comfort and amenities.
Vacation Rentals: Great for groups or families.
The Vibe at Playa Hermosa
The vibe at Playa Hermosa is relaxed and welcoming. It’s a place where surfers can unwind after a day on the waves. The local bars and restaurants often have live music, creating a lively atmosphere.
The local community is friendly and eager to share their love for surfing and Costa Rica. Engaging with the locals can enhance your experience, from learning about the best surf spots to enjoying authentic Costa Rican cuisine.
Conclusion and Future Adventures
Our time at Playa Hermosa has been unforgettable, filled with laughter, learning, and the thrill of the ocean. Despite the small waves, we’ve made the most of every moment. Costa Rica has a unique charm that keeps us coming back for more.
As we look ahead, we can’t wait for our next adventure in Santa Teresa. The promise of new waves and experiences awaits us. Stay tuned for more stories from our travels!
Costa Rica is one of the best surf destinations in the world. With warm water, beautiful beaches, and waves for all levels, it’s a great place to surf and relax. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, Costa Rica has something for everyone.
The best time to surf in Costa Rica is generally between April and October. This is when the south swells come in, making for great waves. However, you can find fun waves year-round!
Getting There
Most travelers fly into San Jose. From there, you can take shuttle buses or rent a car to get to the surf spots. Buses are a budget-friendly option and are quite reliable.
Accommodation Options
Costa Rica has a variety of places to stay, from hostels to hotels. Here’s a quick overview:
Costa Rica is an amazing place to surf and explore. With its beautiful beaches and friendly locals, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So grab your surfboard and get ready for an adventure!
Jaws, also known as Peʻahi, is a legendary big wave surfing spot located on the North Shore of Maui, Hawaii. It’s famous for producing some of the largest waves in the world, often reaching heights of 30 to 80 feet. This surf spot is not for everyone; it’s reserved for the most experienced and skilled surfers due to its immense power, size, and the dangers associated with its massive waves.The underwater topography of Peʻahi plays a crucial role in the formation of its massive waves.
The bottom at Peʻahi is primarily a reef composed of rock and coral. This reef structure is a key factor in the wave formation at Jaws. As ocean swells travel towards the shore, the decreasing depth of the ocean floor causes the waves to rise in height and steepness. At Peʻahi, the unique shape and composition of the reef bottom act as a ramp that lifts and shapes the incoming swells into the towering waves that surfers ride.
This rocky and uneven reef bottom is instrumental in the creation of the large, powerful, and often very dangerous waves that make Jaws famous. The waves here can reach heights of up to 60 feet (18 meters) or more, making it a destination for experienced and professional big wave surfers from around the world. The combination of the size, power, and shape of the waves, influenced by the reef’s topography, results in a challenging and exhilarating surfing experience.
Jaws, also known as Peʻahi, is a legendary big wave surfing spot located on the North Shore of Maui, Hawaii. It’s famous for producing some of the largest and most challenging waves in the world, often reaching heights of 30 to 80 feet. This surf spot is not for everyone; it’s reserved for the most experienced and skilled surfers due to its immense power, size, and the dangers associated with its massive waves.
Who Can Surf at Jaws?
Jaws is strictly for highly experienced big wave surfers. The combination of the wave’s size, power, and the technical skill required to navigate it, along with the inherent risks, make it unsuitable for casual or intermediate surfers. It’s a place where the elite of the surfing world come to test their limits against some of the most powerful waves on the planet.
Evolution of Surfing at Jaws
Early Discovery (1970s): Jaws was named by surfers John Lemus, John Potterick, and John Roberson in 1975 after the blockbuster movie “Jaws.” They were among the first to surf its waves, initially riding smaller swells.
Windsurfing Era (1980s): Surfers like Dave Kalama, Mark Pedersen, and Brett Lickle ventured into the waters of Jaws with their windsurfing kits, exploring its potential for windsurfing.
Tow-In Surfing Revolution (1990s): The spot gained worldwide fame when Laird Hamilton, Darrick Doerner, Buzzy Kerbox, and others in the “Strapped Crew” pioneered tow-in surfing here. This method, involving jet skis to tow surfers into waves, made it possible to catch the monstrously large waves at Jaws, which were impossible to paddle into due to their size and speed.
Paddle-In Surfing Resurgence (21st Century): In recent years, there has been a shift back to paddle-in surfing at Jaws. This transition was marked by feats like South African Chris Bertish paddling into a Jaws wave using arm power only.
Notable Surfers and Their Experiences
Laird Hamilton: A pioneer at Jaws, Hamilton was instrumental in developing tow-in surfing here. His fearless approach set a new standard for big wave surfing.
Keala Kennelly, Paige Alms, Andrea Moller: These women are among the most experienced surfers tackling Peahi. Their participation underscores that Jaws is not just a domain for male surfers but a challenge for any top-level big wave surfer.
Gary Linden & Landon McNamara: Older and younger surfers alike have braved these waves, showing the wide appeal and challenge it offers to different generations.
The Wave Itself
Right-Hand Barreling Wave: Jaws predominantly offers a right-hand break, ideal during northern swells and southeasterly winds. On rare occasions, it provides left-hand rides.
Unpredictability: The wave at Jaws is notorious for its unpredictability. What appears to be a perfect formation can quickly transform into a dangerous closeout.
Hazards: Strong offshore winds, choppy conditions, and the risk of being caught inside make Jaws a perilous spot. The underwater geography, with its deep-water reef, adds to the danger.
Cultural and Historical Context
Local Hawaiian Culture: The name “Pe’ahi” honors the local culture, and Leslie Kuloloio noted the traditional Hawaiian name for the break as Ke Kai ‘o Waitakulu (“The Teary Eye”).
Film and Media: Jaws has been featured in various films and documentaries, further cementing its legendary status in the surfing world.
Remarkable Surfers at Jaws
Kai Lenny: Known for his versatility, Lenny has tackled Jaws using various forms of surfing, including traditional paddle-in surfing, tow-in surfing, windsurfing, and even kitesurfing. His innovative approach and ability to handle massive waves have placed him among the legends of Jaws.
Laird Hamilton: A pioneer in the big wave surfing community, Hamilton was one of the first to explore the potential of Jaws. He was instrumental in popularizing tow-in surfing at Jaws, enabling surfers to ride the gigantic waves that were previously thought to be unsurfable.
Albee Layer: Known for his progressive approach and aerial maneuvers, Layer has pushed the limits of what’s possible in big wave surfing at Jaws. He’s also one of the few surfers to successfully complete a 540-degree spin on a big wave.
Shane Dorian: A big wave legend, Dorian has been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries at Jaws. His performances, especially in paddle-in surfing, have been pivotal in the evolution of the sport.
Billy Kemper: A four-time winner of the Pe’ahi Challenge, Kemper’s intimate knowledge of Jaws and his fearless approach have earned him a reputation as one of the best big wave surfers in the world.
Paige Alms: As one of the leading female big wave surfers, Alms has made a name for herself with her performances at Jaws. She’s a multiple-time winner of the Women’s Pe’ahi Challenge, showcasing her skill and bravery in tackling the massive waves.
Greg Long: An accomplished big wave surfer, Long is known for his calculated and technical approach to surfing Jaws. He’s respected for his deep understanding of ocean dynamics and wave forecasting.
Ian Walsh: Walsh has been a standout performer at Jaws, known for his fearless approach and deep barrel riding skills. He’s also a local to Maui, giving him a unique understanding of the wave.
Grant Baker: The South African surfer, also known as “Twiggy,” is known for his big wave prowess worldwide, including at Jaws. His experience and skill in heavy water conditions make him a formidable presence in the lineup.
Keala Kennelly: A trailblazer in women’s big wave surfing, Kennelly has taken on Jaws with the same intensity as her male counterparts, proving her skill and tenacity in some of the heaviest conditions.
A surf destination is a great choice for a fun and successful holiday with friends or family. All surfing levels, from beginners to advanced, with various options available worldwide, from surf camps by the ocean to spa & surf retreats in the jungle, offering a range of activities for both adults and children in beautiful natural settings. Depending on your preferences, you can choose to socialize in communal settings or opt for private accommodations like a bungalow on a remote beach.
Personally, I’ve tried it all. When I was young and single, I explored various surf destinations. I continued the journey with my wife, whom I met on a surf trip, and later when my son was just a little child. Now, my son has grown up and travels with his friends to surf.
There are numerous surf destinations around the world, like surf camps in Morocco, surf villages in Portugal, natural retreats in Costa Rica, boating adventures in the Maldives, or luxurious stays on private island resorts. These places offer wonderful surfing opportunities all year round, allowing people to enjoy warm waters even when it’s cold and snowy in other parts of the world.
Come join us!
Top Surfing destinations around the word
North America
Oahu, Hawaii: Pipeline, Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay. Best time: November to February.
California, USA: Malibu, Trestles, Mavericks. Best time: Year-round (biggest waves in winter).
South America
Peru: Chicama, Mancora, Punta Hermosa. Best time: April to October.
Brazil: Florianópolis, São Sebastião, Rio de Janeiro. Best time: Year-round.
Australia
Gold Coast, Queensland: Snapper Rocks, Kirra, Burleigh Heads. Best time: February to July.
Byron Bay, New South Wales: The Pass, Wategos, Tallow Beach. Best time: March to May.
Africa
Jeffreys Bay, South Africa: Supertubes, Boneyards, Magna Tubes. Best time: May to September.
Taghazout, Morocco: Anchor Point, Killer Point, Boilers. Best time: September to April.
Europe
Portugal: Peniche, Ericeira, Nazaré. Best time: September to April.
France: Hossegor, Biarritz, Lacanau. Best time: September to November.
Asia
Indonesia: Bali, Mentawai Islands, Nias. Best time: April to October.
Maldives: North and South Atolls. Best time: March to October.
Oceania
Fiji: Cloudbreak, Restaurants, Frigates Passage. Best time: April to October.
Tahiti, French Polynesia: Teahupo’o, Papara. Best time: March to November.
Central America
Costa Rica: Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, Pavones. Best time: April to October.
Nicaragua: Popoyo, Playa Maderas, Colorado. Best time: March to November.
Caribbean surf destinations
The Caribbean, with its turquoise warm waters and consistent waves, is a beautiful region for surfing.
1. Barbados
Soup Bowl, Bathsheba: Renowned worldwide, the Soup Bowl offers powerful, consistent waves. Bathsheba is a favorite among professional surfers but also has spots suitable for intermediates.
2. Dominican Republic
Cabarete: Known for its excellent wind conditions, making it not only great for surfing but also popular for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
3. Jamaica
Boston Bay, Portland: One of Jamaica’s most famous surf spots, Boston Bay offers great waves and a beautiful beach. It’s also known as a friendly spot for beginners and intermediate surfers.
4. Martinique
Basse-Pointe: Famous for its long right-hand point breaks, suitable for more experienced surfers.
5. Guadeloupe
Port Louis: A fantastic spot known for its powerful left reef breaks, mainly suited for more experienced surfers.
Le Moule: Offering a mix of waves suitable for various levels and known for its consistent surf conditions.
6. Trinidad and Tobago
Mount Irvine Bay, Tobago: Offers a mix of reef and beach breaks suitable for a range of surf levels.
7. British Virgin Islands
Josiah’s Bay, Tortola: A lovely beach with consistent waves, offering a great spot for beginners and intermediates.
Central America surf destinations
Central America, with its extensive coastline along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea, offers numerous renowned surf destinations.
Costa Rica
Tamarindo: Popular among beginners and intermediate surfers; offers a variety of surf schools.
Santa Teresa and Mal Pais: Known for consistent waves and a long stretch of beach suitable for surfing.
Jaco: Easily accessible and offers a range of waves suitable for different skill levels.
Nicaragua
Popoyo: A famous spot known for its powerful and consistent waves.
San Juan del Sur: Offers a mix of beaches with waves suitable for all levels.
El Salvador
El Tunco: Famous for the Sunzal and Bocana breaks; suitable for various surfing levels.
Punta Roca: A world-class right point break; more suitable for experienced surfers.
Panama
Santa Catalina: Known for big waves and strong currents; suitable for more advanced surfers.
Bocas del Toro: Offers a variety of surf spots with waves suitable for all levels.
Guatemala
El Paredon: Offers consistent beach breaks and is less crowded compared to other destinations.
Honduras
Roatán: The island offers beautiful beaches and surf primarily on the eastern part of the island.
Maldives surf destination
The Maldives, with its stunning atolls and warm, turquoise waters, is a remarkable destination for surfers.
1. North Male Atoll
Chickens: A left-hand wave known for its long rides, suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Cokes: A powerful right-hand wave, popular among advanced surfers.
Sultans: A consistent right-hand wave that can get quite crowded.
Jails: Another right-hand wave, known to be slightly less crowded.
2. South Male Atoll
Gurus: Suitable for all levels of surfers and often less crowded.
Quarters: A consistent and powerful right-hander.
3. Central Atolls
Mauroof (Mafushi): Offers a longer ride, suitable for various skill levels.
Kottey: A left-hand wave located off an uninhabited island, making it less crowded.
4. Southern Atolls
Beacons: An exposed reef break that offers consistent waves but is recommended for advanced surfers due to its power and unpredictability.
Tiger Stripes (Gaukendi): Known for its consistency and powerful hollow waves.
5. Outer Atolls
Finnimas: Lesser-known but offers long, powerful waves.
Love Charms: A collection of two left-hand reef breaks, providing options for various skill levels.
Indonesia & Bali
Bali is an island within Indonesia, and it’s one of the most popular surfing destinations in the world. Indonesia is an archipelagic country consisting of over 17,000 islands, including Bali, Sumatra, Java, and many more. Each island in Indonesia has its unique surfing spots and attractions.
Bali
Location: An island province of Indonesia.
Surfing Spots: Renowned surf spots such as Uluwatu, Canggu, and Keramas.
Accessibility: Easily accessible with a well-developed tourism infrastructure.
Crowds: Generally crowded due to its popularity as a tourist and surf destination.
G-Land (Grajagan)
Location: Situated in the southeastern tip of Java, another major island in Indonesia.
Specialty: Known for its long, world-class left-hand point breaks. It’s considered one of the best waves in the world.
Accessibility: More remote compared to Bali; usually accessed by boat or overland through a national park.
Environment: Located within the protected Alas Purwo National Park, offering a more natural and rugged environment.
Differences Summarized
Location: Bali is an individual island, while G-Land is a specific surf spot on Java Island.
Accessibility and Infrastructure: Bali is more developed and easier to access, while G-Land offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Type of Waves and Surf Experience: Bali offers a variety of waves suitable for all levels. In contrast, G-Land is famous for its challenging, world-class waves, primarily attracting advanced surfers.
Environment and Surroundings: Bali has a vibrant tourist scene with various amenities, while G-Land provides a more secluded, nature-oriented experience.
Indonesia surf destinations
Indonesia, with its extensive array of islands, is blessed with some of the best surf spots in the world. Its diverse range of waves cater to surfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals.
1. Bali
Famous Spots: Uluwatu, Canggu, Keramas
Best for: All levels
Description: Bali’s variety of waves and well-established surf culture makes it a top choice.
2. Java
Famous Spots: G-Land (Grajagan), Pacitan, Panaitan Island
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Java is home to G-Land, one of the world’s best left-hand breaks.
3. Sumatra
Famous Spots: Mentawai Islands, Nias, Lagundri Bay
Best for: All levels
Description: Sumatra has some of the most consistent waves with various surf charters operating in the area.
4. Lombok
Famous Spots: Desert Point, Ekas Bay, Gerupuk
Best for: All levels
Description: Lesser crowds and a variety of waves characterize Lombok’s surf scene.
5. Sumbawa
Famous Spots: Lakey Peak, Scar Reef, Super Suck
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Sumbawa offers powerful and challenging waves for more experienced surfers.
6. Rote
Famous Spots: T-Land, Sucky Mamas, Bo’a
Best for: All levels
Description: Rote is known for its long, consistent waves and less crowded spots.
7. Sulawesi
Famous Spots: Banyak Islands, Tanjung Bira
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Sulawesi is a lesser-visited surf destination with a range of hidden gems.
8. West Timor
Famous Spots: T-Land, Nemberala
Best for: All levels
Description: West Timor offers uncrowded spots with a variety of waves.
Bali (Indonesia) surf destinations
Bali is a prime surfing destination, renowned for its exceptional surf breaks, warm waters, and vibrant surf culture.
1. Uluwatu
Famous for its powerful waves and impressive cliffs, offering various sections like Temples, Racetracks, and Peak.
Suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
2. Padang Padang
Also known as the “Bali Pipeline,” it’s famous for its hollow, powerful tubes.
Suitable for advanced surfers.
3. Canggu
Offers a mix of breaks like Echo Beach, Batu Bolong, and Berawa.
Suitable for all levels, popular among longboarders and shortboarders.
4. Keramas
Known for its right-hand reef break and excellent barrels.
Suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers, popular for night surfing.
5. Bingin
A fast left-hand reef break with consistent barrels.
Suitable for advanced surfers.
6. Nusa Dua
Offers consistent waves over a deep reef.
Suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
7. Seminyak
More suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers, with more mellow and manageable waves.
8. Green Bowl
A less crowded spot with powerful waves over a shallow reef.
Suitable for advanced surfers.
9. Impossibles
A challenging spot with long, fast waves.
Suitable for advanced surfers.
10. Balangan
A left-hand reef break, less crowded, offering long rides.
Suitable for various skill levels.
Africa surf destinations
Africa is rich with a diverse range of surf destinations that cater to surfers of all levels. The continent’s vast coastline offers everything from powerful point breaks to gentle beach breaks.
1. South Africa
Famous Spots: Jeffreys Bay, Muizenberg, Dungeons (Big Wave Spot)
Best for: All levels
Description: South Africa is renowned for its world-class waves, particularly Jeffreys Bay, famous for its right-hand point breaks.
2. Morocco
Famous Spots: Taghazout, Anchor Point, Boilers
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Morocco is famous for its long right-hand point breaks and consistent swell.
3. Namibia
Famous Spots: Skeleton Bay, Donkey Bay
Best for: Advanced
Description: Namibia is home to some of the world’s longest and fastest left-hand barrels.
4. Senegal
Famous Spots: N’Gor Island, Ouakam
Best for: All levels
Description: Senegal offers a variety of waves and is known for its vibrant surf culture and welcoming locals.
5. Ghana
Famous Spots: Busua Beach, Kokrobite
Best for: Beginners to Intermediate
Description: Ghana has friendly, mellow waves suitable for beginner and intermediate surfers.
6. Madagascar
Famous Spots: Flameballs at Lavanono, Fort Dauphin
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Madagascar offers powerful reef breaks and incredible biodiversity.
7. Mozambique
Famous Spots: Ponta do Ouro, Tofinho
Best for: All levels
Description: Mozambique boasts warm waters and a variety of waves from point breaks to beach breaks.
8. Ivory Coast
Famous Spots: Assinie, Grand-Bereby
Best for: Beginners to Intermediate
Description: Ivory Coast offers a mix of beach breaks and point breaks with a mellow vibe.
United States of America Surf Destinations
The United States boasts a diverse array of surf destinations scattered along its East and West Coasts, as well as Hawaii.
1. California
Famous Spots: Malibu, Trestles, Mavericks (Big Wave Spot)
Best for: All levels
Description: With its extensive coastline, California offers a variety of waves, from the long right-handers of Malibu to the monstrous waves at Mavericks.
2. Hawaii
Famous Spots: North Shore of Oahu (Pipeline, Waimea Bay), Maui (Jaws)
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing and home to some of the world’s most famous and powerful waves.
3. Florida
Famous Spots: Cocoa Beach, Sebastian Inlet
Best for: Beginners to Intermediate
Description: Florida’s East Coast offers warm water and consistent waves, making it suitable for all levels.
4. North Carolina
Famous Spots: Cape Hatteras, Wrightsville Beach
Best for: All levels
Description: North Carolina’s Outer Banks offer powerful waves and consistent swell.
5. Texas
Famous Spots: Corpus Christi, South Padre Island
Best for: Beginners to Intermediate
Description: Texas offers a unique Gulf Coast surfing experience with mellow waves and warm waters.
6. New York
Famous Spots: Montauk, Rockaway Beach
Best for: All levels
Description: New York offers a mix of beach and point breaks, particularly appealing during the hurricane swell season.
7. Oregon
Famous Spots: Cannon Beach, Short Sands
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Oregon offers cold-water surfing with rugged, scenic coastlines and powerful waves.
8. New Jersey
Famous Spots: Manasquan, Cape May
Best for: All levels
Description: New Jersey’s surf scene comes alive during the hurricane season, offering powerful swell and a variety of breaks.
Europe Surf Destinations
Europe offers a variety of surf destinations, each with unique characteristics and wave types.
1. Portugal
Famous Spots: Peniche, Ericeira, Nazaré
Best for: All levels
Description: Portugal is known for its powerful waves, including the massive swells at Nazaré. It offers various spots suitable for all levels of surfers.
2. Spain
Famous Spots: Mundaka, Zarautz, Sopelana
Best for: All levels
Description: The Basque Country and Cantabria regions are particularly popular, with Mundaka being renowned for its world-class left-hand rivermouth wave.
3. France
Famous Spots: Hossegor, Biarritz, Lacanau
Best for: All levels
Description: France boasts consistent swell and sandy bottoms, with Hossegor known as the “European Pipeline.”
4. Ireland
Famous Spots: Bundoran, Lahinch, Mullaghmore Head
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Ireland offers powerful Atlantic swells and is popular among big wave surfers.
5. United Kingdom
Famous Spots: Newquay, Bournemouth, Porthcawl
Best for: All levels
Description: Cornwall and Wales are particularly popular, with a range of waves suitable for beginners to advanced surfers.
6. Italy
Famous Spots: Sardinia, Tuscany, Liguria
Best for: Beginners to Intermediate
Description: Italy has a variety of surf spots mainly located in Sardinia and along the west coast.
7. Norway
Famous Spots: Lofoten Islands, Borestranden
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Norway offers cold-water surfing with breathtaking natural scenery, especially in the Lofoten Islands.
8. Canary Islands (Spain)
Famous Spots: Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, Gran Canaria
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: The Canary Islands are known for their warm climate, volcanic reefs, and consistent waves.
Brazil surf destinations
Brazil, with its extensive coastline, tropical climate, and vibrant culture, is a fabulous destination for surfers. The country boasts numerous surf spots that cater to all levels of surfing proficiency.
1. Florianópolis (Santa Catarina)
Famous Spots: Barra da Lagoa, Santinho, Mole Beach
Best for: All levels
Description: With a mix of beach breaks and point breaks, Florianópolis is suitable for surfers of all levels.
2. Ubatuba (São Paulo)
Famous Spots: Itamambuca, Felix, Wally’s
Best for: All levels
Description: Known as the surf capital of São Paulo state, Ubatuba offers various breaks and consistent waves.
3. Saquarema (Rio de Janeiro)
Famous Spots: Itaúna, Vila
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Often referred to as the Brazilian capital of surfing, it hosts WSL competitions.
4. Rio de Janeiro (Rio de Janeiro)
Famous Spots: Arpoador, Ipanema, Barra da Tijuca
Best for: All levels
Description: Rio offers famous beach breaks, and Arpoador is a popular spot for longboarding.
5. Fernando de Noronha (Pernambuco)
Famous Spots: Cacimba do Padre, Boldró
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: An archipelago with crystal-clear water and powerful waves, perfect for tube rides.
6. Itacaré (Bahia)
Famous Spots: Tiririca, Resende
Best for: All levels
Description: Itacaré offers a mix of wave types amidst stunning natural scenery.
7. Maresias (São Paulo)
Famous Spots: Maresias Beach
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Known for its powerful barrels, Maresias is home to Brazilian World Champion Gabriel Medina.
8. João Pessoa (Paraíba)
Famous Spots: Intermares, Bessa
Best for: All levels
Description: Offers consistent waves, and Intermares is popular for its right-handers.
Oceania surf destination
1. Australia
Famous Spots: Gold Coast (Queensland), Bells Beach (Victoria), Byron Bay (New South Wales)
Best for: All levels
Description: Australia is a surfing powerhouse, with a vast coastline offering everything from beginner-friendly beaches to professional-level point breaks.
2. New Zealand
Famous Spots: Raglan, Piha Beach (North Island), Dunedin (South Island)
Best for: All levels
Description: New Zealand boasts powerful, uncrowded waves set against stunning natural landscapes.
3. Fiji
Famous Spots: Cloudbreak, Restaurants (Tavarua Island)
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Fiji, particularly Tavarua Island, is famous for its massive, consistent swells and hollow waves.
4. Samoa
Famous Spots: Salamumu, Aganoa Beach
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Samoa offers incredible reef breaks and consistent surf in a tropical setting.
5. Tahiti (French Polynesia)
Famous Spots: Teahupo’o, Papara
Best for: Advanced
Description: Tahiti is home to Teahupo’o, known for its heavy and hollow breaking waves.
6. Vanuatu
Famous Spots: Pango Point, Breakas Beach
Best for: Intermediate
Description: Vanuatu provides consistent surf with a variety of reef and beach breaks.
7. Solomon Islands
Famous Spots: Paeloge, Skull Island
Best for: Intermediate to Advanced
Description: Offering remote and uncrowded waves, the Solomon Islands promise a unique surfing experience.
8. Papua New Guinea
Famous Spots: Tupira, Vanimo
Best for: All levels
Description: Papua New Guinea has a surf management plan, ensuring sustainable surfing with limited crowd sizes.
