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.