Best 20 Destination for Surfing

1. Waikiki Beach

Where: Southern Shore of Oahu, Hawaii
Beaches: Waikiki Beach (main area) and other nearby beaches such as Queen’s Surf Beach, Kuhio Beach, and Duke Kahanamoku Beach.
Surfing Level: Beginner-Intermediate Surfers

Surfing Safety: Always check local surf reports and adhere to safety protocols. Waikiki Beach tends to be safe for beginners and intermediate surfers, but be mindful of potential hazards such as crowds, reefs, and currents.
When to Surf: Year-round, with consistent surfing conditions. Summer months (May to September) tend to have smaller waves, while winter months (November to February) can have larger swells.
Where to Stay: Waikiki offers a variety of accommodations, such as hotels, resorts and vacation rentals to suit any budget.

Other Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, beach volleyball, shopping, dining and exploring the vibrant nightlife that Waikiki has to offer.

Waikiki Beach is an iconic surf spot renowned for its gentle waves that appeal to surfers of all levels. It has a vibrant surf culture and history, often being considered the birthplace of modern surfing. The beach provides various sections with different surfing conditions, plus there are plenty of accommodations, shops, and restaurants nearby.

2. North Shore

Where: North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii

Beaches: Surf spots on the North Shore include Pipeline, Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay, and Banzai Pipeline.
Surfing Level: Intermediate-Advanced Surfers
Surfing Safety: Surfing on the North Shore can be challenging and dangerous due to the powerful waves and shallow reef breaks. It’s important to be experienced, follow safety guidelines, and respect local surf etiquette.

When to Surf: Winter months (November to February) for experienced surfers seeking big waves, and summer months (May to September) for smaller waves suitable for intermediate surfers.
Where to Stay: The North Shore offers a wide range of accommodations, such as vacation rentals, boutique hotels and surf lodges. Popular areas to stay include Haleiwa, Sunset Beach and Pipeline.
Other Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, hiking, exploring the natural beauty of the area, and enjoying the laid-back local vibe.

North Shore is a world-renowned surf destination known for its powerful waves and challenging surf breaks. It’s a haven for experienced surfers looking for big swells and an authentic surf culture experience. The area has a relaxed, laid-back vibe with limited accommodations, but offers stunning natural beauty and a range of outdoor activities beyond surfing, including snorkeling, swimming, hiking, and exploring the local culture.

3. Arugam Bay

Where: Arugam Bay, located on the southeast coast of Sri Lanka.
Beaches: Arugam Bay Beach and nearby beaches such as Whiskey Point, Elephant Rock, and Peanut Farm

Surfing Level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers
Surfing Safety: Surfing generally remains safe, but it’s essential to be aware of local conditions, currents and reef breaks and adhere to safety protocols
When to Surf: Best time to surf is during the surf season from April to October, with smaller waves and more beginner-friendly conditions in the off-season (November to March)

Where to Stay: Arugam Bay offers a variety of accommodations, including guesthouses, hotels, and surf camps, with options for different budgets.
Other Activities: Yoga, beachcombing, wildlife watching (including spotting elephants and crocodiles in nearby national parks), exploring the local culture, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife in Arugam Bay.

Arugam Bay is a popular surf destination in Sri Lanka known for its beautiful beaches, consistent surf, and friendly surf culture. The area offers surf breaks suitable for all levels of surfers, making it an ideal destination for both beginners and experienced surfers. With a mix of local and international surfers, Arugam Bay has a laid-back vibe and offers a range of accommodations, activities, and nightlife options for visitors. Beyond surfing, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in and around Arugam Bay, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers.

4. Mirissa

Where: Southern coast of Sri Lanka.
Beaches: Mirissa Beach and nearby beaches such as Weligama and Midigama.
Surfing Level: Beginners-Intermediate Surfers

Surfing Safety: Surfing can be relatively safe, but it’s essential to be aware of local conditions, currents and reef breaks and follow safety protocols.
When to Surf: Best time to surf is during the surf season from November to April, with smaller waves and more beginner-friendly conditions in the off-season (May to October)
Where to Stay: Mirissa offers a range of accommodations, including guesthouses, hotels, and beachfront resorts, with options for different budgets.

Other Activities: Whale watching, snorkeling, diving, beachcombing, enjoying the local cuisine, and taking in the beautiful sunsets that Mirissa is known for.

Mirissa is a coastal town in Sri Lanka known for its stunning beaches, beginner-friendly surf, and laid-back atmosphere. As the surf scene develops here, Mirissa becomes an increasingly attractive destination for both beginners and intermediate surfers. Visitors to Mirissa can choose from various accommodations, activities, and dining options; plus they’ll get to spot whales or take in breathtaking sunsets.

5. Santa Teresa

Where: Nicoya Peninsula, Pacific coast of Costa Rica

Beaches: Santa Teresa is known for its beautiful beaches, including Playa Santa Teresa and Playa Carmen.
Surfing Level: Beginners- Advanced Surfers
Surfing Safety: It’s important to be mindful of the strong currents and rips that can occur at some breaks, and to always surf within your skill level and follow local surf etiquette.

When to Surf: Santa Teresa offers good surfing conditions year-round, with the best waves typically during the dry season from December to April.
Where to Stay: Santa Teresa offers a range of accommodations, including surf camps, hostels, and hotels, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Other Activities: Yoga, horseback riding, hiking, zip-lining, exploring nearby national parks, enjoying local cuisine, and experiencing the unique culture of Santa Teresa.

Santa Teresa is a popular surf destination in Costa Rica known for its consistent waves, beautiful beaches, and vibrant surf culture. It offers challenging surfing for intermediate to advanced surfers, with a range of accommodations, activities, and dining options for visitors. The town has a laid-back and inclusive vibe, with a mix of local and international surfers enjoying the beach lifestyle and surrounding natural beauty.

6. Tamarindo

Where: Northwestern Pacific coast of Costa Rica, in the province of Guanacaste.
Beaches: Tamarindo is known for its main beach, Playa Tamarindo, which offers a variety of surf breaks suitable for different skill levels, as well as nearby beaches like Playa Langosta and Playa Grande which are popular for surfing.

Surfing Level: Beginners-Intermediate Surfers
Surfing Safety: It’s important to be mindful of the strong currents and rips that can occur at some breaks, and to always surf within your skill level and follow local surf etiquette.
When to Surf: Tamarindo offers good surfing conditions year-round, with the best waves typically during the dry season from December to April.

Where to Stay: Tamarindo offers a range of accommodations, including surf camps, hostels, and hotels, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Other Activities: Snorkeling, diving, fishing, horseback riding, exploring nearby national parks, enjoying local cuisine, and experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Tamarindo.

Tamarindo is a popular surf destination in Costa Rica known for its beautiful beach, consistent waves, and friendly surf culture. It’s suitable for beginner to intermediate surfers, with a range of accommodations, activities, and dining options for visitors. The town has a laid-back vibe during the day and offers a vibrant nightlife scene in the evenings. Tamarindo is also a gateway to exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of the surrounding area, making it a popular destination for surf and nature enthusiasts alike.

7. Mancora

Where: Northern coast of Peru, near the border with Ecuador.
Beaches: Mancora has several beaches that are popular for surfing, including Playa Mancora, Playa Las Pocitas, and Playa Vichayito.
Surfing Level: Beginner-Intermediate Surfers

Surfing Safety: It’s important to prioritize safety while surfing in Mancora, including wearing appropriate gear, being aware of currents and conditions, and following local rules and regulations.
When to Surf: The best time to surf in Mancora is during the southern hemisphere’s winter months from April to October, when the waves are most consistent, and conditions are favorable.
Where to Stay: Mancora offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and beachfront resorts, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Other Activities: Enjoying the beach, tasting local cuisine, exploring nearby natural attractions like hot springs, and taking in Mancora’s vibrant nightlife.

Mancora, Peru is renowned for its consistent waves, stunning beaches and laid-back surf culture. It offers accommodation and activities suitable for beginner to intermediate surfers. Mancora boasts an inviting vibe that makes it popular with surf and beach lovers seeking a tranquil tropical escape. Mancora also stands out with its vibrant nightlife scene and unique local cuisine which offer visitors a true taste of Peruvian culture and hospitality.

8. Punta Hermosa

Where: Lima Province, Peru, on the Pacific Ocean.

Beaches: Punta Hermosa is known for its beautiful sandy beaches with various surf breaks, including popular spots such as Punta Rocas, Señoritas, and Caballeros.
Surfing Level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers
Surfing Safety: When surfing in Punta Hermosa, it’s essential to prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear, being aware of currents and conditions, as well as abiding by local rules and regulations.

When to Surf: The best time to surf in Punta Hermosa is during the southern hemisphere’s winter months from April to October, when the waves are most consistent, and conditions are favorable.
Where to Stay: Punta Hermosa offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Other Activities: Water sports such as swimming, snorkeling and fishing can be enjoyed here. In the evening there’s a buzzing nightlife scene with restaurants, bars and cafes for socializing after an exciting day surfing.

Punta Hermosa is a popular surf destination in Peru known for its beautiful beaches, consistent surf breaks, and vibrant surf culture. Offering an exciting blend of surf breaks and welcoming atmosphere, Punta Hermosa provides visitors with an unforgettable surfing experience in an idyllic coastal setting.

9. Puerto Escondido

Where: Oaxaca, Pacific coast of Mexico
Beaches: Puerto Escondido is renowned for its iconic Zicatela Beach, which offers powerful, barreling waves that are popular among experienced surfers. Other nearby beaches like Playa Carrizalillo and Puerto Angelito cater to different surfing levels as well.

Surfing Level: Advanced Surfer
Surfing Safety: Prioritize safety when surfing because the waves can be powerful and unpredictable. Being aware of currents, tides, local conditions as well as adhering to local rules and regulations is paramount for a secure surfing experience..
When to Surf: The best time to surf in Puerto Escondido is from May to October during the rainy season, when the swells are typically the biggest.

Where to Stay: Puerto Escondido offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Other Activities: Enjoying the local markets, tasting delicious cuisine, visiting nearby natural attractions, participating in yoga and wellness activities, as well as experiencing Puerto Escondido’s vibrant nightlife.

Puerto Escondido is a world-renowned surf destination in Mexico, known for its challenging waves, vibrant surf culture, and beautiful beaches. It’s suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers looking for a thrilling surf experience and offers a range of accommodations and activities for visitors. Puerto Escondido is a popular destination for surf and beach enthusiasts seeking an adventurous surf experience in Mexico.

10. Sayulita

Where: Nayarit, Pacific coast of Mexico.
Beaches: Sayulita is known for its beautiful sandy beaches, including Sayulita Beach and Los Muertos Beach, which offer fun and playful waves suitable for different levels of surfers.
Surfing Level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers

Surfing Safety: While Sayulita is known for its beginner-friendly waves, it is still essential to prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear, being aware of currents and conditions, as well as abiding by local rules and regulations.
When to Surf: The best time to surf in Sayulita is during the dry season from November to April, when the waves are most consistent, and conditions are favorable.
Where to Stay: Sayulita offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Other Activities:Explore the local art and craft scene, sample delicious cuisine, partake in yoga and wellness activities, go horseback riding or snorkeling, and experience Sayulita’s vibrant nightlife.

Sayulita is a popular surf and beach destination in Mexico, known for its relaxed surf vibe, beautiful beaches, and bohemian atmosphere. It’s suitable for beginner to intermediate surfers looking for a laid-back surf experience and offers a range of accommodations and activities for visitors. Sayulita is a charming and picturesque coastal village that attracts surf and beach enthusiasts seeking a laid-back and bohemian surf experience in Mexico.

11. Siargao Island

Where: Siargao Island, Philippines

Beaches: Siargao Island is home to several beautiful beaches with renowned surf breaks, including Cloud 9, which is considered one of the best surf spots in the Philippines.
Surfing Level: Intermediate-Advanced Surfers
Surfing Safety: Surfing in Siargao necessitates caution and experience due to the powerful waves and reef breaks. It is essential that you adhere to local safety protocols, be aware of potential hazards like reef breaks, and watch out for other surfers.

When to Surf: Best time to surf is during the peak season from November to March when the waves are most consistent and powerful. Waves can reach up to 12 feet during the peak season.
Where to Stay: Siargao Island offers a wide range of accommodations, such as resorts, guesthouses and hostels to suit different budgets and preferences.
Other Activities: Explore the nearby islands by snorkeling or diving, island hopping and immersing yourself in local culture and cuisine of Siargao..

Siargao Island, known as “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” boasts world-class waves that draw surfers from around the world. With pristine beaches, lush palm forests and an inviting vibe that appeals to both surfers and non-surfers alike, Siargao Island provides an unforgettable surfing experience in a tropical paradise setting. With its vibrant surf culture, stunning natural beauty and range of accommodations and activities available for visitors alike, Siargao Island provides an unforgettable tropical paradise setting.

12. Baler

Where: Baler, Philippines
Beaches: Baler has several beaches that cater to different surfing levels, including Sabang Beach, Charlie’s Point, and Cemento Beach, with waves suitable for beginners to advanced surfers.

Surfing Level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers
Surfing Safety: Surfing in Baler is generally safe, but it’s important to follow local safety guidelines, be aware of the changing conditions, and watch out for other surfers.
When to Surf: Best time to surf is during the northeast monsoon season from October to February when the waves are most consistent and favorable.

Where to Stay: Baler offers a range of accommodations, including resorts, guesthouses, and homestays, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Other Activities: Exploring the nearby waterfalls, hiking, mountain biking, and experiencing the local culture and cuisine of Baler.

Baler is a charming coastal town in the Philippines known for its surf scene and beautiful beaches. It offers a mix of surf breaks suitable for different skill levels, making it a great destination for both beginner and experienced surfers. Baler has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, with a growing surf culture and a range of accommodations and activities to offer a memorable surfing experience in a picturesque setting.

13. Gold Coast

Where: Queensland, Australia
Beaches: The Gold Coast boasts numerous beautiful beaches with iconic surf breaks such as Snapper Rocks, Duranbah and Burleigh Heads.
Surfing Level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers

Surfing Safety: Gold Coast typically provides safe surfing conditions; however, it’s essential to be aware of changing conditions, adhere to local safety protocols and watch out for underwater hazards.
When to Surf: Best time to surf is during the winter months from May to August when the waves are most consistent and suitable for surfing.
Where to Stay: Gold Coast offers a wide range of accommodations, including resorts, hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals, catering to different budgets and preferences.

Other Activities: Enjoying the vibrant nightlife, visiting theme parks, hiking in the nearby hinterland and taking advantage of the beach lifestyle on the Gold Coast.

Gold Coast, Australia’s eastern shoreline, is renowned for its long stretches of golden sand beaches, warm waters, and relaxed beach lifestyle. The city also has an active surf culture with an active community of local surfers as well as numerous competitions held throughout the year. Gold Coast provides various surf breaks, beach breaks and point breaks alike suitable for surfers of all abilities. Plus its subtropical climate ensures surfable waves year-round; with peak conditions typically occurring from May to August.

14. Margaret River

Where: Margaret River, Western Australia

Beaches: Margaret River boasts picturesque beaches with renowned surf breaks, such as Surfers Point, Main Break, and Cowaramup Bay, among others.
Surfing Level: Intermediate-Advanced Surfers
Surfing Safety: Margaret River has challenging surfing conditions, and it’s important to be experienced, follow local safety guidelines, and watch out for reef and underwater hazards.

When to Surf: Best time to surf is during the winter months from May to August when the waves are most consistent and suitable for experienced surfers.
Where to Stay: Margaret River offers a range of accommodations, including resorts, lodges, guesthouses, and camping grounds, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Other Activities: Wine tasting in the renowned Margaret River wine region, exploring the natural beauty of the surrounding national parks, and enjoying the local cuisine and arts scene.

Margaret River is a renowned surfing destination located in the southwestern region of Western Australia, known for its world-class waves and stunning natural beauty. The region is home to pristine beaches, powerful reef breaks, and consistent surf, making it a popular destination for intermediate to advanced surfers. Margaret River has a laid-back surf culture, with a strong community of local surfers, surf schools, and surf shops that cater to the needs of surfers. The Mediterranean climate of Margaret River means that surfable waves are available throughout the year, with the best conditions usually during the winter months from April to October.

15. Jeffreys Bay

Where: Eastern Cape Province, Eastern coast of South Africa
Beaches: Jeffreys Bay has several beaches, including Supertubes Beach, Boneyards, and Point Beach, which are known for their world-class surf breaks.

Surfing level: Intermediate-Advanced Surfers
Surfing safety: Surfing at Jeffreys Bay can be challenging and requires experience and skill. It is essential to be aware of the powerful waves, rocky reefs, and potential hazards. Always adhere to local surf guidelines, be informed about conditions, and surf within your skill level.
When to surf: The best time to surf at Jeffreys Bay is during the winter months (May to September), when the swells are consistent, and the waves are at their best.

Where to stay: Jeffreys Bay offers a variety of accommodation options, such as surf lodges, guesthouses and hotels. For budget travelers there are also camping and backpacker options.
Other activities: Jeffreys Bay include beach walks, hiking, wildlife viewing and shopping for local arts and crafts.

Jeffreys Bay is a world-renowned surfing destination renowned for its long, right-hand point break, “Supertubes,” which draws surfers from around the globe. With challenging waves and an exciting surf culture, Jeffreys Bay makes for a popular choice among experienced surfers seeking an adrenaline-pumping surf experience.

16. Santa Cruz

Where: Central Coast of California, USA
Beaches: Santa Cruz has several popular surfing beaches such as Steamer Lane, Pleasure Point and Cowell’s Beach.
Surfing level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers

Surfing safety: Surfing in Santa Cruz necessitates familiarity with local breaks, tide patterns, and potential hazards such as rocks or currents. Always adhere to local surf guidelines, be aware of conditions, prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear and being considerate of other surfers in the water.
When to surf: The best time to surf in Santa Cruz is typically during the fall and winter months (September to March) when the swells are more consistent, and the waves are generally larger.
Where to stay: Santa Cruz offers a wide variety of accommodation options, such as hotels, motels, vacation rentals and campgrounds. If you’re looking for an exclusive surfing experience, there are also surf camps and accommodations tailored towards that need.

Other activities: Hiking, biking, exploring the local redwood forests, visiting Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and appreciating the vibrant food and art scene in town.

Santa Cruz is a popular surfing destination on the California coast, known for its diverse range of surf breaks, rich surf culture, and beautiful coastline. With waves suitable for different skill levels, it’s a destination that attracts surfers of all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced.

17. Hossegor

Where: Southwestern coast of France, in the region of Landes.

Beaches: Hossegor is famous for its pristine beaches, including La Gravière, Les Culs Nus, and La Nord, which are known for their world-class waves and consistent surfing conditions.
Surfing level: Intermediate-Advanced Surfers
Surfing safety: Hossegor requires knowledge of the local breaks, tides and currents as well as respect for other surfers and local regulations. Always prioritize safety when surfing here by wearing appropriate gear and being aware of potential hazards in the water.

When to surf: The best time to surf in Hossegor is typically during the fall and winter months (September to March), when the swells are more consistent, and the waves are generally larger.
Where to stay: Hossegor offers a wide range of accommodation options, such as hotels, guesthouses, vacation rentals and surf camps. For those seeking more outdoor adventure there are also plenty of camping grounds available.
Other activities: Cycling, golfing, exploring the nearby forests and lakes, as well as taking pleasure in the vibrant nightlife and culinary scene in town.

Hossegor, France is a premier surfing destination renowned for its world-class waves, consistent conditions and vibrant surf culture. It attracts experienced surfers seeking challenging waves as well as an active surf community.

18. Bali

Where: Bali Island, Indonesia
Beaches: Bali is known for its beautiful beaches, with popular surf spots including Kuta Beach, Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Canggu, among others.

Surfing level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers
Surfing safety: It is essential to prioritize safety when surfing in Bali. Be mindful of local currents, rocks and reef formations while adhering to local surf guidelines and safety precautions. Bali’s surf spots can get crowded so respect other surfers by adhering to proper etiquette.
When to surf: The best time to surf in Bali is typically during the dry season from April to October, when the swells are more consistent, and the winds are favorable for surfing.

Where to stay: Bali offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, depending on your preference and budget. Popular surfing areas include Kuta, Seminyak, Uluwatu and Canggu which provide easy access to surf breaks as well as other amenities.
Other activities: Yoga, snorkeling and diving, cultural tours to admire the stunning natural landscapes, temples and rice terraces that this island has to offer.

Bali is a world-famous surfing destination known for its beautiful beaches, consistent surf conditions, and vibrant surf culture. With a mix of surf breaks suitable for all skill levels, Bali offers something for every surfer, making it a popular destination for surfers from around the world.

19. Tofino

Where: West coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Beaches: Tofino is known for its scenic beaches, including Cox Bay, Chesterman Beach, and Long Beach, which offer popular surf spots.
Surfing level: Beginner-Advanced Surfers

Surfing safety: As with any surfing destination, it’s important to prioritize safety in Tofino. Be aware of local currents, rocks, and cold-water temperatures, and always adhere to local surf guidelines and safety precautions. Tofino’s remote location and challenging surf conditions require caution and experience, especially for less experienced surfers.
When to surf: The best time to surf in Tofino is typically during the fall and winter months (October to March), when larger swells and better surfing conditions are more common.
Where to stay: Tofino offers a range of accommodation options, including hotels, cabins, and campsites, depending on your preference and budget. There are also surf camps and surf schools available for those looking to learn or improve their surfing skills.

Other activities: Hiking in the nearby rainforests, wildlife watching (including whales and bears), kayaking, hot springs tours, and exploring the local arts and culture scene.

Tofino is a remote and picturesque surfing destination on the west coast of Vancouver Island, known for its stunning beaches, challenging surfing, and vibrant surf culture. With a focus on sustainability and a laid-back vibe, Tofino offers a unique surfing experience in the rugged wilderness of Canada’s Pacific Northwest.

20. Maldives

Where: Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka

Beaches: Maldives is known for its pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and picturesque tropical islands that offer various surf breaks.
Surfing level: Intermediate-Advanced Surfers
Surfing safety: As with any surf destination, it’s important to prioritize safety in Maldives. Be aware of shallow reef breaks, strong currents, and potential hazards in the water, and always adhere to local surf guidelines and safety precautions. It’s recommended to have experience in handling reef breaks and larger swells before attempting to surf in Maldives.

When to surf: The best time to surf in Maldives is typically during the surf season from April to October when the swells are more consistent. However, surf can be found throughout the year, with smaller waves during the offseason.
Where to stay: Maldives offers a variety of luxury resorts and guesthouses on different islands, many of which have access to surf breaks or offer surf packages. There are also liveaboard surf charters available for those looking to explore multiple surf breaks in the Maldives.
Other activities: Snorkeling, diving, fishing, and cruising. The islands also offer opportunities to experience the local Maldivian culture, cuisine, and marine life.

Maldives is a tropical paradise known for its beautiful beaches, turquoise waters, and luxury resorts. With its consistent surf breaks, warm waters, and stunning surroundings, Maldives offers a unique surfing experience in a pristine and picturesque setting.