In more ways than one, surfing has changed the lives of many around the world. The surf culture from all over the planet is very diverse, unique, and memorable everywhere you go. In this article, discover 20 of the most interesting surf spots known to man.
To make things extremely simple, this article will briefly talk about the countries, as well as the best places and the ideal seasons. These places will truly give you a unique perspective as to how surfing has acclimated itself to the local culture worldwide.
Gone are the days when you have to wait for peak seasons in your country. Traveling to different surf spots has never been easier. There’s always a storm happening around the world every day.
You know what they say: if there are storms brewing, expect that there are waves to play with. Are you ready to conquer different waves around the world? Explore your options now.
One of the reasons that surfing is an all-year watersport is the locations that you can visit around the world. To save you time and hassle, this list has all the famous countries, famous beaches or surf spots, as well as the best time to travel.
There’s no absolute ranking for the countries listed, as they all have something unique, something fascinating, and something worth visiting. Putting a number can sometimes set expectations and ruin the experience. Rank them personally if you wish.
Best Beaches: Bells Beach, Bondi Beach, Snapper Rocks
Best Time to Visit: Either March to May or September to November
Imagine having a city in Australia called Surfer’s Paradise. Thanks to the vast coastlines along the Gold Coast, this country has the finest waves you could ask for. If you’re serious about surfing, then you shouldn’t miss the experience that Australia has to offer.
Best Beaches: Padang Padang, Mentawai Islands, Uluwatu
Best Time to Visit: April to October
The unique archipelago found in Indonesia has been a popular surf spot because of the beautiful and challenging waves found in the country. If you’re looking for the best wave barrels that aren’t too challenging, this is the place for you.
Best Beaches: Pipeline, Sunset Beach, Waikiki Beach
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Hawaii is known as the birthplace of surfing. It is the best surf spot for people in The United States, especially when the winter season is about to ramp up. The locations and waves are breathtaking, and the surf culture is very alive.
Best Beaches: Itacaré, Fernando De Noronha, Praia do Rosa
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Brazil’s prestigious coastlines are a surfer’s dream. There are suitable surf spots for your appropriate level, and the climate and weather are always very pleasant during the swell season. It’s also one of the best surf locations in South America.
Best Beaches: Dungeons, Jeffrey’s Bay, Muizenberg
Best Time to Visit: April to September
South Africa has plenty of rugged coastlines that make surfing more challenging and fun than other surf spots. They have really great surf conditions from April to September, so you have plenty of time to catch waves and experience the culture firsthand.
Best Beaches: Pavones, Playa Hermosa, Witch’s Rock
Best Time to Visit: May to November
The Caribbean and Pacific Coasts in Costa Rica are among the best surf spots for thrill-seekers. If you are looking for challenging waves, be sure to visit during the so-called Green Season, as they provide the best surfing conditions with the right amount of challenge.
Best Beaches: Ericeira, Nazaré, Peniche
Best Time to Visit: September to April
Dubbed the European surf capital, Portugal is known for giant waves, beautiful coastlines, and versatile surf spots suitable for different skill levels. If you’re looking to hone your skills, be sure to visit during Autumn when the crowds are thin, but the waves are thick.
Best Beaches: Puerto Escondido, Sayulita, Zicatela
Best Time to Visit: May to October
The coastline in Mexico is famous for its variety of waves, thanks to powerful breaks, from sand to coral. The country is known to be very friendly with the surf culture, so if you are looking to get away from the country and travel somewhere close, add this country to the list.
Best Beaches: Biarritz, Hossegor, La Gravière
Best Time to Visit: September to November
The Atlantic coast found in France is home to some of the world’s strongest wave breaks and phenomenal waves. While the French are usually not known for their hospitality, the surf culture and atmosphere are a very endearing experience.
Best Beaches: Cloudbreak, Namotu Left, Tavarua
Best Time to Visit: April to October
The Fiji Islands offer some of the best spots to learn surfing from beginner to advanced levels. The idea of surfing different kinds of waves under crystal-clear waters feels like a dream. From powerful reef breaks to playful waves, it’s a place worth visiting.
Best Beaches: Castlepoint, Piha, Raglan
Best Time to Visit: November to March
If diverse waves and coastlines are your thing, then New Zealand is your surfer heaven. With a 9,320-mile coastline, you can expect different types of waves in various difficulties during peak season. Be sure to add this place to your bucket list.
Best Beaches: Anchor Point, Banana Point, Taghazout
Best Time to Visit: September to April
Another surf country that shares the Atlantic Coast, Morocco, is a trendy tourist destination for surfers because of the evergrowing cultural experience it offers. It’s also one of the best places to learn how to surf, especially during summer when waves are tamer.
Best Beaches: Chiba, Shonan, Miyagi
Best Time to Visit: September to April
Japan offers a unique surfing experience as one side lets you tackle the waves of the Pacific Ocean, while on the other side, the playful waves of the Sea of Japan. With plenty of breaks that have yet to be surfed on, it’s no surprise that the surf culture there is becoming bigger.
Best Beaches: Mundaka, Sopelana, Zarautz
Best Time to Visit: September to November
Spain is a beginner-friendly surf spot that is home to one of the oldest cultures in the world. It also has some of the best waves during peak season. In fact, the northern coast of Spain is home to some of Europe’s best surf spots.
Best Beaches: Papara, Papenoo, Teahupo'o
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Tahiti is one of the surf places where you can test your skills to full effect. The powerful reef breaks along with powerful barrels, make this country a proving ground for surfers worldwide. If you can handle the waves here, you’re among the upper echelon.
Best Beaches: Bundoran, Easkey, Lahinch
Best Time to Visit: September to April
The rugged coastlines of Ireland are a surfer’s delight, thanks to the playful yet challenging waves. The biggest swell season in the country can produce massive waves that can really test your skills and overall resolve.
Best Beaches: Iquique, Pichilemu, Punta de Lobos
Best Time to Visit: December to March
Chile is making a name for itself as a premiere surf spot in South America thanks to the swell amount it receives from the Pacific Ocean on a regular basis. If you are looking to tackle behemoth waves, Chile has some of the best ones around the world.
Best Beaches: Bocas del Toro, Playa Venao, Santa Catalina
Best Time to Visit: November to April
The coastlines of Panama offer an intriguing surfing experience thanks to its location. From the north of the country, you can enjoy the rich Atlantic Ocean waves. The south offers remarkable waves coming from the Pacific Ocean. The country has plenty of surf spots to discover.
Best Beaches: Fulong, Jinzun, Wai'ao
Best Time to Visit: September to April
The Taiwanese surf scene may be smaller than the other countries, but it is home to some of the best surf locations in Asia. With consistent swells and all-year-round surfing conditions, it’s one of the best places for beginners.
Best Beaches: Chicama, Máncora, Punta Rocas
Best Time to Visit: April to October
The Pacific coastline of Peru is known to produce some of the longest waves you can ride on. The legendary Chicama waves are a sight to see. Imagine being able to ride the wave for longer than a minute.
Congratulations! Now you know that it’s possible to surf all year round. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran of the sport, there are always new and exciting places, people, and experiences to discover.
If you’re looking to satisfy your surf cravings, the best thing you can do is to create a bucket list of surf spots you want to experience before you retire from the sport. What are you waiting for? Go wax your board, pack your wetsuits and gear, and it’s time to tour the world!
Mark your calendars for July 27, 2024! A wild storm of surfers is headed towards Tahiti to conquer the Teahupoo waves. Due to its distinct location, this is going to be the most-watched surfing event in history. With the qualifying events finally over, these champions are more than ever determined to showcase their skills to […]
While there are several wave fields still undiscovered, Maine can still offer some of the best conditions for visiting tourists to catch that perfect wave. In this article, we’ll take a look at why you might want to visit Maine, the best times to surf, and the best places to check out on your next […]
Surf camps have a certain appeal. They’re ideal places to learn surfing, especially for solo travelers who want to meet people and socialize in a friendly environment. However, surf camps are springing up in every nook and cranny. You’ll find plenty with an ocean at almost every corner of the planet. The increased numbers make […]
If you’re a fan of the outdoors in general and dislike crowds, Alaska might be your go-to place to surf. But with the various hazards and difficulties getting there, it can be a somewhat tedious trip. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn all about the wonders and potential dangers of surfing in Alaska. With its […]
Surfing is a popular sport, especially with many health fanatics who consider it a great way to keep in shape. If you’re a beginner and want to hone this skill, you might consider joining a surf camp. But, is it worth it? This article will take a deep dive into the essentials of surfing camps […]
If you’re living along the East Coast, it could be a bit difficult to travel across the country to Hawaii or California for that perfect surfing spot. Georgia might not be your first choice when it comes to surfing, but with the warmer waters, beautiful surrounding islands, and stunning wildlife, there are quite a few […]
Waves, especially ocean waves, are often so common that we never usually think about where they come from or how they’re formed. In this article, you’ll be diving into the specifics of the formation of waves, including the various types of waves and where you may find them. Depending on the type of wave, there […]
Watching surfers riding huge waves certainly inspires us to learn the sport as quickly as possible to impress others, just as we were fascinated. It’s a sport like no other, and the best part is that it gives us a chance to master the ocean, which scares even the best of us. However, remember that […]
One of the best things about ocean surfing is that you’ll never know what you’re going to get. It's unpredictable and sometimes too fast or too big for you. Nevertheless, other waves are so wacky and weird that they will level up your excitement in a different way. From massive wipeouts underwater to being thrown […]