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9 Best Surfing Spots in the World

If there’s one sport that belongs in the category of “you only live once,” it’s surfing. From a massive adrenaline rush to the peace of being at one with the universe, surfing’s got it all. Not to mention awesome beaches, athletic bodies, and that perfect wave.

Surfing has more than one benefit – it is a whole lifestyle, and you will find it extremely liberating. First of all, surfing can keep your weight in check. Surfing burns fat and calories without any exercise required by the surfer.

Secondly, surfing brings people together from all over the world for a common passion.

Best Surfing Spots in the World

1) North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii

North Shore, Oahu : Epic Surfing Spots in the World
Photo: kanaka

Believe it or not, people have been surfing in Hawaii since the 4th century. There’s a lively surf culture everywhere you go on the North Shore. Captain James Cook was the first Anglo to see someone riding the waves on a board in 1779. And the surf spots on Oahu’s North Shore are as awe-inspiring to surfers today as it was to Captain Cook 200 years ago.

The North Shore of Oahu is known for its massive waves, and some of the world’s biggest and best beach breaks can be found here. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Waimea Bay, Pipeline, and Banzai Pipeline are the places to be.

For the ultimate in Hawaii surfing, head to Sunset Beach on the North Shore. This is one of the surf spots with epic waves — it’s where you’ll find the Pipeline, one of the world’s heaviest waves.

These waves can reach heights of 30 feet or more, and they’re not for the faint of heart. But if you’re an experienced surfer and you’re looking for a challenge, then this surf spot should be on your list.

Best way to get there

Fly into Honolulu International Airport and pick up your rental car to drive the 25 miles to the North Shore. Avoid getting gouged on car rental by booking the car well in advance of your trip.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the North Shore of Oahu for surfing is during the winter months, from November through February. The waves are the biggest and most consistent during this time, and the weather is usually mild. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is the time to come to the North Shore.

Best places to stay

If you’re looking for a place to stay on the North Shore of Oahu, look no further than these great options:

  • The Turtle Bay Resort is one of the most luxurious resorts on the island, with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s also home to two championship golf courses.
  • If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, try the North Shore Hostel. This hostel has a variety of room options, from private rooms to dormitories, and is just a short walk from some of the best surf spots on the island.

2) Popoyo, Nicaragua

Surfing in Popoyo Nicaragua

This world-famous spot is known for its huge waves and challenging surfing conditions. The waves here can reach up to 20 feet high, and the currents are incredibly strong. It’s not a spot for beginners! However, if you’re an experienced sure

Popoyo is a world-famous surfing spot located in Nicaragua. This spot is known for its huge waves and challenging surfing conditions. The waves here can reach up to 20 feet high, and the currents are incredibly strong. It’s not a spot for beginners! However, if you’re an experienced surfer looking for an epic spot that will test your skills, look no further than Popoyo.

Best way to get there

To get to Popoyo, you must fly to the international airport in Managua. You can take a taxi to Rivas, located about an hour from Popoyo. Once in Rivas, you can take a bus or taxi to Popoyo.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Popoyo is from December to April. The waves are the biggest, and the weather is most pleasant during these months.

Best places to stay

Nicawaves Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you are looking for a place close to all the best surfing spots in the world. The hotel has a rooftop bar that offers fantastic views of the ocean, and it is also located just a few minutes from the beach.

Different surfing destinations offer different experiences. Understanding what you need and planning your trip earlier are essential to your surf trip success. All these are amazing locations you can visit today, but there are other amazing locations we have not included in our list, and Costa Rica is included.

3) Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia

Burleigh Heads Surfing : Epic Surfing Spots in the World
Photo: Michael Dawes

The world discovered this incredible surf destination on Queensland’s Gold Coast courtesy of the classic 60s surfing movie “Endless Summer.” This is where you’ll find the Superbank, one of the finest beach breaks in the world, with tubes and walls that will serve you up the ride of a lifetime. The waves are consistent here all year round, which is why many international surf competitions are held here.

With 43 miles of perfect beaches and a nearly continuous party going on, there’s a reason why the Gold Coast is home to Surfer’s Paradise. There’s enough room here to accommodate many surfers — lucky because the Gold Coast is on the top of most surfer’s “must go” lists.

Best way to get there

Fly into the international airport at Brisbane, then take an 80-minute train ride to Surfer’s Paradise.

Best time to visit

The Gold Coast is a great place to surf all year round, but the waves are the biggest and best from December to February. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is the time to come to the Gold Coast.

Best places to stay

There are several great places to stay on the Gold Coast, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few of our favorites:

4) Bundoran, Ireland

Bundoran Surfing, Best Surfing Spots in the World

Surprised to see Ireland on our list of epic surf spots in the world? Don’t be. With waves that can reach 50 feet and average around the 10-foot range, Bundoran is one of the best surf spots in Europe.

The wild Atlantic swells are colder than you might like, but wear a wetsuit and have a great time. You can warm up later with an evening in a cozy Irish pub.

For novices, there are four surfing schools in Bundoran where you can get beginning and intermediate instruction. But the pros love the rolling waves and flat rocky reefs here too. Bundoran has hosted the European Surfing Championships three times.

Bundoran is a great surf spot for both beginners to professional surfers. The waves are between 2 – 3 feet, making it an excellent place for starters and masters.

Best way to get there

Fly into Dublin International Airport. If you’re daring, rent a car in Dublin and make the 3-hour drive yourself. Or book a connecting flight into Sligo, and hire a cab there to complete the 30-minute trip to Bundoran.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bundoran for surfing is during the winter months, from December to February. The waves are the biggest and most consistent during this time, and the weather is usually mild. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is the time to come to Bundoran.

Best places to stay

There are many great places to stay in Bundoran, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The Warrenpoint Hotel is a luxurious option right on the seafront. It has spacious rooms, a spa, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
  • The Harbour you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, The Harbour is a great choice. It’s right in the center of town and has a range of rooms to choose from.
  • Rossnowlagh Beach Hotel This hotel is perfect if you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday. It’s set right on Rossnowlagh and offers great surfing and stunning views.

See Related: Best Coastal Towns in Ireland You Need to See

5) Jeffreys Bay, South Africa

J-Bay Supertubes Surfing, Epic Surfing Spots in the World
Photo: tobiasnawrath

Experienced surfers call it J-Bay, and it’s where some of the world’s most memorable surfing stories are hatched. This surfing spot is where you’ll find Supertubes, the legendary wall of water that’s been heaven and hell for surfers for years. J-Bay is notorious for its unique right-hand point breaks and long, fast barrels.

Life around J-Bay is super relaxed, and the summer seems to last forever. (Keep in mind that summer here in November through February.) Winter surfing, May through August, is spectacular too. Daytime temperatures average between 60 and 70 degrees, and the offshore winds whip up gigantic swells.

The waves at Jeffreys Bay are some of the most epics in the world. They can get up to 8-10 feet high and are perfect for surfing. The locals are very friendly and welcoming, and the town is a great place to stay while you’re there. Besides the waves, the scenery is also stunning. You’ll be surrounded by beautiful beaches and lighthouses, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

Jeffrey’s Bay is not a surfing destination for intermediate surfers; it’s recommended for professional surfers because of the challenging waves. But if you feel you’re up to the challenge, it’s one of the best surfing destinations worldwide.

Best way to get there

Fly into Capetown International Airport. Make a connecting flight to Port Elizabeth Airport, just an hour from J-bay. Book a seat on one of the many shuttles from Port Elizabeth, or take a taxi to Jeffreys Bay.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Jeffreys Bay for surfing is during the winter months, from May to August. The waves are the biggest and most consistent during this time, and the weather is usually mild. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is the time to come to Jeffreys Bay.

Best places to stay

Jeffreys Bay is a town in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It is well known for its world-class surfing and attracts surfers from all over the globe. There are several great places to stay in Jeffreys Bay, including the following:

The Surfer’s Inn is great for surfers and beach lovers. It offers comfortable accommodations, spectacular ocean views, and easy access to the best surf spots in town.

See Related: Most Beautiful Cities in the World to Visit

6) Mentawai Islands, Indonesia

Surf Thunders : Epic Surfing Spots in the World
Photo: colmsurf

For some of the most legendary waves worldwide combined with an exotic and unspoiled location, make the long trip to the Mentawai Islands. Here you’ll find all the natural beauty of better-known spots like Bali — only without the tourists.

There are 70 islands in the Mentawai chain, but for the best, most consistent waves, head to Pagi, Siparo, and Siberut. Once there, it would be best to get a good distance offshore, so find a local guide to help you locate the best surf spots. The most famous include Bankvaults and Macaronis for the advanced surfers and the Gilligan’s for those with lesser skills.

Best way to get there

Be patient — the trip is worth it. Start by flying to the international airport in either Jakarta or Singapore. From there, fly to Padang, Sumatra. Once in Padang, you’ll take a charter boat to your destination. Some Mentawai Island resorts have ferries and offer pickup and dropoff services in Padang.

Best time to visit

The Mentawai Islands are a great place to surf, with plenty of good waves. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October.

Best places to stay

There are a few different Mentawai Islands resorts, each with its unique vibe. If you want to be right in the thick of the action, check out the Lances Surf Resort on Siparo Island.

For a more relaxed atmosphere, try the Nihiwatu Resort on Sumbawa Island. Both offer amazing service to their guests.

See Related: Hidden Gems of Bali

7) Teahupoo, Tahiti

Guy surfing

If you’re looking for an epic surfing experience, then look no further than Teahupoo. As one of the best surf destinations around the world, it is known for its huge waves that can reach up to 30 feet. The takeoff is especially challenging, as the wave often breaks in a very shallow area.

Teahupoo is located on the south coast of Tahiti and can only be reached by boat. There are a few resorts located in the area, but for the most part, it is undeveloped.

Best way to get there

You’ll need to fly to either Papeete or Fa’a’ā International Airport in Tahiti. From there, it’s a short flight to Raiatea Airport, which is located on the island of Raiatea. From Raiatea, you’ll need to take a boat to Teahupoo.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Teahupoo for surfing is during the summer months, from November to April. The waves are the biggest and most consistent during this time.

Best places to stay

There are a few resorts located in the area of Teahupoo, but for the most part, it is undeveloped. The best way to stay on this epic surfing spot is by camping on the beach. There are a few surf camps, including the Tahiti Beachcomber Campsite and the Papara Beach Campsite.

See Related: Best Sabbatical Destinations Around the World

8) Uluwatu, Indonesia

Man Surfing

Uluwatu is one of the most popular surf destinations in the world. The waves here are some of the biggest and most challenging in the area, and the scenery is stunning. There are several excellent surfing schools in Uluwatu, and the locals are incredibly friendly and welcoming. If you’re looking for an epicals say that the waves at Uluwatu are some of the biggest and most challenging in the area.

Uluwatu is known for its huge waves and challenging surfing conditions. The waves here can reach up to 20 feet high, and the currents are incredibly strong. It’s not a spot for beginners! However, if you’re an experienced surfer looking for an epic challenge, Uluwatu is worth a visit. The best time to surf in Uluwatu is from April to October.

Best way to get there

You can reach Uluwatu by driving or taking a taxi from Denpasar, the capital of Bali. It’s also possible to take a bus from Kuta, which is the most popular tourist area in Bali.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Uluwatu for surfing is during the dry season, from April to October. The waves are the biggest and most consistent during this time.

Best places to stay

There are several excellent places to stay in Uluwatu, all of which offer world-class surfing conditions and stunning views. Here are some of the best places to stay in Uluwatu:

  • The Uluwatu Surf Villas: These luxurious villas offer some of the best surfing conditions in Uluwatu. The villas are located right next to the beach and offer stunning views of the ocean.

9) West Coast, United States

Man Surfing at Sunset

The west coast of the United States contains world-famous surf spots. Some of the most epic waves in the world can be found here, and there are plenty of spots to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a challenging break or a mellower wave, you can find it on the west coast.

One of the most popular surfing spots in Huntington Beach. This spot is known for its consistent waves and various breaks. There are reefs, point breaks, and beach breaks so that you can find the perfect wave for your skill level.

Another great spot is in San Francisco. This city is surrounded by water, so there are plenty of surf spots. The waves here can be big and challenging but also incredibly scenic. You can watch the Golden Gate Bridge rise above the waves while you catch a few waves yourself.

Best time to visit

The best time to go surfing here is during the spring and summer months. The waves are usually smaller and more consistent during these times, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Best Places to stay

There are plenty of great places to stay when you’re visiting for surfing. Here are a few of our favorites:

  • The Huntington Beach Inn is a great option for surfers. This hotel is located right on the beach, offering easy access to all of the best waves.
  • If you’re looking for a place to stay in San Francisco, the Argonaut Hotel is a great option. This historic hotel is located right on Fisherman’s Wharf and offers stunning views of the bay.

If you’re looking for an epic surfing experience, then be sure to plan your surf trip to any of these 5 best surf spots on the planet. These surfing destinations are known for their high waves and challenging conditions, so only experienced surfers should attempt to tackle them. However, if you’re up for the challenge, these spots will not disappoint!

Tips Before Going Surfing

Before you go on your surfing trip, it’s important to know a few things. Here are some tips to help you out:

  1. Always wear a leash. This is the most important thing – if you lose your board, you could be in for a long swim.
  2. Stay aware of your surroundings. Many things can go wrong when surfing, so it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and the conditions of the waves.
  3. Don’t surf alone. It’s always safer to surf with someone else in case something happens.
  4. Know your limits. Surfing can be dangerous, so it’s important to know your limits and stay within them.
  5. Respect the locals. When you’re surfing in a new place, be sure to respect the locals and their turf. Don’t take up all the waves, and be courteous to those who have been surfing there longer than you have.
  6. Know your style: Do you want a longboard or a shortboard? What works best for you? And what types of waves do you prefer?

The world is full of amazing places to reach surfing Nirvana, and if you’re a dedicated surfer, you know a lot of them. For the rest of us, though, here’s our list of the best surf spots in the world to hang on to

FAQs

What are the most famous surf breaks?

Hawaii is home to countless surf breaks, making it a top surf destination. Waimea Bay, Pipeline, Sunset Beach, Banzai Pipeline, and Trestles are the most famous surf breaks.

What are reef breaks?

A reef break is also known as a shallow surf that runs parallel to the shore, and it’s usually near rocks or shallow water. These breaks are good for experienced surfers because they can maneuver their boards quickly through reefs, obstacles, and shallows while remaining close to the shore and other surfers in the area.

What are point breaks?

A point break is a wave that breaks at a single point instead of along a reef or shoreline. These waves are typically more challenging to surf, but they offer a unique experience that can’t be found elsewhere.

What makes a good surf break?

A good surf break has consistent waves, is not too crowded, and is easy to get to.

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