Surfing is a lifelong journey, and most surfers find themselves in the “intermediate” zone for quite a while. While we all dream of charging the heaving barrels of Pipeline or Teahupo’o, the reality is that most of us aren’t there yet, and that’s perfectly okay.
As an intermediate surfer, you’ve likely outgrown sloppy beach breaks and are ready to challenge yourself on more powerful waves, maybe even some reef breaks. If you’re looking to push your skills in a safe but exciting way, here are 10 of the best surfing destinations for intermediate surfers around the world.
1. Indonesia
With some of the world’s most pristine and consistent waves, Indonesia is for sure a dreamy destination for intermediate surfers. While most waves are reef breaks, the surf in Indonesia is not strictly reserved for expert surfers.
Surf spots like Uluwatu and Padang Padang offer a great challenge to surfers looking to improve their game.
Read our complete surfing guide to Bali, Indonesia
2. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is an awesome tropical surfing destination with a lot of gentle waves and reef breaks. Arugam Bay, on the east side of the island is likely to please most intermediate surfers with a great selection of point breaks.
Read our complete surfing guide to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka
3. Hawaii
While Hawaii is often associated with powerful, expert-only waves, there are plenty of intermediate-friendly breaks across all major islands. Spots like Waikiki on Oahu or Lahaina Breakwall on Maui provide the perfect environment to progress safely in the birthplace of surfing.
Read : How to chose the right Hawaiian island on a surf trip
4. Nicaragua
Thanks to its unique geography and reliable offshore winds (over 300 days per year), Nicaragua offers consistent surf with fewer crowds. Playa Colorado is a great beach break where intermediate surfers can practice barrel riding over a soft, sandy bottom.
Read our complete surfing guide to Playa Colorado, Nicaragua
5. Morocco
Morocco is famous for its endless right-hand point breaks that are perfect for building confidence and style. Anchor Point in Taghazout is one of the best intermediate surf spots, offering long, rideable walls in a laid-back surf town.
Read our complete surfing guide to Taghazout, Morocco
6. Panama
Panama has a unique position with great surf spots both on the Pacific coast and on the Caribbean side. Intermediate surfers find a great challenge in Bocas del Toro as these amazing islands offer great surf breaks.
Read our complete surfing guide to Bocas del Toro, Panama
7. Maldives
Maldives represent paradise on Earth for most travelers and that is the case for surfers as well. With so many islands, there are a lot of surf spots to explore along the archipelago. Meanwhile, Maldives receive the same great swells that Indonesia receive every season.
Read our complete guide to Maldives
Find a Surf Camp in Maldives, starting at US$838
8. Philippines
The island of Siargao, in the Philippines is a paradise on Earth for intermediate surfers. Siargao is known for the surf spot Cloud Nine, which is an advanced wave. However, there are several more surf spots around the island which will suit intermediate surfers.
Read our complete guide to Siargao Island, Philippines
9. New Zealand
New Zealand is one of the most beautiful and livable countries in the world and it also has a great surfing scene. Raglan, on the west side of North Island is a perfect place for intermediate surfers as it has a few amazing point breaks like Manu Bay.
Read our complete surfing guide to Raglan, New Zealand
10. El Salvador
With a great mix of point breaks, reef breaks and beach breaks, El Salvador is arguably the best surfing destination in Central America. It is a cheap destination that remains not as crowded as Costa Rica or Mexico. Punta Roca is a perfect surf spot for intermediate surfers as a long, peeling right hand break.