10 Best Surfing Destinations in the World for a Surf Trip
Want to go on a surf trip soon but have no idea where to go to have the best experience? Look no more, we have you covered with our top 10 places to go on a surf trip.
From Australia to Costa Rica, every surfing destination is unique on what they have to offer to different types of surfers and travelers.
To find the best surfing destination using our WaveFinder search engine!
1. Costa Rica
Costa Rica is known for being a true surfing paradise with a contagious “pura vida” vibe. It is a prefect destination for surfers of all skills levels as waves are extremely consistent and most surf spots are beach breaks. On a surf trip to Costa Rica, you can visit many different world-class surf towns like Santa Teresa, Jaco and Pavones.
2. South Africa
South Africa is the holy grail on the African continent when it comes to surfing potential. With many world-class surf towns like Jeffrey’s Bay and Muizenberg, South Africa has a lot to offer for anyone paying a visit on their surf trip.
3. California
California has one of the richest surfing culture on the planet with mythical waves and surf spots. It is also where many iconic surf brands were born, such as Channel Islands Surfboards, Volcom, RVCA, VANS and O’Neill. On the whole coast, you will find amazing waves and surf towns which will charm every visitor. San Clemente and Huntington Beach are two great options on a surf trip to California.
4. Australia
Australia is well known for its numerous beaches and surf spots which makes it a great surfing destination. Whether you decide to hit the east coast towns of Gold Coast, Byron Bay and Yamba, or head south to Bells Beach, you are certain to find great waves in Australia. The country also offers a robust working holiday visa program allowing young foreigners between 18-35 years old to stay, work and travel for up to 36 months is Australia.
5. Indonesia
Indonesia is arguably the world’s best surfing destination with some of the world’s best surfing islands. Those islands include Bali, Lombok, Sumbawa and the Mentawai Islands. With waves all year round, surfing in Indonesia is a must for any surf traveler.
6. Mexico
Central America is an absolute wave machine and Mexico is well positioned to capitalize on the great Pacific swells. On top of having great waves, Mexico has a very distinct culture which attracts travelers from all around the world. Puerto Escondido and Sayulita are known for being some of the best surf towns in Mexico while Baja California remains a great option for surfers looking for a little adventure off the beaten path.
7. Hawaii
For many people, Hawaii is the holy grail in the surfing world, being where the sport was actually born. There are four major islands which all offer different waves, surf spots and traveling experiences. To know which island is best for you, read our article comparing all four major islands. Hawaii is a great surfing destination, not only for advanced surfers, but also for beginners as you will find many different surf spots which all suit different types of surfers.
8. Portugal
Portugal is often referred to as Europe’s best surfing destination with many world-class beach breaks and point breaks. From Peniche to Ericeira, there are several charming surf towns you can chose from in Portugal to make sure you have a surf trip to remember.
9. Maldives
The Maldives are an archipelago located in the middle of the Indian Ocean, right below India and Sri Lanka. Usually known for 5-star resorts and luxury floating hotels, the Maldives are also a world-class surfing destination with perfect waves and surfing conditions. Most surf spots are reef breaks which can be a bit tricky for beginners. However, on smaller days, any surfer can have fun out here and if it gets too big, you can still enjoy a pure tropical paradise!
10. Morocco
Morocco is a top surfing destination in Africa being known as the land of right-hand point breaks. Surf towns like Taghazout and Imsouane are absolutely perfect for surfers of all skill levels looking for nice cultural surfing getaway.