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.

Read our complete surfing guide to El Salvador

The post 10 Best Surfing Destinations for Intermediate Surfers in 2025 appeared first on My Wave Finder.

New Zealand is sometimes overlooked when it comes to surfing destinations. However, the country has a massive coastline and is exposed to swells of all directions, making it an absolute paradise for surfers. From North Island to South Island, hundreds of uncrowded surf spots await anyone paying a visit for a surf trip.

Here are 5 places that deserve to be on your checklist when heading for a surf trip in New Zealand.

To find the best surfing destination for YOU, try our FREE WaveFinder Search Engine!

Piha

Read our complete surfing guide to Piha, New Zealand

Piha is located just west of Auckland, at about an hour drive away from the country’s capital city. It is a small and quiet surf town that is popular amongst kiwis for a little beach getaway. Piha is a great and wide surfing beach that gets good waves from the Tasman Sea throughout the year.

Raglan

Read our complete surfing guide to Raglan, New Zealand

Raglan is the surfing capital of New Zealand with some of the best waves and surf spots in the country located right around this charming town. Manu Bay is the most famous surf spot in Raglan, mostly due to its appearance in Endless Summer, a cult surf movie that aired back in 1966. Raglan became a real surfing hub but always kept its laidback vibe and tranquility.

Mount Maunganui

Also located on North Island, Mount Maunganui is a very popular holiday destination for Kiwis due to its beautiful beach and charming town. As far as surfing goes, Mount Maunganui is not as consistent as the west side of New Zealand, but in summer, some northern swells will turn the whole beach to life and waves do get pretty decent.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura is on New Zealand’s South Island, about two hours north of Christchurch. It is one of the best place to surf on the South Island with consistent swells coming from the south in winter and from the north in summer. Kaikoura is a small and charming surf town with stunning views and wildlife that will make your surf trip a very special one.

Shipwreck Bay

Located at the very end of Ninety Mile Beach, in Ahipara, Shipwreck Bay is a beautiful left-hand point break that is one of New Zealand’s best waves. On a decent south westerly swell, the bay turns into a beautiful series of long, endless waves rolling all the way from the point to the beach.

The post 5 Best Places to Surf in New Zealand appeared first on My Wave Finder.

April is a very good month to go on a surf trip. With winter coming to an end, you can still catch some of the remaining winter swells in places like Hawaii or Puerto Rico as well as chasing the early summer ones in Indonesia or Tahiti.

Here is a list of a few surfing destinations you really should consider when planning a surf trip in April.

To find the most appropriate surfing destination for your needs, try our WaveFinder search engine!

1. Baja California, Mexico

Suitable skill level: Intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 feet
Swell consistency: 85%
Water temperature: 16°C 61°F
Air temperature: 15°C 60°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Read our complete surfing guide to Baja California, Mexico

In April, Baja California still receives a few north swells as it starts shifting into its high season. Over summer, Mexico receives decent SW swells that fire up the whole coast. The month of April will provide of both swell directions and only a fraction of the summer crowds. Here is a good win-win situation.

2. Andaman Islands, India

Suitable skill level: Intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 feet
Swell consistency: 70%
Water temperature: 29°C 84°F
Air temperature: 28°C 82°F
Crowd: Empty

The Andaman Islands are a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean. April is the best time of the year to surf the Andaman as the window of opportunity only lasts a couple months. After that, winds switch onshore and swell fades away. During the month of April though, the surf is absolutely gorgeous and uncrowded. Getting there and finding places to stay may be a bit of a challenge, but the reward is unmatched.

Read our complete surfing guide to the Andaman Islands, India

3. South Sri Lanka

Suitable skill level: Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 5 feet
Swell consistency: 75%
Water temperature: 29°C 84°F
Air temperature: 27°C 81°F
Crowd: Fairly crowded

Read our complete surfing guide to South Sri Lanka

In April, Sri Lanka starts receiving their best swells which will last the whole season until late October. It is a great time to surf either the south side of the country or Arugam Bay, on the East Coast. There are many surf spots and surf towns to chose from with Ahangama, Mirissa, Weligama, Hikkaduwa and Midigama all within driving distance. Sri Lanka is a culturally rich surfing destination with great weather, food and amazing wildlife! 

Find a surf camp in South Sri Lanka, starting at US$249

4. Raglan, New Zealand

Suitable skill level: Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 7 feet
Swell consistency: 80%
Water temperature: 18°C 64°F
Air temperature: 18°C 64°F
Crowd: Reasonable

In April, Raglan is slowly coming into the winter season with conditions growing bigger in size as well as being more consistent. However, the winds still haven’t picked up yet and the water is still fairly warm from the summer heat. Raglan is gifted with some of the world’s best surf spots in Manu Bay and Whale Bay. Both point breaks are insanely consistent and provide rides you’ll never forget. Locals will mostly agree that Spring is the best time to surf Raglan, New Zeland.

Read our complete surfing guide to Raglan, New Zealand

5. Byron Bay, Australia

Suitable skill level: Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 6 feet
Swell consistency: 85%
Water temperature: 23°C 73°F
Air temperature: 23°C 73°F
Crowd: Very crowded

Read our complete surfing guide to Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most buzzing surf town. In April Byron Bay is also coming out of its summer season and receives some epic cyclone swells. Water is still warm from the summer days and crowds are starting to fade coming into winter. With spots like The Pass and Broken Head, Byron Bay has something for every surfer out there and April really is a great time to surf Byron Bay or anywhere on the Australian east coast.

Find a surf camp in Byron Bay, starting at US$198

6. Sayulita, Mexico

Suitable skill level: Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 feet
Swell consistency: 90%
Water temperature: 25°C 77°F
Air temperature: 24°C 75°F
Crowd: Fairly crowded

Sayulita still enjoys beautiful surfing conditions in April with a swell consistency of nearly 90% which means you will be in the water almost every day! April is a great month to surf in Mexico for surfers of any skill levels. Sayulita is a truly charming surf town just a short ride away from Puerto Vallarta.

Read our complete surfing guide to Sayulita, Mexico

7. Nosara, Costa Rica

Suitable skill level: Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 feet
Swell consistency: 80%
Water temperature: 27°C 81°F
Air temperature: 28°C 82°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Nosara, Costa Rica is an all around great surfing destination at pretty much any time of the year. April will offer nice weather, great waves for surfers of all skill levels as well as not having as many people in the water as you can find in peak summer season.

Read our complete surfing guide to Nosara, Costa Rica

8. Nicaragua

Suitable skill level: Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 feet
Swell consistency: 75%
Water temperature: 29°C 84°F
Air temperature: 29°C 84°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Nicaragua is one of the most consistent surfing destination in the whole world and the month of April is when things start to get really interesting. In fact, with the rainy season around the corner, Nicaragua start receiving bigger and more consistent swells while getting offshore winds on a daily basis. It also is a great destination for surfers of all skill levels.

Find a surf camp in Nicaragua, starting at US$510

9. Indonesia

Suitable skill level: Beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 5 feet
Swell consistency: 95%
Water temperature: 27°C 81°F
Air temperature: 28°C 82°F
Crowd: Fairly crowded

Indonesia doesn’t need any more presentation in the surfing world and the month of April is when things start heating up in the archipelago. Waves are world-class, weather is stunning and everything is extremely affordable from food to accommodation. It remains one of the most popular surfing destination in the world…

Find a surf camp in Indonesia, starting at US$125

10. Fiji

Suitable skill level: Intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 6 feet
Swell consistency: 90%
Water temperature: 27°C 81°F
Air temperature: 25°C 75°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Fiji is a top tier surfing destination mostly known for world-class waves like Cloudbreak and Restaurants. In April, those surf spots in Fiji start turning back to life and offer uncrowded, magnificent rides to remember…

Read our complete surfing guide to Fiji

The post 10 Best Places to Surf in April appeared first on My Wave Finder.

• Summary

• When to go

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/Things to know

• Surf spots

Summary

Piha, located on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island is still somewhat of a hidden gem in the surfing world. With direct exposure to consistent swells from the Tasman Sea, this region offers excellent surfing conditions all year round.

While Raglan often steals the spotlight as New Zealand’s premier surf destination, Piha Beach stands out as a must-visit spot, especially for those looking for raw natural beauty, black sand beaches, and powerful waves just a stone’s throw from Auckland.

Located only 45 minutes west of Auckland, Piha is a beloved coastal escape for locals and visitors alike. This rugged beach town is famous for its iconic Lion Rock, wild surf, and dramatic scenery.

The surfing at Piha is world-class. The wide, open beach break produces lefts and rights, offering waves suitable for both beginners (on smaller days) and experienced surfers when the swell picks up. Piha can hold solid size, but surfers should always be mindful of the strong rips and shifting sandbanks.

To find your next surfing destination, make sure to try our WaveFinder search engine

When to go

The best time to surf Piha is probably during autumn although there is very consistent swell all year long.

Waves are smaller during the summer months from December to March which is more suitable for beginners. Weather will also be warmer over this period of time.

Advanced surfers looking for bigger waves will want to aim for April to August, when the swell picks up in size for winter and winds remain not so strong.

Where to stay in Piha

Browse our interactive map to find the best accommodation deals in Piha!

Best hotels in Piha

Piha Beachstay Accommodation, Great for its price, under 100USD per night, well located and very clean.

Getting there

Piha is approximately 45 minutes from Auckland by car. The easiest and most flexible option is to rent a car or campervan, especially if you plan to explore nearby beaches like Bethells or Karekare.

From Auckland International Airport:
Head west via State Highway 16, then follow Piha Road through the scenic Waitakere Ranges. Public transport options are limited.

Safety/things to know

-For visa information, visit the official New Zealand tourism website.

Surf spots in Piha

Piha beach

A classic beach break with fairly strong currents to be aware of. Both beginners and experts can find their days on this beach right by Lion Rock.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

The post Piha, New Zealand appeared first on My Wave Finder.

Summary

Dunedin is one of the best cold-water surf destinations in New Zealand, located on the rugged southeast coast of the South Island. As the second-largest city on the island (after Christchurch), Dunedin offers powerful Southern Ocean swells, uncrowded breaks, and a thriving local surf culture.

While conditions here can be chilly year-round, the reward is crowd-free surf and consistent waves, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers willing to suit up and paddle out.

Why Surf in Dunedin?

Dunedin might not have the tropical feel of North Island surf towns like Raglan, but it makes up for it with:

• Consistent swell from the Southern Ocean

• Empty lineups even on good days

• Beach breaks suitable for all skill levels

The city’s location means surf is accessible right near town, making it easy to score waves without driving far.

Best time to Surf Dunedin

The best time to surf Dunedin, New Zealand is from April to June for more consistent waves and favorable wind.

Where to stay in Dunedin

You may also be interested in: our Surf Guide to Raglan, North Island.

Surf spots in Dunedin

St. Kilda Beach

One of Dunedin’s most popular surf beaches, St. Kilda is a sandy beach break offering both lefts and rights. It’s ideal for all levels, from first-timers to experienced surfers.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : S
• Optimal wind direction : NNW

Smails Beach

Just a short drive from the city center, Smails Beach is a reliable beach break that catches plenty of swell. It’s known for fun peaks and a bit more power than St. Kilda.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : S
• Optimal wind direction : N

Dunedin

The coastline surrounding Dunedin offers several accessible and versatile surf breaks right in town. These spots work across all tides and cater to every skill level.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : S
• Optimal wind direction : NW

The post Dunedin, New Zealand appeared first on My Wave Finder.

• Summary

• Best time to Surf Raglan

• Where to stay in Raglan

• Getting to Raglan

• Safety/Things to know

• Surf spots

Summary

Raglan is widely considered the best surf town in New Zealand, and for good reason. First made famous by the cult surf film Endless Summer in 1966, Manu Bay put Raglan on the global surf map with its impossibly long, peeling left-handers. Nestled on the west coast of the North Island, just two hours from Auckland, this laid-back coastal town is a surfer’s paradise.

With a strong surf culture, vibrant community, and world-class waves, surfing in Raglan is an experience every surfer should have on their bucket list.

Why Surf in Raglan?

As soon as you roll into town via the winding roads of Waikato, it’s obvious what Raglan is all about surfing, nature, and a relaxed lifestyle. Surf shops, cafés, and food joints line the main street, and the ocean sets the rhythm of daily life.

Whether you’re chasing long point breaks or mellow beginner waves, Raglan has it all. The town is surrounded by incredible surf spots like Ngarunui Beach (for beginners) and Manu Bay or Whale Bay (for experienced surfers).

Manu Bay is the main show in town!

Manu Bay is Raglan’s famous surf spot and an absolute goofy footer’s paradise. This rocky point break is consistently fed by south westerly ground swells throughout the year and when conditions are favorable, you might just catch the longest wave of your life right here. On a small day, beginners can try to catch a few waves at Manu Bay but what makes it tricky is getting in and out without hitting you or your board on the rocks. Timing is key. 

Throughout the years, New Zealand became a backpackers’ top destination because of its amazing landscapes and the possibility of easily getting a working holiday visa that will allow you to stay in the country for up to 2 years! If such is your desire, Raglan could very well be a good place to settle, work and surf for a while!

When to surf Raglan

Surfing in Raglan, New Zealand is good all year round. However, the best conditions are offered from March to June with lighter winds, less crowds and swell picking up into winter. 

December is when the town really comes to life for summer. Waves are smaller and more crowded during that period as well.

Where to stay in Raglan

Browse our interactive map to find the best place to stay in Raglan!

Best hotels and resorts in Raglan:

Low budget : Raglan Backpackers is located in the heart of Raglan with a waterfront property.

Best value : Raglan Sunset Motel for a great place to stay, well located and comfortable.

Getting to Raglan

Raglan is located about 2 hours south of Auckland and 45 minutes from Hamilton. You can get there by bus, from Hamilton, or by renting a car and driving to the coast.

Safety/things to know

• Respect the locals at all time.
• Look out for rocks when tide gets low.
• Winds are pretty strong from April to November.
• The best way out is to jump off the rocks right at the peak. Be very careful when doing so as you only get one chance. 

Surf spots in Raglan

Ngarunui beach

The main beach break and the best surf spot for beginners in Raglan. Most of the surf is located right in front of the lifeguard tower and the car park. Works on all tides.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : High
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

Manu bay

Manu Bay is Raglan’s most famous surf spot. An extremely long left-hander breaking over rocks that peels nice and slow. On low tide, Manu Bay can get a bit hollow and barrels will be found on a good swell. The higher tide will make the wave a bit more chunky and will require the surfers to manage their speed carefully by staying in the pocket on few occasions. Paddling out can be done from the point which requires a jump off the rocks or from the boat ramp which is easier but will take longer.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Rocks
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Whale bay

Whale Bay is next up the point after Manu Bay and is a bit trickier than Raglan’s famous spot. The takeoff zone is more critical and hollow while the wave itself is faster. Should be kept for advanced surfers.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Rocks
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Indicators

After Whale Bay comes Indicators, the first break in the whole bay. On an epic day, Indicators connects all the way to Manu Bay which is absolutely rare as on most occasions, all three spots break individually. 

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Rocks
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : E

Ruapuke beach

It will take you just under 30 minutes on a dirt road to get to Ruapuke, a beautiful and secluded beach that usually picks up the SW swell better than Raglan. If waves are too small in town, head to Ruapuke where they should be a few feet bigger. The setup is a regular beach break with a little point break on the right.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Sand and rocks
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SW
• Optimal wind direction : NE

The post Raglan, New Zealand appeared first on My Wave Finder.