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

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Summary

Playa Venao is a secluded surfing destination located in the Azuero Peninsula of Panama. This beautiful and unspoiled beach is known for its consistent, year-round waves, making it a popular surf spot for surfers of all levels.

While it is a bit of a remote location, the journey will be well worth it. The bay of Playa Venao is a swell magnet that makes it a perfect surfing destination all year long.

Playa Venao stretches for over 2.5 miles and is surrounded by lush tropical forests, giving it a truly exotic feel. The waves at Playa Venao include both lefts and rights, mostly breaking on a safe sandy bottom which is perfect for beginners and learners.

When to go

The best time to surf Playa Venao, Panama is from April to October with bigger and more consistent swells. However, even through the low season which runs from November to March, waves still roll into the bay making it a perfect time for beginners to catch their first few waves.

Getting to Playa Venao

Playa Venao is about 5 to 6 hours by car from Panama City. The easiest way to get there is to rent a car and drive. Roads are mostly paved and in good condition.

You can also take a bus from Panama City to Las Tablas (4.5 hours), then grab a taxi to Playa Venao (1.5 hours). This is a cheaper option but much slower.

For a quicker trip, domestic flights to Pedasí (50 minutes) are available, followed by a 40-minute drive to Playa Venao. Some surf camps and hotels also offer private or shared shuttles from Panama City.

Surf spots in Playa Venao

Playa Venao

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

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While most countries in the northern hemisphere are going through the coldest month of the year, some other places on the globe are witnessing their best surfing conditions.

Grab your stick and your wax and escape this mid-winter crisis with a little heart-warming surf trip.

Here are a few ideas of places where you are almost certain to score some good waves no matter what your skill level might be…

Fore more ideas and to find the perfect surfing destination for you, try our WaveFinder search engine!

1. Canary Islands, Spain

Surfing conditions for February in Canary Islands

Suitable skill level: beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: From 2 to 8 feet depending on which side of the island
Swell consistency: 85%
Water temperature: 19°C 66°F
Air temperature: 18°C 64°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Read our Surfing Guide to The Canary Islands

With consistent winter northern swells, Canary Islands is a perfect place to escape Europe’s coldest month and get some surfing action. 

The Canary Islands are usually exposed to solid winds. However, if you chose your equipment accordingly and find some sheltered spots, you will be rewarded with amazingly powerful waves breaking mostly over lava rocks.

Beginners can also find some nice waves in Canary at beaches like Las Americas.

Book a surf camp in Canary Islands, starting at US$277

2. Barbados

Surfing conditions for February in Barbados

Suitable skill level: beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 to 6 feet
Swell consistency: 80%
Water temperature: 27°C 81°F
Air temperature: 26°C 79°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Read our full surf guide to Barbados

In February, the surf in Barbados is also close to the most consistent it will ever get throughout the year. However, there are no unpleasant signs of winter down here…

Warm water, sunshine and endless surf sessions are the only things waiting for you in Barbados.

This little island located in the lesser Antilles is surrounded with surf spots but most of the swell will hit either the south or east coast.

Therefore, experienced surfers will be able to aim for exposed breaks like Soup Bowl while beginners will find spots where the swell wraps around and loses a bit of power, like at Freight Bay.

Barbados will charm you with a rich Carribean culture, delicious rum and pure tropical vibes.

3. Puerto Rico

Surfing conditions for February in Puerto Rico

Suitable skill level: beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 to 6 feet
Swell consistency: 80%
Water temperature: 26°C 79°F
Air temperature: 25°C 77°F
Crowd: Fairly crowded

For a long period of time, Puerto Rico has been in the shade of Hawaii as far as winter surfing goes. However, this charming island in the Carribean is starting to build for itself a reputation of being one of America’s top surfing destination.

In summer, Puerto Rico is mostly flat due to a lack of activity in the Atlantic, but as soon as the hurricane season starts in August, conditions become very favorable for a successful trip. 

Located on the island’s west coast, Rincon is Puerto Rico’s main surf town being surrounded with a handful of surf spots, mostly suitable for experienced surfers.

Beginners will also be able to find some deeper reefs or beach breaks like Playa Aviones, which is closer to Puerto Rico’s capital city, San Juan.

Read our complete surf guide to Puerto Rico

4. Nicaragua

Surfing conditions for February in Nicaragua

Suitable skill level: beginner and intermediate
Average wave size: 2 to 4 feet
Swell consistency: 80%
Water temperature: 27°C 81°F
Air temperature: 27°C 81°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Nicaragua’s best waves are not found in winter. However, it is a perfect time for beginners to get into surfing or for experienced surfers to enjoy 3-4ft barrels without the fear of getting smashed on a sharp reef.

In fact, with 300+ days of offshore winds per year, Nicaragua is one of the most consistent surfing destination in the world. 

Places like Popoyo, for a relaxed vibe, and San Juan Del Sur, for a party town, are both very good places to base yourself on a surf trip in Nicaragua.

February also is Nicaragua’s driest month so forget the rain jacket, bring only a massive load of sunscreen for endless surfing sessions.

Book a surf camp to Nicaragua, starting at US$330

5. Sumbawa, Indonesia

Surfing conditions for February in Indonesia

Suitable skill level: intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 4 to 6 feet
Swell consistency: 95%
Water temperature: 29°C 84°F
Air temperature: 26°C 79°F
Crowd: Uncrowded

In Sumbawa, swells are pretty consistent throughout the year. However, from November to March, winds are much lighter than during the usual Indonesian season which runs from April to October.

Being a little more remote than Lombok and Bali, this Indonesian island remains pretty uncrowded and you are almost sure to share the line-up with only a few other surfers.

Most waves in Sumbawa are powerful reef breaks which will be more suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers. Barrels guaranteed.

Read our complete surf guide to Sumbawa

6. Hawaii

Surfing conditions for February in Hawaii

Suitable skill level: beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: from 2ft to 10ft+ depending on the which side of the island
Swell consistency: 100%
Water temperature: 25°C 77°F
Air temperature: 25°C 77°F
Crowd: Fairly crowded

Surfing in winter rhymes with Hawaii…

Nowhere else gets as big and consistent in February as Hawaii, while keeping a warm and enjoyable climate.

If you are an experienced surfer, head to any of the Hawaiian islands’ north shore for epic and powerful waves.

If you are simply getting into surfing, some gentle southern swells are also hitting Hawaii providing mellow waves, perfect for learning.

Make sure to also read our article about how to chose the right Hawaiian island for a surf trip which breaks down all the pros and cons of every major island.

No matter on which island you end up, Hawaii has something for everyone with some of the world’s most amazing hikes, beaches and landscapes.

7. Portugal

Surfing conditions for February in Portugal

Suitable skill level: beginner, intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 6ft
Swell consistency: 90%
Water temperature: 14°C 57°F
Air temperature: 12°C 54°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Portugal is blessed with year-round sunshine and an amazing coastline which is very exposed to any storm that may form in the Atlantic Ocean.

Over winter, big and consistent NW swells form in the latest and rush onto Portugal’s beaches creating beautiful waves for all skill levels.

Advanced surfers can aim for exposed surf spots like Ericeira or Peniche while beginners can find sheltered beaches in Algarve.

Winter in Portugal also brings some of the world’s biggest waves in Nazaré! If you find yourself lucky enough to be here during an XXL swell, make sure to make a trip to Forte de Sao Miguel for an awesome view of the planet’s best chargers looking for the ride of a lifetime!

Book a surf camp to Portugal, starting at US$311

8. Bocas del Toro, Panama

Surfing conditions for February in Panama

Suitable skill level: intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 6ft
Swell consistency: 80%
Water temperature: 27°C 81°F
Air temperature: 27°C 81°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Bocas del Toro is a little tropical archipelago composed of three major islands, located off the Panamanian east coast.

In January and February, Bocas de Toro truly lights up and receives some of Central America’s biggest and most consistent waves. 

Besides a few beach breaks, most waves are quite hollow and break over sharp reefs.

Even on lay days, the islands provide a lot of outdoor activities to chose from which takes some pressure off the surfing conditions and guarantees you an awesome trip!

See our full surf guide to Bocas del Toro

9. Siargao Island, Philippines

Surfing conditions for February in Philippines

Suitable skill level: Any
Average wave size: 8ft
Swell consistency: 95%
Water temperature: 27°C 81°F
Air temperature: 28°C 82°F
Crowd: Reasonable

Siargao Island, in the Philippines, is an absolute tropical paradise with world-class surfing potential. In February, swells are consistent and make Cloud Nine and surrounding spots turn to life. Beginners and experts can all find their optimal surf spot and enjoy this magical island!

10. Azores

Surfing conditions for February in Azores

Suitable skill level: Intermediate and advanced
Average wave size: 10ft
Swell consistency: 95%
Water temperature: 17°C 63°F
Air temperature: 14°C 57°F
Crowd: Uncrowded

The Azores is a small Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic that greatly benefits from the winter surfing conditions up here. Swells run from many angles and wind is always offshore somewhere providing surfing potential on any given day. In February, conditions tend to be quite big and scary which would suit advanced surfers.

The post 10 Best Places To Surf in February appeared first on MyWaveFinder.

Summary

Bocas del Toro, located on the Caribbean coast of Panama, is an underrated gem in the world of surf travel. While Panama’s Pacific side is known for its consistent ground swells, Bocas delivers something different. Uncrowded waves, tropical island vibes, and a laid-back lifestyle that makes it a surf destination worth discovering.

If you hit the right season, you could score one of the most unforgettable surf trips of your life.

Why Surf in Bocas del Toro?

• Quality Waves: Over 20 surf breaks suitable for all levels.

• Warm Water: Leave your wetsuit at home.

• Affordable Travel: Budget-friendly food, lodging, and transport.

• Vibrant Culture: Chill Caribbean vibe with great nightlife and social scenes.

Islands Overview: Where to Surf in Bocas del Toro

Bocas del Toro is made up of several islands, with three main ones offering access to the best surf spots.

Isla Colón (Main Island)

Home to most accommodations, restaurants, and surf services. You’ll find surf spots like Paunch, Tiger’s Tail, and the powerful Bluff Beach here.

Isla Carenero

Just a short boat ride from Colón, this island is home to Carenero Point, one of the region’s most iconic waves. Also features beginner-friendly spots like Old Man’s and Black Rock.

Isla Bastimentos

Further out and wilder, Bastimentos offers heavier waves like Silverbacks and secluded spots like First Beach for the more adventurous surfer. It also is home to Playa Wizard, an accessible beach break.

Traveling between islands is easy and cheap thanks to the abundant water taxis. They usually cost $1 between Isla Colon and Carenero or $5 to Bastimentos.

When to go

The best time to surf Bocas del Toro, Panama is from December to April but there is also a summer swell window from June to August which will offer smaller waves. Outside of those two windows, expect very inconsistent conditions.

Where to stay in Bocas del Toro

Bocas Town, at the southern end of Isla Colon, is a great and convenient place to base yourself on a surf trip to Bocas del Toro. It will grant you access to many decent surf spots as well as having many places to stay and eat.

Isla Carenero has a few good options, especially on the southern end of the Island, like the popular Aqua Hostel.

Isla Bastimentos is much quieter and also more remote. It is worth visiting if you want to get away from the crowds.

Best surf hotels in Bocas del Toro

Twin Fins Hostels

Lula’s Bed & Breakfast

Getting to Bocas del Toro

There are two main ways to reach Bocas:

• By Air: Direct flight from Panama City to Bocas Town (Isla Colón).

• By Land + Boat: Take a bus or car to Almirante, then a 30-minute boat ride to the islands.

Surf spots in Bocas del Toro

Carenero

Here is one of Bocas del Toro’s most popular break. Located on Isla Carenero, this wave is a solid and hollow left that has several peaks which can connect on a large swell. Should be kept for skilled surfers.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : N/A
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Old Man’s

Very fun A-frame breaking over a forgiving reef. Works on the NE swell and is totally suitable for all skill levels.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : N/A
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Black Rock

A mellow right-hander breaking into deep water, perfect for beginners getting into surfing or not so keen for sharp reefs.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : N/A
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Tiger’s Tail

Very consistent break no matter what size of swell. It needs a slight NE swell to get going and works pretty well for beginners on smaller days.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : N/A
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Paunch

A nice reef break that produces fairly powerful waves in both directions. On small days, it can be a good option for intermediates but when it gets bigger, it becomes pretty challenging.

• Wave direction : Left and right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Bluff

One of the two main beach breaks in Bocas del Toro, Bluff is where you can go for sandy tube rides. It is pretty powerful and hollow with the northeast swell. Works on any tide.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : SW

Waikiki

The other beach break on Isla Colon is Waikiki. This one is much more welcoming for beginners and intermediates with mellow waves, perfect for learning or progressing into the sport.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Sand
• Best tide : N/A
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

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