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.

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 My Wave Finder.

• Summary

• When to go

• Surf Camps

• Where to stay

• Getting there

• Safety/things to know

• Surf spots

Summary

The island of Siargao, in the Philippines, is quickly becoming one of the best places to go on a surf trip due to its amazing waves and some of the best surfing island vibes you will ever experience.

The Philippines may be composed of more than 7000 islands, if you are gonna pick one for a surf trip, Siargao has to be the choice. It is an absolute tropical gem and recently, the increase in tourism made Siargao much more accessible with frequent direct flights from Manila.

To find the best surfing destination for you, try our WaveFinder search engine!

Siargao is a surfing paradise for all types of surfers!

From beginners to experts, there are waves for everyone within paddling distance from the island of Siargao. Cloud 9 is the most popular and mediatized surf spot on Siargao. It is a heavy and hollow wave breaking over a shallow reef. Cloud 9 is home to some professionnal surfing competitions every year which helped put Siargao on the surfing map.

If Cloud 9 is mostly suitable for advanced surfers, Siargao also has some beginner-friendly waves and surf spots such as Jacking Horse and Rock Island. Many boats are available to access some more remote waves on Siargao and most of them will be very affordable.

All the surf spots on Siargao are on the east coast and most of them are around the General Luna and Cloud 9 area. This is also where you will find most accommodation options as well as many bars and restaurants.

When to surf Siargao

The best time to surf Siargao Island, Philippines is from October to April with consistent storms pushing swells towards the island. It also happens to be the wet season in the Philippines. July and August will be mostly flat and inconsistent while the shoulder seasons (May and September) can still offer some decent surfing days.

Where to stay in Siargao

On a surf trip to Siargao, the best place to stay is either General Luna or the Cloud 9 area. General Luna is a small town strategically located close to many surf spots and that is where you will find most accommodation and restaurants.

For high-end budgets, two good accommodations on Siargao are Kermit Siargao and Siargao Island Villas.

For budget travelers, there is a decent hostel near Cloud 9 called Hiraya Surf Hostel. Further along the road, you can also find the Fat Lips Surf Lodge.

Browse our interactive map to find the best places to stay in Siargao!

Surf Spots on Siargao

Cloud Nine

This is Siargao’s most popular and best surf spot. Cloud Nine is a hollow and powerful A-frame breaking over a shallow but forgiving reef. The right works way better than the left and leads right into the small channel that separates Cloud Nine and Quicksilver. This wave should be kept for experts looking for a short but thrilling ride.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Quicksilver

Direct neighbor to Cloud Nine, Quicksilver is a less radical version of Siargao’s most famous spot. It remains a very challenging barrel that breaks left and right and this wave definitely helps spread the crowd a little on good days.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Jacking Horse

Around the corner from Quicksilver and Cloud Nine is Jacking Horse, another nice wave that is not as hollow and radical as the other two. All three waves are located in the same area, around the Cloud Nine pier.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Little Pony

Closer to the beach, Jacking Horse reforms into a mellow and nicely peeling wave that is perfect to learn. Most surf schools will bring people here to push them on their first waves.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : SW

Rock Island

Just a 5-10 minutes boat ride away from the Cloud Nine pier is a perfect right-hand point break. Breaking for nearly 100m, it is a nice alternative to the short and intense rides from Cloud Nine and Quicksilver.

• Wave direction : Right
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : S

Stimpy’s

Located right next to Rock Island, with a similar set up but in a left-hander version. Stimpy’s and Rock Island break in different directions so when one is onshore, you might catch the other one offshore and clean.

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

Cemetery

A long reef catches all the swell heading towards General Luna in front of the cemetery and results in several nice peaks along that reef. You can catch a boat or paddle for about 15 minutes and find the peak you prefer. This spot can handle a lot of people before it gets too crowded.

• Wave direction : Right and left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Pacifico

Located on the north side of Siargao, Pacifico is a dreamy left-hander, away from the crowds of Genera Luna. It breaks a bit less than 100 meters away from shore and produces one of the nicest waves in the Philippines.

• Wave direction : Mostly left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Mid to high
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : NE
• Optimal wind direction : W

Getting there

The best way to get to Siargao, Philippines is to fly directly from Manila or Cebu. Ferry is a cheaper option but takes longer and can be hazardous depending on sea conditions.

Safety/things to know

• The typhoon season on Siargao runs from July to October. Throughout the years, a few disastrous typhoons have affected the area.
• Siargao only has reef breaks. There are no beach breaks on the island. That being said, beginners can still catch waves in a safe manner if accompanied by a surf coach.
• Many surf breaks on Siargao are only accessible by boat. They are fairly cheap and easy to find.

The post Siargao Island, Philippines appeared first on My Wave Finder.