Surfing is a strong a growing culture in the United States and with 23 states out of 50 that have exposure to an ocean coastline, it might be difficult to figure out which state has the best surfing conditions. 

Here are the top 5 states with the most surf spots in the country which should be added to any surfers’ bucket list.

1. Hawaii

Hawaii’s strong reputation in the surfing world is no longer a secret for anyone. It is definitely the best state for surfing in the U.S. with 4 major islands that all have world-class surf spots. The island of Oahu is home to prestigious breaks like Pipeline and Waikiki while Maui has one of the world’s biggest wave in Jaws.

With its tropical weather, lush scenery and a vibrant surfing culture, Hawaii is a must-visit surfing destination in the United States.

2. California

The state of California has also a strong surfing culture which started gaining strong momentum in the 1960’s. Ever since, California has been known as the most popular state for surfing on the United States mainland. 

With surf spots like Trestles, Santa Cruz, Huntington Beach and Malibu, California has waves to please all types of surfers and remains one of the best states for surfing in the U.S.

3. Florida

Home of Kelly Slater, the world’s greatest surfer of all time, Florida is another amazing state to visit on a surf trip. While sharks have caught a bit of attention lately, some surf towns like New Smyrna and Cocoa Beach are still amongst the best places to surf in the country.

4. New Jersey

Up along the east coast is the state of New Jersey which, according to Statista, is fourth on the list of states with the most surf spots. On a good hurricane swell in the early fall, the state of New Jersey turns into a wave machine and becomes without a doubt one of the best surfing states in the country.

5. Oregon

Surfing in Oregon might be cold, it remains an amazingly beautiful experience as most surf spots are empty or slightly crowded at worst. The state of Oregon is an under discovered gem in the United States when it comes to surfing and is greatly rewarding.

Read our complete surfing guide to Oregon 

The post The 5 Best States for Surfing in The Unites States appeared first on My Wave Finder.

Surfing, with its laid-back lifestyle and intimate connection to nature, may seem like one of the most eco-friendly sports out there. The image of surfers gliding gracefully across the ocean, at one with the waves, gives the impression of a harmonious relationship with the environment. However, like many activities, surfing is not without its environmental impacts. While it’s not inherently “bad” for the environment, there are several factors to consider when evaluating the sustainability of this beloved sport. Here are a few factors to consider in order to keep the sport of surfing as sustainable as possible.

1. Carbon Footprint

The environmental impact of surfing begins with transportation. Most surfers need to travel to coastal destinations, often driving long distances or even flying to reach their favorite surf spots. These journeys contribute to carbon emissions, which are a significant contributor to climate change. Surfing events, competitions, and surf tourism can exacerbate this problem. 

How to reduce your carbon footprint as a surfer

To reduce their carbon footprint, surfers can consider carpooling or limiting the number of flights they take every year. Instead of visiting several surfing destinations, spend more time at one spot, reducing your transportation.

2. Surf Gear Production

Surfboards, made from materials like polyurethane foam and fiberglass, are not eco-friendly. The production process is energy-intensive, and the toxic chemicals used can harm the environment. There is an increasing movement towards more sustainable materials, such as recycled foam, bamboo, and epoxy resin. 

How to reduce the environmental impact of your surf gear

Buying second hand surfboards is a great way to reduce the environmental impact of your surfing equipment. One could argue there are already more than enough surfboards in this world for everybody. Furthermore, beginners and intermediate surfers will barely see the difference between a brand new board and a second hand board in good condition. When, you get a ding on a surfboard, take good care of it by keeping it out of the water until it is repaired. This will prolong the life of your surfboard.

3. Erosion and Coastal Development

The very nature of surfing relies on coastal areas. Unfortunately, these areas are often at risk due to erosion caused by climate change and coastal development. Building seawalls and jetties can negatively impact the natural flow of sand and waves, disrupting local ecosystems. To accommodate the ever growing market of surfing tourists, many hotels and surf camps are being built right along the coastline which leads to severe negative impacts on ecosystems. 

Actors in the surf tourism industry should stay aware of those impacts and develop in a sustainable way both economically and environmentally. So far, the economic side is sadly overweighing the environmental side.

4. Overcrowding and Pollution

As the sport of surfing grows, we find more and more surfers in spots that were untouched a few decades ago. More visitors mean more stress on the environment in places where the infrastructure is not always there to host such a mass. Therefore, we find more sewage, plastic wastes and other pollutants in our oceans. This pollution in the ocean can lead to waterborne illnesses and harm marine life in an irreversible way. Surfers should be aware of water quality conditions in their chosen surf spots and support organizations working to reduce ocean pollution. Using eco-friendly sunscreen that doesn’t harm coral reefs is another way surfers can reduce their environmental footprint.

5. Marine Life Disturbance

Surfers share the ocean with diverse marine life. Paddling out to surf can disturb local ecosystems and wildlife. Some surf breaks are near sensitive marine habitats, such as coral reefs and mangroves. Surfers can minimize their impact by respecting wildlife, not disturbing nesting sites, and staying informed about local regulations and guidelines.

In conclusion, surfing is not inherently bad for the environment, but it does have its environmental impacts. These impacts can be mitigated and even turned into opportunities for positive change. Surfing enthusiasts and the industry as a whole have started to embrace more sustainable practices, from board materials to eco-friendly surf gear. Additionally, surfers can use their love for the ocean to advocate for marine conservation, participate in beach cleanups, and support organizations dedicated to protecting coastal environments. Ultimately, with awareness and effort, surfers can help ensure that their beloved sport remains in harmony with the natural world.

The post Is Surfing Bad for the Environment? Analyzing the Impacts of Surfing appeared first on My Wave Finder.

• Summary

• How to go to Isla Chacahua

• Where to stay

• Surf spots

• When to go

• Things to know

Summary

With its pristine beaches, consistent waves, and laid-back atmosphere, Isla Chacahua is still a hidden gem in the surfing world. 

Chacahua is a little piece of paradise that kept its authenticity through the growing surfing tourism in Mexico and this village will charm you instantly whether you are a beginner or advanced surfer.

A surfing paradise off the beaten path

Located a few hours from Puerto Escondido, a popular surf town in the state of Oaxaca, Isla Chacahua is much less crowded due to its remote location. In fact, the only way to get to Chacahua is by boat which makes the journey extremely exciting!

In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know on how to get to Chacahua, where to stay, when to go and many more little hints!

How to get to Chacahua

Getting to Isla Chacahua is not as difficult as it seems. Here are the steps. In total you can make it from Puerto Escondido in about 3 hours and for 200 pesos.

1. From Puerto Escondido, grab a collectivo to Rio Grande which will cost you around 70 pesos. You can go to the TUR station and get your ticket from there.

2. Take a taxi or collectivo to El Zapotalito. this will cost you between 25 to 50 pesos.

3. Take a boat to Chacahua. There are 2 options. The scenic route which will take you through the lagoon and drop you straight in Chacahua square. This will cost between 800 to 1200 pesos per boat. The second option is to take to collectivo boat (50 pesos) and then the collectivo camioneta (50 pesos).

Where to stay on Isla Chacahua

On Isla Chacahua, there aren’t any proper hotels. Most places to stay are cabanas or homestays and almost all of them are very close to the beach. A private room will cost you anywhere from 500 to 2000 pesos per night which is about US$25 to US$100. You can also just rent a hammock for about 50 pesos per night and still under the stars at one of the homestays. During the low season, you can pretty much just show up and look around for a place to stay. During high season, from November to May, it is much safer to book in advance as things do fill up.

Make sure you stay somewhere near the town center as this is where all shops and restaurants are located.

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

Surf Spots in Chacahua

Playa Chacahua

This is the main surf spot in the area and is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Right next to the jetty is a sort of point break with 3-4 peaks along the beach. Beginners can catch some mellow waves on the inside while more experiences surfers can go straight out the back for steeper and more powerful waves.

The Other Side

Across the lagoon is another surf spot which usually picks up more size than Playa Chacahua. You need to catch a “lancha” to go across the lagoon which will cost around 20 pesos. Some people also paddle across but you have to be careful with the current. Also keep in mind that after a certain time, boats stop running and you will find yourself stuck on the other side.

Best Time to Surf Chacahua

The best time to surf Chacahua is during the rainy season, from May to October. During this period, the Pacific Ocean produces consistent swells, offering excellent conditions for surfing. The crowds are also smaller during that period so you can catch waves almost by yourself. Be aware that during the rainy season, some restaurants might be closed but everything is still running smooth.

During the dry season, from November to April, you will find sunny weather, smaller but still consistent waves and the town will have much more life and buzz around it.

Things to know

• Bring some cash! There are no ATM’s on the island and some places will charge you up to 10% fees to cash out.
• There are a lot of surfboard rentals along the beach for about 150 pesos per hour or 300 pesos for the day.

The post Isla Chacahua, Mexico appeared first on My Wave Finder.

• Summary

• When to go

• Where to stay

• Surf spots

• How to get to Saladita

Summary

Playa Saladita is a small Mexican surfing village located in the state of Guerrero, about an hour away from Zihuatanejo. If you’re a surfer seeking perfect waves in Mexico, look no further than Playa Saladita. This hidden gem offers consistent and world-class waves in a very laidback atmosphere. Playa Saladita is mainly known as a longboard spot, but many short boarders also manage to catch some great rides at the point. 

On an average day, you can find yourself riding a wave for more than 1 minute from the point to shore!

The perfect surfing destination in Mexico

La Saladita is still very rustic and authentic compared to other popular surf towns on the Mexican Pacific coast like Puerto Escondido or Sayulita. You will find a few beachside restaurants, lovely homestays or hotels with amazing sunset views and a few places to rent surfboards.

Playa Saladita is an absolute wave magnet and there will rarely be a day without anything to surf. It is one of the best kept secrets on the Pacific coast of Mexico so congratulations if you are looking to surf down here!

Another thing that makes La Saladita really stand out from other surf towns is the great vibe that you can feel in and out of the water. Surfers really look after each other, locals are welcoming and the atmosphere is just magical.

When to surf Playa Saladita

The best time to surf Playa Saladita is during the wet season, which typically runs from May to October. During this period, you can expect consistent swells and smaller crowds, creating ideal conditions for surfing. The waves are also great in Saladita from November to April with sunny weather, clear water and smaller swells. The dry season is also when crowds get much denser with many surfers coming from Canada and the United States.

• Best Season: May to October (wet season)
  Consistent south swells, fewer crowds, and great conditions.

• Dry Season: November to April
  Smaller swells, perfect for beginners, but much busier with surfers from the U.S. and Canada.

Where to Stay in Playa Saladita

Playa Saladita offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. Some of them are right on the beach such as Casa Esmeralda which also offers a great range of surfboard rentals.

You can also find some cheaper options a little further away from the wave and everything is still within walking distance. 

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

Surf spots near Playa Saladita

Saladita

Saladita is the main break in Playa Saladita. It is a long and mellow left point break that works almost every day and throughout all tide conditions. Early morning is best for lighter winds but that is also when most of the crowd shows up. Saladita is a perfect wave for long boarders of all skill levels. The reef is not too sharp and as the wave tends to be quite soft, there are not that many risks of cuts and injuries.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Any
• Optimal swell direction : SSW
• Optimal wind direction : ENE

The Ranch

El Rancho or The Ranch is usually bigger than Saladita and also slightly more powerful, yet still a fairly gentle wave. It is about 30 minutes north of Saladita so you will need to have a car or hire a taxi. The Ranch is typically less crowded than Saladita but on good days, things can get packed. Luckily there are at least 3 different take-off spots which helps spreading the crowd a little.

• Wave direction : Left
• Bottom : Reef
• Best tide : Any
• Skill level : Intermediate and advanced
• Optimal swell direction : SSW
• Optimal wind direction : ENE

How to get to Playa Saladita

The best way to get to Playa Saladita is to fly to Zihuatanejo airport and rent a car or get a taxi to Playa Saladita which is about 45 minutes away.

A taxi from Zihuatanejo to Saladita will cost you roughly 1200 pesos. If you want to get around from La Saladita to other spots like The Ranch, you might want to consider renting a car or try hitchhiking which comes with its risks.

Cash is king!

Keep in mind that there are no ATM’s in La Saladita so make sure to bring some cash either from Zihuatanejo or Los Llanos. You might also want to stop for groceries in Zihuatanejo because there is only one small supermarket in Saladita which tends to be more expensive. You will be able to find a lot of surfboard rentals so you don’t necessarily have to bring your own board.

The post Playa Saladita, Mexico appeared first on My Wave Finder.

Mexico is one of the world’s top surf destinations, offering thousands of kilometers of coastline, consistent Pacific swells, and a lively surf culture. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an expert chasing heavy barrels at Puerto Escondido, Mexico delivers waves for all levels.

On top of world-class surf, you’ll find amazing weather, delicious food, affordable surf camps, and a great social vibe. Mexico is a perfect mix of surfing, culture, and adventure.

Best time to surf in Mexico

Mexico offers year-round surf, but your timing should depend on your skill level and surf goals:

• April to October (Rainy Season): Bigger, more powerful swells and the best time for intermediate and advanced surfers. Puerto Escondido and Barra de la Cruz shine during these months.

• November to March (Dry Season): Smaller, cleaner waves ideal for beginners. Consistent swells still hit key surf spots like Sayulita and Saladita.

Best Places to Surf in Mexico

Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a world famous surfing destination on the Mexican Pacific Coast with one of the world’s heaviest beach break, Playa Zicatela. However, surfing conditions are definitely not always monstrous in Puerto Escondido. During the shoulder seasons, even beginners can catch some fun waves in Puerto Escondido, either at Playa Zicatela or at one of the surrounding beaches.

Read our complete surfing guide to Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Sayulita

Sayulita is a lively and charming surf town located in Nayarit, just north of Puerto Vallarta. With several surf spots and year-round mellow waves, Sayulita is a great place in Mexico for beginners and intermediate surfers. The surfing vibe in Sayulita is awesome with many hostels, bars and restaurants that provide a great social aspect to your surf trip.

Read our complete surfing guide to Sayulita, Mexico

Baja California

Baja California is a surfers’ favorite on a surf trip to Mexico with many empty and unexplored waves as well as some world-class surf spots. The region is separated between Baja North, including Ensenada and Rosarito, and Baja Sur which includes Cabo San Lucas, Punta Abreojos and San Juanico. 

Read our surfing guides to Baja North and Baja Sur

Barra de la Cruz

Barra de la Cruz is a world-class surf spot located a short drive south of Puerto Escondido, near Huatulco. This right-hand rocky point break has hosted the World Surf League twice and remains one of Mexico’s most iconic waves. Barra de la Cruz is part of a reserve which makes it a bit secluded and there aren’t that many options of places to stay within a short distance to the wave. Most people stay in Puerto Escondido and drive down when swells hit.

Read our complete surfing guide to Barra de la Cruz, Mexico

Playa Saladita

Saladita is an awesome left-hand point break located in the state of Guerrero, just north of Zihuatanejo. This spot is still a hidden gem and is a long boarders’ favorite. Playa Saladita is a true wave magnet with waves all year round.

Read our complete surfing guide to Playa Saladita, Mexico

Best Surf Camps in Mexico

8-Day Surf Camp and Learn Spanish in Puerto Escondido, Mexico
US$590, including:

• 1.5 hours of Spanish semi-private tuition from Monday to Friday
• 7 nights of accommodation
• Learning material and final Spanish Diploma
• Yoga classes along the week
• Surf theory class
• Coaching session
• Welcome activity
• 5 surf lessons
• Surf photos

7-day Exclusive Surf Retreat in Cabo San Jose Del Cabo, Baja California Sur
US$425, including:

• 5 surf lessons
• 1 guided art-walk through San Jose art district
• All equipment, documentation photo and video, and professional instructors
• Daily healthy breakfast and ground transportation
• 6 nights accommodation
• Camping night

Budgeting a surf trip to Mexico

While Mexico used to be extremely cheap, prices have increased since the rise of digital nomads and post-Covid tourism. Here’s a realistic cost breakdown for surfers in 2025:

Travel Tips:

• Sayulita and Puerto Escondido are now quite popular and can get expensive in peak season (December to March).

• Look for surf camps or shared housing to save on accommodation.

• Street food is cheap, delicious, and an easy way to cut costs.

The post Ultimate Surfing Guide to Mexico appeared first on My Wave Finder.

With some of the best surf spots on Earth, Costa Rica is a longtime favorite when it comes to surfing destinations. This country is gifted with consistent waves, amazing tropical weather and a genuine “Pura Vida” surfing vibe. 

While surfing conditions might be very good and consistent, Costa Rica is still a pretty big country and deciding where to settle yourself on a surf trip can be confusing and overwhelming.

Here are 5 surf towns in Costa Rica that are considered as some of the best places to stay on a surf trip down in paradise!

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

1. Santa Teresa

Located on the southern end of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa is great place to venture off the beaten path and get a raw Costa Rican surfing experience. 

Read our complete surfing guide to Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

The small surf town of Santa Teresa has great beach breaks that will suit both beginners and advanced surfers. There are many hostels, restaurants and surf schools that help implement this great surfing atmosphere in Santa Teresa.

Find a Surf Camp in Santa Teresa Starting at US$199

2. Nosara

Just slightly up the coast is Nosara, another charming Costa Rican surf town. The main beach break is Playa Guiones, a perfect place to learn how to surf in Costa Rica.

Read our complete surfing guide to Nosara, Costa Rica

Nosara is also a pretty laidback and quiet town but still offers many places to eat, sleep and go out. You can also find several surf camps and surf schools in the area.

Book a Surf Camp in Nosara Starting at US$159

3. Tamarindo

Tamarindo is probably the most popular, but also the most Americanized surf town in Costa Rica. The heavy infrastructure along its wide beach brings a lot of options when it comes to places to stay but it makes the beach and surfing line up pretty packed as well.

For an easily accessible and convenient place to surf, Tamarindo is a great option. However, if you are looking for some tranquility and an uncrowded surf town, it might not be the best place for you…

Read our complete surfing guide to Tamarindo, Costa Rica

4. Jaco

Jaco is about an hour away from San Jose, the Costa Rican capital city making it one of the most accessible surf town in the country. Obviously, this feature comes at the cost of being pretty busy and crowded. 

Read our complete surfing guide to Jaco, Costa Rica

However, Jaco is a great surf town that has a mix of party and surf for people looking to enjoy their days and nights in Costa Rica!

Book a Surf Camp in Jaco Starting at US$149

5. Pavones

Pavones is the longest wave in Costa Rica and probably the best surf spot as well! Being fairly more remote than most other Costa Rican breaks, Pavones enjoys more reasonable crowds than any other popular surf spots. The ones who do make it down here are certain to enjoy some of the best surf in Costa Rica!

This tiny jungle village is right next to a world-class point break that every surfer dreams about!

Read our complete surfing guide to Pavones, Costa Rica

The post 5 Best Surf Spots in Costa Rica appeared first on My Wave Finder.

July is one of the best months of the year to go on a surf trip. Across the globe, many countries enjoy prime surfing conditions with consistent swells and waves peaking in size. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first green waves or an experienced surfer chasing barrels, July offers epic surf destinations for all levels.

Here are our 10 top surf spots for July that you should definitely have on your radar.

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

Sumbawa, Indonesia

• Suitable for: Intermediate & Expert
• Average wave size: 6 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★★ (100%)
• Water temperature: 29°C (84°F)
• Air temperature: 29°C (84°F)
• Crowd: Reasonable

Why surf Sumbawa in July?
Indonesia fires on all cylinders in July, and Sumbawa’s reef breaks are at their best. With heavy, hollow waves like Super Suck, Yoyo’s, and Lakey Peak, it’s a dream for experienced surfers. Beginners should stick to Bali or Lombok, which offer safer, mellow waves.

Read our complete surfing guide to Sumbawa, Indonesia

Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

• Suitable for: All levels
• Average wave size: 6 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★☆ (90%)
• Water temperature: 28°C (82°F)
• Air temperature: 29°C (84°F)
• Crowd: Reasonable

Why surf Arugam Bay in July?
July is Arugam Bay’s peak surf season. Soft, right-hand point breaks like Baby Point and Main Point offer perfect long rides for beginners and advanced surfers alike. The laidback vibe and stunning Sri Lankan coastline make it a bucket-list destination.

Read our complete surfing guide to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

San Jun Del Sur, Nicaragua

• Suitable for: All levels
• Average wave size: 5 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★☆ (85%)
• Water temperature: 29°C (84°F)
• Air temperature: 29°C (84°F)
• Crowd: Fairly crowded

Why surf Nicaragua in July?
Nicaragua has world-class conditions in July, powered by reliable offshore winds. San Juan Del Sur is a vibrant surf town with easy access to Playa Maderas, Playa Hermosa, and more. For a quieter surf trip, head to nearby Popoyo.

Read our complete surfing guide to San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

Find a surf camp in San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua

Kovalam, India

• Suitable for: All levels
• Average wave size: 6 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★☆ (90%)
• Water temperature: 28°C (82°F)
• Air temperature: 26°C (79°F)
• Crowd: Few people

Why surf Kovalam in July?
Often overlooked, Kovalam is one of India’s best surf spots. In July, the Indian Ocean sends in consistent swells, and the relaxed fishing village vibe makes it a unique surf trip for those seeking something off the beaten path.

Read our complete surfing guide to Kovalam, India

Bells Beach, Australia

• Suitable for: Intermediate & Advanced
• Average wave size: 8 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★☆ (80%)
• Water temperature: 10°C (50°F)
• Air temperature: 13°C (55°F)
• Crowd: Fairly crowded

Why surf Bells Beach in July?
July is Australia’s winter surf season, and Bells Beach is at its best. The waves are powerful and perfect for advanced surfers, but you’ll need a thick wetsuit. For warmer waters, head north to Byron Bay or the Gold Coast.

Read our complete surfing guide to Bells Beach, Torquay, Australia

Puerto Escondido, Mexico

• Suitable for: Intermediate & Advanced
• Average wave size: 12 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★★ (95%)
• Water temperature: 30°C (86°F)
• Air temperature: 30°C (86°F)
• Crowd: Fairly crowded

Why surf Puerto Escondido in July?
Home to the legendary Mexican Pipeline, July is peak season at Playa Zicatela. Expect heavy barrels and pumping surf. If conditions get too big, nearby breaks like La Punta offer more manageable waves.

Read our complete surfing guide to Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Find a Surf Camp in Puerto Escondido, starting at US$389

Tofino, Canada

• Suitable for: All levels
• Average wave size: 5 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★☆☆ (60%)
• Water temperature: 15°C (59°F)
• Air temperature: 17°C (63°F)
• Crowd: Fairly crowded

Why surf Tofino in July?
Tofino is Canada’s surf capital. July offers mellow longboard waves, great for beginners and intermediate surfers. The summer weather is at its best, and the natural beauty of Vancouver Island is a huge draw.

Read our complete surfing guide to Tofino, Canada

Montañita, Ecuador

• Suitable for: All levels
• Average wave size: 6 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★★ (100%)
• Water temperature: 22°C (72°F)
• Air temperature: 24°C (75°F)
• Crowd: Reasonable

Why surf Montañita in July?
Ecuador’s prime surf season peaks in July. Montañita offers fun, consistent waves with a lively surf-town vibe. Even though it’s technically winter, the weather remains very pleasant.

Read our complete surfing guide to Montañita, Ecuador

Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

• Suitable for: Intermediate & Advanced
• Average wave size: 5 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★★★ (95%)
• Water temperature: 17°C (63°F)
• Air temperature: 17°C (63°F)
• Crowd: Fairly crowded

Why surf Jeffrey’s Bay in July?
July is prime time at J-Bay, one of the world’s longest and most perfect right-hand point breaks. Expect long rides and flawless walls of water. This is a dream destination for intermediate and advanced surfers.

Read our complete surfing guide to Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

Waikiki, Hawaii

• Suitable for: All levels
• Average wave size: 5 feet
• Swell consistency: ★★★☆☆ (75%)
• Water temperature: 27°C (81°F)
• Air temperature: 27°C (81°F)
• Crowd: Very crowded

Why surf Waikiki in July?
July is prime season for Waikiki’s long, rolling waves. Perfect for beginners and longboarders, Waikiki is one of the best spots in Hawaii to learn and enjoy a classic surf trip. Expect crowds, but the aloha vibe makes it all worthwhile.

Read our complete surfing guide to Oahu, Hawaii

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

With all the amazing waves and surf spots around the globe, it definitely is not easy to narrow it down to the 10 best waves on Earth. However, here is our list of the 10 surf spots which, in our opinion, all have a little something special that makes them stand out from the rest…

Try our WaveFinder search engine to find out which waves suit you best!

10. Pasta Point, Maldives

Just a short ferry ride from Male, the country’s capital city is a private island called Dhonveli. This beautiful island is home to the Maldives’ best and most consistent wave, Pasta Point. Getting to surf this high-end reef break with only you and a few other surfers out (30 people max.) is something that can’t really be found these days. If you cannot afford to stay at the Dhonveli Resort, there are a few similar “public” waves in the area like Honky’s and Sultan’s.

Read our Surfing Guide to the Maldives

9. P-Pass, Micronesia

This one is probably the least known in the whole countdown but it totally deserves its rank. P-Pass is located on the Federated States of Micronesia‘s main island, Pohnpei. It is a powerful and hollow right-hand wave that was surfed by many of the world’s best surfers either on strike missions or posing for magazines. 

Being a bit far from land, the only way to get access to the wave is by boat which are offered by a few surfing companies, the main one being the Pohnpei Surf Club.

Read our Surfing Guide to The Federated States of Micronesia

8. Lance’s Right, Mentawai Islands, Indonesia

Lance’s Right is located in the Mentawai Island chain which is becoming the new surfing mecca. More and more surfers discover the potential of the waves of this region, Lance’s Right being the main attraction. This wave is a hollow and fast right-hand break that will challenge even the best surfers out there. 

Read our Surfing Guide to The Mentawai Islands

7. Superbank, Gold Coast, Australia

The Gold Coast is a huge surfing scene in Australia, mostly because of Superbank, a man-enhanced sandy point break that provides great waves any day of the year. Even when conditions are bad (onshore wind and messy swells), there will still be something to catch out there. However, when conditions become epic, like what we saw with the last few cyclones, this wave breaks all the way from Snapper Rocks to Kirra for the ride of a lifetime.

Read our Surfing Guide to the east coast of Australia

6. Honolua Bay, Maui, Hawaii

Located in the heart of West Maui, Honolua Bay is a consistent and long right-hand wave that has some barreling sections as well as long carving walls. Usually lighting up on a westerly swell, Honolua Bay attracts a pretty big crowd being by far the best option to surf on Maui’s west side.

Read our Surfing Guide to Maui, Hawaii

5. Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia

Uluwatu is Bali‘s most popular and picturesque surf spot, located at the bottom of some very impressive cliffs. This wave typically has three different takeoff spots which link together on good swells forming an extra long wave with a few cover-up sections and some straight walls to pump some speed. Crowds are usually a big factor, but the whole setup is just too good to skip.

Read our Surfing Guide to Bali, Indonesia

4. Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

Jeffrey’s Bay is a series of consistent, world-class point breaks which can sometimes connect and form one of the most epic and longest waves on Earth. From barrels to high-speed sections, J-Bay is a versatile wave that will take your surfing to the next level.

Read our Surfing Guide to Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

3. Cloudbreak, Fiji

Located next to Tavarua, a small island in Fiji, Cloudbreak is a very consistent reef break that offers a long, powerful and insanely fast wave. Every professional surfer made it at least once down there to get covered on one of those Fijian bombs. Cloudbreak works on most days, whether it is 4 feet or 20 feet+…

Read our Surfing Guide to Fiji

2. Teahupo’o, Tahiti

Teahupo’o is the most perfect barrel on the planet, period. Whether it is from 4 feet or 25 feet+, this wave will stay just as hollow and clean. At first, what may look like a closeout, suddenly offers an end section that spits you out in the channel for a 4-5 seconds ride maximum. However, this wave is not about length, it is about the thrill. Given its remote location, Teahupo’o remains much less crowded than Pipeline and the town is still very raw.

The general setup is also gorgeous with crystal clear water and a jaw-dropping landscape shaped by volcanic mountains in the back. Be ready to touch the reef and break a few boards.

Read our Surfing Guide to Tahiti, French Polynesia

1. Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii

It was pretty natural to award the number one spot to the Queen of all waves, Pipeline. Not only is this wave totally insane, it has a deep and magical history. Many great surfers grew up on this wave to later be crowned as world champions on that same wave. Pipeline is a hollow and powerful Hawaiian reef break that offers consistent and perfect tube rides, wave after wave.

Although it is considered as one of the best waves on Earth, it most definitely is also the most dangerous one. Many surfers have suffered serious injuries on this reef, some of them paying the cost of life. That doesn’t stop all the professional surfers from heading down to Pipeline every winter to battle in the Pipe Masters and get ready for the next season.

Read our Surfing Guide to Oahu, Hawaii

The post The World’s 10 Best Surfing Waves appeared first on My Wave Finder.

Summary

Sumbawa is a true surfer’s paradise with warm water, world-class reef breaks and some of the cheapest food and accommodation prices out of any surfing destination. Ever since many professional surfers started training and shooting at spots like Yoyo, Lakey Peak, Scar Reef and Super Suck, the island of Sumbawa became a must-visit surfing destination for many surfing enthusiasts.

Sumbawa is second neighbor to Bali, right after the island of Lombok. It is therefore exposed to the same swells as the other two famous Indonesian surfing islands, minus most of the crowds. Double win right there…

While YoYo’s, Scar Reef and Lakey Peak will get their share of surfers on good surf days, there are still many other empty spots to discover either on the west or east side of the island.

An extremely rewarding surfing destination

Sumbawa is much wider than Bali or Lombok, so getting around will be a little bit more difficult than what you are used to. However, the quietness of the island is incredibly rewarding. You will find yourself in a very peaceful and gorgeous surfing environment making it hard to go back to the Balinese craziness.

As most surf spots on Sumbawa break over reef and some of them are very hollow, beginners will probably feel like the journey is not really worth it for them compared to more advanced surfers who will definitely make the most of it. Intermediate surfers will definitely have their days with head high waves that will help them progress in the sport.

Sumbawa is also very lush and wild. When the surf is not good or when the wind picks up make sure you go explore the island and its incredible waterfalls.

When to go

While there are waves all year, the best time to surf Sumbawa is during the dry season which runs from April to September. That is when swells are much more consistent and winds are favorable. However, even during the low season, there are still great surfing conditions in Sumbawa.

Surf Camps in Sumbawa

Find a surf camp in Sumbawa, starting at US$830

• Surf guide
• Fruit (watermelon / banana)
• 1 big bottle mineral water and free refill every day
• Private car from Lombok, West Sumbawa and return to Lombok
• 5 night accommodations
• Ticket of ferry transfer
• Boat charter

Where to stay in Sumbawa

As mentioned above, Sumbawa is a pretty big island! You will not be able to drive across the island for a surf check. Therefore, you really have two options when it comes to where to stay on a surf trip to Sumbawa. The west side or the east side. Typically, West Sumbawa is more popular as it is closer to the Lombok ferry and, more importantly, closer to popular surf spots like Scar Reef, Super Suck and YoYo’s. There are several homestays to chose from in West Sumbawa.

If you chose the east side, where Lakey Peak is located, there are also many homestays to chose from.

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

Getting there

Multiple ferries run from Lombok to West Sumbawa everyday. The ride takes a couple hours and is rather cheap. You also have the option to use a speedboat which will be more expensive and will take you closer to YoYo’s. If you aim to surf Lakey Peak on the East side of the island, flying might be a better option as you will not have to cross the entire island.

Surf Spots in Sumbawa

Yoyo’s

A fast barreling right with a nice ramp to launch a few air maneuvers. Located on the southern end of West Sumbawa, Yoyo’s should be kept for advanced surfers. Early morning is the best time to surf YoYo’s before winds pick up. YoYo’s is only surfable at mid or high tide and is one of the rare right-handers in Sumbawa.

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

Scar Reef

Another very challenging wave that breaks over a shallow and sharp reef, hence its name. Scar Reef is a world-class barreling wave that is often visited by professional surfers.

Wave direction : Left
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Low for barrels, high for a bit more mellow waves
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : SE

Super Suck

Also located in West Sumbawa, Super Suck is another typical Indonesian hollow reef break that should be kept for skilled surfers. 

Wave direction : Left
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Low for hollow waves
Skill level : Advanced
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : E

Lakey Peak

Lakey Peak is located on the east side of Sumbawa but also catches the SW swells. Lakey Peak is a world-famous wave with a very nice setup breaking both left and right. Definitely worth the trip for a high quality break with only a fraction of Bali’s crowd. (On a good day it will still be quite crowded)

Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Reef
Best tide : Any
Skill level : Intermediate and Advanced
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : E

Tropicals

Just on the other side of the head point from Yoyo’s, Tropicals is probably the softest wave in west Sumbawa. Breaking next to a beautiful white sand beach, the break is just a 5 minute paddle out from the Nomad Tropical resort. Depending on the wind direction, Tropicals can be either blown out or sheltered from the head point. A good alternative to Yoyo’s…

Wave direction : Left and right
Bottom : Sand and reef
Best tide : Mid
Skill level : All
Optimal swell direction : SW
Optimal wind direction : NE

Periscopes

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

Safety/things to know

• Malaria is present is Sumbawa. It is therefore recommended to bring Malaria tablets to prevent illnesses.
• Most roads are windy and do not have any lights. It is recommended to avoid driving at night especially if you are driving motorcycles.
• Apart from surfing, there are not that many activities to do in Sumbawa. You can check out a few waterfalls or enjoy a day at the beach but it can get a bit boring after a few flat days.
• Another important thing to keep in mind when surfing in Sumbawa is that the nearest healthcare center can be quite far away from the surf breaks.

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