Not everyone has the luxury of starting their surfing journey early on in life. For those of you who are thinking about getting into surfing, now is the time!
Unfortunately, you can’t just step foot on any surfing beach, as some conditions are too heavy for beginners, not to mention some locals are too territorial to play nice with new surfers. If you’re starting out – you must try one of the best places to learn to surf.
That’s why we’re here to give you a list of the 7 best destinations to learn how to surf so that you can find your inner waterman (woman) wherever you are!
Waikiki, Hawaii
Waikiki is one of the best beaches in Hawaii for beginners. With incredibly warm waters and mushy waves that allow for easy paddling, you’ll have far more fun than frustration when it comes to learning. There is also a wide array of surf schools up and down Waikiki Beach, meaning you’ll get to learn alongside other tourists who are taking a whack at the sport. Waikiki is one of the best places to learn how to surf and let’s be honest, it’s a beautiful one too. Read our tips on how to travel in Hawaii on a budget.
If you’re feeling fancy, you can even book a room at the Royal Hawaiian!
Huntington Beach, CA
Huntington Beach is the best place to learn how to surf. Just about any day that you walk out to the pier, you’ll see myriads of surfers, beginner to expert, waiting in the lineup or gliding in the mush. There are tons of surf schools in the area, as well as private lessons, where you can rent all the gear you need to get started. That is unless you want to get yourself a classic, So Cal started board like the Odysea from Catch Surf.
One of the great things about Huntington Beach is that the waves stretch for miles, allowing you to find your own little safe spot to practice. It’s no wonder why they call it “Surf City U.S.A”.
Taghazout, Morocco
With great waves throughout the year and inexpensive rental options, Taghazout is a more-than-ideal spot to learn how to surf, the reason being the variety of surf and yoga retreats that the locals have set up for adventurous tourists. These surf retreats put together small groups of beginner surfers so that you can learn and make friends with other travelers, which is a massive plus!
Oh yeah, did we mention there are camels on the beaches?! Yes – Morocco is a great place to learn surfing.
Byron Bay, Australia
Make your way to the land down under and surf one of Australia’s best surf spots for beginners: Byron Bay. Here you’ll find cool, jewel waters with calm waves that are great for getting your balance. Byron Bay is definitely the best place to learn to surf.
There are a plethora of great surf schools in the area that run at around standard US prices, giving you everything you need to begin your shared journey. When you’re all done, go check out the famous Byron Bay lighthouse or try your hand at scuba diving. You’re a water warrior now!
New Smyrna Beach, Florida
Florida may not come to mind for many when you mention surfing, though go to New Smyrna Beach and you’ll find miles and miles of shore with breaks that are surprisingly consistent for the region. The beauty of these waves is that they’re nice and small, allowing you to cruise around, classic-style, in a rented longboard.
Nichols Surf Shop is a household name down in New Smyrna, and the spot we highly recommend going to rent your board for the day.
Costa Rica
Surfers flock from all over the world to get down to Costa Rica, as there are many spots on the Atlantic Coast with serious waves.
For those starting out, ride down to Costa Rica’s Pacific Coast and check out the number of surf camps along the way. Playa Tamarindo is easily one of the most prominent beginner spots on the Pacific side. Stay at the resort and get some all-inclusive lessons while you’re there!
Santa Cruz, CA
Santa Cruz is one of the proudest cities on the west coast when it comes to surfing. Ever heard of O’Neill? They were born here! Though there are many pro beaches out in these parts, there are also a number of beginner spots, such as Capitola Beach, where you can go to get your bearings straight. The waves are typically small all-year-round, allowing you to learn and have fun!
By now, you have a solid list of beginner surf spots around the globe. Stop dreaming of surfing and get out there now! There’s no better time to hit the waves than the present. We hope this article has inspired you to take on new challenges in your life!
Travel Insurance for Surfing
Make sure you get your travel insurance, especially if you’re planning on surfing. Surfing is a challenging sport, and even if you try to stay safe, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Also, you should make sure your travel insurance covers your potential surfing injuries.
