If your idea of a perfect vacation is paddling through turquoise deep blue water, admiring the coastline as the sun rises, and riding perfect waves, then it’s time to plan your dream surf trip.
Whether it’s the endless surf spots on the Gold Coast, the stunning Jeffreys Bay, or the enchanting beaches of Bali, we have put together a guide to the best surfing in the world. Our guide covers why each place is special, how to get there, where to stay, the types of waves, recommended surfboard and gear to pack, and other critical information. We also explain which surf spot is best for beginners or advanced surfers. Finally, we finish this guide with our top recommendedsurfboards and a few essential tips to make your surfing experience more enjoyable.
The Gold Coast in Australia and Bali are the best options for beginners and families looking to plan a surf trip with surf camps, schools, and tons of amenities. The Gold Coast has a diverse option of surf breaks for all levels, family-friendly accommodations, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Similarly in Bali, there are many types of surf breaks, reasonably-priced accommodations, plus incredibly unique cultural sights.
Pipeline Oahu and Jeffreys Bay are only recommended for advanced surfers because of the fast and powerful breaks.
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Queensland’s Gold Coast is a world-famous surfer’s paradise for a reason. This stunning coastline has 25 miles of incredible surf spots with a die-hard local surf community. Because there are so many breaks, it’s a great option for beginners, families, and experienced surfers.
Snapper Rocks is known for having one of the most consistent waves and is home to the famous Corona
Open Gold Coast surfing competition. Snapper is a point break in Rainbow Bay, at the end of a long headland that sticks out south of Kirra. When the larger Southeast and Eastern swells hit, it gets consistent right-hand and hollow waves that charge right into Rainbow Bay, letting the skilled surfers ride for several hundred yards.
Right around from Snapper Rocks are Kirra and Rainbow Bay. Kirra is known to be one of the best right sand point breaks which can get incredible barrels when the right swells hit. Rainbow Bay is a great surf spot for beginner surfers as they have gentle, rolling waves and a ton of surf schools and camps in the area
How to Get There: To get to Snapper Rocks/Kirra/Rainbow Bay, fly into Gold Coast Airport and drive 10-15 minutes to Snapper Rock
Best Place to Stay:Coolangatta YHA Backpackers is a popular hostel and affordable choice plus you can rent surfboards on-site.The Pink Hotel Coolangatta is a cool 1950’s 1950s-style hotel that’s only a 15-minute walk from the beach.Kirra Beach Tourist Park has simple beach cabins and is also only 15 minutes away
Where to Park: Parking for Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay, and Kirra are all the same because the breaks are in the same area. There is free parking along Snapper Rocks Road, Marine Parade, and Ward Street however the spots are limited to 3 to 4-hour blocks on the weekends and public holidays from 9 am to 5 pm. More infohere
Waves:
Snapper Rocks: Reliable, long right-hand point breaks
Kirra Point: known for barrels and right-hand point breaks
Rainbow Bay: clean, cruiser waves for beginners, and behind the rock, there are fast-paced breaks for experienced riders.
Best Time to Go: March to May (fall) or June to August (winter)
Tide Schedules: check out the local surf report as timing can vary with the season
Best Surfboard:Shortboard for maneuverability in powerful waves. For beginners, a largesoft top surfboard is a good option as you’ll want one with greater volume
Gear: If there are decent swells, you’ll need a 2mm long-sleeve shorty or a 3/2mm spring wetsuit. Also don’t forget your reef booties, helmet, leash, wax, sunscreen
Lifeguards patrol a tower by Snapper Rocks Road daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Swim between the red and yellow flags (patrolled area)
Tourist visas are required for US citizens
Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
Jeffreys Bay (known as J-Bay) in the Eastern Cape of South Africa is home to the famous Supertubes, arguably the best right-hand point break in surfing. It hosts annual surf competitions and is known for its long, fast, and perfectly shaped right-hand point break.
It’s located at the east end of the Garden Route, one of the most beautiful drives in Africa, known for stunning wine country and bays home to wildlife like penguins and whales.
There are five spots in Jeffreys, the most notable being Supertubes and Boneyards. Main Beach has gentle mush waves and A-frame waves for beginners.
While advanced surfers will love the powerful ways at Jeffreys Bay, there are also great waves for beginners and intermediates.
How to Get There: Fly through Capetown, then connect domestically to Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport. Then drive 1 hour west to Jeffreys Bay
Hotel:Aloe Again is a reasonable 3-star accommodation right on the beach.Mandyville Hotel is a modern 4-star guesthouse in Jeffreys Bay with easy walking distance to the beach and local
Where to Park: this is public parking (or as the locals call it a “car park”) at the corner of Diaz Road and Swart Street
Waves: Long, fast, and hollow right-hand point break
Best Time to Go: there are great waves all year round however the peak time to surf is the winter, especially June and July, though winter in SA stretches from May to August.
Best Surfboard: Shortboard for maneuverability and speed if you’re surfing Supertubes and Boneyards
Gear: the waters are warm all year round but reach their warmest at the beginning of February. It’s recommended you use a 2mm top or shorty at sunrise or sunset, or if it’s windy. By the time it’s winter (early August), we recommend a 3.2 mm sealed wetsuit. Don’t forget your leash, wax, and sun protection
Considerations:
Safety: while Jeffreys Bay is reasonably safe, South Africa has a reputation for a high crime rate and muggings. Be cautious and ask your hotel for tips on the best places to visit and areas to avoid. Keep your car locked while driving and don’t be flashy or careless with your valuables
Lifeguards: lifeguards are present during the beach season of December to March (but are not present during the winter). Please check the local websites for more info
Sharks: Jeffreys Bay is known for sharks. Be aware and follow local guidance
Requirements: Tourist visas are required for US citizens
Hossegor, France
Hosssegor is the most famous surf town in France known for its truly legendary beach breaks, world-class beach competitions, and festive nightlife. The surf itself refers to 20-30 miles of the Landes coastline where there are a ton of beach breaks. The breaks are consistently fast-paced, challenging with hollow barrels and they can reach 15 feet or higher when the right swells strike. These waves are created from a massive underwater canyon that feeds into the Bay of Biscay.
The town itself is home to many surf hostels, camps, and beach bars. And it’s not just for experts - beginners and families love the town in the summer months. This time of year, the waves are gentle at La Sud and perfect for learning.
How to Get There: If you’re flying from North America, you’ll have to fly to a major European airport, then connect to Biarritz, then drive about 30 minutes to Hossegor. To avoid the transfer, you can fly directly into Bordeaux and drive 2.5 hours to Hossegor. If you prefer to avoid car rentals, fly into Paris, and take the high-speed train to Saint-Vincent-de-Tyrosse. You can catch a 10-minute cab to Hossegor.
Best Place to Stay:
Camping:Naturéo is an elevated campground and eco-resort, a 6-minute drive away from the main beach.
Hotel:Jo & Joe is a relaxed surf-themed boutique hotel with affordable prices and a great place to meet surfers. It’s a 20-minute walk to the main beach or a 4-minute drive.Hôtel de La Plage sits right on the main beach at Hossegor, with incredible beach views and a few minutes walk to La Sud
Where to Park: there is plenty of street parking by all the breaks. You can park on Boulevard de la Dune
Waves:
La Graviere is the most famous break and part of the surf competitions. It’s for experts only. These heavy, challenging barrels when the right conditions hit
La Sud is best for beginners, located at the southernmost break at the end of the beach, protected by the harbor and sandbank. It features left and right breaks that are short and gentle
Best Time to Visit: Best between September and November.
Tide Schedules: tides change depending on the season so check out the localsurf report. In the summer, go early to avoid the surf schools and crowds
Best Surfboard: Shortboard for performance in powerful beach breaks
Gear: in the peak of summer heat, you can get away with shorts and a rash guard, or a 2mm shorty. In the middle of winter, it’s recommended you wear a 4/3mm with boots. Don’t forget your leash, wax, and sun protection
Requirements:
Be aware of rip tides, especially on big swell days at the advanced beaches
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is home to a vibrant, international surf culture, which isn't surprising as there are breaks along 50% of the island’s coast and the water is warm year-round. The three main surfing areas are East Bali, The Bukit, and the Southwest. The Southwest Coast includes the famous Kuta Beach and Canggu, which are great for beginners because the beaches are shallower, and have fewer rocks and reefs than other areas. It’s also home to great surf schools and can be surfed year-round.
The Bukit is where the most famous waves are located, like Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Bingin. It’s perfect for intermediate surfers and above. It’s definitely busy all year round, especially during the dry season.
How to Get There: Fly into Ngurah Rai International Airport (Denpasar). You can take a taxi or private car to get to Canggu, Kuta, or Uluwatu. If you’re coming from another spot in Bali, pre-book your transfer for the best price.
Best Place to Stay:
Canggu:Surf Lodge Canggu is a classic Balinese-owned homestay with a private pool, that’s only half a mile from the beach.COMO Uma Canggu is an elevated luxury beachfront hotel with Scandi-style interiors and a view of Echo beach
Kuta:Lokal Bali Hostel is a popular, affordable option with AC dorms and a pool to meet other surfers. For a more elevated option, theAdi Dharma Hotel has traditional Balinese architecture and has free shuttles to Kuta Beach.
Uluwatu: Uluwatu Beach, Padang Padang Beach and Bingin Beach are 20 minutes apart. There are a ton of surf lodges and camps likeTregge Surf Camp.The Korowai is a clifftop 4-star hotel with incredible views, a restaurant, and a patio.
Where to Park: all the beaches have street-side parking near the entrances.
Waves:
Kuta: has a beach break that breaks both left and right along a 2km stretch of sandy beach, which makes it great for beginners
Canggu: has 6 different breaks, including several reef breaks, a beach break, and a river mouth
Uluwatu: has five left-handed reef breaks that range in wave size. It’s a legendary spot that peaks during the dry season. It is perfect for all those goofy riders. Best from April to October
Padang Padang: has 2 reef breaks, one for experts Padang Padang) and one for beginners (Baby Padang). Padang Padang is a hardcore left-handed break with consistent barrels, while Baby breaks right. Best from April to October
Bingin: has 2 left reef breaks that produce clean barrels from June to August. Note that there’s a tight take-off so best for more experienced surfers
Best Time to Visit: you can surf all year round, however, it reaches its peak tourist season during the dry season (May to October)
Best Surfboard: Shortboard for performance waves, longboard for mellower spots.
Gear: during the dry season, you can wear just board shorts or a rash guard. During the rainy season, you’ll likely want a lightweight shorty. Don’t forget your leash, wax, sunscreen
Considerations:
Tourist visas are required for US citizens
Banzai Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii
We couldn’t do a “Best Place to Surf” guide without mentioning the Holy Grail of surfing. This legendary surf reef breaks at Ehukai Beach Park, Pupukea on Oahu’s North Shore. This break is surfed by the best professional surfers in the world, as it’s known for some of the most powerful hollow waves. In the winter waves can reach as high as 20 feet.
This North Shore spot has such powerful waves because the wave travels for miles through the open ocean before crashing on limestone reefs right by the beach.
It’s recommended for professional surfers due to the fast and powerful breaks and tides. Even if the waves are too much for you, it’s a popular spot to admire the most talented and tenacious surfers who take on the famous waves.
How to Get There: Fly into Honolulu International Airport, then drive to Ehukai Beach Park, Pupukea on Oahu’s North Shore.
If you’re coming from the north, go south on HI-83 (Kamehameha Highway), past Sunset Beach, and look for Sunset Beach Elementary School on the left. The parking lot and beach access are past the school entrance on the right. Look out for blue and white signs that say “beach access”
If you’re coming from the south, go north on HI-83 (Kamehameha Highway), past the 77-mile mark, and look for Sunset Beach Elementary on the left. The entrance is left of the tennis courts. The school’s address is 59-360 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Hotel:Backpackers Hawaii is a hostel located right in Pupukea.Kalani Hawaii Lodging is a charming, boutique option a 5 minutes drive from the beach. If you’re looking for a more upscale option, the 4-starTurtle Bay Resort is a 10-minute drive from Ehukai Beach Park.
Where to Park: there is limited parking by Ehukai Beach Park, but when the waves are big, you may have to park next to Kamehameha Highway. You can park on the ocean side of the road, just watch out for No Parking signs. If you’re coming from the south you can also park on the street, just past a lifeguard tower Ke Waena on your left.
Waves: Powerful, fast, and hollow waves that break left over a shallow reef. Waves range from - 20 feet tall. Best during the winter months (November to February). It is quite calm in the summer and a great option to swim.
Best Time to Go: November to February is the peak time to surf (though no swimming is allowed when there are big waves). In the summer it’s a swimmable beach
Tide Schedules: waves are best in the morning until 10 am. Check out thelocal surf report
Best Surfboard: Shortboard for maneuverability in a powerful wave
Gear: Banzai is warm all year round and you could get away with a rash vest and shorts. Water temperature reaches its coldest in February so you may want a 2mm top or a shorty at sunrise or sunset or if it’s windy. Don’t forget your reef booties, helmet, leash, and wax
Considerations:
Check out theocean safety warnings before you go and watch out for warning flags that may come out during deadly waves. Read the surf report and talk to the lifeguards.
Not recommended unless you’re a very advanced surfer as the undertow and tides are extremely strong
Amenities: there are usually lifeguards from 9 am - 5:30 pm, 7 days a week. There is parking, public restrooms, tables, and showers. Usually, there are food trucks parked across the beach
The Best Surfboards
If you’re looking for the bestsurfboards for you, keep reading! If you’re just getting started, remember that the number one tip for choosing a surfboard for beginners is to avoid a shortboard. Who’s considered a beginner? If you’ve never surfed or surfed only a handful of times, then you’re a beginner. It’s possible to progress quickly, but as with most skilled pursuits “time on task” is the main factor towards progression.
As a beginner, you need a long, thick, and wide surfboard. It will be easier to paddle into waves and stand up. A long, thick, and wide surfboard has more volume, which means it has more buoyancy. The added width gives you more stability, making it easier to pop up and stand. Plus longer boards are easier to catch waves with.
At ISLE, ourCoronado is a soft top longboard that is a great surfboard that you can learn on and grow with. It’s 8’ long, lightweight, and easy to take on the go. Your beginners board should be at least 1 foot taller than your height, or at least 2 feet taller than kids (aged 7-12). Soft-top surfboards arethe best option for kids.
If you’re more experienced, theNugget is our high-performance soft-top shortboard with a quad-fin. It’s built for durability and power. This short but strong board (5’4”) helps riders surf down the line or on big open waves. The wider deck means it’s easy to maneuver, plus the shorter size means you can easily generate speed. It’s also lightweight at 9 lbs.
Finally, we have theNomad, a soft top short surfboard that works for daily use or on the go. It’s a short board at 6’6” that weighs in only at 10 lb. It’s designed with a pulled-in thumb tail with full rails for easy paddling.
We hope that you’ve enjoyed our detailed guide on the best places to go surfing in the world. We hope that you make unforgettable memories and enjoy seeing the world from the water!
