7 Top Surfing Spots Around The World to Catch Your First Wave

Top Surfing Spots Around the World That Are Ideal For Learning To Surf and Catching Your First Wave

Waikiki, Byron Bay, Bali, and Punta Mita may sound like cities you may know. But, what you may not know is that they are fantastic surfing spots to catch your first wave. It is vital that as a beginner, you get the right water conditions to remain safe. However, it can be challenging to know the best spots when you are looking for a vacation destination.

Our article will show you the best surfing spots for beginners. The destinations we have focused on providing ideal water conditions for beginners. To paraphrase the words of Phil Edwards, the American Surfing Legend, the steps to becoming a great surfer begins when you have fun. So book your vacation in one of the following top surfing destinations and perfect your surfing skills.

Hawaii – Waikiki

Image by: Photo By: Lance Cpl. Reece E. Lodder

Hawaii stands out as an iconic surfing spot and attracts many visitors who want to test the waters. Waikiki is home to the surfer extraordinaire and Olympic gold medal swimmer Duke Kahanamoku. The weather is ideal, and the smooth waves are excellent for surfing from beginner to expert level. Some of the places to check out include Alana Moana Bowls, Fours, Canoes, Queens Surf, and Publics, among others. You will find support from instructors who will guide you through your surfing lessons. You have the option of individual or group lessons, depending on what you prefer. You can also hire the appropriate equipment at a friendly price.

Australia – Byron Bay

Flickr by: UQ-ICTE

Byron’s Bay has a reputation for being one of the best surfing travel and vacation destinations. You get to join many other surfers at different levels of expertise and can get some fantastic tips to perfect your skill. Other places to check out include First Point in Queensland, Greenmount Beach in Gold Coast Queensland, Clarke’s Beach, Yamba Main Beach, and Crescent Head at New South Wales. Remember to carry your camera along so that you capture some fantastic pictures at the beaches.

Indonesia – Bali

has the distinction of having first-class waves, and you can experience some of them in Bali. Make sure you check out Kuta Beach and let the instructors show you how to ride the waves. You also have many fantastic spots such as Padang Padang Rights, Dreamland, Jimbaran, and Batubolong Beach. The waters are mellow and are great for anyone who is just starting to learn how to surf. Best of all you do not have to worry about wearing a heavy wetsuit due to the fantastic weather.

United States – San Diego

Wikimedia Commons: U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Jason J. Perry

California is a Surfers Paradise, and one of the best places to visit is San Onofre State Beach. You will find it at the border of Camp Pendleton and San Clemente. The cobblestone reefs break the waves, thus making them ideal for beginners. Other fantastic places to learn how to surf include Cowells in Santa Cruz, Zuma Beach, and Surfrider beaches in Malibu, Leo Carrillo in Los Angeles, and moonlight beach at Encinitas. Other excellent spots include tamarack beach in Carlsbad and sunset cliffs in San Diego.

Mexico – Punta Mita

You will find many surfing spots in Mexico due to the number of small surfing towns. Such include Sayulita, San Blas in Nayarit, San Agustinillo, and Playa Carrizalilli in Oaxaca, Troncones in Guerrero. If you would prefer to learn in a quiet environment away from the crowds, you should check out Punta Mita in Nayarit. You get mellow, warm water and several surfing schools that are only too happy to provide lessons to beginners.

Portugal- Algarve

Flickr by: Tiago J. G. Fernandes

Portugal is a surfer destination due to the number of beaches and fun surfing activities. The Town of Sagres offers many options for beginners. There are a large number of schools and camps available in the area. You can rent equipment and take your lessons on some of the less crowded beaches. Other beaches in the area include Arrifana Beach, Amado beach, Castelejo beach, Beliche Beach, and Zavial.

United States – Florida

Florida is home to Kelly Slater, the 11-time world surfing champion. Other notable names you may be familiar with include Lisa Andersen and the surfing brothers C.J. and Damien Hobgood. You get long stretches of beach, and the water is ideal for beginners. The waves are consistent, the water temperature is comfortable, and when you get tired, you can relax on the beach. Some of the best areas to try out include Sebastian’s inlet, New Smyrna Beach Inlet, Ponce Inlet, Beach Pier, reef Road, and R.C.

We have shared some of the best surfing spots for anyone who is just beginning. The places we have highlighted have mellow water, ideal temperatures, and other fun activities that you can enjoy during your vacation. It is, however, essential that you do not attempt to go into the water on your own if you are learning to surf. That is why we have also taken the time to look at places where you can get instructors or surf schools to help you learn.

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About The Author:  Emilia Reid is a freelance travel writer. Currently she
is helping build up content for TravelDepartment.com