Best Places to Surf in the World

The Ultimate Guide

Based on our experience and desire to help everyone start their surfing journey. We curated a comprehensive list of the best places to surf in the world.

This isn't just about finding any wave;
it's about finding the right wave for you.

We'll cover the best surf destinations, perfect surf camps to connect with fellow wave riders, and beginner-friendly beaches ideal for learning the fundamentals.

No matter your budget or experience, this guide will help you find and plan your ideal surfing trip.

John Boyle head surf instrocter of Beach Break Surf Camp in Playa Venao, Panama
Written by John Boyle
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Last updated March 14, 2025.
Aerial view of a beach filled with several surfers with their surfing boards laying on the sand

1.

Best Surf Destinations Around the Globe

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Two people walking on the beach with their surfboards under their arms, watching the sunset

2.

Immerse Yourself: The Best Surf Camps for Every Wave Chaser

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Aerial view of Beach Break Surf Camp in Playa Venao, Panama

3.

Beginner-Friendly Waves: Best Places to Learn to Surf

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A surf instrucoter holding a surfboard above his head with a happy kid on top of it

4.

Conclusion – Your Wave Awaits

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Several smiling surfers posing in fron of the camera with their surfboards behind them
chapter 1:

Best Surf Destinations Around the Globe

Picture this: turquoise barrels, endless point breaks, and waves that feel like they’re straight out of a surfer’s daydream. The world is packed with epic surf spots, but only a few earn legendary status.

These destinations aren’t just about good waves—they’re about unforgettable experiences.

So, what makes a surf spot truly iconic?
We’ve ridden the research wave to break it down:

  • Wave Quality: From hollow barrels to mellow rollers, shape matters.‍
  • Consistency: No one wants flat days. Reliable swells = happy surfers.‍
  • Accessibility: Can you get there without a 10-hour jungle trek
  • ‍Vibes: Friendly locals, surf culture, and jaw-dropping scenery.‍
  • Variety: Spots for beginners, pros, and everyone in between.

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Ready to paddle out?
Let’s dive into the world’s most legendary surf destinations.

Aerial view of a beach filled with several surfers with their surfing boards laying on the sand

1. Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii – The Ultimate Test

John Boyle surfing through a pipeline wave

Wave Breakdown:

  • Lefts: Heavy, fast barrels (aka “Pipe”).
  • Rights: “Backdoor” offers shorter but equally gnarly rides.
  • Best For: Experts only. Seriously.

Local Vibe: The North Shore oozes surf history. Watch the pros at the Vans Triple Crown or grab a shrimp plate from Giovanni’s.

When to Go: November–March (winter swells). Summer? Flat as a lake.

Stay Here: From budget hostels in Haleiwa to luxe rentals on Pupukea Road. Fly into Honolulu (HNL), then drive 1 hour north.

Why It’s Legendary: Pipeline isn’t just a wave—it’s surfing’s holy grail.
This Oahu North Shore beast serves up thick, hollow barrels over a shallow reef.

Pro tip: Respect the locals. This isn’t the spot for your first time on a shortboard.

2. Jeffreys Bay, South Africa – The Perfect Right

A woman holding a surfboard with the sunset backdrop on the beach

Wave Breakdown:

  • Supertubes: The star section—fast, hollow, and heart-pounding.
  • Beginners: Stick to “Kitchen Windows” (gentler, forgiving).

Local Vibe: Chill surf town with surf shops, seafood joints, and bonfires on the beach. Don’t miss the J-Bay Open if you’re there in July!

When to Go: May–September (Southern Hemisphere winter).

Stay Here: Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) is 1 hour away. Choose from surf camps like Island Vibe or beachfront Airbnbs.

Why It’s Legendary: “J-Bay” is a right-hand point break that’s as close to surfing nirvana as it gets. Imagine 300-meter rides with speed for days.

Pro tip: Avoid walking alone at night. Keep your personal belongings on you.

3. Pavones, Costa Rica – The Endless Left

A woman surfer surfing the waves, cought mid surf

Wave Breakdown:

  • Length: Rides up to 2 minutes on big days!
  • Skill Level: Intermediate (paddling fitness is key).

Local Vibe: A tiny jungle village where howler monkeys are your wake-up call. Cash is king—ATMs are scarce!

When to Go: April–November (rainy season = epic south swells).

Stay Here: Fly into Golfito (GLF), then 4x4 or boat to Pavones. Book early—options range from eco-lodges to surf shacks.

Why It’s Legendary: When the swell hits, Pavones becomes a left-hander that just. Won’t. Stop. It’s remote, raw, and pure magic. But Costa Rica isn’t the only Central American surf gem—Panama (just south) offers its own tropical perfection.

Pro tip: Torn between the two? Compare Panama vs. Costa Rica surfing here.

4. Playa Venao, Panama – The Perfect Surf & Sunshine

A man and woman talking to each other at the beach while the women holds a surfing board

Wave Breakdown:

  • Beach Break: Lefts and rights for days!
  • Beginners: Learn here! Soft waves in dry season (Dec–Mar).

Local Vibe: Think surf yoga retreats, fresh ceviche, and zero crowds. Want a real-life take? Read how a Colorado surfer fell for Playa Venao.

When to Go: April–Nov for bigger swells; Dec–Mar for smaller waves.

Stay Here: Fly into Panama City (PTY), then 5-hour drive. Stay at our own boutique hotel Beach Break Surf Camp.

Why It’s Legendary: Consistent waves, warm water, and a crescent-shaped bay that’s perfect for all levels.

Pro tip: Not sure where to start? Here’s our guide to Panama’s best breaks for beginners and pros.

Planning Your Surf Trip?

A backside view of a woman holding a surfing board

Pack your board, but leave the stress behind. Many Central American spots (like Panama and Costa Rica) offer all-inclusive surf packages (lessons, rentals, stays).

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For tips on structuring your adventure, check out our Ultimate Surf Trip Guide and Surfing in Central America: Insider Guide.

Short and Sweet FAQ

Best surf spot for beginners?
When’s the cheapest time to surf Hawaii?
Can I surf J-Bay without a car?
chapter 2:

Immerse Yourself: The Best Surf Camps for Every Wave Chaser

Imagine waking up to the sound of crashing waves, grabbing your board, and hitting the surf with new friends. That’s the magic of a surf camp.

These aren’t just vacations; they’re surf adventures where you’ll live, eat, and breathe the ocean. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned shredder, surf camps strip away the hassle and drop you straight into the action.

Why Surf Camps Rule:

  • Learn Faster: Pros tweak your pop-up while you’re knee-deep in saltwater. No YouTube tutorials needed.
  • No-Fuss Vibes: Boards, beds, and breakfasts sorted. Just show up.
  • Instant Crew: Bond with surf junkies from Los Angeles to Brisbane over post-surf tacos.
  • Local Intel: Surf guides and instructors know when the tide’s right and where the secret breaks hide.

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Ready to dive in? Explore our roundup of the world’s best surf camps for insider tips and hidden gems.

a side view of the outside pool at Beach Break Surf Camp

1. Pura Vida Adventures, Costa Rica – Empowerment Meets Waves

A yoga class in action with the instructor watching and showing yoga poses to her class

Location & Waves:

Santa Teresa’s golden beaches serve up beginner-friendly rollers and punchy peaks. Their secret? They’ll whisk you to Playa Hermosa (gentle waves) or Playa Carmen (for when you’re ready to level up).

Vibe Check: Ladies, this one’s for you. Pura Vida Adventures blends surf coaching, yoga flows, and jungle magic into a life-changing retreat. Think Eat Pray Love, but with way more barrel rolls.

What’s Included:

  • Daily surf lessons (with all-female coaches who get it)
  • Yoga sessions to stretch out those paddle muscles
  • Beachfront bungalows (with AC – because Costa Rican heat is no joke)
  • Meals so fresh, you’ll Instagram your ceviche bowl

Price Tag: From $2,500/week. Worth it? Ask their 5-star reviews.

Why It’s Legendary: The original women-only surf retreat in Costa Rica, Pura Vida Adventures since 2005. It’s not just about surfing—it’s about building confidence, sisterhood, and conquering fears (like that first duck dive).

Pro tip: Pack lightweight, quick-dry yoga gear—you’ll need it for jungle hikes between surf sessions.

2. The Total Surf Experience in Portugal – Europe’s Surf Party HQ

Three people sitting at the pool with a beer holding in their hands

Location & Waves:

Lagos’ Algarve coast is a wave buffet. Learn on Meia Praia’s mellow breaks, then graduate to Zavial’s reef barrels.

Vibe Check: This isn’t just a camp—it’s a summer camp for adults. Think hostel energy meets pro coaching. Perfect if you want to surf by day and swap stories over sangria by night.

What’s Included:

  • Lessons with instructors who’ve surfed every inch of Portugal
  • Video breakdowns (spoiler: You’ll cringe at your first wipeout clip)
  • Dorms or private pads – your call
  • BBQs, surf movies, and mandatory pastel de nata runs

Price Tag: Dorms from €600/week. Budget hack: Split a private room with your new squad.

Why It’s Legendary: This camp invented the “surf-and-social” vibe in Europe. With 20+ years under its belt, it’s where solo travelers become lifelong friends—and where hangovers are cured by morning barrel rolls.

Pro tip: Stay in the surf house dorms for maximum camaraderie (and late-night guitar jams). Don’t skip their day trips to hidden Algarve breaks.

3. Beach Break Surf Camp, Panama – Where Beginners Become Legends

A nightime view of the Beach Break Surf Camp in Playa Venao, Panama under the full moon

Location & Waves:

Playa Venao serves up waist-high rollers for newbies and head-high gems for pros. Ideal for beginners and pros alike.

Vibe Check: Panama’s best-kept secret? This camp. It’s got zero pretension, all passion. Perfect if you want to swap boardroom stress for board shorts.

What’s Included:

  • Coaching that’ll turn even the scariest cat into a wave-riding lion
  • Beachfront accommodation (fall asleep to wave sounds)
  • Poolside hangs with the chillest people in the world
  • Bjj and Yoga sessions to really break out of your comfort zone
  • Bonus: Why November/December is prime time here

Price Tag: From $1,200/week for an all-inclusive paradise. Psst… Read a Colorado surfer’s Playa Venao diary first.

Why It’s Legendary: The “no-ego” vibe attracts everyone from kids to gray-haired shredders—plus, their instructors turn newbies into competent surfers in 72 hours flat (timed!).

Pro tip: Visit in November/December for glassy waves and whale sightings.

More Camps to Crush Your Bucket List

  • Lapoint, Portugal: Progress from whitewash to green waves in Ericeira’s surf mecca.
  • Safari Surf, Costa Rica: Eco-friendly vibes + giving back to Nosara’s community.
  • Solid Surf House, Sri Lanka: Learn on Weligama’s baby waves, then feast on curry.
  • Rapture Surfcamps, Bali: Temple visits before dawn patrols at Uluwatu.

Craving more? Dive into our Central America surf guide.

Short and Sweet FAQ

Are surf camps good for solo travelers?
What’s the food like?
Should I book a week or two?
chapter 3:

Beginner-Friendly Waves: Best Places to Learn to Surf

Picture this: You’re knee-deep in warm water, sun on your face, and suddenly—you’re standing on a surfboard. No, it’s not a dream.

But here’s the truth: Your first surf trip can make or break your love for the sport. Skip the gnarly reefs and heavy barrels.

We’ve rounded up the best places to learn to surf—where gentle waves, sandy bottoms, and patient instructors turn “newbies” into confident surfers.

What Makes a Spot Beginner Gold?

  • Soft Waves: Think rolling whitewash, not jaw-dropping tubes.
  • Sandy Safety Nets: No coral surprises here.
  • Shallow Water: Stand up, shake off wipeouts, repeat.
  • Surf Schools Galore: Because YouTube tutorials won’t fix your pop-up.

‍

Ready to paddle out? Let’s dive in.

Several surfers heading out t the shore for their surf class

1. Waikiki, Hawaii – Surf’s Birthplace (and Your First Wave)

Severall surfers surfing under the backdrop of Hawaii

Wave Vibes:

  • Soft & Slow: Waikiki’s waves break like melted butter. Perfect for nailing that pop-up.
  • Year-Round Swells: Summer = slightly bigger waves; winter = calm insiders.

Surf Schools We Love:

  • Hans Hedemann Surf School: Family-owned since ’93.
  • Ty Gurney Surf School: Duke’s legacy lives here.

When to Go: Anytime! But April–Oct offers dreamy south swell.

After Surfing:

  • Sip mai tais at Duke’s Waikiki.
  • Snorkel with rainbow fish at Queen’s Surf Beach.

Why It’s Perfect for Newbies: Waikiki isn’t just iconic—it’s where surfing was born. Gentle rollers, bath-warm water, and instructors descended from Hawaiian legends

Pro tip: Book a sunrise lesson. Fewer crowds, glassy water, and the real Hawaii vibe.

2. Taghazout, Morocco – Mint Tea & Mellow Waves

A surfer riding the wave with a golden sunset setting across the whole photo

Wave Vibes:

  • Panorama Beach: Knee-high rollers over sand.
  • Crocodiles Break: Named for rocks, not reptiles (promise).

Surf Schools We Love:

  • Surf Maroc: Yoga + surf = balance.
  • Hash Point Surf Camp: Chill vibes, epic tajine.

When to Go: Sept–April for small, consistent swells.

After Surfing:

  • Haggle for rugs in Agadir’s souk.
  • Sunset camel ride on the beach.

Why It’s Perfect for Newbies: Taghazout is Morocco’s surf soul—a laid-back fishing village where camels roam the beach and mint tea flows post-surf. Waves here are as welcoming as the locals.

Pro tip: Pack a 3/2 wetsuit. Mornings are fresh, even in Africa.

3. Playa Venao, Panama – Where Jungle Meets Beginner-friendly Waves

A Beach Break Surf Camp surf begginer smilling at the camera showing a thumbs up

Wave Vibes:

  • Beach Break Bliss: Lefts and rights for days.
  • Tide Tricks: Learn how tides shape waves (spoiler: low tide = steeper).

Surf Schools We Love:

  • Beach Break Surf Camp: Our motto: “No ego, just positive vibes.”
  • Selina Playa Venao: Surf by day, DJ parties by night.

When to Go: Dry season (Dec–April) for glassy mornings.

After Surfing:

  • Chase waterfalls in Playa Venao.
  • Take a day trip to Isla de Cañas on a paddle board or kayak.

Why It’s Perfect for Newbies: Panama’s hidden gem serves up punchy-but-friendly beach breaks. Plus, an overall laid back vibe will always cheer you on.

Pro tip: Visit Dec–March for baby waves. Need details? Here’s why Panama rules in winter.

More Beginner Gems

  • Byron Bay, Australia: The Pass serves up long, mellow rights. Hippie vibes included.
  • Muizenberg, South Africa: Colorful beach huts + Cape Town’s chillest waves.
  • Kuta Beach, Bali: Touristy? Yes. But where else can you surf then get a $5 massage?
  • San Onofre, California: Old-school longboarders and burger shacks. Classic SoCal.

Craving more? Explore Central America’s best surf hubs.

Short and Sweet FAQ

How do I pick a surf school?
What should I pack?
Can I surf if I’m not fit?
chapter 4:

Conclusion – Your Wave Awaits

A woman looking directly at the shore with a huge wave crashing at the very same moment

From the thunderous barrels of Pipeline to Waikiki’s buttery rollers, we’ve chased surf stoke across oceans—and one thing’s clear: there’s a wave for everyone.

‍

Whether you’re a newbie nailing your first pop-up or a salty soul chasing perfection, this gorgeous planet’s got your fix. You’ve got the spots.

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Now all that’s missing? You.

The ocean’s whispering your name. Time to answer. Toes in warm sand, board underarm, and that heart-thumping moment when you finally ride a wave all the way to shore. No more “somedays.” Your surf story starts now.

And hey, if you’re a newbie wondering where to begin, let us whisper a secret: Playa Venao, Panama. This tucked-away gem serves up beginner-friendly waves so forgiving, even your wipeouts feel like wins.

At Beach Break Surf Camp, you’ll score:

  • Guaranteed stoke: Small classes, pro coaches, and high-fives for days.
  • No-stress vibes: Boards, beds, and breakfasts sorted. Just show up.
  • Panama’s magic: Think jungle sunsets and yoga classes.

‍

Final fun fact: Playa Venao’s not just for beginners. When you’re ready, its punchy beach breaks will test your cutbacks—making it one of the few spots that grow with you.

A yoga class at Beach Break Surf Camp front

Final Shout

Surfing’s not just a sport—it’s a love affair with the sea. And like any great love story, it starts with a single wave. So whether you’re paddling out in Panama or hunting barrels in Bali, remember: every pro was once a beginner staring down a whitewash.

Your wave’s out there. Go meet it. 🌊



P.S. Tag us Beach Break Surf Camp on Instagram in your “I did it!” pics. We’ll cheer louder than your mom.

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A photo of John Boyle Head surfing Instructor holding a surfboard while in his BJJ suit

John Boyle

Head Surfing Instructor @ Beach Break Surf Camp

Born and raised surfing the Jersey shore, John was introduced first to Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in 2007 and moved to Panama in 2013. After moving to Playa Venao and receiving his black belt in 2016, John stepped into the role of Head Surfing Instructor, as well as the Jiu Jitsu instructor for the ever growing local community of kids and adults in Panama. You can find John sharing his surfing knowledge with people from all around the world, on the mats, or chasing his very energetic daughter, Marlee.

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