Experiencing the thrill and excitement of surfing, where you move in harmony with the waves, is truly exhilarating. It’s no surprise that many people have embraced surfing as their favorite hobby. Summer provides surfers with endless opportunities to ride the waves, but winter offers its own magic as well. It’s the perfect season to escape the cold and head to tropical paradises with incredible waves. So, where are the best surfing spots around the world? Here, we highlight ten fantastic destinations perfect for every surfer, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out.
Uluwatu, Bali
The southern coast of Bali is adorned with towering cliffs and dramatic scenery. The vibrant blue sea hides its depth, producing magnificent waves that crash against the stone walls. The sandy beaches keep the footprints of surfers who eagerly run towards the waves. Uluwatu is a well-known surfers’ haven.
Uluwatu offers a variety of waves, ranging from gentle to wild. Depending on your skill level, you can choose different beaches. Padang-Padang Beach is great for beginners and those learning to surf, while other beginner-friendly spots include Balangan Beach and Bingin Beach. For more advanced surfers, Padang-Padang Left offers a challenging reef break that delivers impressive waves during high tides. Uluwatu also enhances your surfing experience with its many surf camps, villas, and schools, making it one of the top surfing destinations in the world.
Best Time to Surf in Uluwatu: November to March (Rainy season, middle to high tides)
Siargao, Philippines
Siargao might be small, but it’s packed with amazing features. This teardrop-shaped island boasts lush palm jungles, pristine white-sand beaches, and striking turquoise waters. Known as a premier surfing destination, Siargao, located in the Philippine Sea, is famed for its excellent waves and surrounding reef breaks that generate high tidal waves. However, planning your trip for the best waves is key since Siargao experiences both high and low tides.
Siargao is a true surfer’s paradise with over thirty surf breaks inviting you to experience the thrill. Beginners can practice at Jacking Horse, Daku, and Guian Island, where the waves are gentle and suitable for novices. In contrast, experienced surfers can challenge themselves at Cemetery, Pillar, and Quicksilver Island. Different spots in Siargao have fantastic waves year-round, particularly in General Luna.
Best Time to Surf in Siargao: May to December
Nazaré, Portugal
Nazaré sits on the Atlantic coast of Portugal and is one of Europe’s top surfing destinations. It boasts impressive waves, long stretches of beach, and excellent weather. Portugal is known for its established surf towns, home to world-class surf schools and friendly communities. Nazaré has gained fame for welcoming surfers of all levels and is known for the Guinness World Record’s biggest waves ever surfed, reaching up to 20 meters. These incredible waves are produced by the deep Nazaré Canyon.
The best waves can be found at Praia do Norte, where champion Garret McNamara set his world record. Other spots include Praia do Nazaré and Praia do Sol. With such spectacular waves, Nazaré remains one of the top surf spots in the world.
Best Time to Surf in Nazaré: October to March (winter-spring)
Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands are a top choice for winter vacations in Europe, especially for surfing. This Spanish archipelago benefits from the Atlantic Ocean and a Mediterranean climate, creating perfect weather and incredible waves for surfing. Whether you’re starting out or seeking an adrenaline rush, the Canary Islands have something for everyone.
Each island in the archipelago offers fantastic surfing spots. Gran Canaria’s Las Palmas Beach includes popular sites like El Confital and Lloret, known for their dramatic wave drops. Beginners can practice at La Cicer, a black sand beach with numerous surf camps. Meanwhile, other islands like Tenerife and Lanzarote also provide world-class surfing experiences.
Best Time to Surf in the Canary Islands: October to March (winter-spring)
Travel with JoinMyTrip
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