Surfing Bliss: Discover the Best Destinations to Ride the Waves Worldwide

If you're ready to catch some waves and experience the thrill of surfing, look no further than these incredible destinations. From the beautiful coastlines of Portugal and Fuerteventura to the tropical paradise of Costa Rica and the picturesque beaches of Sri Lanka, these places offer the perfect opportunity to learn how to surf. Whether you're a beginner or more experienced, these spots promise a remarkable surf adventure in some of the most stunning locations around the world. So grab your board and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the world of surfing.

Portugal: Europe's Premier Surfing Destination

Portugal is a stunning country known for its incredible surf spots that attract surfers from all over Europe. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, Portugal offers a wide range of waves suitable for every level. Here are some reasons why Portugal is the perfect place to learn how to surf.

Portugal is an affordable destination in Western Europe, making it a great choice for a surf trip, whether you're traveling solo or with friends. With budget-friendly flights and accommodations, you can enjoy a memorable surfing experience without breaking the bank.

Located just half an hour up the coast from Lisbon is the charming village of Ericeira, which has become an international surfing hotspot. It offers the best beaches in Portugal for beginners to learn how to surf. Despite its popularity among surfers from around the world, Ericeira has managed to maintain its authentic Portuguese ambiance. Exploring the streets, sipping coffee, and enjoying delicious local food after a morning surf is the epitome of the Portuguese experience.

Ericeira offers a vibrant atmosphere with trendy cafes, surf shops, seafood restaurants, and bustling nightlife that kicks off after midnight. You can enjoy a relaxed daytime scene and immerse yourself in the lively energy of the town during the evenings.

Portugal's coastline boasts an incredible variety of waves, making it one of the best surf destinations in the world. In Ericeira, you'll be surrounded by majestic nature and 8 kilometers of pristine coastline. Whether you prefer beach breaks, point breaks, or reef breaks, you'll find waves that cater to your surfing style and skill level. Surfers who have visited Ericeira can't stop raving about the quality of the waves and the overall experience.

Fuerteventura: Where Desert Meets Azure Blue Waves

Closer to Africa than mainland Spain, Fuerteventura offers a unique blend of European and African influences. With its ethereal landscapes, year-round sunny weather, and incredible waves, Fuerteventura is a surf trip you won't forget.

If you're a beginner looking to learn how to surf, Fuerteventura provides a relaxed environment with deserted beaches and mellow waves, making it the perfect place to start. The water stays warm, with an average temperature ranging between 22°C and 23°C. You can take advantage of the beginner-friendly beach breaks that are accessible all year round.

Fuerteventura has often been hailed as the European answer to Hawaii. The moment you arrive, you'll be enveloped in the hang-loose, summer vibes that define the island. With volcanoes, over 300 days of sunshine, consistent wind, and a well-formed coastline, Fuerteventura truly has it all. The locals even call it "La Isla Tranquila," reflecting its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant surf culture.

Wake up in our Fuerteventura camp and start your day with a morning surf session on the sandy beaches. Afterward, return to the camp for some delicious food and take a refreshing swim in the pool. While you're surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility, you're also just a short distance away from the best surf spots on the island. Experience the perfect balance of nature, ocean, and authentic Spanish culture at the nearby cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Costa Rica: A Surf Adventure in Tropical Paradise

Connect with Costa Rica's Pura Vida lifestyle as you learn how to ride the waves. If you're seeking a tropical paradise where the jungle meets the ocean, Costa Rica is the ultimate destination.

Costa Rica is known for its commitment to sustainable eco-adventures, making it a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts. Zip-line through the jungle, meet curious monkeys, explore breathtaking waterfalls, and surf on stunning beaches framed by tropical jungles. End your perfect day by dancing under the palm trees.

One of the remarkable aspects of Costa Rica is its genuine surf culture. Surfing is deeply ingrained in the daily lives of locals, who often combine it with work and school. When you visit Costa Rica, you'll witness the real surf culture in action as young people head out to the waves after their daily routines.

Costa Rica offers great waves on both its Pacific and Caribbean coasts, catering to surfers of all levels. Our camp is located on Playa Santa Teresa, on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. This hidden gem is a true paradise for surfers and nature lovers alike. Immerse yourself in the surf and nature while still being able to experience authentic Spanish culture at the nearby cafes, restaurants, and bars.

Sri Lanka: The Pearl of the Indian Ocean

Surrounded by approximately 1600 kilometers of palm-fringed coastline, Sri Lanka is a beautiful country located just south of India in the Indian Ocean. With its friendly people, stunning landscapes, and flourishing wildlife, Sri Lanka has quickly become one of the best places to learn how to surf.

In addition to its natural beauty, Sri Lanka offers a rich cultural heritage that links it to both India and Southeast Asia. It's an affordable destination, making it perfect for solo travelers, couples, and groups. Take advantage of the endless adventure opportunities, from exploring misty mountain tops to chasing waterfalls in rainforests and embarking on exciting safaris, all while learning how to surf.

Sri Lanka is renowned for its great beaches with soft, golden sand and fun waves for surfers of every level. For beginners, there are long, slow, and consistent waves that are perfect for mastering the basics. Our Sri Lanka camp is located in beautiful Ahangama, just minutes from the ocean. It offers a less crowded experience compared to neighboring towns like Mirissa, allowing you to focus on learning and enjoying your surfing journey. With a variety of user-friendly waves and fewer people in the lineup, you'll have an ideal environment for catching the perfect wave. The area also boasts a variety of quality beach and reef breaks, catering to all levels of experience.

Taghazout, Morocco

The surf scene in Taghazout, Morocco is revered by surfers worldwide, with the famous Anchor Point ranking among the world's premier point breaks.

However, Taghazout is not only a paradise for experienced surfers but also an excellent place to learn how to surf. There are numerous surf camps and surf schools in the area that can help beginners get started.

Spots like Devils Rock, Crocs, and KM21 offer ideal conditions for beginners, with fun and mellow waves to learn on. For intermediate surfers looking to take their skills to the next level, there are plenty of other fantastic spots nearby.

Taghazout is an affordable destination to visit, with relatively cheap flights and affordable costs on the ground. While it may be surprising to find such great surf in Morocco, this hidden gem offers an incredible experience for surfers of all levels. So if you're looking for a unique and exciting surf adventure, be sure to check out Taghazout.

Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay is renowned as one of the best places to learn to surf in Australia, and even the world.

The famous surf spot, The Pass, offers long, rolling right-hand waves that break over a sandy bottom, sometimes lasting over a minute. The inside section of The Pass is also ideal for beginners, and there are plenty of surf schools in the area offering lessons.

While other spots like Wategos and Main Beach are also great for beginners, they become more suitable for advanced surfers when the swell picks up.

Byron Bay provides an incredible surfing experience on picturesque beaches, making it a must-visit destination for those looking to learn how to surf or improve their skills.

Yamba, Australia

Often described as Byron Bay 25 years ago, Yamba is a fantastic beginner surf spot in Australia.

Turners Beach offers super fun, sheltered waves year-round, and you'll often spot dolphins in the lineup. With its relaxed and laid-back vibes, Yamba provides a quieter and more peaceful experience compared to Byron Bay.

The Surf Camp Down Under, operated by local legend Shayno, offers surf lessons and the chance to immerse yourself in the chilled-out Yamba atmosphere.

If you're looking for a welcoming and friendly surf spot where you can hone your skills, Yamba is the place to be.

Ahangama, Sri Lanka

After working as a surf photographer for several seasons, Sri Lanka has firmly secured its place as one of the best destinations for learning how to surf.

Ahangama, located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, offers a wide variety of waves suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers.

The Sri Lanka surf season runs from October to April, offering great conditions when Bali and Indonesia experience a downturn in waves. Ahangama is also one of the least crowded sections of the coastline, providing a more peaceful and less touristy experience compared to neighboring towns like Mirissa.

Marshmallows and Stick are two recommended spots for beginners. Marshmallows features a super fun, deep-water reef that is perfect for beginners and longboarders. Stick offers punchier, hollow waves that are ideal for high-end beginners on smaller swells.

At the Ticket to Ride Surf House, which sits right in front of these waves, you'll have the perfect base and receive amazing coaching.

Seminyak, Bali

Surfing in Bali has gained worldwide fame, and the island offers an abundance of world-class breaks, from the epic barrels of Uluwatu and Padang Padang to the long, rolling points like Medewi.

While most of these spots are better suited for experienced surfers, Seminyak's beach breaks are perfect for beginners. With plenty of local surf coaches, surf camps, affordable accommodations, and tropical waters, Seminyak stands out as one of the best places to learn to surf in Bali.

While Canggu promotes itself as a great spot for beginners, the crowded lineups can make it overwhelming. Therefore, if you're looking for a more relaxed and enjoyable learning experience, Seminyak is the ideal choice.

Raglan, New Zealand

Welcome to the land of the long white cloud! Raglan, New Zealand offers some of the best left-hand waves in the world, making it a dream destination for surfers.

However, Raglan's beach break is also an incredible place to learn how to surf. The beach break is unique with its black volcanic sands, and the empty lineups provide the perfect environment for practice. Raglan Surf School offers lessons and surf and stay packages, helping beginners make the most of the chilled-out vibes.

If you find yourself in New Zealand, Raglan is a must-visit surf spot that offers both incredible waves and a beautiful setting.

Montanita, Ecuador

Montanita is a personal favorite among surf towns worldwide. Situated in beautiful Ecuador, Montanita offers incredible surf and a lively atmosphere.

It's not surprising that Montanita is also one of the best places to learn to surf. The mellow rolling beach breaks provide the perfect playground for beginners to hone their skills. When you're not surfing, enjoy the vibrant town and experience the Central American flair.

If you're planning a trip to South America, be sure to include Montanita for a surf adventure filled with sun, salsa dancing, and unforgettable waves.

Cape Town, South Africa

If we had to choose one ultimate destination for learning to surf, Cape Town would win the crown. With its stunning landscapes and endless activities, Cape Town offers incredible waves for all surfing levels.

Muizenberg Beach is one of the best places in the world for beginners to learn how to surf. The long, sandy bottom beach provides ideal waves for perfecting your pop-up and beginner turns.

Aside from its surf scene, Cape Town offers a plethora of attractions, making it a must-visit destination. The combination of incredible waves and diverse activities solidifies Cape Town as an excellent choice for a surf trip.

Coffee Bay, South Africa

Coffee Bay is another fantastic surf spot in South Africa, located a few hours' drive south of Durban. Known for its stunning beauty, friendly locals, and mellow surf peaks, Coffee Bay is an ideal place to learn how to surf.

The beach offers super fun and mellow waves year-round, and it's not uncommon to see dolphins in the lineup. Coffee Shack, the village's only hostel, provides affordable surf lessons, with a two-hour lesson costing just £3.

With its breathtaking scenery and welcoming atmosphere, Coffee Bay is an irresistible destination for surfers looking to learn and enjoy the waves.

Newquay, UK

It's time to leave the tropics behind and head to the United Kingdom for some exciting surf adventures. Newquay, located in Cornwall, is the most famous surf town in the UK and offers a range of fun waves for surfers of all levels.

Fistral Beach is where you'll find the most consistent surf in Newquay, while Watergate Bay is another personal favorite. Surf schools in the area can provide lessons to help you nail the basics before heading off on warm-water surf adventures.

Despite its temperate climate, Newquay offers incredible surf experiences that shouldn't be missed.

Saunton, UK

Saunton Beach holds a special place on this list as it's where I spent most of my time learning to surf. Alongside Croyde and Putsborough, Saunton completes the trifecta of my favorite UK surf spots.

What sets Saunton apart as one of the best places to learn to surf is its appeal to longboarders. The waves here are super cruise, breaking along a huge sandy beach that stretches for miles.

While there may only be one surf school operating on Saunton Beach, it's still a great spot to venture out on your own after mastering the basics.

Bristol, UK

You may be surprised to find Bristol on this list, as it's a city located far from the beach. However, Bristol is home to The Wave, one of the most accessible wave pools in the world.

The Wave in Bristol offers a range of intermediate and advanced waves, making it an ideal place to learn to surf with controlled and guaranteed conditions year-round.

It's important to note that wave pool learning should be supplemented with ocean-based surf lessons to learn about ocean safety. Nevertheless, The Wave provides an excellent opportunity to hone your skills and enjoy the sport regardless of the ocean's conditions.

For those based in Australia, URBNSURF wave pool in Melbourne is also worth considering.

Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica

When it comes to surf destinations in Central America, Costa Rica is undoubtedly one of the most popular. Its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and well-developed infrastructure make it a favorite among surfers.

While experienced surfers often flock to the country's renowned breaks, beginners can find their paradise in Playa Tamarindo. Miles of beautiful, white sandy beaches and playful surf make it an ideal place to learn. Numerous surf camps and instructors are available to help beginners get started.

Beyond the waves, Playa Tamarindo offers a vibrant town with fantastic party vibes, making it the perfect destination for a surf adventure with a touch of Central American flair.

In search of the ultimate surf destination? Look no further than this incredible list of the best places to learn to surf. From the awe-inspiring waves of Portugal and the picturesque turquoise waters of Fuerteventura, to the untouched beauty of Costa Rica and the exotic charm of Sri Lanka, there is truly something for every surfer's taste. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the world is your oyster when it comes to riding the perfect wave. So grab your board, dive in, and prepare for an unforgettable surf adventure of a lifetime.