The surf travel industry is estimated to swell to $9.5 billion by 2022. Surfing is already a $2.5 billion industry in the U.S., and as pandemic restrictions lift around the world, the sport’s appeal fuels travelers’ desire for scenery and adventure.
If you are looking for the best surf in the world as your next travel destination, you have plenty of options. Some destinations are near airports and cater to tourists like you. Other spots are out of the way and require some research and time to get to.
Whatever your preference is, there is a surf spot perfect for you. In the following article, we’ll break down some of the best surfing destinations for your next ocean adventure.
California, USA
Iconic and easy to get to, California has been a popular destination for surfers since the 1930s. The Golden State has some 500 Scenic river surfing destinations to chose from, and they cater to almost every ability.
Also, California has the nightlife (or lack of) to cater to almost any after-surfing desire. If you’re looking for a good beginner place to use your wakesurf board, try San Onofre State Beach in San Clemente. The park is famous for its long gentle rides.
As you head north, you can stop in world-famous Malibu and if you are looking to challenge yourself, try San Francisco’s Fort Point, Ocean, and South beaches.
Gold Coast, Australia
A surfing trip that needs to land on your bucket list is to the Gold Coast of Australia. To get there, you’ll fly into the continent’s 6th largest city, Queensland.
This spot marries city nightlife with a plethora of surf spots, both large and small. Plus, while many people are shivering in the Nothern Hemisphere, you’ll be enjoying the Australian summer and its best breaks from January to July. Mermaid and Coolangatta beaches are a few of the many spots to check out.
Bali, Indonesia
Another “winter” destination for your next surfing trip is the ocean swells of Bali. Situated above Australia on the Java Sea, Bali has some of the most beautiful scenery and challenging surfing in the world.
However, the ocean destination is a hike, with the average flight time from New York somewhere around 26 hours. Karamas Beach for advanced surfers and Kuta for beginners are some of the island’s popular destinations.
Ericeira, Portugal
Europe’s first World Surfing Reserve is on almost everyone’s list of best surfing trips. The surf is suitable for all skill levels, and the nightlife is both laid back (before midnight) and party on (after midnight). Furthermore, this lively surf spot is a short hop from Lison, making it easy and affordable to get to.
Ericeira is also home to the ASP World Tour Surf Championships. Check out Foz do Lizandro, Pria do Sul, and Sao Lorenzo for great breaks.
Best Surf in the World Now Open
Our shortlist of the best surf in the world could have easily added spots in Nicaragua, Hawaii, Florida, and Fiji. To choose the perfect spot, match your budget with your skill level and cross-check those factors with your tolerance for long flights.
Once you’ve done that you’re sure to find the perfect sport from either the choices above or somewhere else you’d like to explore on the globe. Did you find this article helpful? Seach this website for more on Scenic river surfing and travel.
