Has cold weather, a busy schedule, or feeling stuck in a routine have you looking for a break? Surf adventures may do just the trick! Take time out of your normal day-to-day to soak up the sun, and catch some gnarly waves. A surfing holiday is the perfect combination of vitamin sea, a new destination, and connecting deeply with nature and this beautiful world we live in. Nothing reawakens the soul like being one with the ocean. But...where are the best surfing destinations in the world?
Imagine spending international surfing day here...
Experiencing new cultures while simultaneously doing what you love—in stunning destinations nonetheless—is an incredible way to experience the world. You will be able to connect with fellow travelers and surfers, as well as the local communities who share a love and passion for the ocean. Being connected by the oceans wonder and power is a deep bond, no matter what culture you come from. Embrace each moment, and ride the waves during you international surfing adventure in the best surf travel destinations around the world.
Why are surf adventures the new kind of travel?!
Whether you are looking for a chill surfing holiday, amazing surf adventures, or the perfect way to spend international surfing day, packing your bags and catching a flight to an exhilarating new destination brings a whole new excitement to surfing. You get to experience new cultures while feeling the rolls of the waves in a new part of the world. What a way to interconnect vastly different places around the world.
Nothing like enjoying the sun setting after the perfect day of riding the waves
You may experience some new languages during your international surfing adventures, but one of the cool things about surf culture, is that no matter where you are in the world, you’ll already have a shared language—the ocean. Riding waves feels like riding waves no matter where you are, but these are the best surf travel destinations for meaningful travelers. Period.
7 best surf travel destinations
1. Australia
It would be hard to imagine a list of the best surf travel destinations without the land down under. Australia is known for its beautiful beaches and gnarly waves. Popular Australian destinations to stay in while enjoying a surf holiday include Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney. Surfing in Australia is not a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. So much so, many surf innovations and brands originated along the Australian coast. People come from far off destinations to experience the waves of Australia. If you do the same, you won’t regret it!
- Pros: Surf alongside some of the best in the sport, or if you are a beginner, learn from the best in Australia.
- Cons: You cannot surf in northern Australia due to coral reefs, but that still leaves plenty of ocean for surfing.
- Recommended program: Australia Arrival Package with Welcome to Travel: Melbourne
2. South Africa
South Africa is a top travel destination for many. From its resilient people and culture, exciting safaris and wildlife, and incredible coasts—South Africa is one of the top surf travel destinations. By traveling to the Rainbow Nation, you’ll be surfing where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic. South Africa’s temperate climate makes for perfect surfing conditions, especially for those just starting out. The beautiful sites and the beautiful culture won’t make for a bad trip either. Check out amazing surf adventures based out of Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pretoria.
- Pros: Has ideal surf travel destinations for beginners.
- Cons: There are so many exciting adventures in South Africa, going just to surf may feel like you’re missing out on the rest… because you are.
- Recommended program: Broadreach Summer Adventures for Students
3. Indonesia
As a country built upon more than 17,000 islands, you can imagine the influence water has on life in Indonesia. Such easy access to the ocean means it is an ideal location for surfing—and a beautiful one at that! Indonesia is described as a kaleidoscope of diversity in people, cultures, animals, and ways of living. Connecting with people within a kaleidoscope is a truly unique experience, and surf adventures in Indonesia bring you the opportunity to do just that. Bali is the ideal location for many travelers, including amazing surf adventures. Experience the rich and intricate culture, food, and landscapes of Indonesia, while getting to know it intimately through its oceans.
- Pros: Relax by nature in Indonesia through its biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and its beloved oceans.
- Cons: Weather is tempermental, which means that that surfing holidays may be postponed due to inclimate weather.
- Recommended program: Mojosurf Bali & Beyond
4. Mexico
From the food, to the fiestas, and the palm-fringed beaches, Mexico is another top location for amazing surf adventures. Soak up the sun, learn the history and the language, and ride the waves. If you are looking for a quick getaway, Mexico is one of the best surf trip destinations! A quick plane ride later, you can be suiting up and feeling the motion of the ocean the same day! With lively jungles, volcanoes, and lagoons, and temples, museums, and mole, you will not be left disappointed—you’ll only be left wanting more!
- Pros: Close proximity, great for quick surfing adventures.
- Cons: You’ll fall in love with the beaches and the surfing, which will make it harder to choose other surf travel destinations in the future.
- Recommended program: Learn Spanish and Surfing in Mexico! with Experiencia Puerto Escondido
5. Spain
Spain’s coast is known to be wild and awe-inspiring. Surfing adventures here are no different—adrenaline inducing and heart awakening. Spain’s passion and laidback lifestyle is the perfect combination for a surfing holiday. Whether you are looking for the charm of the Mediterranean, or the cliffs along the Atlantic northwest, Spain has many options for amazing surf adventures—no matter your speed. Plus, your down time will include siestas and sangria, and it’s hard to make any arguments about that!
- Pros: You will be rejuvenated and entertained in your (little) time spent outside of the water.
- Cons: You may feel a bit sore from all of the nightime Flamenco. Make sure to stretch it out before you hit the waves!
- Recommended program: Surf in Spain with Instituto Hemingway
6. Ecuador
Outside of exploring the lively Amazonian rainforest, Ecuador has some amazing opportunities for amazing surf adventures. Each day will be filled with cultural immersion, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and wildlife that will have you questioning, “what is that???”, many times throughout your trip. Your love for life, and other life forms, will expand immensely during your surfing holiday while you experience the excitement of the waves, the warmth of the people, and the uniqueness of the biodiversity. Ecuador will keep you on your toes, always wanting more.
- Pros: You can hop over to the Galapagos Islands to experience the life brought by the oceans wonders.
- Cons: Beautiful sunsets may get old after the sky is painted with watercolors night after night.
- Recommended program: Programs in Ecuador & the Galápagos - Putney Student Travel
7. United States
It cannot be denied that there are some amazing surf adventures awaiting surfers of all levels in the United States. Whether on the East coast or the West, you will find the perfect destination for your surfing holiday. No matter where you land, life will slow down once you reach the ocean. Spend your days riding the waves, and your nights soaking up the starry skies. Much is to be experienced along the coasts, so plan for surf hopping if it fits in your itinerary!
- Pros: Close proximity, which may open up some flexibility in multiple surf trip destinations.
- Cons: If you are from the United States and want an international surfing adventure, staying Stateside may not seem like the most exciting option.
- Recommended program: Young Explorers: California Rush with Rustic Pathways
Browse ALL the Amazing Surf Adventures on GoAbroad.com
You’re ready to go on a surfing holiday today!
Build a community of surfers from around the world
We can hear the waves crashing along the shore already. Pack your bags and choose one of the many amazing surf adventures out there, because the waves are calling. If you are feeling a bit hesitant or less prepared than you should be, we’re here to help! Your international surfing adventure will be the perfect change if pace and scenery. So catch a flight and then catch some waves, and then tell us all about it because we wish we could go too!
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