The 5 best places in the world to learn to surf
If you’re considering learning to surf, make sure you pick a good place to start. The names you often hear in the media are not necessarily the best places to learn to surf. Although most people have heard of Pipeline in Hawaii, it is only for extremely advanced surfers. In putting together this list, I am considering more than just wave quality and safety for beginners. If you are going to try surfing for the first time, let’s make it an amazing experience with a beautiful beach and warm waters.
So while there are great places to learn to surf in California like San Onofre or on the west coast of Canada in Tofino, for this list they don’t make the cut. Want to get out of the water in December on Canada’s West Coast? Let’s pick a place that’s going to be as much fun on land as it is in the water.
- Santa Teresa – Costa Rica
Located on the Pacific coast of the Nicoya Peninsula, Santa Teresa and Mal Pais have attracted international surfers for years. Originally attracted by the waves, surfers fell in love with this place and now you will find a wide variety of hotels and restaurants. Fortunately, the city is still small enough to have retained its charm.
- Byron Bay – Australia
The water is not as warm as Santa Teresa, but the waves will warm your heart. The city has many accommodations, excellent cafes and music venues.
- Lahaina, Maui – Hawaii
This has to be one of the easiest places to learn to surf in the world, not to mention that you will be on the beautiful island of Maui.
- Kuta Beach, Bali – Indonesia
Beautiful golden sand with perfect waves and bustling tourism. Too crowded for some and just right for others.
- Florianopolis – Brazil
Barra da Lagoa in Florianópolis is a perfect beach to learn to surf. If you get tired of surfing the waves, try sand surfing at nearby English Beach, where you can cruise down the sand dunes on a board.
Ready to take that surf vacation? Check out SURFhow’s free online guide for tips and videos on learning to surf.
