1. Ericeira, Portugal
Ericeira’s a surf mecca on Portugal’s Atlantic coast, with breaks like Ribeira d’Ilhas dishing up long, peeling rights. The rocky cliffs and fishing village vibes keep it raw, and waves work year-round. Beginners can hit Praia dos Pescadores for gentler rollers; pros, aim for Coxos for hollow tubes. Eco-tip: Use reef-safe sunscreen—these waters are home to fish and dolphins. Surf schools are everywhere, and spring or fall means fewer crowds. Watch for rocks at low tide.
2. Nosara, Costa Rica
Nosara’s Playa Guiones is a long, sandy beach with consistent waves and a laid-back jungle backdrop. It’s perfect for beginners—wide, forgiving breaks and plenty of surf camps. Pros can chase bigger swells at nearby Playa Ostional, a turtle nesting spot. The vibe’s chill, no high-rises here. Eco-tip: Don’t litter; turtles and crabs live on these shores. Rentals and lessons are easy to find, but book ahead for January-March peak season. Bring a rash guard—sun’s brutal.
3. Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia
Uluwatu’s limestone cliffs and reef breaks are legendary. The main break’s a fast left-hander, best for experienced surfers, but nearby Padang Padang has smaller waves for intermediates. Temples perch above the cliffs, and monkeys might nick your snacks. Eco-tip: Stick to boardwalk paths to avoid trampling coral. Surf shops in Kuta rent boards, but a scooter’s handy to reach the breaks. April to October’s dry season is prime—waves are firing then.
4. Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa
J-Bay’s Supertubes is a world-class right point break, with long, perfect walls that pros dream about. Beginners can try Albatross or Kitchen Windows for softer waves. The Eastern Cape’s wild coastline has dolphins and seals cruising by, but watch for sharks—check local reports. Eco-tip: Don’t toss plastic; it ends up in the ocean. Surf camps and rentals are plentiful in town. Winter (June-August) brings the best swells, but it’s chilly—pack a wetsuit.
5. Tofino, Vancouver Island, Canada
Tofino’s a cold-water gem on Canada’s west coast, with Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay serving up waves against a rainforest backdrop. Beginners love the longboard-friendly rollers; pros can tackle winter storm swells. Sea otters and whales might pop up mid-session. Eco-tip: Clean up after yourself—debris harms marine life. Surf shops in Tofino rent boards and wetsuits (you’ll need one). Fall to spring is peak season, but check forecasts—storms can get gnarly.
6. Siargao, Philippines
Siargao’s Cloud 9 is a barreling reef break that’s put this island on the surf map. It’s pro-level stuff, but nearby Jacking Horse and Daku offer mellow waves for beginners. Coconut groves and chill vibes keep it wild. Eco-tip: Use biodegradable wax; reefs here are fragile. Board rentals and surf lessons are cheap and easy to find. September to November’s swell season, but typhoons can hit—check weather apps. Local food stalls fuel you with fresh fish.
7. Raglan, New Zealand
Raglan’s a left-hand point break paradise, with Manu Bay’s endless waves stealing the show. Beginners can hit Ngarunui Beach for softer, sandy-bottom breaks. The black sand and rugged hills scream New Zealand. Eco-tip: Don’t disturb dune grasses—they stabilize the coast. Surf schools and rentals are solid, and the town’s got a hippie surf vibe. Winter (June-August) brings bigger waves, but spring’s quieter. Watch for rips—currents are strong.
8. Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Puerto Escondido’s Zicatela Beach, aka the Mexican Pipeline, is a beast with heavy barrels for pros. Beginners should stick to La Punta’s smaller lefts. The Oaxacan coast is raw, with palapas and cold cervezas nearby. Eco-tip: Avoid single-use plastics; trash washes into the sea. Surf shops rent boards, and lessons are affordable. May to August brings massive swells, but it’s hot—hydrate like crazy. Check for stingrays before wading in.
9. Hossegor, France
Hossegor’s La Gravière is a punchy beach break on France’s southwest coast, known for fast, hollow waves. Beginners can try nearby Les Culs Nus for gentler rides. The pine forests and dune vibe keep it wild. Eco-tip: Pack out your trash—beaches here are pristine. Surf schools and rentals are all over, and fall (September-November) is prime for swells. Wetsuits are a must; Atlantic’s chilly. Grab a baguette sandwich post-session—local bakeries are clutch.
10. Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Santa Teresa’s another Costa Rican gem, with white sand and consistent waves for all levels. Playa Carmen’s got forgiving breaks for newbies, while pros can chase barrels at Suck Rock. Monkeys howl in the jungle nearby, and sunsets are unreal. Eco-tip: Don’t leave food scraps—wildlife gets too bold. Surf camps and board rentals are everywhere, and the vibe’s pura vida. Year-round waves, but January-April’s dry season is less crowded.
