If the excitement of surfing at Tokyo 2020 has inspired you to try your hand at this exhilarating sport, consider visiting these beginner-friendly surf spots.
Watching professional athletes excel can motivate even the least active among us to pick up a new sport. Surfing, in particular, is enticing for travelers as it offers the opportunity to rent gear and enjoy the waves in some of the world’s most beautiful sunny locations.
Surfing was one of the new additions to the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, introduced to add a youthful and vibrant element to the games. The sport quickly gained popularity among viewers, so don’t be surprised if surf destinations see a surge in bookings.
Recently, surfers from 17 nations competed at Tsurigasaki Beach, just 40 miles from Tokyo. After intense rounds, Carissa Moore from the United States and Italo Ferreira from Brazil took home the gold medals.
If this has piqued your interest, there are countless surf spots you could explore. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of places that are perfect for beginners.
From the classic waves of Hawaii to unique surf camps in southern France, here are our top picks for getting started in the surfing world.
Although France might not be the first place you think of for surfing, it actually offers excellent conditions for beginners. It’s a great place to learn the basics before you venture out to more exotic locations.
Landes, in particular, is an ideal spot for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without breaking the bank while still experiencing the charm of southern France.
Dreamsea Surf, known for its camps in Bali, Nicaragua, and Sri Lanka, also has a fantastic base here. We recommend this location for its affordability and relaxed atmosphere.
Beachside “glamping” tents, starting at just €33-77 per night through Luex, attract a young, diverse crowd each summer, drawn by the Atlantic coast’s reliable waves.
For a laid-back experience, head to the fishing village of Taghazout on Morocco’s picturesque west coast. This spot has become legendary among European surfers.
Much Better Adventures offers two surf trips here tailored for beginners, lasting either 3 or 6 nights. Both options include guidance, equipment, meals, and accommodations to help you begin your surfing journey.
Beginner-Friendly Waves in Lisbon, Portugal
The Atlantic coast is rapidly gaining a reputation as one of Europe’s best spots for beginner surf schools, and Lisbon has emerged as a top destination for surfers of all skill levels.
Holidu suggests starting at Costa da Caparica, Lisbon’s most “beginner-friendly” wave, perfect for summer days and those new to the sport.
Discover Surfing’s Roots in Hawaii, USA
For those looking to explore surfing’s origins, Hawaii is the place to be. This U.S. state is considered the birthplace of surfing, with wave-riding traditions dating back to ancient Polynesians in Hawaii and Tahiti. The sport was later popularized by Hawaii’s own Duke Kahanamoku.
Black Tomato offers a package that highlights Hawaii’s natural beauty, including a surfing masterclass with Titus, one of the island’s legendary surfers. The itinerary spans Maui and Kauai, showcasing the islands’ lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and farm-to-table cuisine.
A Luxury Heli-Surf Adventure in Queenstown, New Zealand
Another luxury experience from Black Tomato, this 10-day surf adventure is guided by predictions of the best swells in the Tasman Sea. The exact locations remain a surprise until a week before your trip, with the route planned by experts.
You’ll explore the island’s best surf spots via helicopter, with a personal pilot guiding your journey. Whether chasing perfect waves or riding intense swells, you’ll retreat to one of New Zealand’s top luxury hotels, The Spire, to relax each evening.