Top 10 Surfing Spots in the World

Tap to Read ➤ Jyoti Babel

When it comes to finding your ideal surfing spot, you will be spoiled for choices. From the exotic beaches of Hawaii, golden shores of Australia, to the more famous spots in South Africa, there are surfing beaches for all level of surfers. Here are our best 10 picks.

Did You Know?

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Corona del Mar, California, is the place where the first ever official surfing competition was held in, 1928.

Surfing is a very popular adventure sport. It needs lots of practice and patience to perfect the art of surfing. There are two types of surfing: short boarding and long boarding. Short boarding is considered to be more difficult, as it needs more effort to maneuver the surfboard.

Surfing originated some three to four thousand years back in Western Polynesia, and has evolved a lot since then. It was first brought to California by George Freeth.

Surfing is a year-round sport and not just a summer activity. If you are one of those who has adrenaline rushing at the thought of riding the waves, then you are at the right place. Here, we have complied a list of the top ten surfing spots in the world. Grab your surfing board, pack your wet-suit, and get ready to hit the shores.

Best Surfing Beaches in the World

Note: As with any top ten list, it is impossible to list the top ten surfing spots without missing out on a few names. The ones listed here are as per the author's choice, and in no particular order.

Jeffreys Bay, South Africa Best Time to Surf: May - September Level: All Levels

Famous for its Supertubes, Jeffreys Bay is a very popular destination among surfers. The surfing area is divided into several sections, and has areas for beginners and seasoned professionals, alike. It is also home to the Billabong Pro surfing tournament, that brings many enthusiastic surfers from around the world to its shores.

Gold Coast, Australia Best time to surf: January - April Level: All levels

This is one of the most amazing surfing destinations around, and is often referred to as 'surfer's paradise'. Gold Coast has a stretch of 35 kilometers of area to choose from, and has something for surfers of all skill levels.

North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii Best Time to Surf: November - February Level: Expert

Regarded as the Mecca of surfing, this is the go-to destination for pros. North Shore provides the most challenging surf, so if you have to prove yourself, it is the place you should head to. If you are a beginner, schedule your trip for the summer months when the waves are gentler and smaller, and if you are looking to catch some giant waves, head there during the winter.

Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia Best Time to Surf: April - October Level: All Levels

One of the most exotic surfing destinations in Indonesia, Uluwatu can get very busy and crowded in the peak season. There are four different sections to surf on, and it offers something to surfers of all skill levels.

Lanzarote, Canary Islands, Spain Best Time to Surf: November - February Level: All Levels

It is the closest thing to Hawaii on this side of the globe. For a beginner, the best time to go is April to August when the swells are not that huge - ideal to learn the tricks of surfing.

Bundoran, Ireland Best Time to Surf: September - May Level: All Levels

In recent times, Bundoran has become a favorite destination for experienced and beginner surfers alike in Europe. Riding the waves in the chilly waters of the Atlantic doesn't deter the die-hard surfing fanatics. Surely, it is not everyone's cup of tea though.

Puerto Escondido, Mexico Best Time to Surf: September - May Level: Intermediate and Expert

This beach has the reputation of being one of the heaviest beach breaks of the world. It is advisable for beginners to stay away, as waves are usually head high and can snap boards easily. It is often referred to as the Mexican pipeline.

Teahupo'o, Tahiti Best Time to Surf: April - October Level: Expert

Known for the surf break, heavy and glassy waves, Teahupo'o is known for some of the heaviest waves in the world. Only those surfers in their physical best should attempt to ride the waves here.

Mentawai Islands, Indonesia Best Time to Surf: April - October Level: All Levels

Mentawai Islands in Indonesia is another dream destination for surfing enthusiasts. The bay around the 70 islands that comprises Mentawai Islands faces the constant fury of the Indian ocean. There is a constant surge of waves, which makes this a surfer's paradise.

Hossegor, France Best Time to Surf: September - October Level: All Levels

Dubbed as the surfing capital of Europe, Hossegor attracts surfers from all around the world. The giant Atlantic waves constantly pound this French shore, making it an ideal and favorite spot for surfing. And yes, beginners and experts, both will enjoy here.

Here are a few more spots which are worth a mention.

Tavarua Island, Fiji Raglan Beach, New Zealand The Soup Bowl, Barbados San Juan Del Sur, Nicaragua Rincón, Puerto Rico Playa Grande, Costa Rica Huntington Beach, California

Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia Mavericks, California Lima, Peru Fuerteventura, Spain Nazaré, Portugal Santa Catarina, Brazil Jaws Maui, Hawaii

These were some of the most popular and famous surfing spots around the world. Which one is your favorite? Do let us know. Enjoy surfing!