If you’re thinking of planning your next surfing holiday, you may be wondering where will be the best place to visit with your surfboard and wetsuit in tow. There are countless beaches around the world where you can enjoy fantastic conditions for surfing, but where is the best place to visit for a surfing holiday?
We spoke to Ann’s Cottage Surf Shop who spoke to us about choosing the perfect destination for a surf holiday. They said,
“There are so many amazing holiday destinations around the world which are perfect for surfers. When you’re planning your surf holiday, it’s important that you consider your skill level and how many surf spots will suit your experience. You should also make sure to research the best time of year for surfing as this often doesn’t match up with the time of year considered the best time to visit the destination for other types of holidays.”
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best surf spots where you can enjoy a relaxing holiday and have plenty of opportunities to get out onto the water with your surfboard. So, if you’re looking for a little holiday inspiration, why not consider these destinations?
Bali
This small Indonesian island is home to a population of half that of London, but is a particularly popular tourist destination. With crystal clear blue water and consistently warm temperatures all year round, Bali is the perfect destination for a surfing holiday. The dry season offers the best surfing conditions, so make sure to visit between May-September. There are plenty of spots for surfers of all abilities and as an island, you’ll have no shortage of coast to visit.
The south coast and the Bukit peninsula provide many of the best surf spots on the island, so this is a great place to base yourself. Make sure to visit:
● Uluwatu
● Suluban
● Padang Padang
● Bingin
● Balangan
Zanzibar
Positioned just off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar is a breathtakingly beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. The birthplace of Freddie Mercury, the island is a wonderful holiday destination whether you’re there to surf or not! Zanzibar is still a bit of an obscure spot so it has not be spoilt by mass tourism.
The jewel-coloured water is perfect for surfing, but is often best for more experienced surfers as much of it is on the reef which can be dangerous for beginners. As Zanzibar is yet to be touched by mass tourism, there is an element of adventure when you surf here as there are plenty of surfing spots around the island which are yet to be mapped. If you’re an experienced surfer, this could be the perfect destination if you’re looking for a challenge.
Portugal
With over 1,000 miles of coastline, Portugal is the perfect European destination for a surf holiday. The country is home to great weather and idyllic beaches where you will be able to find ideal conditions for surfing. With surfing spots perfect for all abilities, from beaches with small waves to those with big, expert-level waves, there is something for everyone here. Beginners may fare best in the summer months of June-September, whereas more experienced surfers can enjoy more challenging conditions from October-April.
When visiting Portugal on a surfing trip, make sure to visit some of the best surfing spots including:
● Praia de Carcavelos
● Ericeira
● Praia do Norte Nazaré
● Arrifana Costa Vicentina
● Peniche
Morocco
On the north coast of Africa, you can find the Kingdom of Morocco, an incredible country with a vibrant culture. With amazing cities like Casablanca, Marrakesh and Rabat to visit, there is no end of things to do in Morocco. However, there is also plenty to keep surfers occupied around the coast. Although you can get some great surfing conditions all year round, the best time for surfing is during winter, specifically from December-March.
While in Morocco, you can find surf spots ideal for beginners as well as waves described as ‘freight trains’ which are perfect for advanced surfers. Make sure to visit:
● Dakhla
● Agadir
● Anchor Point
● Killer Point
● Essaouira
With so many incredible surfing destinations, you better start planning your next surfing holiday as there is just so much to choose from.