Categorized as some of the most popular locations for avid surfers, places like Jeffrey’s Bay and the Gold Coast have been labeled hot spots that people flock to from all over the world. While some of the surf locales listed below have waves that are ideal for beginning surfers, most of these waves are either so large or dangerous that only experienced surfers attempt them. If you’re looking to cross some spots off your surfing bucket list, check out some of the places below before planning your next trip.

1. Oahu, Hawaii: While Oahu’s Banzai Pipeline is a wave most surfers only dream of conquering, it provides a beautiful yet terrifying surf hot spot for only the most talented athletes. Located on the North Shore, the three reefs here can be extremely dangerous if precautions are not taken or unprepared surfers attempt to ride the tube. They are flat tabletop reefs with several underwater lava spires. This is considered by many to be the deadliest wave in the world. There are a number of professional surfers who made their names known while surfing the Pipeline. Musician Jack Johnson, although he did not gain his notoriety from surfing Pipeline, needed more than 150 stitches after he wiped out on the famous wave.

2. Gold Coast, Australia: Located about 1.25 miles from where parking is available, Superbanks is a fantastic surf spot with a phenomenal break. This popular destination has drawn a surfing crowd for years, so expect to encounter a number of professional surfers. There are about 44 miles of beach in total on the Gold Coast, with four main break points for surfers to experience. This area is home to 35 beaches in total, with many bringing in crowds for international surfing competitions. Most surfers venture to The Spit, Main Beach, Narrowneck, Palm Beach, or Mermaid Beach to capture some of the best waves Australia has to offer.

3. Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa: Supertubes is the best of the best when it comes to waves in Jeffrey’s Bay, but other great options for riding are Kitchen Windows, Magna Tubes, or Boneyards. Waves here can reach up to 984 feet long, so long rides are a big attraction for surfers. This Eastern Cape province is about an hour away from Port Elizabeth, with surfing season most crowded during June, July, and August. In July, this location boasts the title of host for the Billabong Pro ASP World Tour, held specifically at Supertubes. Once known as a small fishing town, Jeffrey’s Bay has grown with its reputation for amazing surfing, making it one of the fastest-expanding urban areas in the country.

4. Bali, Indonesia: Choosing a precise spot for ideal surfing in this Indonesian province is a little challenging. A great choice is Uluwatu, although it may be crowded with locals who tend to dominate the waves because they’re familiar with the area. Another option is Kuta, which was one of the first cities in Bali that experienced rapid growth because of an increased number of tourists. This is a better location for those who are looking for calmer waters perfect for beginning surfers. May through October tends to be the most popular time for tourist surfers to come visit, but June through August is a great time for those who want to do on-land island exploration as well.

5. Montanita, Ecuador: Montanita Beach, located on the west coast of Ecuador in the province of Santa Elena, is not as well known as most of the other surf destinations on this list. Gaining its popularity over time was a slow process, but it is now recognized as a surf haven. There are only about 1,000 locals who live in Montanita, most of whom are surfers. This is an extremely multicultural environment, bringing in people from all over the world, with friendly locals as a staple. The waves are typically strong and consistent, providing a perfect location for international surfing competitions, which the beach has started to bring in over the years.

6. Lima, Peru: When many think of this location, they picture the rocky beaches and unappealing water, both of which deter a larger number of people from surfing here. Lima, the capital of and largest city in Peru, has plenty of other attractions for surfers to experience when they come to visit. The primary surf spot is right by the Miraflores shopping center and the pier, showing that not all surf locations require a several-mile walk to an abandoned beach. There are small, medium, and large waves, so surfers of all levels are able to enjoy the water. This makes it a great location for a group of friends or a family that has people of all skill sets.

7. California, U.S.: The Mavericks wave is only attempted by the most experienced of surfers. Located in northern California off the coast of Pillar Point Harbor, waves in this region can crest up to 25 feet. This break is caused by a unique underwater rock formation. These huge waves are apparent in the winter months, when an invitation-only competition is held to see who is brave enough to attempt to conquer the Mavericks. This is for big-wave surfers only, and many of the most experienced professionals do not dare ride because of the high risk of injury or even death. The name of the surf spot comes from the first people to surf the wave, who brought along their dog, Maverick, who kept attempting to swim out to where his owner was surfing.

8. Tamarindo, Costa Rica: This is another surf hot spot that has a variety of waves, ideal for beginners and experts alike. Located in a secluded environment, this is really the place to go for surfers who want to feel closer to nature while they’re riding waves. While the town only has about 500 people in total, this number can grow to nearly 5,000 during the tourist season. Tamarindo, on the northern Pacific coast, is the most popular surf spot in Costa Rica, bringing in travelers from all over the world. Reef breaks like Witches Rock and Ollie’s Point are two of the most well known. Promoted as a place that offers a variety of surfing environments in a small area, this is an excellent choice for people planning a surf trip.

9. Hossegor, France: Recognized as the surfing capital of Europe, it’s no wonder Hossegor makes the list. This Atlantic surf spot houses a number of mansions along the beach that can be seen from the waves, such as one once owned by the before-mentioned Jack Johnson. The tubes here are considered by some to be better than Hawaii, and these exist without the coral. This is also home to a number of professional international competitions, so tourists from all over flock to Hossegor to watch the pros. Unlike some of the more remote surf locales, this is a seaside resort complete with all the amenities, adding to the cost of the trip but ensuring there will be plenty to do.

10. Raglan, New Zealand: This landing-place for surfers rose to prominence in the 1960s following its portrayal in the movie The Endless Summer. Raglan’s Manu Bay, also known as The Point, is one of the most popular wave breaks because of its appearance in the movie, but visitors are also encouraged to check out the Indicators, Whale Bay, and Vortex Bay. These breaks have hosted surfing competitions such as several international surfing events. Manu Bay’s left-hand break is not only accessible, but consistent, as is regarded by many as one of the best in the world, making this a must-surf location for all professionals. 

Image from Shalom Jacobovitz on the Wikimedia Commons