Whether you do it yourself or enjoy watching others do it, to truly enjoy surfing, you need to choose the spot that's best for you. And, of course, there are countless options. So, to help you decide where to start your surfing journey after choosing the right surfboard, we've compiled a list of the 10 best surf spots in the world.
1. Supertubes, Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
The supertubes of Jeffrey's Bay and Muizenberg are two of the most popular surf spots in South Africa. Jeffrey's Bay, considered the best right-hander break in the world, is known for its long, fast barrels after a strong break. There are many sections of the bay, such as Kitchen Windows, Magna Tubes, Boneyards, and Supertubes.
2. Pipeline, Hawaii
Hawaii boasts some of the best surfing spots in the world. If you're visiting Hawaii, be sure to test your surfing skills at Sunset Beach, Jaws, and Waikiki. However, Banzai Pipeline is considered one of the most challenging surfing spots in the world. Located on the North Shore of Oahu, this is where waves begin to break as soon as they reach the shallows of the reef, known as a reef break. It's home to one of the heaviest waves in the world, reaching heights exceeding six meters over the shallow base of a sharp reef. Pipeline has three reefs that gradually deepen into the water.
3. Hossegor, France
Hossegor, Le Cavalier, Anglet, and Biarritz are the best places in France for surfing. But for many, Hossegor is considered the best. It is often called the surfing capital of Europe. This Atlantic surf spot is known for its heavy walls breaking into terrifyingly shallow sandbars. People from all over the world come here to watch professional surfers.
4. Cloud Nine, Siargao Island, Philippines
This spot in the Philippines is for fearless and professional surfers. Powerful reef breaks, crashing against shallow, razor-sharp corals, are not for the faint of heart.
5. Uluwatu and Kuta, Bali
Indonesia is home to a number of amazing surf spots, such as Lance's Right, Sipora, the Mentawais Islands, and Sumatera Barat. But it's hard to beat Bali's Uluwatu, Kutu, and Padang Padang. Perfect glass faces are suitable not only for professionals but also for beginners.
6. Taghazout, Morocco
Taghazout is a great spot for beginner surfers, as it's much less crowded and has gentle waves most of the year. This fishing village in southwestern Morocco has something for everyone. It's also a great spot for experienced surfers, as the waves are stronger from September to April.
7. Teahupo'o, Tahiti, French Polynesia
Part of the Association of Surfing Professionals World Championship Circuit, Teahupo'o is known for its glassy waves and shallow coral reef. The iconic break can make it extremely rough and empty, making it best suited for professionals.
8. Puerto Escondido, Southern Oaxaca, Mexico.
Puerto Escondido, Sayulita, and Nayarit are the best surfing spots in Mexico. Puerto Escondido is a quiet Mexican town with surfers and Zicatela Beach. Nicknamed the "Mexican Pipeline" due to its resemblance to the Banzai Pipeline on Oahu's north shore, Puerto Escondido enjoys a long, blessed surf season from March to December.
9. Mavericks, California
California has a lot to offer surfers: from Huntington Beach to San Clemente, Trestles, Black's Beach, San Diego, and, of course, Mavericks. Only the bravest riders can conquer the giant peak, which rises up to 25 meters. Storms are one of the reasons for its height. You must reach the wave by boat or jet ski. This is quite dangerous and should be considered a positive, as there have been surfers who have died here.
10. Nazare, Portugal
Nazaré and Peniche are two popular surfing spots in Portugal. Nazaré is famous for its giant waves. Hawaiian surfer Garrett McNamara set a record in 2011, surfing a 23.77-meter wave in Nazaré. During the big winter swells, Nazaré becomes a paradise for professional surfers when the big waves start to arrive.