Are you ready to catch some waves and learn how to surf at some of the best beaches around the world? MojoTravels has compiled a list of the Top 10 Beaches Where You Can Learn How to Surf, perfect for beginners and first-timers. From Chesterman Beach in British Columbia to Surfers Point in Barbados, these destinations offer ideal conditions for those looking to hang ten. Whether you’re seeking sheltered beaches with smaller swells or long easy waves to practice on, there is something for everyone on this list.
Each beach has its own unique charm and appeal, whether it’s the friendly vibe at Surfers Point Barbados or the consistent waves at Kuta Beach in Bali. So grab your wetsuit, sign up for a lesson, and get ready to ride those waves while enjoying the beautiful scenery and warm waters at these top surfing destinations. It’s time to make your surfing dreams a reality and experience the thrill of catching your first wave at one of these amazing beaches.
Top 10 Beaches Worldwide Where You Can Learn to Surf
Chesterman Beach, British Columbia
When you think of Canada, surfing may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But hey, surfing isn’t exclusive to hot climates. Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is a popular spot for surfers of all levels with multiple beaches. Despite the cooler waters, Chesterman Beach is a great surf destination for beginners. Tofino offers sheltered beaches with smaller swells, long beach breaks, and easy waves throughout the summer, not to mention the beautiful tree-lined scenery. If you want someone to show you how it’s done, no problem! Simply sign up for a lesson at one of several surf schools in the area. So grab your wetsuit and board and catch those waves.
Taghazout, Morocco
Since the 1960s, seasoned surfers have enjoyed riding waves on the beach by the village of Taghazout. In recent years, Taghazout has also risen in popularity for newbies to the sport. There are spots where the harder waves are reserved for more advanced surfers, but there are other areas where the swells are longer and perfect for beginners. With more surf schools than surf spots, there is plenty of choice when it comes to lessons, with many offering packages including surfing and accommodation at reasonable prices. The best time of year to go is during early autumn when the waves are small and the weather is warm.
Biarritz, France
Nicknamed the California of France, Biarritz is chock-a-block with surfing enthusiasts. So much so that even doctors there sometimes prescribe surfing for some of their patients needing lifestyle changes. Biarritz offers soft sand and sand banks that produce long, easy waves ideal for those starting out. Beginners also have a chance to work on their turns as Biarritz offers both left and right breaks. Once you think you’ve got the hang of it and want to level up, head north on the beach for more challenging waves. Warm and mellow waters are best found during the summer months. So get riding those waves, doctor’s orders.
Santa Cruz, California
California has become almost synonymous with surfing, with amazing beaches along the long coastline receiving big waves from the Pacific. One particularly legendary surf spot, Santa Cruz, attracts surfers from all levels. But don’t let that intimidate you. Santa Cruz is actually a fantastic place for beginners. Beside the Santa Cruz Wharf is the best spot for beginners, since the cove is protected from strong winds. It offers nice, long waves, a sandy bottom, and a sheltered point break which makes the waves consistent. Summer is the best time for beginner waves and when most sharks have migrated elsewhere. Despite the summer weather, you’ll still want to wear a wetsuit because of the cooler Pacific waters.
Surfers Point, Barbados
For great weather and waves year-round, look no further than the properly named Surfers Point. Known for a friendly vibe in the lineup, this popular surfing destination is a great place to learn how to surf. After all, the tropical white sands, turquoise water, and palm trees make this beach a delight. The sandy bottom creates easy waves and left-handers perfect for beginners. You might even hang ten with a friendly sea turtle here. Another great feature of this beach is the warm water, so there’s no need to wear a wetsuit. Though it is suggested that beginners wear a rash guard when starting to learn to surf. Surfers Point has great waves for beginners from August to February.
Maia Praia, Portugal
You may have seen videos of experienced surfers riding enormous waves off the coast of Portugal, but rest assured, not all surfing in Portugal is like that. In fact, near Lagos, you will find great waves for beginners with a beautiful backdrop of giant limestone cliffs. This area offers a protected break which makes the waves easy and consistent. One of the great things about this area is that there are surfing waves every day due to the rough Atlantic, so surfers don’t have to worry too much about checking the surf report. Surfers can enjoy constant waves year-round, but it’s best to go in the spring or autumn to avoid summer crowds and high prices.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a very popular destination for surfers of all levels. In the beautiful province of Guanacaste, Tamarindo is one of the best surf spots for learners. New surfers don’t need to worry about dodging coral reefs as Tamarindo is a sandy break with very few rocks. Waves normally stay around waist high, so beginners can easily stand. If you’re not a strong swimmer, that said, it’s best to look at the surf report in advance as some conditions can make bigger waves, which are more challenging. The best time to go for a beginner is during the popular dry season, which runs December through April. During this busy time, it’s easy to find a place to rent a board or take a lesson.
Byron Bay, Australia
Why not head to the land down under to catch some awesome waves? On the east coast of Australia in the hippy coastal town of Byron Bay, beginner surfers can ride the waves while enjoying the laid-back atmosphere which still persists despite the area’s popularity. Byron Bay is protected from strong southern winds, which makes conditions ideal for beginners. Waves can vary in size, so beginners can level up once they’re feeling confident in their skills. But for true beginners, the best time to visit is from March to May when the weather is warm and the swell is consistent.
Waikiki, Hawaii
On the southern coast of Oahu in Honolulu, you’ll find the beautiful Waikiki Beach where surfing is a way of life. With long rolling waves, beginner surfers will find that they can stay up longer in order to improve their form with smaller breaks. It’s much easier to paddle out, so surfers can use that extra energy to catch more waves. A beginner-friendly atmosphere and the fantastic weather makes this a fabulous spot for an introduction to the sport. It’s easy to catch waves year-round, but you’ll find consistent southern swells from June to August.
Kuta, Bali
Kuta Beach stretches about 1 and a half miles along the southwestern shore of Bali. Along this long stretch of sand, you’ll find a variety of rental shops and surf schools ready to teach you how to surf at an affordable price. The sandy bottom creates great conditions for easy swells and long white breaks perfect for beginners. Changes in tide or weather can, though, change the waves slightly, so beginners can challenge themselves when they’re ready. The best waves can be found from May to September when the offshore winds come in. Kuta is a popular beach, so if you’re looking to beat the crowds, then visit during October when the weather and waves are still great, but there’s less of a lineup.
If you’ve always wanted to hang ten but didn’t know where to start, these top 10 beaches around the world are perfect for beginners and first-timers looking to learn how to surf. Whether you’re in British Columbia, Morocco, France, California, Barbados, Portugal, Costa Rica, Australia, Hawaii, or Bali, there’s a surf spot waiting for you to catch some waves and start your surfing journey. Enjoy the sun, sand, and surf as you learn this exciting and exhilarating sport on some of the best beaches on the planet.