Beginner-Friendly Surfing Spots Around the World
If learning to surf has been on your to-do list for a while, the good news is: it’s never too late. You can pick up this sport at any age. Moreover, now’s the perfect time as surfing continues to grow in popularity, especially with its recent debut at the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo.
However, before tackling chest-high waves, some baby steps are in order. As a newbie, it’s important to seek out gentle, rolling waves and sandy ocean bottoms when first getting your feet wet. You want a no-pressure environment when perfecting the art of balancing on a board. Therefore, we’ve chosen a few beginner-friendly breaks from the world’s longest lefthand wave in Peru to a friendly spot in Hawaii to an ecological preserve in California.
Lahaina, Hawaii
We all know Maui has some super epic surf spots like Jaws and Ho‘okipa Lookout, but what about the breaks that are suited to first-timers? No worries, there are plenty of those, too.
Ukumehame Beach Park near Lahaina on Maui is ideal for beginners. Also known as “Thousands,” this spot off Honoapiilani Highway has an impressive stretch of breaks. With so many peaks available, you and your surf instructor will be able to find one that’s not crowded.
Make it happen:
Maui Surf Lessons will teach you everything from how to select the best waves to surf etiquette (aka how not to be a kook). Because the lessons are private, you also may catch on a bit more quickly than if you were in a large group lesson. Bonuses: 1) The view of the West Maui Mountains. 2) Maui Surf Lessons provides digital photos so you have proof to show your friends back home.
Better yet, the company supports the Hawaiian Ecotourism Association principles of sustainable tourism. You, and your guide (a certified marine naturalist), will do a mini beach cleanup before you surf, and you’ll learn lots about caring for our oceans along the way.
Puerto Chicama, Peru
Peruvians have been surfing since at least 1000 BC. Fast forward to today, and the surf culture is still going strong. With 1,600 miles of coastline, Peru is a surfer’s paradise year-round. Puerto Chicama, home to the world’s longest lefthand wave, is particularly ideal for beginners. That’s because the length and direction of the waves makes them easier to catch, providing more time per wave to practice your moves. For novice surfers, December to March is the best timeframe when waves are smaller and more mellow.
Make it happen:
Chicama Boutique Hotel hosts surfers and travelers from around the globe. After hours out on the water, you can unwind at the hotel with a cooking lesson, yoga, or a nearby hike for a grand view of the waves from above.
If you don’t have a lot of planning time, consider having a company like Austin Adventures put together an adventure trip that includes as much surfing, hiking, and biking as you can handle.
San Diego, California
There’s no doubt San Diego has plenty of waves to choose from. This popular coastal city boasts 70 miles of epic coastline, just begging you to paddle out. La Jolla Shores is a great place to learn, thanks to the prevailing southwest wind and the lifeguards who stay on duty throughout the year.
Make it happen:
Everyday California will have you catching waves in no time in one of southern California’s prettiest surf locales: the La Jolla Ecological Reserve. Here in the calm, shallow water packed with nutrient-rich kelp forests, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant marine life. A 90-minute surf session will teach you the basics and likely instill a lifelong passion for surfing.
Inch Marlow, Barbados
The Caribbean is the ideal environment for beach lounging, but eventually, you’ll be ready for some action. When that time comes, head to Surfer’s Point on the southeastern part of Barbados. It is the ultimate hang-ten mecca for newbie and intermediate surfers.
However, Soup Bowl, found on the island’s eastern side, is a nasty curl which you’ll want to avoid as it’s only for veteran surfers. Still, it’s worth driving to Bathsheba to glimpse the fierce waves from the craggy cliffs. The giant, moss-covered limestone boulders provide an excellent photo opportunity.
Make it happen:
Burkie Surf School takes beginners out on friendly 1 to 3-foot waves at Surfer’s Point. While learning, you can also spot sea turtles, manta rays, and reef fish. The water stays warm, never dropping below 75 degrees; thus, there’s no need for a wetsuit.
Eleuthera, Bahamas
In north central Eleuthera, just south of Gregory Town, lies Surfer’s Beach. Although it’s off the beaten path, its appeal includes having the most consistent break on the island and rarely being crowded. This is crucial when learning to surf since it takes time to master maneuvering the board.
Make it happen:
Surfer Pete offers lessons and has been surfing these waves for decades. Pete and his wife run a shop where you can rent everything you need from surfboards to snorkel gear.
Pete appreciates the welcoming local surf community, indicating that regular surfers are generous with sharing the waves. Beware of sea urchins, rocks, and coral on this reef break, especially between May and July, which are the best months for beginners.
This article was first published on November 19, 2019, and updated on February 7, 2020.
