If you’re a fan of the sun and the surf, you probably spend a fair portion of your time looking for the next great destination and your next great surfing experience.
Luckily for you, we’ve compiled here a list of amazing US surfing spots that need to find their place on your radar. Even if you’re just looking to get into surfing, and need a beach that won’t treat you too harshly, these beaches will suit you well.
1. Santa Cruz, California
Believe it or not, people were surfing in Santa Cruz as far back as 1885. Surfers from all across the globe flock to this little town in Northern California ever since Hawaiian princes David Kawananakoa, Edward Keliiahonui, and Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole caught their first waves here 130 years ago.
Santa Cruz sports 11 incredible surfing beaches where you can work on your balance and skills, all the while enjoying the amazing scenery around you. Some of them are also well-suited for beginners and you can practice without fearing a huge wave being the death of you. You can also take your paddleboard out and practice your sea legs, so to speak. But if you’re a pro, Steamer Lane is calling your name.
2. Honolulu, Hawaii
When we talk of surfing, probably the first location that comes to mind is Hawaii.
After all, the Hawaiians were the first ones to combat those waves and introduce the sport to tourists from all over the world.
Honolulu, the islands’ largest city, is also home to the most tourists and the most crowded surfing spots. As the climate makes surfing possible all year round, there is rarely a time when there are no surfers on the beaches of Hawaii, barring extreme weather, of course.
Waikiki Beach is probably the most famous of the Hawaiian beaches, where the barrel waves provide an unending challenge to all those looking to tackle them.
3. Malibu, California
Another world-famous surfing spot, Malibu is home to gorgeous beaches and incredible vistas, as well as amazing nightlife.
The stretch of coastline you can run on, surf on, and bathe on is something out of Hollywood’s best celluloid dreams – as are the people you’re likely to run into.
Zuma and Surfrider beach are perfect for longboarders, so if that’s your preference, you know where to head. On the other hand, Malibu Point is an iconic surfing destination that always draws a crowd, and is the place to be seen in Malibu.
With its amazing sunsets and romantic scenery, Malibu can be your perfect couple’s surfing destination as well.
4. Cocoa Beach, Florida
Cocoa Beach, home of Kelly Slater, makes it onto every best of surfing sports in the world list, and for good reason.
This beach features some calmer waves that are an excellent choice if you’re a beginner or prefer to use a longer board.
Florida will also often be overflowing with tourists, so be careful in the water, as there are plenty of those trying out their first board on a family vacation. Add to that the fact that the Ron Jon surf shop is located on Cocoa Beach, and you’ll realize that not all of those you encounter are pros, so you’ll certainly need to be cautious.
However, none of that should deter you from visiting Cocoa Beach, as it truly is one of a kind.
5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
While you may not associate Cape Cod with surfing, and think of it more as a pleasure spot for the rich and famous, the truth is, there are some amazing waves to catch on the Massachusetts coast.
Marconi Station is rightfully famous today for more than just being the site of the first trans-Atlantic cable message: there are swells here that provide for the most amazing hollow waves you can hope to catch on the East Coast.
True, some of the crowd might be a bit more highbrow, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying out your skills with the Cape Cod waves.
6. Wilderness, Puerto Rico
Finally, one of the best places to catch a wave in the Caribbean is certainly Puerto Rico. The sun and the sea are enough to take your breath away at every corner. Add to that the amazing waves, and you’ll be all set.
Wilderness is one of those wild beaches where you need to be smart and quick if you hope to stay on your board. As the reef below is ready to exact
Final Thoughts
That concludes our list of some of the most precious gems the US has to offer to surfers. Hopefully, we’ve inspired you – and once you’re off, who knows what you may encounter on your adventures and which new gems you might discover. So pack your board and sunscreen, and get ready to hit the waves!
