If you’re looking for a new adventure, learning how to surf can be an exhilarating experience.
Not only is it a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a chance to challenge yourself and learn a new skill. However, finding the right place to learn can be overwhelming, especially if you’re a beginner.

Thankfully, there are plenty of incredible destinations around the world that offer ideal conditions for beginner surfers.
Whether you’re looking for warm waters, gentle waves, or experienced instructors, there’s a surf spot out there that’s perfect for you. From the shores of Australia to the beaches of Bali, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to learn how to surf.
So, if you’re ready to catch some waves and experience the thrill of surfing, read on to discover some of the top destinations for beginner surfers.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time surfer, these locations offer the perfect combination of stunning scenery, friendly locals, and epic waves that will have you hooked on surfing in no time.
Hawaii

Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to learn how to surf, with consistent waves year-round and a variety of surf spots suitable for beginners.
Here are some of the best places to learn how to surf in Hawaii:
Surf Spot | Island | Wave Type |
---|---|---|
Waikiki Beach | Oahu | Longboard-friendly waves |
Kalapaki Beach | Kauai | Mellow waves |
Thousand Peaks | Maui | Longboard-friendly waves |
Pops (aka Populars) | Oahu | Fun, mellow waves |
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous surf spots in Hawaii, and for good reason. The waves are gentle and long, making it the perfect spot for beginners to learn how to surf on a longboard.
Kalapaki Beach on Kauai is another great spot for beginners, with mellow waves and a beautiful backdrop of palm trees and mountains.
Thousand Peaks on Maui is a popular spot for beginners, with longboard-friendly waves and a relaxed atmosphere. Pops (aka Populars) on Oahu is another great spot for beginners, with fun and mellow waves that are perfect for learning how to surf.
Read next – Complete guide on Surfing in Maui
When learning how to surf in Hawaii, it’s important to take lessons from a qualified instructor and to always practice safety. Always check the surf report and conditions before heading out, and never surf alone. With the right instruction and safety precautions, you’ll be surfing in no time on the beautiful waves of Hawaii.
California

California is known for its beautiful beaches and perfect waves, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels.
Here are some of the best places to learn how to surf in California:
Location | Description |
---|---|
Malibu, Los Angeles | Malibu is a great spot for beginners, with its long, gentle waves and sandy bottom. There are also plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area. |
Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz is another popular spot for beginners, with its consistent waves and variety of breaks. Cowell’s Beach is a great place to start, with its mellow waves and sandy bottom. |
Carlsbad | Carlsbad is a great spot for beginners, with its long, rolling waves and sandy bottom. Tamarack Beach is a popular spot for surf lessons. |
If you’re looking for a more challenging spot, Trestles in San Clemente is a world-famous surf spot with a variety of breaks for all levels of surfers.
However, it’s important to note that Trestles is a protected area, so you’ll need to take a shuttle or bike to access the beach.
Overall, California offers a wide range of surf spots for beginners and experienced surfers alike. Whether you’re looking for gentle waves or a more challenging break, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to learn how to surf in California.
Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a popular destination for surfers of all levels, but it is especially known for its beginner-friendly waves. The country has a long coastline on both the Pacific and Caribbean sides, providing a variety of surf spots to choose from.
Some of the best beginner surf beaches in Costa Rica include:
- Playa Santa Teresa
- Playa Avellanas
- Playa Guiones
- Playa Hermosa
- and Playa Tamarindo
These beaches offer consistent waves, warm water, and a relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for learning.
If you’re looking for a surf camp experience, there are many options in Costa Rica. Surf camps provide a structured environment for beginners to learn the basics of surfing, including safety, technique, and etiquette.
They also offer equipment rentals and guidance from experienced instructors.
Surf Spot | Level | Wave Type |
---|---|---|
Playa Santa Teresa | Beginner to Intermediate | Beach break |
Playa Avellanas | Beginner to Intermediate | Point break and beach break |
Playa Guiones | Beginner to Intermediate | Beach break |
Playa Hermosa | Beginner to Intermediate | Beach break |
Playa Tamarindo | Beginner to Intermediate | Beach break |
Keep in mind that the best time to surf in Costa Rica varies depending on the region and the time of year.
The dry season, from December to April, generally has smaller waves and less wind, making it a good time for beginners.
However, the wet season, from May to November, can offer larger waves and more challenging conditions for intermediate and advanced surfers.
Australia

Australia is known for its beautiful beaches and great surf spots, making it a popular destination for surfers from all over the world.
Here are some of the best places to learn how to surf in Australia:
- Noosa, Queensland
- Gold Coast, Queensland
- Surf Coast, Victoria
- Byron Bay, New South Wales
- Yamba, New South Wales
Without a doubt, the best surf beaches for beginners in Australia are Currumbin Alley and Rainbow Bay. These two beaches are located on the Gold Coast in Queensland and are known for their gentle waves and easy access.
They are perfect for beginners who are just starting out and want to learn how to surf in a safe and controlled environment. Byron Bay is another popular destination for beginner surfers. This laid-back coastal town in New South Wales is home to some of the best surf schools in the country. The waves here are generally small and easy to ride, making it a great place to learn how to surf.
If you’re looking for a more challenging surf spot, then the Surf Coast in Victoria is the place to be. This area is home to some of the best waves in Australia, and it’s a great place for intermediate surfers to improve their skills.
Yamba is another great spot for beginner surfers. This small coastal town in New South Wales is home to some of the best surf schools in the country, and the waves here are perfect for beginners who are just starting out.
Overall, Australia is a great place to learn how to surf. With its beautiful beaches, great surf spots, and excellent surf schools, it’s no wonder that so many people come here to learn how to ride the waves.
Indonesia

Indonesia is known for its world-class surf spots, making it a top destination for surfers of all levels.
With over 17,000 islands, Indonesia offers a wide variety of waves, from gentle rollers to powerful barrels, making it an ideal destination for beginners to learn how to surf.
The best time to visit Indonesia for surfing is between April and October when the swell is consistent and the winds are offshore.
Here are some of the best places to learn how to surf in Indonesia:
- Kuta Beach, Bali: Kuta Beach is the most popular surf spot on Bali and is perfect for beginners. The waves are gentle and consistent, and there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops in the area.
- Canggu, Bali: Canggu is another great spot for beginners, with a variety of waves suitable for all levels. It’s also a popular spot for longboarders.
- Batu Karas, West Java: Batu Karas is a small fishing village on the south coast of West Java and is a great spot for beginners. The waves are gentle and the water is warm, making it the perfect place to learn how to surf.
- Lombok: Lombok is a quieter alternative to Bali and offers a variety of waves suitable for beginners. Kuta Lombok and Gerupuk Bay are two popular spots for learning how to surf.
- Mentawai Islands: The Mentawai Islands are a group of islands off the coast of West Sumatra and are known for their world-class waves. However, there are also some beginner-friendly spots, such as Beng Bengs and Nipussi.
Overall, Indonesia is a great destination for beginners to learn how to surf, with a wide variety of waves and surf schools to choose from.
Just be sure to do your research and choose a reputable surf school to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
Learning how to surf can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to choose the right location to ensure you have the best possible experience. From the beginner-friendly beaches of Byron Bay and Canggu to the more challenging waves of Morocco, there are plenty of options available for surfers of all skill levels.
When choosing a surf destination, it’s important to consider factors such as wave conditions, water temperature, and local culture. You’ll also want to think about the type of surf break you want to learn on, whether it’s a beach break, reef break, or point break.
Ultimately, the best place to learn how to surf is one that meets your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back beach town or a more adventurous surf trip, there are plenty of options available to suit your style.
So why wait? Grab your board and head to one of these top surf destinations for beginners. With a little practice and patience, you’ll be riding the waves like a pro in no time!