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12 June 2025From Europe to America, not forgetting Asia and Oceania, there are many beaches where you can practice surfing: let’s see which are the most beautiful destinations
Surfing is a fascinating sport that has now captured the imagination of many people around the world. While the earliest manifestations of surf-like practices date back thousands of years, in recent decades it has become popular worldwide: according to the International Surfing Association, there are reportedly about 35 million people who practice it.
Those who are just beginning to surf and still have little experience should know the best destinations to surf safely and hone their technique, and then tackle more challenging waves. So let’s look at some destinations, in Europe and the rest of the world, where to find beaches (and waves!) suitable for the less experienced.
Surfing for beginners: the best festinations in Europe
We begin our trip from Hossegor, considered one of Europe’s surfing capitals, famous for its powerful waves and long sandy beaches. It is a location that offers perfect conditions for surfers of all levels, including beginners, to whom La Sud beach is recommended, which has “gentle” waves and numerous surf schools offering group and private lessons.
Our trip continues to Fuerteventura, and it couldn’t be otherwise: the Canary Island does indeed offer ideal surfing conditions all year round. El Cotillo beach is one of the most suitable for beginners, with soft, long waves that allow you to practice and improve step by step (or rather: session by session!). In addition, there are numerous surf schools and experienced instructors who can ensure that the basics and safety rules are taught.
In Portugal we find Lagos, another excellent destination for beginner surfers. The beaches of Meia Praia and Praia do Amado provide gentle and consistent waves, perfect for those just learning. The region is also known for its sunny climate and warm waters, ideal conditions for people who want to experience the thrill of riding waves.
America: ideal beaches for beginners
We now land in Waikiki, a neighborhood of Honolulu in Hawaii, an icon for surfers… beginners included! With its long waves, Waikiki is ideal for those just learning to surf. The many local surf schools offer lessons for all levels, making learning easy and fun, not to mention that surf culture is embedded in every corner of the neighborhood.
Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica’s top surfing destinations: its slow, clean waves are a boon for beginners. The town offers many accommodations, restaurants, and surf schools that provide lessons and equipment rentals. The town’s atmosphere, combined with optimal surfing conditions, makes Tamarindo an ideal place for those who want to learn to surf in a tropical environment.
Sayulita, on Mexico’s Pacific coast, is a surfing village. Sayulita’s beaches offer consistent waves that are easy to handle, making this the perfect location for those just starting out-just think of the many local surf schools that iffy personalized lessons to help new surfers become familiar with the waves.
Surfing in Asia and Oceania: the best spots for beginners
Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most popular surf spots, great for beginners because ofits soft waves and long Main Beach. There is no shortage of surf schools here either, providing lessons for all ages and experience levels. Byron Bay is also renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and welcoming surfing community.
We land in Bali, specifically in Kuta Beach: the consistent and easy waves are ideal for those just starting out. Numerous surf schools offer structured courses to help new surfers become familiar with the waves, not to mention that Bali is also famous for its fascinating culture and natural beauty.
We close out our trip around the world with Weligama, on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, another fine destination for beginner surfers: its light waves and shallow waters will make it easier to get to grips with the art of boarding. Local surf schools teach everything needed to help beginners improve quickly. Weligama’s beach is wide and sandy, ideal for safe surfing.
In conclusion
Surfing is a fascinating sport practiced by millions of people around the world. From beginners to experienced surfers, there are ideal destinations for every level of experience. In Europe, Hossegor in France, Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands and Lagos in Portugal offer perfect conditions with waves suitable for the less experienced and numerous surf schools.
In America, Waikiki in Hawaii, Tamarindo in Costa Rica, and Sayulita in Mexico are perfect locations for beginners, with long, gentle waves and a wide range of lessons and equipment. Also in Asia and Oceania, Byron Bay in Australia, Kuta Beach in Bali, and Weligama in Sri Lanka are great places to start, thanks to their soft waves and dedicated surf schools.
By the way, at our surf school in Fuerteventura you will find trained instructors and quality equipment to learn the art of surfing starting with basic technique and how to “read” (and respect) the waves.
Takeaways
- Surfing is a sport that has gained popularity worldwide, with about 35 million practitioners according to the International Surfing Association. This growth testifies to the universal appeal of surfing and its ability to adapt to different cultures and environments;
- In Europe, some of the best destinations for beginner surfers include Hossegor in France, Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, and Lagos in Portugal. These locations offer gentle waves, numerous surf schools and favorable weather conditions, making them perfect for beginners;
- Waikiki in Hawaii, Tamarindo in Costa Rica, and Sayulita in Mexico are among the best U.S. destinations for beginner surfers. With their long, gentle waves and a wide range of surf schools, these locations offer an ideal environment for learning and improving;
- Byron Bay in Australia, Kuta Beach in Bali, and Weligama in Sri Lanka are popular beginner destinations in Asia and Oceania. Their easy-to-manage waves and numerous dedicated surf schools ensure a safe and enjoyable learning experience;
- Surf schools play a crucial role in helping beginners become familiar with the waves and improve their technique. In all the destinations mentioned, the presence of experienced instructors and structured lessons ensures that new surfers can learn safely and with fun.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best destinations in Europe for beginner surfers?
In Europe, some of the best destinations for beginner surfers include Hossegor in France, Fuerteventura in the Canary Islands, and Lagos in Portugal. These locations offer gentle waves, numerous surf schools and favorable weather conditions, making them perfect for beginners.
What are the best American destinations for beginner surfers?
Waikiki in Hawaii, Tamarindo in Costa Rica, and Sayulita in Mexico are among the best U.S. destinations for beginner surfers. With their long, gentle waves and a wide range of surf schools, these locations offer an ideal environment for learning and improving.
What are the popular beginner destinations in Asia and Oceania?
Byron Bay in Australia, Kuta Beach in Bali, and Weligama in Sri Lanka are popular beginner destinations in Asia and Oceania. Their easy-to-manage waves and numerous dedicated surf schools ensure a safe and enjoyable learning experience.