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12 June 2025
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12 June 2025Do people who surf on New Year’s Eve surf all year round? Enthusiasts would always surf, including Jan. 1: and there are some beaches perfect for the occasion
Surfing on New Year’s Eve is an original and fun way to celebrate the arrival of the New Year, moreover away from the winter cold in many parts of the world.
To choose the right beach, several factors must be taken into consideration: the type of waves, weather conditions, the presence of services for surfers, and, no less important, the atmosphere of the place. So let’s see which are the top beaches for surfing on New Year’s Eve, listing their most attractive features.
The best beaches for surfing on New Year’s Eve in the world
One of the most iconic destinations for surfers during the New Year period is the Banzai Pipeline, located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Known for its powerful and perfect waves, this spot attracts surfers from all over the world. During December and early January, conditions are ideal thanks to large winter swells that create spectacular tube waves, the ultimate for experienced surfers.
Another must-see destination is Australia’s Gold Coast, famous for its variety of spots suitable for all levels of surfers. Among the best known are Snapper Rocks and Burleigh Heads, whose waves are beloved by surfers. The Gold Coast is also famous for its excellent infrastructure: equipment rental stores and surf schools abound. During the New Year’s Eve period, the Gold Coast hosts world-class events and competitions: if you want to celebrate the arrival of the New Year in style, here’s your chance!
In Costa Rica we find Playa Hermosa, a beach with consistent waves ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. The beach is uncrowded, but there is certainly no shortage of exciting competitions and surf schools that will allow you to surf even on New Year’s Eve, surrounded by a killer view and weather.
Not to be outdone is Uluwatu, in Bali, a beach that gives powerful waves to the most daring (and experienced) surfers. Those who love nature and. culture, can visit the Uluwatu temple and admire the spectacular sunsets. Tourist facilities, including restaurants and cliffside bars, offer breathtaking views of the lush landscape.
In Portugal we find Ericeira, one of Europe’s best-known surfing destinations thanks to its waves and friendly atmosphere. Ericeira offers spots for all levels of surfers and excellent tourist infrastructure, including surf schools, equipment rental stores, and a vibrant cultural scene. By celebrating New Year’s Eve in Ericeira, you can enjoy both spectacular waves and fascinating local traditions.
Fuerteventura: a paradise for surfers
Fuerteventura, with all its beautiful beaches, cannot be missing from this list.
Corralejo is one of the main surfing centers in Fuerteventura, known for its waves suitable for all levels of surfers. Flag Beach and Rocky Point provide excellent conditions for both beginners and intermediate surfers. Waves are generous throughout the year, with predominantly offshore winds creating ideal surfing conditions. Corralejo is also home to numerous surf schools and camps, making it a perfect place to learn or improve your skills…even on New Year’s Eve!
El Cotillo, located on the west coast, provides a relaxed atmosphere and excellent surfing conditions. Beaches such as Playa del Castillo are loved by experienced surfers for its powerful waves.In town, there is a “surfing” atmosphere in both summer and winter with numerous surf schools and equipment rental options and many different types of accommodations, ranging from budget surf camps to luxury hotels.
If you want to learn the art of boarding, on New Year’s Eve and the rest of the year, choose our surfing courses in Fuerteventura: you will learn technique, safety rules, and we will help you choose the ideal equipment for you, whether you are a beginner or have already “known” surfing.
Practical tips for surfing on New Year’s Eve
Surfing on New Year’s Eve is not just about having fun: Good physical training and the right equipment are needed.
Having excellent physical condition allows you to improve your ability to withstand the cold and have enough energy during the session. Mentally, it is important to be prepared for large waves and potentially more challenging conditions.
Equipment is equally crucial: a thick wetsuit (at least 4/3 mm) helps maintain body heat, along with boots, gloves and a neoprene hood to protect the extremities from the cold. One could then opt for a board with more volume to facilitate paddling in harsher conditions.
As for safety, one should choose the spot well and be informed about sea conditions including currents and tides, surf “in company” (for mutual assistance in case of problems), and carry a first aid kit.
Finally, it is good to always keep an eye on the weather and sea forecast to avoid conditions that are too dangerous.
In conclusion
Surfing on New Year’s Eve can be a unique experience, the perfect vacation for those who want to combine a passion for surfing with celebrating the New Year in exotic locations. The beaches we have told you about, from Australia to the island of Fuerteventura, offer excellent conditions, comprehensive services and a festive atmosphere even on the last day of the year.
In addition to thinking about fun, one must remember to properly prepare for winter waves with the right equipment and by monitoring weather and sea conditions. With the right preparation, surfing on New Year’s Eve can turn into an unforgettable adventure to be repeated every year in a different part of the world!
Takeaways
- There are many locations, from Europe to Asia, that can suit those who want to spend the first day of the year on the table;
- Located on Oahu’s North Shore, the Banzai Pipeline is celebrated for its powerful, perfect waves, ideal for experienced surfers. Winter conditions create spectacular tube waves, attracting fans from all over the world during the New Year period;
- The Gold Coast offers a variety of spots for surfers of all levels, such as Snapper Rocks and Burleigh Heads. With excellent infrastructure, including equipment rental stores and surf schools, the Gold Coast is also home to events and competitions during the New Year period, making it a festive destination suitable for everyone;
- Playa Hermosa is perfect for intermediate and advanced surfers because of its consistent waves. Uncrowded but lively, it offers exciting competitions and surf schools, all surrounded by breathtaking scenery and ideal weather.
- Uluwatu is famous for its powerful waves suitable for experienced surfers. In addition to surfing, visitors can enjoy the local culture by visiting the Uluwatu temple and admiring the spectacular sunsets. Tourist facilities, including restaurants and bars, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape;
- Ericeira is one of the best-known surfing destinations in Europe, with spots suitable for all levels. It offers excellent tourist infrastructure, surf schools, equipment rental stores and a vibrant cultural scene, allowing visitors to enjoy both the waves and local traditions during the New Year;
- Fuerteventura is a surfer’s paradise, with spots like Corralejo and El Cotillo offering waves for all skill levels. Throughout the year, conditions are optimal thanks to offshore winds that create perfect waves. The many surf schools and camps available make Fuerteventura a great place to learn or improve your surfing skills, even on New Year’s Eve.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a good idea to go surfing on New Year’s Day?
Of course! The first day of the year can be celebrated on the table, in some of the most beautiful locations in the world, where we find several beaches perfect for the occasion.
What are the best beaches for surfing on New Year’s Eve?
Some of the best beaches for surfing on New Year’s Eve include Banzai Pipeline in Hawaii, Gold Coast in Australia, Playa Hermosa in Costa Rica, Uluwatu in Bali, Ericeira in Portugal and Corralejo in Fuerteventura.
What practical tips should be followed for surfing on New Year’s Eve?
To surf on New Year’s Eve, it is important to have good physical preparation, the right equipment (such as a thick wetsuit and neoprene accessories), choose the right spot, surf with company, and monitor weather and sea conditions.