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Pick a month — water, wetsuit, air, rain, waves and crowds all switch to it. Open any destination for its spots and camps.
Atlantic and Indian-Ocean points. Morocco is a warm-water winter escape from Europe (Oct–Mar); Cape Verde catches the same winter swell 15° further south, in boardshorts; South Africa’s Eastern Cape fires through the austral winter (Apr–Sep) — cooler water, wetsuit country.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Verde | ||||||||
Sal (Santa Maria)Cape Verde · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Nov–Mar · Oct: high | Water29°C(22–29 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainDry | Wave size2–10 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPonta PretaAdvanced · fast right point Ponta do SinóBeginner–Int · reef / beach Monte LeãoIntermediate · point Where to stay & learnSal Surfcamp & SchoolBeg–Int · school + camp in Santa MariaNot confirmed Surf Hub Cape VerdeBeg–Int · surf, kite and wing schoolSite live Aug 2026 Ponta Preta Surf ApartmentBeg–Int · rooms + daily coursesNot confirmed | ||||||||
| Morocco | ||||||||
TaghazoutMorocco · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Oct–Mar · Oct: high | Water22°C(16–23 yr) | WetsuitSpringsuit / 2mm | Air29°C | RainDry | Wave size3–10 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsAnchor PointIntermediate–Adv · point break Banana BeachBeginner · beach break Killer PointAdvanced · point break All spots in Morocco →Where to stay & learnSurf BerbereAll levelsWell reviewed Paradis Plage Surf & SpaAll levels · wellnessPremium | ||||||||
| South Africa | ||||||||
Jeffreys Bay (J-Bay)South Africa · Indian Ocean | When it works Peak: Apr–Sep · Oct: medium | Water18°C(16–22 yr) | Wetsuit4/3 mm | Air21°C | RainWet | Wave size3–9 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsSupertubesAdvanced · right point Kitchen WindowsBeginner–Int · reef / point Magnatubes / PointIntermediate · point All spots in South Africa →Where to stay & learnSurf Lodge South AfricaBeg–Int · week packagesVerified Jul 2026 Island Vibe Jeffreys BayBeg–Adv · hostel + schoolVerified Jul 2026 Jeffreys Bay Surf SchoolLessons · Surfing-SA accreditedVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Boardshorts water year-round. Each coast has an opposite monsoon, so there’s almost always somewhere firing.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | ||||||||
Byron BayAustralia · New South Wales · Pacific | When it works Peak: Feb–May · Oct: medium | Water22°C(20–25 yr) | WetsuitSpringsuit / 2mm | Air23°C | RainDry | Wave size1–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsThe PassBeginner–Int · right point WategosBeginner · sheltered point Tallow BeachIntermediate · beach break Where to stay & learnMojosurf Byron BayBeg–Int · 2–7 day camps at the Arts FactorySite live Aug 2026 Surf Camp Byron BayBeg–Int · beachfront at Backpackers InnSite live Aug 2026 Soul Surf SchoolBeg–Int · surf-and-stay dorm packagesSite live Aug 2026 Byron Bay Surf SchoolBeg–Int · 5–14 day camps, meals includedSite live Aug 2026 | ||||||||
Gold CoastAustralia · Queensland · Pacific | When it works Peak: Feb–Apr · Oct: medium | Water22°C(20–26 yr) | WetsuitSpringsuit / 2mm | Air25°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsSnapper Rocks / SuperbankAdvanced · long right point Currumbin AlleyBeginner–Int · point / rivermouth Burleigh HeadsAdvanced · right point Where to stay & learnAustralian Surfing AdventuresBeginner · full-time camp, South Stradbroke Is.Site live Aug 2026 · 2 nights–2 months Coolangatta Learn To SurfBeginner · lessons only, 30+ yrs at Rainbow BaySite live Aug 2026 Kirra Point Surf SchoolBeg–Int · lessons onlySite live Aug 2026 | ||||||||
| Fiji | ||||||||
Fiji (Mamanucas)Fiji · Pacific | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: medium | Water26°C(26–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air28°C | RainDry | Wave size3–9 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsCloudbreakAdvanced–Expert · left reef pass RestaurantsAdvanced · left reef Namotu LeftsIntermediate · left reef All spots in Fiji →Where to stay & learnTavarua Island ResortAdv · all-inclusive islandVerified Jul 2026 Namotu Island ResortInt–Adv · all-inclusive islandVerified Jul 2026 Funky Fish Beach & Surf ResortAdv · budget island, no coachingVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| French Polynesia | ||||||||
TahitiFrench Polynesia · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water27°C(26–29 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air24°C | RainDry | Wave size2–9 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsTeahupoʻoExpert only · heavy left reef Papara (Taharuʻu)Beginner · black-sand beach break PapenooIntermediate · rivermouth Where to stay & learnTaharuu Surf LodgeBeg–Int · guesthouse at Tahiti’s most consistent breakNot confirmed · no official site Moorea Island Surf HouseBeg–Int · family guesthouse, MooreaNot confirmed École de Surf de Tahiti (Taie Faʻaheʻe)Beginner · lessons only, Papara / PapenooNot confirmed | ||||||||
| Indonesia | ||||||||
Bali (Bukit)Indonesia · Indian Ocean | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: medium | Water29°C(27–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainDry | Wave size3–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsUluwatuAdvanced · reef Padang PadangAdvanced · reef Batu Bolong (Canggu)Beginner · beach break All spots in Indonesia →Where to stay & learnThe Chillhouse CangguBeg–Int · yogaWell reviewed Uluwatu Surf VillasInt–AdvVerified Aug 2026 Rapture Camps PadangAll levelsVerified Aug 2026 | ||||||||
Java (G-Land / Batu Karas)Indonesia · Indian Ocean | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water24°C(23–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air26°C | RainDry | Wave size3–9 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsG-Land (Grajagan)Advanced · left reef Batu KarasBeginner · beach / point Watu Karung (Pacitan)Intermediate–Adv · reef All spots in Indonesia →Where to stay & learnG-Land Joyo's Surf CampAdv only · jungle campVerified Jul 2026 JavaCove Beach HotelBeginner · stay, no coachingVerified Jul 2026 Surf BatukarasLessons · beginner pointVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
LombokIndonesia · Indian Ocean | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water31°C(29–32 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainDry | Wave size3–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsGerupukBeginner–Int · reef (boat access) Desert PointExpert · left reef Kuta Lombok (Are Guling)Beginner · beach / reef All spots in Indonesia →Where to stay & learnLMBK Surf HouseBeg–Int · 2:1 coachingVerified Jul 2026 KuraSurfBeg–Int · 11 surfs/weekPublished 2026 rates Nuna SurfBeg–Adv · ISA coachesVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Mentawai IslandsIndonesia · Indian Ocean | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: high | Water29°C(29–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size3–12 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsLance’s Right (HTs)Advanced · reef MacaronisAdvanced · reef Beng-Beng / NipussiIntermediate · reef All spots in Indonesia →Where to stay & learnMentawai Surf RetreatInt–Adv · 3-bungalow land campVerified Jul 2026 Kandui VillasInt–Adv · luxury land resortPublished 2026 rates Mentawai Surf ChartersAdv · liveaboard charter2026 schedule live | ||||||||
| Japan | ||||||||
Chiba (Ichinomiya)Japan · Pacific | When it works Peak: Aug–Oct · Oct: high | Water23°C(15–25 yr) | WetsuitSpringsuit / 2mm | Air22°C | RainWet | Wave size1–8 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsTsurigasaki (Shidashita)Intermediate · beach break, Tokyo 2020 venue Torami / IchinomiyaBeginner–Int · beach break OnjukuBeginner · gentle beach break Where to stay & learnSplash Guest House & Surf SchoolBeg–Int · Hebara Beach, lessons in EnglishSite live Aug 2026 Ryo’s Surf HouseBeg–Int · guesthouse in Asahi, 1 hr from NaritaSite live Aug 2026 | ||||||||
| Maldives | ||||||||
North Malé Atoll (Thulusdhoo)Maldives · Indian Ocean | When it works Peak: Jun–Sep · Oct: medium | Water30°C(28–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air28°C | RainWet | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsCokesAdvanced · fast right reef ChickensIntermediate–Adv · long left reef NinjasBeginner–Int · softer reef Where to stay & learnCokes Surf CampInt–Adv · guesthouse beside Cokes and ChickensSite live Aug 2026 · rooms + boat transfers Twin Palms SurfhouseInt–Adv · seven-room guesthouse, ThulusdhooSite live Aug 2026 Samura MaldivesInt–Adv · boutique beachfront guesthouseNot confirmed | ||||||||
| New Zealand | ||||||||
RaglanNew Zealand · Tasman Sea | When it works Peak: Mar–Sep · Oct: medium | Water15°C(13–21 yr) | Wetsuit5/4 + boots | Air16°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsManu BayIntermediate–Adv · long left point Ngarunui BeachBeginner · black-sand beach break Whale BayAdvanced · left point Where to stay & learnSolscape Eco RetreatBeg–Int · eco retreat + Solsurfer schoolSite live Aug 2026 Green Wave RaglanBeg–Int · surf weeks with dorm/private rooms2026 dates published Raglan Surf School (Karioi Lodge)Beginner · lessons + lodge packagesSite live Aug 2026 | ||||||||
| Philippines | ||||||||
Siargao (Cloud 9)Philippines · Pacific | When it works Peak: Aug–Nov · Oct: high | Water30°C(28–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainDry | Wave size2–10 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsCloud 9Advanced · reef Jacking HorseBeginner · reef Quiksilver / CemeteryIntermediate · reef All spots in Philippines →Where to stay & learnSiargao surf camps (General Luna)All levelsNot confirmed Cloud 9 surf lodgesBeg–IntNot confirmed | ||||||||
| Sri Lanka | ||||||||
Arugam BaySri Lanka · east coast | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water29°C(27–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air31°C | RainWet | Wave size3–6 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsMain PointIntermediate–Adv · point break Baby PointBeginner · point break Whiskey PointBeginner–Int · point break All spots in Sri Lanka →Where to stay & learnRupa’s Surf CampBeg–Adv · rooms + dorms, since 1978Verified Aug 2026 SAFA Surf CampBeg–Int · beachfront, yoga includedVerified Aug 2026 Surf & Yoga Arugam BayAll levels · all-inclusive, full boardVerified Aug 2026 | ||||||||
WeligamaSri Lanka · south coast | When it works Peak: Nov–Apr · Oct: medium | Water29°C(26–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainDry | Wave size2–5 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsWeligama BayBeginner · beach break HiriketiyaBeginner–Int · bay MirissaIntermediate · beach break All spots in Sri Lanka →Where to stay & learnSoul & Surf WeligamaBeg–Int · wellnessWell reviewed Mirissa Surf LodgeBeg–IntNot confirmed Hiri Surf HouseBeginnerNot confirmed | ||||||||
| Vietnam | ||||||||
Da NangVietnam · South China Sea | When it works Peak: Oct–Mar · Oct: medium | Water30°C(23–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air28°C | RainWet | Wave size1–4 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsMy Khe (China Beach)Beginner · beach break Non NuocBeginner–Int · beach break Nam OIntermediate · reef / rivermouth All spots in Vietnam →Where to stay & learnSurf FeelingBeginner · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Wave Riders Surf SchoolFirst-timers · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Coco Surf DanangBeginner · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Pacific summer. While the Atlantic goes flat, Southern-Hemisphere winter fires south swells north across the equator — lighting up south-facing breaks through Jul–Aug, in warm, dry, near-rainless weather.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | ||||||||
San DiegoUSA · California · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water19°C(14–21 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air24°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsLower TrestlesIntermediate–Adv · cobblestone point La Jolla ShoresBeginner · sandy beach break Blacks BeachAdvanced · beach break (canyon) All spots in USA →Where to stay & learnSurf Diva (La Jolla)Beginner · women-focused · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Pacific Surf SchoolBeginner · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Leucadia Surf SchoolBeg–Int · lessons onlyLive 2026 calendar | ||||||||
Warm water year-round (boardshorts every month). The Dominican Republic’s north coast is the region’s surf capital, best on North Atlantic winter swells (Nov–Apr); Puerto Rico’s west end runs on the same swell window; Barbados’ south coast keeps ticking over on trade-wind swell through the summer. The Punta Cana resort side is a smaller, beginner-friendly beach break.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barbados | ||||||||
Barbados (South Coast)Barbados · Caribbean | When it works Peak: Nov–Apr · Oct: medium | Water30°C(26–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size1–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsFreights BayBeginner–Int · mellow left point Soup Bowl (Bathsheba)Advanced · powerful right reef Drill HallBeginner–Int · beach / reef Where to stay & learnFreights Bay Surf SchoolBeg–Adv · family school on the pointSite live Aug 2026 Ride The TideBeg–Int · lessons at Freights, moves on swellSite live Aug 2026 Bodies School of SurfBeg–Int · personalised lessons, MaxwellNot confirmed | ||||||||
| Dominican Republic | ||||||||
CabareteDominican Republic · North Coast | When it works Peak: Nov–Mar · Oct: medium | Water30°C(26–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air31°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPlaya EncuentroBeginner–Adv · reef & beach peaks Playa GrandeAdvanced · powerful beach break All spots in Dominican Republic →Where to stay & learnSwell Surf CampBeg–Int · adults, surf + stayVerified Jul 2026 El Encuentro Surf LodgeAll levels · beachfront lodgeVerified Jul 2026 Surfbreak CabareteBeg–Int · B&B + surf programVerified Jul 2026 Pauhana Surf SchoolAll levels · ISA, lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Cabarete Surf CompanyBeg–Int · family schoolVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Punta CanaDominican Republic · East Coast | When it works Peak: Dec–Mar · Oct: medium | Water30°C(26–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainDry | Wave size1–4 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPlaya MacaoBeginner–Int · sandy beach break All spots in Dominican Republic →Where to stay & learnMacao Surf CampBeginner · lessons + packagesVerified Jul 2026 Punta Cana Surf AdventureBeginner · lessons, EN/ES/RUVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| Puerto Rico | ||||||||
RincónPuerto Rico · Caribbean | When it works Peak: Nov–Mar · Oct: medium | Water31°C(26–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air31°C | RainWet | Wave size2–9 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsDomesIntermediate–Adv · reef María’sIntermediate · reef Sandy Beach / StepsBeginner · beach and softer reef Where to stay & learnRincón Surf SchoolBeg–Adv · longest-running school in town, lessons onlySite live Aug 2026 Rincón Surf ResortBeg–Int · 4 and 7-day camps with lodging and mealsSite live Aug 2026 Surf 787Beg–Int · villa stays + private/small-group lessonsSite live Aug 2026 · year-round | ||||||||
Atlantic coasts. Cooler water, wetsuit country most of the year; best swells in autumn and winter. The Basque/SW-France stretch is the densest camp cluster in Europe. Ireland and Cornwall sit at the cold end — 4/3 wetsuits, hoods in winter — and their best swell arrives once the summer holiday crowd has gone home.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| France | ||||||||
BiarritzFrance · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Sep–Apr · Oct: high | Water21°C(12–24 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air21°C | RainWet | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsCôte des BasquesBeginner · beach / fake point Grande PlageBeginner–Int · beach break Les Cavaliers (Anglet)Intermediate–Adv · beach break All spots in France →Where to stay & learnGliss’Experience (Anglet)All levels · small groupsTripAdvisor 4.8 · 65 · 2025 Jo Moraiz (Côte des Basques)All levels · heritageTripAdvisor 4.4 · 55 · 2025 | ||||||||
Hossegor / Les LandesFrance · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Sep–Oct · Oct: high | Water21°C(12–24 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air21°C | RainWet | Wave size3–10 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsLa GravièreExpert · beach shorebreak Les BourdainesIntermediate · beach break La SudBeginner · beach break All spots in France →Where to stay & learnNatural Surf LodgeAll levels · intermediate trackTripAdvisor 4.9 · ~259 · 2025 Southwest Surf HouseAll levels · wellnessGoogle 4.8 · 93 · recent Ocean Adventure (La Centrale)Beg–Int · social/partyGoogle 4.0 · 24 | ||||||||
| Ireland | ||||||||
BundoranIreland · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Sep–Apr · Oct: high | Water14°C(8–17 yr) | Wetsuit5/4 + boots | Air13°C | RainWet | Wave size2–10 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsTullan StrandBeginner–Int · beach break The Peak (Bundoran)Advanced · reef RossnowlaghBeginner · long, gentle beach break Where to stay & learnBundoran Surf CoBeg–Adv · surf lodge + school, since 2005Site live Aug 2026 Rossnowlagh / Fin McCool Surf SchoolBeginner · lessons onlyNot confirmed Strandhill schools (Sligo, 40 min)Beg–Int · lessons onlyNot confirmed | ||||||||
| Portugal | ||||||||
EriceiraPortugal · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Oct–Apr · Oct: high | Water20°C(14–20 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air21°C | RainDry | Wave size3–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsRibeira d’IlhasIntermediate · point break Foz do LizandroBeginner · beach break CoxosAdvanced · point break All spots in Portugal →Where to stay & learnLapoint EriceiraBeginner-friendly · socialWell reviewed Rapture Surfcamps EriceiraAll levelsSignal forming Surf Riders EriceiraBeginner–IntVerified Aug 2026 | ||||||||
| Spain | ||||||||
Basque Country (Zarautz)Spain · Bizkaia / Gipuzkoa | When it works Peak: Oct–Apr · Oct: high | Water20°C(13–24 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air21°C | RainWet | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsZarautzBeginner–Int · long beach break MundakaAdvanced only · fickle left Roka PutaAdvanced · reef All spots in Spain →Where to stay & learnNorth Shore ZarautzAll levels · intermediate fitGoogle 4.9 · 392 · 2025 Peña Txuri (Sopelana)All levels · high-performanceGoogle · 433 · 2025 Good People SurfAll levels · socialGoogle ~4.8 · 163 · 2025 | ||||||||
Canary IslandsSpain · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Oct–Mar · Oct: high | Water25°C(20–25 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air23°C | RainDry | Wave size3–10 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsLas CanterasBeginner · beach break La SantaAdvanced · reef El QuemaoAdvanced · reef All spots in Spain →Where to stay & learnLaOla Surfcamp FuerteventuraBeg–Int · pool, yoga, skate waveVerified Jul 2026 · owner-attested Lapoint FuerteventuraBeg–Int · socialVerified Jul 2026 Pure Surfcamps FuerteventuraAll levelsVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
San SebastiánSpain · Basque · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Oct–Apr · Oct: high | Water20°C(13–24 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air21°C | RainWet | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsLa ZurriolaBeginner–Int · beach break La ConchaBeginner · sheltered bay OndarretaIntermediate · beach break All spots in Spain →Where to stay & learnStoke Surf HouseBeginner · social / partyPrice verified Pukas (lessons)Lessons · all levelsSchool, not a camp More camps being vetted—Coming soon | ||||||||
| United Kingdom | ||||||||
Newquay (Cornwall)United Kingdom · Atlantic | When it works Peak: Sep–Apr · Oct: high | Water15°C(9–17 yr) | Wetsuit5/4 + boots | Air15°C | RainWet | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsFistral BeachBeginner–Adv · beach break Watergate BayBeginner · long beach break CrantockBeginner–Int · beach / rivermouth Where to stay & learnBase Surf LodgeBeg–Adv · lodge + daily coaching, 13 yrsSite live Aug 2026 · 3/5-night camps Star Surf Camps CornwallBeg–Int · woodland camp, video analysis2026 dates published Cornish WaveBeg–Int · bell-tent camp on a dairy farmSite live Aug 2026 | ||||||||
South Shore summer. The same Southern-Hemisphere winter swells that reach California wrap onto Oʻahu’s south-facing reefs through Jul–Aug, in warm water and dry weather.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA | ||||||||
Oʻahu South ShoreUSA · Hawaii · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: low | Water27°C(24–27 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainDry | Wave size1–3 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsAla Moana BowlsIntermediate–Adv · left reef Queens (Waikiki)Beginner–Int · reef A-frame Canoes (Waikiki)Beginner · rolling reef All spots in USA →Where to stay & learnHans Hedemann Surf SchoolBeginner · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Pro Surf School HawaiiBeg–Int · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Ty Gurney Surf SchoolBeginner · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Warm, consistent Pacific surf — long beach breaks and world-class points. The biggest swells arrive in the green (rainy) season; Nicaragua adds 300+ offshore-wind days a year. The trade-off worth knowing.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | ||||||||
Nosara / GuionesCosta Rica · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(28–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air28°C | RainWet | Wave size3–8 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPlaya GuionesBeginner · beach break Playa PeladaBeginner–Int · beach break Nosara RivermouthIntermediate · rivermouth All spots in Costa Rica →Where to stay & learnNorte Nosara Yoga & SurfBeg–Int · yogaWell reviewed Surf SimplyCoaching · premiumAcclaimed Nosara surf schoolsBeginnerNot confirmed | ||||||||
Santa TeresaCosta Rica · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(29–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air27°C | RainWet | Wave size3–9 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPlaya Santa TeresaIntermediate · beach break Playa CarmenBeginner · beach break Mal PaísIntermediate · reef All spots in Costa Rica →Where to stay & learnSelina Santa TeresaBeg–Int · socialVerified Tropico LatinoAll levels · beachfrontVerified | ||||||||
| El Salvador | ||||||||
El Tunco / Punta RocaEl Salvador · Pacific | When it works Peak: Mar–Oct · Oct: medium | Water30°C(28–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size3–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsEl SunzalBeginner–Int · point / reef El Tunco (La Bocana)Intermediate · rivermouth Punta RocaAdvanced · right point All spots in El Salvador →Where to stay & learnPuro Surf AcademyBeg–Adv · performance coachingVerified Jul 2026 Lapoint El SunzalBeg–Int · socialVerified Jul 2026 LAOLA Surf CampBeg–Int · private lessonsVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| Mexico | ||||||||
Puerto EscondidoMexico · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Oct · Oct: medium | Water31°C(27–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainWet | Wave size3–9 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsZicatelaExpert · beach break La PuntaBeginner–Int · left point CarrizalilloBeginner · cove All spots in Mexico →Where to stay & learnPuerto SurfBeg–Int · surf houseVerified Jul 2026 Oasis Surf & SpanishBeginner · surf + SpanishVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Sayulita / San PanchoMexico · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(24–32 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainWet | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsSayulita (Punta Sayulita)Beginner–Int · beach / right point La Lancha (Punta Mita)Beginner–Int · sand-bottom point San Pancho / Punta BurrosIntermediate · beach / reef All spots in Mexico →Where to stay & learnWildMex Surf & AdventureAll levels · drives to the breakVerified Jul 2026 Lunazul Surf SchoolBeg–Int · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 Hostel San PanchoBudget · dorms + lessonsVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
TronconesMexico · Pacific | When it works Peak: May–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(28–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air30°C | RainWet | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPlaya TronconesBeginner–Int · beach break Troncones PointAdvanced · left point La Saladita (nearby)Beginner–Int · long left point (mid-length / longboard) All spots in Mexico →Where to stay & learnSurfari MexicoInt–Adv · guided surf tripsVerified Jul 2026 Log Surf RetreatsLongboard coaching · max 62026–27 dates listed Troncones Point HostelBudget · on the pointVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| Nicaragua | ||||||||
Aserradores / The BoomNicaragua · Pacific | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: high | Water31°C(28–31 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size3–10 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdLow |
Top surf spotsThe BoomIntermediate–Adv · hollow beach break AserradoresBeginner–Int · beach break All spots in Nicaragua →Where to stay & learnRise Up Surf RetreatsBeg–Int · 1:2 coaching, fixed-date weeksVerified Aug 2026 · $2,950/wk published | ||||||||
Los Clavos / TolaNicaragua · Pacific | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(23–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size3–10 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsLos ClavosBeginner–Adv · beachfront NahulapaIntermediate–Adv · lefts and rights All spots in Nicaragua →Where to stay & learnLapoint NicaraguaBeg–Adv · premium beachfrontVerified Jul 2026 Mukul ResortAll levels · luxury surf resortVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
PopoyoNicaragua · Pacific | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(23–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size3–10 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPopoyoIntermediate · reef / beach Outer Reef / Lances LeftAdvanced · reef All spots in Nicaragua →Where to stay & learnMagnific Rock Surf CampBeg–Adv · surf + yogaVerified Jul 2026 Popoyo Surf CampBeg–Int · 1:2 coachingVerified Jul 2026 Sardina Surf CampBeg–Int · 2 cabanasVerified Jul 2026 Las Plumerias Lodge & SurfBeg–Adv · 6 cabanas, all mealsVerified Aug 2026 · price on request Popoyo Surf LodgeInt–Adv · guiding, 15+ breaksVerified Aug 2026 · price on request | ||||||||
San Juan del SurNicaragua · Pacific | When it works Peak: Mar–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(23–30 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPlaya MaderasBeginner–Int · beach break All spots in Nicaragua →Where to stay & learnChica BravaBeg–Int · women-focusedLive 2026 calendar Maderas VillageBeg–Int · surf lodgeVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| Panama | ||||||||
Santa CatalinaPanama · Pacific | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: high | Water30°C(28–32 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainWet | Wave size3–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsLa PuntaIntermediate–Adv · right point / reef Playa El EsteroBeginner · beach break Punta BravaAdvanced · reef / point All spots in Panama →Where to stay & learnWaluaa Surf & YogaBeg–Int · all-inclusive retreatVerified Jul 2026 Fluid Adventures PanamaBeg–Int · flexible campsVerified Jul 2026 Rancho EsteroAll levels · eco cabanasVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Equatorial and cool-current Pacific — warm, consistent points near the equator (Ecuador, north Peru), cooler and more powerful further south. A long, affordable surf-travel trail with mellow longboard lefts and a few serious reefs.
| Destination | When it works (Jan–Dec) | Water | Wetsuit | Air | Rain | Wave size | Skillall year | Crowd |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brazil | ||||||||
BertiogaBrazil · São Paulo | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water24°C(22–28 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air25°C | RainDry | Wave size1–4 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdLow |
Top surf spotsEnseada de BertiogaBeginner · gentle beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnTablas Surf Skate CampBeg–Int · surf + skate, bungalowsVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
BúziosBrazil · Rio de Janeiro | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water23°C(21–25 yr) | WetsuitSpringsuit / 2mm | Air26°C | RainDry | Wave size2–5 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPraia de GeribáBeginner–Int · beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnFresia Surf ClassBeg–Int · pro-run school on GeribáVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
FlorianópolisBrazil · Santa Catarina | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water20°C(18–27 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air23°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPraia da JoaquinaBeginner–Adv · beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnBJJ & Surf ExperienceBeg–Adv · surf-and-stay + jiu-jitsuVerified Jul 2026 Sea Wolf Surf HostelBeg–Int · social hostel + schoolVerified Jul 2026 Evandro Santos Surf SchoolBeg–Int · founder-taught, guest roomsVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
GaropabaBrazil · Santa Catarina | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water19°C(18–24 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air23°C | RainDry | Wave size2–5 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPraia da FerrugemBeginner–Adv · beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnVento SulBeg–Int · original school, since 1995Verified Jul 2026 Surf Trips Camp GaropabaBeg–Int · small-group, video analysisVerified Jul 2026 PedramarcaBeg–Int · boutique hostel at FerrugemVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Guarda do EmbaúBrazil · Santa Catarina | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: high | Water19°C(18–25 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air23°C | RainDry | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdLow |
Top surf spotsGuarda do EmbaúAdvanced · rivermouth point All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnGuarda do Embaú Surf CampBeg–Adv · budget campground + chalésVerified Jul 2026 Gaia ExperiênciasBeginner · family lessons, no lodgingVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Imbituba (Praia do Rosa)Brazil · Santa Catarina | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: high | Water19°C(18–24 yr) | Wetsuit3/2 mm | Air23°C | RainDry | Wave size2–10 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdLow |
Top surf spotsPraia da Vila (Imbituba)Beginner–Adv · beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnRosa Surf HostelBeg–Int · HI hostel + surf clubVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
ItacaréBrazil · Bahia | When it works Peak: Year-round · Oct: medium | Water27°C(26–29 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air27°C | RainDry | Wave size2–5 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPraia da TiriricaIntermediate–Adv · point break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnEasyDrop Surf CampBeg–Adv · established since 1998Verified Jul 2026 Casa Clareia Surf CampBeg–Adv · boutique, small-groupVerified Jul 2026 Surf SeekersBeg–Int · all-inclusive coached retreatVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
MaresiasBrazil · São Paulo | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water24°C(22–28 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air25°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsMaresiasBeginner–Adv · beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnPousada Recanto da NinaBeg–Adv · family pousada + schoolVerified Jul 2026 Escola de Surf Abolição Amigo do MarBeg–Int · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Praia da PipaBrazil · Rio Grande do Norte | When it works Peak: Year-round · Oct: medium | Water28°C(27–29 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air29°C | RainDry | Wave size1–4 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPraia do Madeiro (Pipa)Beginner–Int · sheltered bay All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnSurfcamp AraraBeg–Adv · pool, coworking, daily lessonsVerified Jul 2026 Surf Camp Pipa HostelBeg–Int · ISA courses, nightly video reviewVerified Jul 2026 Pipa Surf SchoolBeginner · Baía dos Golfinhos, lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Rio de JaneiroBrazil · Rio de Janeiro | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water24°C(22–27 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air26°C | RainDry | Wave size1–6 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdHigh |
Top surf spotsArpoadorIntermediate–Adv · iconic beach break Barra da TijucaBeginner–Int · long beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnSurf Inn RioBeg–Int · stay + surf package, yogaVerified Jul 2026 Mandala Rio Surf SchoolBeginner · lessons at ArpoadorVerified Jul 2026 Escola de Surf RicoBeg–Int · Barra da Tijuca, lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
São SebastiãoBrazil · São Paulo | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water24°C(22–28 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air25°C | RainDry | Wave size1–3 ft | SkillBeg | CrowdLow |
Top surf spotsPraia de JuquehyBeginner · gentle family beach All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnGreen Way BrasilBeginner · family surf + SUP schoolVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
SaquaremaBrazil · Rio de Janeiro | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water23°C(21–25 yr) | WetsuitSpringsuit / 2mm | Air28°C | RainDry | Wave size2–7 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsItaúna (Saquarema)Advanced · national-title competition wave All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnGreen House SaquaremaBeginner · budget hostel + schoolVerified Jul 2026 Casa do Surf ItaúnaBeg–Adv · beachfront pousadaVerified Jul 2026 Surf Zone HostelInt–Adv · beachfront on the peakVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
UbatubaBrazil · São Paulo | When it works Peak: May–Sep · Oct: medium | Water24°C(22–28 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air25°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsItamambucaBeginner–Adv · beach break All spots in Brazil →Where to stay & learnSoulNatu Surf HouseBeg–Adv · family-run, 1:1 coachingVerified Jul 2026 Surf Base HostelBeg–Adv · budget social hostelVerified Jul 2026 Praiah SurfBeg–Int · weekend package w/ lodgingVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| Chile | ||||||||
PichilemuChile · Pacific | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: medium | Water13°C(13–16 yr) | Wetsuit5/4 + boots | Air16°C | RainDry | Wave size4–8 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsPunta de LobosAdvanced · left point break La PuntillaBeginner–Int · left point InfiernilloIntermediate–Adv · beach / reef All spots in Chile →Where to stay & learnPunta de Lobos SurfcampBeg–Adv · hostel + ISA schoolVerified Jul 2026 Surf Lodge Punta de LobosAll levels · wellness lodgeVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| Ecuador | ||||||||
AyampeEcuador · Pacific | When it works Peak: Dec–Apr · Oct: high | Water26°C(25–29 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air25°C | RainDry | Wave size2–7 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsAyampe beach breakBeginner–Int · beach break Las TunasIntermediate · beach / point Río ChicoBeginner · beach break All spots in Ecuador →Where to stay & learnVistamar AyampeBeg–Int · custom surf + yogaVerified Jul 2026 La Casa Hostel AyampeBudget · long-stay beachfrontVerified Jul 2026 Otra OlaBeginner · surf + Spanish, lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
MontañitaEcuador · Pacific | When it works Peak: Dec–May · Oct: high | Water25°C(25–29 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air25°C | RainDry | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsMontañita La PuntaIntermediate–Adv · right point Montañita beachBeginner · beach break OlónBeginner · beach break All spots in Ecuador →Where to stay & learnBalsa Surf CampBeg–Adv · ISA school at La PuntaVerified Jul 2026 Casa del SolBeg–Int · surf + stay packageVerified Jul 2026 Montañita Spanish SchoolBeginner · Spanish + surfVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
San Cristóbal (Galápagos)Ecuador · Pacific | When it works Peak: Dec–Apr · Oct: medium | Water25°C(24–28 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air23°C | RainDry | Wave size2–6 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdLow |
Top surf spotsTongo ReefIntermediate–Adv · reef El CañónAdvanced · reef Punta CarolaBeginner–Int · point All spots in Ecuador →Where to stay & learnGalápagos Surf AdventureInt–Adv · 7-day guided campVerified Jul 2026 Galápagos Surf DiscoveryAll levels · lessons + guidingVerified Jul 2026 LavaWave SurfInt–Adv · guidingVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
| Peru | ||||||||
ChicamaPeru · Pacific | When it works Peak: Apr–Oct · Oct: medium | Water18°C(18–25 yr) | Wetsuit4/3 mm | Air24°C | RainDry | Wave size3–6 ft | SkillInt–Adv | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsEl Hombre / MalpasoAdvanced · fast left point Keys (the Cape)Intermediate–Adv · long peeling left El Point (inside)Intermediate · mellow left All spots in Peru →Where to stay & learnChicama Boutique HotelInt–Adv · tow-back serviceVerified Jul 2026 Chicama Surf CampInt–Adv · budget week packagesVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
MáncoraPeru · Pacific | When it works Peak: Oct–Mar · Oct: high | Water24°C(23–29 yr) | WetsuitBoardshorts | Air27°C | RainDry | Wave size2–8 ft | SkillBeg–Int | CrowdMedium |
Top surf spotsMáncora PointBeginner–Int · left point Los ÓrganosIntermediate · point LobitosAdvanced · left point All spots in Peru →Where to stay & learnAlgae Surf CampBeginner · eco surf houseVerified Jul 2026 Surf RacerBeg–Int · all-inclusive houseVerified Jul 2026 Lobitos Surf AcademyInt–Adv · lessons onlyVerified Jul 2026 | ||||||||
Typical seasonal averages, not a forecast. Always check a live forecast before booking.
Water, air, wave size and crowd are the selected month's typical figures — bigger swells and crowds cluster in each region's peak months. Wetsuit is our recommendation from the water temperature. “Works in Oct” means medium-or-better typical consistency that month. Skill is the break's general level, marked “all year” in its header — it is the one column that does not change with the month.
Good for intermediates shows destinations pitched at intermediate skill and up (it leaves out the gentle beginner beaches); beginner and advanced show destinations that have waves at those levels. A destination can appear under more than one.
Wave consistency High Medium Low Flat / off-season
Monthly averages calculated from Open-Meteo ERA5 and marine reanalysis data, licensed CC BY 4.0.
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