20 Best Surf Destinations Around the World

For surfers, few if any other feeling compares to the exhilaration of catching the perfect wave. While everyone has their personal favorites, there's no denying the potential of these awesome surf destinations.

This hip beach town is a hit with surfers of all skill and experience levels. Berawa is one of the top surf spots here featuring pretty fast intermediate waves beloved by newbies and experts alike.

Scenic beaches and phenomenal surf make Santa Teresa an undeniable destination for wave riders. In addition to surf camps, many of the region's local hotels will offer guests helpful surf lessons.

For the best waves in Portugal, surfers should head to Ericeira, which was chosen as Europe's only World Surfing Reserve in 2011. Beginners should target the beach breaks at Foz do Lizandro and Sao Juliao.

A bucket list spot for lifetime surfers, South Africa's Jeffreys Bay is a legendary destination for big waves and hosts the World Surf League's Corona Open J-Bay in July, featuring some of the best surfers on the planet.

Another surf mecca not to be missed, Oahu's North Shore draws some of the world's top talents during the winter months when the waves get huge and downright dangerous for beginners. First-time surfers and beginners should consider visiting when the waters are calmer during the summer.

Southwestern France is a renowned surfing destination with visitors and locals flocking to Hossegor for the extraordinary swell. Located on the longest uninterrupted stretch of sandy beach in Europe in La Côte d'Argent, this spot is also among the world's most scenic.

The Philippines is comprised of thousands of islands but one stands out for its surfing. Siargao boats more than a dozen surf breaks, deserted beaches ideal for relaxing and even fresh coconuts to refuel island style.

All of Raglan's point breaks are extremely popular and for good reason but none draw more of a crowd than Manu Bay. However, beginners will want to look elsewhere as the boulders and crowded waters have the potential to overwhelm.

Canada's number one surf city is Tofino as conditions are consistent year-round even if they don't necessarily blow other spots away. The destination's female surf population also sets it apart from most other regions.

The waves in this laid-back surfer's paradise are among the fiercest you'll find anywhere in the world. Puerto Escondido has been drawing board-riders for decades and is a place where many put their courage and skills to the test.

Playa Grande has something to offer every experience level and board type and is undoubtedly one of the most reliable spots in Costa Rica for a quality break. The winter months bring about smaller waves while larger swells are commonplace the rest of the year.

Although Ireland isn't likely to come to mind when you think world-class surfing locales, Bundoran in County Donegal is the surf capital of the Emerald Isle and deserving of recognition among the world's best wave-riding destinations. The town features a handful of surf schools and is popular with riders year-round.

You don't have to consider yourself a surfer to appreciate Huntington Beach. The coastal city southeast of Los Angeles has earned the nickname Surf City USA in part because of its excellent year-round conditions but also because of its unmistakable surf culture.

Australia's most popular beach is also one of the best places to surf Down Under. No matter whether you're a beginner or seasoned veteran of the sport, you won't be left feeling intimidated or underwhelmed by this Sydney favorite. Local surf schools such Let's Go Surfing and Waves Surf School make it easy to take your passion to the next level or even plan a multi-day surfing safari.

Morocco's surf capital is nothing short of world-class. The abundance and variety of breaks here make it a must for surfers of all experience levels. Anchor Point is among the many highlights and is considered to be the "Holy Grail" of Morocco's right-hand long curling surf breaks.

Located about 30 miles southeast of Huntington Beach, San Clemente can make a legitimate claim that it boasts the best waves in SoCal. San Onofre has been luring surfers for nearly a century thanks to its gentle waves that are ideal for beginners.

This heart-shaped island in Fiji is among the planet's premier surf hotspots as its home to one of the world's most famous waves in Cloudbreak. Surfers will have multiple barrel opportunities on this open ocean reef break. Tavy Rights and Wilkes Pass also present exciting challenges.

Hawaiian Surfing Adventures makes learning how to surf Kauai's Hanalei Bay both easy and fun as instructors are knowledgable, experienced and laid-back. Visitors can also book stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) sessions and SUP yoga classes on the Hanalei River.

This seaside paradise can be found on Sri Lanka's east coast. The best time to surf is during the dry season from May to September when the waves are at their best on the southern end of the bay. Nearby Main Street is worth a stroll when you're ready for a different kind of break as it offers restaurants, bars and air-conditioned hotels.

Visitors to the Brazilian surfing village of Praia de Pipa will discover stellar breaks courtesy of the unique shape of this part of the country's coastline. Surf Camp Pipa offers courses and camps to improve your skills as well as special holidays blending surf and yoga.