March 2006
Polynesians have been catching waves for hundreds of years, but it wasn't until the famous Hawaiian swimmer Duke Paoa Kahanamoku brought surfing to the mainland early in the 20th century that the sport finally started to cast its spell on the rest of the world. Californians and Australians were the first to catch on, and by the 1960s surf culture was booming. These days, you’ll find a surf scene just about anyplace there are waves. Grab your board and drop in on Travelocity’s Editors’ round-up of surf spots around the globe.
Oahu, Hawaii
From the classic longboard breaks on Waikiki Beach to the monster surf of the North Shore, this little island smack-dab in the middle of the Pacific Ocean packs in more legendary waves than anywhere else on Earth. You can always bring your board with you on the long haul from the mainland, but you’ll have no trouble getting outfitted with a rental on Waikiki Beach or at one of the surf shops dotted along the North Shore. Keep in mind that Hawaii’s surf tends to break in shallow water, over coral reefs, adding extra peril to wipeouts.
Maui, Hawaii
As if sugarcane fields, swaying palms, rainforests, and a giant volcanic crater weren’t enough, Maui also gets its share of that legendary Hawaiian surf. During winter, waves can top out at 20 feet or more, bringing out the locals and as well as some of the best surfers from the mainland. In the summer, the conditions are more welcoming for the rest of us. First-timers can head for calm waters of Puamana Beach Park, just south of Lahaina. When you're ready to step it up a notch, head further south to Maalaea, where you can catch one of the world’s fastest waves.
Orange County, California
Long before the hit TV show, Orange County was on the map as one of the top surf destinations in California. From Huntington Beach down to Trestles, you’ll find quality breaks and temperate waters all along this 42-mile stretch of coastline. Of course, the OC’s consistently great surf also draws a consistently crowded line-up, especially on the weekends. To avoid it, paddle out on a weekday morning after the kids have headed off to class and the diehard “dawn patrol” surfers have rushed off to work.
Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz lives and breathes surf culture, and if you’ve got the right stuff, you’ll have no trouble getting in on the action, whether it’s waist-high at Cowell’s or overhead at Mitchell’s Cove. In the past few years, Santa Cruz has seen a resurgence of longboard riding, so don’t be afraid to bring your big gun. And remember your wetsuit--you’ll need it in the cool NorCal water (temps range from the low 50s in the winter to the 60s in the summer).
Sayulita, Mexico
Situated on a picturesque bay just 25 miles north of Puerto Vallarta, Sayulita has evolved from sleepy fishing village to a Mecca for surfers of all levels. When the waves are down, beginners paddle out in droves; when they’re up, locals put on a show while everyone else gawks from the shore. You won’t find the high-rise resorts that have come to define Mexico’s coastal cities, but Sayulita does have enough restaurants, shops, and Internet cafes to keep you full, entertained, and informed while you’re not riding waves.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Recently the cast of a popular reality TV show dropped in on one of Costa Rica’s best surf spots, which can only mean one thing: the cat is definitely out of the bag. But don’t let that stop you from migrating south to discover what the hype is all about. While there are many surfing destinations in Costa Rica worth visiting, the town of Tamarindo stands out as one that’s especially accommodating for beginning surfers, with many reputable outfits offering lessons and board rentals, as well as all the creature comforts like lodging, dining, and bars.
Barbados, West Indies
Where can you catch a barrel in the morning, squeeze in a cricket match at noon, and still make high tea? The little West Indies island of Barbados may carry an air of British pomp, but it’s also got waves that pump, thanks to a location that’s more Atlantic than Caribbean. It may be taboo to say it, but hurricane season (June to November) tends to bring the best waves to the island’s east coast--which is where you’ll find Soup Bowl, the most famous surfing spot in the Caribbean.
Biarritz, France
Ever since the first surfers paddled out in Biarritz in the 1950s, this former whaling town on the Bay of Biscay has increasingly grown in popularity to become the surfing capital of Europe. The waves here may not be the continent’s best (these, arguably, are in Portugal), but there’s something to be said for the novelty of a surf scene with a French twist. In the summertime, when the bay is often flat, you can park your longboard and still have plenty of fun people-watching along the famous Côte des Basques seawall.
Lisbon, Portugal
With hundreds of miles of beaches on the Atlantic, Portugal is one of the top--and most affordable--surf destinations in Europe. The waves tend to be up when tourism is down, which makes it even more appealing as an exotic stop on your surfin’ safari. Just a short drive from Lisbon you’ll find plenty of surfer-friendly coastline, which means you can enjoy the best of both worlds: use the city as your home base (think: good food, vinho, and sightseeing) and take daytrips to spots like Carcavelos and Ribeira de Ilhas.
Gold Coast, Australia
If you’re traveling Down Under for the waves, then chances are you’ve already heard a thing or two about Australia’s famed Gold Coast. The clear, glassy surf here lives up expectations, and then some, but it also attracts some of the best surfers in the world--lots of them. You’ll probably want to at least check out legendary spots like Kirra Point and Snapper Rocks, but to avoid the crowds try heading south to Cabarita--technically not a part of the Gold Coast, but golden nonetheless.
Tips for Beginners:
Start with small waves and a big board. Repetition is key; the more waves you’re able to catch, the quicker you’ll improve. Start with a longboard and practice paddling out, catching waves, and standing up at a spot that gets a steady flow of small, rideable waves.
Take time to watch the surf. Before you hit the surf, spend some time on the beach getting to know where the waves break, how they're breaking, and where it's easiest to paddle out. Be sure to observe how the other surfers are handling the conditions. It’s a great way to learn about what to do--and what not to do.
Wear sun protection. Powerful sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) is a must. If you're surfing in warm water and don’t need a wetsuit, a rash guard can also double as an extra layer of sun protection. Don't forget to put sunscreen on the backs of your legs!
Always wear a leash. When a surfboard gets caught up in the surf, it’s dangerous. Make sure your board comes with a leash that you can attach to your back ankle. Even with the leash on, you still need to be careful not to lose control of your board when other surfers and swimmers are nearby.
Don't steal another surfer's wave. This simple rule applies at every surf spot in the world. The right of way goes to the first person to stand up closest to the breaking part of the wave. Your courtesy will go a long way with your fellow surfers.
Never surf alone. Surfing is hazardous. Always surf with a friend, or at least in the company of other surfers.
Editor’s Note: Surfing is not for everyone; the ocean's riptides can be deadly, and many beaches have other perils that you should know about before paddling out.
For more travel tips and advice, check out Amy Ziff’s monthly column, Travel Trends & Advice from A to Z, at www.travelocity.com/atoz. To suggest a topic for a future column or to tell about a travel experience of your own, please email Amy Ziff at ask.amy@travelocity.com.
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