If you’re considering dropping everything you’re doing and moving as far away as possible to start a new life as a cashew farmer/yoga instructor who helps solve mysteries with the help of his/her pet iguana, you’ll probably want to pick up a new hobby as well. And what better hobby can there be than one that lets you let go of all your self-imposed problems and simply focus on catching the perfect wave.
So if you’re looking to move to a place that will cultivate your new hobby consider the following surfing destinations. At these locations, if you don’t catch a great wave it’s because you’ve partied too hard the night before and are still in bed; where the beaches are so beautiful you’ll end up never wanting to leave; and where you pet iguana will be treated with the utmost respect.
Bali, Indonesia
Bali is the Australian’s home away from home. The surfing conditions are just as good as in Australia and the experience is much cheaper. There are also some great surf schools where you can surf in Bali for next to nothing. And when you throw on top of that the low cost of living in general and the stunning weather, it’s almost too good to be true!
Bali also has some of the best nightlife in the Pacific. The island is small and you can hire a van to drive around all the famous surf spots. And if you need ideas for a bigger trip, this Bali itinerary and guide should be a great start.
Hawaii, USA
When most of us think of surfing, Hawaii is the first place that comes to mind. It’s literally the home of surfing and we’re sure you’ve seen videos of people surfing the biggest waves in the world there. The north shore of Oahu has some of the best conditions in Hawaii and is always packed with locals and plenty of adventurers wanting to surf the great waves.
Another option if you want to mix things up a bit is Maui. As an island, it has a lot more to offer for a vacation like great accommodation, fun things to do and amazing places to eat.
Gold Coast, Australia
Australia has some great surfing conditions, but the place that really stands out is the Gold Coast. It’s located in Queensland and has almost 70km of perfect beaches. Out of the whole coastline, there are 4 absolutely fantastic point breaks and it truly deserves the name, Surfers Paradise. Queensland has a tropical climate and it couldn’t be any better for spending your days down the beach.
Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
Jeffreys Bay is full of blue flag beaches so you know they are in absolutely pristine condition. The surf is so good they hold an annual surf competition each year with all the best surfers in the world. If you want to surf here the best time to come is during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter months. The beaches will be busy, but the waves definitely worth it.
Fuerteventura, Spain
Fuerteventura is part of the Canary Islands, which are part of Spain but located off the coast of Africa. It’s proximity to the equator means the weather is great at any time of year and the surf conditions just the same. Fuerteventura is known as a Mecca for surfers and has some really popular waves. The island is also known to throw some excellent parties.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica has more than one legendary surfing location and it’s only a stone throw away from the US. Jump on a cheap flight and experience some amazing conditions whenever you want. The country is also very cheap and you could quite easily live here for a long time on a small budget. Great for surfers who want to take it up another level.
California, United States
California has three major areas: Northern, Central, and Southern California. Northern California is wild and cold, is home to sharks and big “unsurfable” swell. Only hardcore surfers need to apply. Central California also features cold/mild weather but far more viable surfing destinations than Northern California. Central California is also less urbanized than Southern California, which makes it an ideal setting for more adventurous surfers. South California has the best weather conditions of the three regions and is also the most populated, which can be good or bad depending on your preference.
Chris Courtis has been writing professionally since his college days. His articles have appeared in various UK Travel blogs. You can book holiday tickets online with best offers for lodges.