10 Best Surf Destinations for Beginners: Safe, Scenic and Perfect for Learning
The Top 10 Spots to Learn to Surf on Vacation
Surf Lessons on Vacation? Beginner-Friendly Surf Destinations for the Whole Family
Learning to surf is super fun—but beginners need gentle waves, sandy bottoms, safety-conscious surf schools and comfortable accommodations to really enjoy the most of their first time on a board. Trust us, you may think surfing looks easy, or that you can just get out there and do it because you know how to ride a skateboard… but that’s not the case.
Learn to Surf Travel Destinations
Surfing is fun and well worth learning, but the key is to find a good beginner break and ideally take a lesson (at least one) the first time you paddle out. All of this will make your first experience enjoyable, safe and confidence-building (because soul crushing surfing is not a vibe).
If you want to find a great vacation spot where you can also learn to surf, we have a list for you. From tropical paradises to iconic surf towns, these 10 beginner-friendly surf destinations offer perfect waves, welcoming surf communities and vacation-ready infrastructure.
Top 10 Safe and Beginner-Friendly Surf Spots for Your Vacation
1. Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is a lively beach town with vibrant nightlife, eco-tours and easy access to nearby national parks. You can spend mornings surfing and afternoons exploring mangroves, spotting wildlife or enjoying fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
· Why Go: Consistent beginner-friendly waves
· Safety and Stay: Budget hostels to luxury resorts
2. Weligama, Sri Lanka
Weligama offers an authentic Sri Lankan vibe, with bustling fish markets, coconut plantations and nearby cultural sites like Galle Fort. It’s an great spot to combine surfing with cultural immersion and delicious local cuisine.
Why Go: Soft whitewater waves perfect for beginners
Safety and Stay: Surf camps, boutique villas and friendly surf schools
3. Baleal (Peniche), Portugal
The islet of Baleal is a charming seaside village that’s surrounded by dramatic cliffs, old fishing communities and Portugal’s famous seafood. It’s also a short trip to Lisbon as well, making it a perfect home base for both surfing and sightseeing.
Why Go: Gentle sheltered bay breaks, fewer crowds
Safety and Stay: Cozy surf lodges and hostels
4. New Smyrna Beach, Florida, USA
Known for its artsy small-town charm, New Smyrna Beach (on Florida’s Atlantic Coast, just northeast of Orlando) offers boutique shopping, art galleries and eco-adventures in nearby Mosquito Lagoon. It’s a family-friendly destination that pairs a relaxed pace with Florida sunshine.
Why Go: Supportive surf community, consistent beginner waves
Safety and Stay: Safe town with surf schools and vacation rentals
5. Cabarete, Dominican Republic
Cabarete is also a hub for kiteboarding, yoga and wellness retreats, so if you’re going with your partner or family, there is something for everyone here. Off the beach, you can explore Dominican culture, dine on Caribbean fusion food, or hike lush mountain trails—all within easy reach.
Why Go: Playa Encuentro’s soft, consistent waves
Safety and Stay: Surf camps with lodging, airport accessibility
6. Byron Bay, Australia
Byron Bay is known for its laid-back bohemian atmosphere, farmers markets, live music and breathtaking coastal walks. Visitors can enjoy yoga retreats, explore hinterland waterfalls and soak in a vibrant arts and social scene.
Why Go: Iconic waves at The Pass and Wategos Beach
Safety and Stay: Safe, well-developed infrastructure, surf schools
7. Waikiki, Hawaii
Waikiki on Oahu is not only a surf icon but also a gateway to Hawaiian culture. From hula shows and luaus to hikes up Diamond Head and luxury shopping, there’s no shortage of activities when you’re not catching waves on this legendary beach.
Why Go: Legendary rolling waves perfect for first-timers
Safety and Stay: World-class hotels and abundant surf schools
8. Raglan, New Zealand
Raglan blends natural beauty with a laid-back surf town feel. The village has artisan cafes, art galleries and a strong eco-conscious community. Nearby you’ll find waterfalls and black-sand beaches that offer plenty to explore when you’re off the board.
Why Go: Scenic point breaks ideal for beginners
Safety and Stay: Cozy surf lodges and supportive local community
9. Lahaina, Hawaii
Lahaina on Maui is steeped in Hawaiian history and offers whale-watching, snorkeling and breathtaking Hawaiian sunsets. Visitors can explore the island’s lush valleys, waterfalls and cultural heritage while enjoying a relaxed island vibe. This area features tropical vibes similar to Sayulita, while being safer for novices.
Why Go: Gentle beginner waves at Lahaina Breakwall and Kaanapali Beach
Safety and Stay: Patrolled beaches, surf schools and accommodations
10. Muizenberg, South Africa
Just outside Cape Town, Muizenberg is a blend of surf culture and South African history. With its colorful Victorian beach huts, easy train access and proximity to Cape Town’s wineries and Table Mountain, it’s a perfect vacation spot.
Why Go: Long, gentle waves and colorful beach huts
Safety and Stay: Surf schools, guesthouses and safe coastal environment
Beginner Surf Spots: The Learn-to-Surf Travel Destination that’s Right for You
Surfing is a fun sport to learn. Even if you don’t go a lot because you don’t live by the ocean, once you learn to surf it is something you can enjoy each time you get an opportunity.
Taking a learn-to-surf vacation is a fun way to introduce yourself (and your family) to the sport. Each of these 10 destinations offer something different, but the one thing they have in common is that they’re all great choices for anyone learning to surf.
Our emphasis here is on safety, fun and comfort for beginner surfers. At the same time, the list offers global diversity, tropical paradises, iconic surf towns and scenic escapes. All that’s left to do is a little research to decide which of these great global beginner surf destinations is right for you.
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