The United States has an abundance of world-class surf spots that attract surfers from all over the world. From the sunny beaches of California to the tropical waters of Hawaii, there is a surf destination for every skill level and preference.
Some of the most famous surf spots in the USA include Huntington Beach, Malibu, and La Jolla in California; Oahu's North Shore and Waikiki Beach in Hawaii; Sebastian Inlet State Park in Florida; and The Outer Banks in North Carolina. These locations offer consistent waves, stunning scenery, and a vibrant surfing culture.
These popular destinations, there are also many hidden gems along the coastlines of the United States that offer great waves and a more relaxed atmosphere. From the rugged coast of Oregon to the picturesque shores of Maine, there are countless opportunities to catch some waves and enjoy the natural beauty of the country.
The 30 Best Places to Go Surfing in the United States:
01. North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii:
North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii is one of the most iconic surfing destinations in the United States, if not the world. Home to some of the most famous surf spots in the USA, it attracts surfers from all over the world looking for big waves and perfect barrels. With legendary surf spots such as Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay, the North Shore offers some of the most challenging waves in the world.
These waves have a reputation for being extremely powerful and dangerous, making it a destination for only the most experienced and skilled surfers. If you're looking for an unforgettable surfing experience in the USA, North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii should be at the top of your list of Surfing Destinations In United States.
02. Huntington Beach, California:
Huntington Beach, California, is a must-visit for any surfer looking to experience some of the best surf spots in the USA. Known as Surf City USA, it's a destination that has a long and rich surfing history, and is home to some of the most iconic surf spots in the United States. With consistent waves year-round and a variety of breaks for all levels of surfers, Huntington Beach is a perfect Surfing Destination in United States.
It's home to the famous Huntington Beach Pier, which offers great waves for surfers of all skill levels. And, with the annual U.S. Open of Surfing held at Huntington Beach, it's a destination that attracts surfers from around the world. If you're looking for a great surf spot in the USA, make sure to put Huntington Beach on your list.
03. Kaanapali, Maui, Hawaii:
Kaanapali, located on the island of Maui, is a world-renowned surf spot that attracts surfers from all over the globe. With its crystal-clear waters, consistent swells, and breathtaking scenery, Kaanapali is a true paradise for surf enthusiasts. The beach offers waves suitable for all levels of surfers, from beginners to professionals, making it an ideal location for surfing enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Kaanapali is just one of the many amazing surf spots in the USA, which boasts a wide range of surfing destinations for all types of surfers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to catch your first wave, the United States offers some of the best surf spots in the world. From the world-famous surf breaks of Hawaii and California to the lesser-known spots in the Pacific Northwest and the East Coast, there is no shortage of incredible surfing destinations in the United States.
04. Cocoa Beach, Florida:
Cocoa Beach, Florida is a popular destination for surfers from around the world, offering a perfect mix of sun, sand, and waves. Known as the "Surf Capital of the East Coast," Cocoa Beach is home to some of the best surf spots in the USA, attracting surfers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. With consistent waves, warm waters, and a vibrant surf culture, Cocoa Beach has become one of the top surfing destinations in the United States.
The best time to surf in Cocoa Beach is from late summer to early fall, when hurricanes and tropical storms in the Atlantic Ocean produce powerful swells that can reach up to 12 feet. Some of the most popular surf spots in Cocoa Beach include The Pier, Shepard Park, and Lori Wilson Park, which offer a variety of waves suitable for all skill levels.
05. Montauk, New York:
Montauk, New York is a mecca for surfing enthusiasts, boasting some of the best waves on the East Coast of the United States. As one of the many renowned Surf Spots in the USA, Montauk has become a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike. Located at the easternmost tip of Long Island, Montauk offers a diverse range of waves for surfers of all skill levels, from gentle beginner waves to challenging barrel waves for the most experienced surfers.
With its stunning natural beauty and laid-back beach town atmosphere, it's no wonder that Montauk has become one of the top Surfing Destinations in United States. So grab your surfboard and wetsuit and head out to Montauk for an unforgettable surfing experience.
06. Santa Cruz, California:
Santa Cruz, California is a renowned surfing destination located on the west coast of the United States. It is considered as one of the top Surfing Destinations in United States and a must-visit spot for surf enthusiasts. With its consistent waves, pristine beaches, and picturesque scenery, it is no surprise that Santa Cruz is a popular spot for surfers from around the world.
Some of the best Surf Spots in the USA can be found in Santa Cruz, such as Steamer Lane, Pleasure Point, and The Hook, which offer some of the most challenging and exhilarating waves for experienced surfers. For those who are just starting out, Cowell's Beach is a great place to learn and enjoy the ocean.
07. Waikiki, Honolulu:
Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii, is a world-renowned surfing destination, known for its consistent waves and warm waters. Located on the south shore of Oahu, Waikiki is home to some of the best surf spots in the USA, attracting surfers of all levels from around the world. In recent years, the Waikiki Beach restoration project has brought new sand to the beach and improved the quality of the waves, making it an even better destination for surfers.
While Waikiki is certainly one of the top surfing destinations in the United States, there are many other great surf spots to explore in the country. From the famous Malibu and Huntington Beach in California, to the rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest, the United States is home to a diverse range of surfing destinations. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's a surf spot in the US that's perfect for you.
08. Nags Head, North Carolina:
Nags Head, located on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, is a renowned surfing destination in the United States. With its consistent swells and stunning shoreline, Nags Head attracts surfers from all over the world. It's no wonder that this location is included in the list of top Surf Spots in the USA.
Nags Head's ideal location on the Atlantic coast means that it is constantly exposed to waves generated by tropical storms, hurricanes, and cold fronts. The area is also blessed with a variety of breaks, ranging from beginner-friendly waves to challenging barrels for experienced surfers.
09. Ventura, California:
Ventura, California, is known for its world-class surfing spots that attract both beginner and professional surfers. Located just an hour's drive from Los Angeles, Ventura boasts some of the best surfing destinations in the United States, making it a must-visit for surf enthusiasts.
One of the popular surf spots in Ventura is the C-Street Beach, which is located at the Ventura Pier. This beach is ideal for beginners as it has smaller waves, while experienced surfers can take advantage of the larger swells during the winter months. Another great spot is Rincon Beach, which is located just south of Carpinteria. Rincon is known for its long right-hand waves that can reach up to 300 yards.
10. San Clemente, California:
San Clemente, California, is a popular destination for surfing enthusiasts from around the world. Known for its year-round sunny weather, warm water temperatures, and consistent waves, San Clemente offers some of the best surf spots in the USA. With a wide variety of breaks ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-only, there is something for everyone in this Southern California town.
One of the most famous surf spots in San Clemente is Trestles, located in the San Onofre State Beach. It is considered one of the best surf breaks in the world, with consistent and powerful waves. Other popular surf spots in the area include San Clemente Pier, Cottons, and Church.
11. Folly Beach, South Carolina:
Folly Beach, South Carolina, is a popular surfing destination located just a few miles from Charleston. This laid-back coastal town offers some of the best surf spots in the USA, with consistent waves and warm water year-round. The beach is known for its variety of breaks suitable for surfers of all levels, making it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Some of the most popular breaks include the Washout, a long stretch of beach that produces powerful waves, and the Folly Pier, where surfers can catch waves on both sides of the pier. Folly Beach is also home to several surf schools and rental shops, offering lessons and equipment for those who want to give surfing a try. With its beautiful beaches and world-class surf, Folly Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for top-notch surfing destinations in the United States.
12. Dana Point, California:
Dana Point, located in Southern California, is a renowned surfing destination in the United States. This small coastal city is home to some of the best surf spots in the country, attracting surfers from all around the world.
With over seven miles of pristine coastline, Dana Point offers a variety of surf breaks for surfers of all levels. From beginner-friendly waves at Baby Beach to advanced breaks at Salt Creek and Trestles, there's something for everyone.
In fact, Trestles, located just south of Dana Point, is considered one of the top surf spots in the USA and is a favorite among professional surfers. It's a world-class wave that consistently produces perfect barrels and offers an unforgettable surfing experience. With its beautiful beaches, great weather, and excellent waves, it's a must-visit for any surfer.
13. Imperial Beach, California:
Imperial Beach, located in San Diego County, California, is a popular surfing destination in the United States. With its consistent waves, warm water, and laid-back atmosphere, it's a favorite spot for surfers of all skill levels.
Imperial Beach has a variety of surf spots that offer different wave types, from beginner-friendly breaks to more challenging waves for experienced surfers. Some of the most popular surf spots in the area include the Imperial Beach Pier, Boca Rio, and the Tijuana Sloughs.
14. Ocean City, New Jersey:
Ocean City, New Jersey, is a coastal city located in the eastern part of the United States, renowned for its sandy beaches and the plethora of exciting water sports it offers. Among them, surfing is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities in the region, attracting surfers from all over the world. As one of the top Surfing Destinations in United States, Ocean City boasts an extensive coastline with plenty of challenging and exhilarating surf spots, ranging from beginner-friendly waves to more advanced breaks that will test the skills of even the most seasoned surfers.
With the latest updates on the best Surf Spots in the USA, Ocean City is a must-visit destination for all surf enthusiasts. Whether you are a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking a new challenge, Ocean City is sure to offer an unforgettable surfing experience.
15. Aguadilla, Puerto Rico:
Looking for a surfing destination in the US? Look no further than Aguadilla, Puerto Rico! Located on the northwest coast of the island, Aguadilla is known for its consistent waves and warm waters, making it the perfect destination for surfers of all levels.
Surfing in the United States is a popular activity, with many great surfing destinations to choose from. However, Aguadilla stands out for its year-round surf, with peak season from October to February. The best places for surfing in Aguadilla are Crash Boat Beach, Wilderness Beach, and Gas Chambers, which offer a range of waves for beginners and advanced surfers.
16. Virginia Beach, Virgina:
Virginia Beach, Virginia, one of the best surfing destinations in the United States! If you're looking for the ultimate surfing experience in the US, Virginia Beach should be on top of your list. With miles of beautiful coastline, warm waters, and consistent waves, it's no surprise that Virginia Beach is home to some of the best surfing beaches in the country.
From beginners to pros, Virginia Beach offers something for every level of surfer. The best time to catch the waves is during the hurricane season from late August to early November. During this time, surfers can expect some of the best waves on the East Coast.
17. Haleiwa, Island of Hawaii:
Haleiwa, located on the North Shore of the Island of Hawaii, is a surfer's paradise. Known for its world-class waves, it has become one of the most popular Surfing Destinations USA has to offer. Surfing in United States has been taken to a whole new level with Haleiwa's unique and powerful waves.
The best places for surfing in the US can be found in this charming town. Haleiwa is home to some of the best surfing beaches in the country, such as Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay. These beaches have hosted some of the most prestigious Surfing competitions in the world, including the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing.
18. Jacksonville Beach, Florida:
Jacksonville Beach, Florida is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves surfing in the US. As one of the best surfing beaches in the country, it attracts surfers from all over the world, who come to catch some of the best waves on the east coast. The city offers a great mix of consistent surf, warm weather, and beautiful scenery, making it one of the top surfing destinations in the USA.
If you are looking for the best places for surfing in the United States, you won't want to miss out on Jacksonville Beach. This area boasts some of the best surf breaks in the country, with waves that are perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The water is warm, the beaches are clean, and the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming.
19. Half Moon Bay, California:
Half Moon Bay, California is a hidden gem in the surfing world, located just 30 miles south of San Francisco. Known for its epic waves and breathtaking scenery, Half Moon Bay is a top destination for surfers from around the world. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pro, Half Moon Bay offers a variety of breaks that are perfect for any level of surfer.
As one of the best places for surfing in the United States, Half Moon Bay is home to some of the best surfing beaches in the US. Mavericks, a legendary big wave spot, is the crown jewel of Half Moon Bay's surfing scene. With waves that can reach heights of up to 60 feet, Mavericks is not for the faint of heart. But for those brave enough to paddle out, the rewards are unparalleled.
20. La Jolla, California:
La Jolla, California is a top destination for surfers in the United States. Located in the sunny state of California, La Jolla is a beautiful coastal city that offers some of the best surfing beaches in the country. With its clear blue waters, consistent waves, and beautiful scenery, it's no wonder why La Jolla is a favorite among surfers.
If you're looking for the best places for surfing in the United States, then La Jolla should definitely be on your list. Some of the best surfing beaches in La Jolla include Windansea Beach, Black's Beach, and La Jolla Cove. These beaches offer different surfing experiences, from challenging waves to more relaxed breaks for beginners.
Surfing in the US has been gaining popularity over the years, and La Jolla is definitely a destination to consider if you're planning a surfing trip. With its perfect weather and consistent waves, it's no wonder why La Jolla is considered one of the best surfing destinations in the USA.
21. Playa Middles Isabela, Puerto Rico:
Playa Middles Isabela, located in Puerto Rico, is one of the best surfing destinations in the United States. This beautiful beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with its crystal-clear waters and perfect waves. As one of the best surfing beaches in the United States, Playa Middles Isabela offers surfers of all levels a chance to catch some of the best waves in the world.
The beach is known for its consistent swells, which make it an ideal spot for surfing year-round. With a mix of lefts and rights, Playa Middles Isabela is perfect for both regular and goofy-footed surfers. The beach also offers a variety of breaks, from mellow longboard waves to more challenging shortboard waves.
22. Hermosa Beach, California:
Hermosa Beach, located in Southern California, is a must-visit destination for surfers looking to catch some of the best waves in the United States. Known for its consistent year-round waves, Hermosa Beach offers surfers of all levels an opportunity to ride the Pacific Ocean. As one of the most iconic surf spots in California, Hermosa Beach is a top destination for surfers from all over the world.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, Hermosa Beach offers some of the best surfing experiences in the United States. With its long stretches of beach, consistent swells, and ideal weather conditions, Hermosa Beach is the perfect place for surfers to hone their skills and catch some of the best waves of their lives.
Surfing in the United States is a popular activity, with surfers flocking to the best surfing beaches in the country. Hermosa Beach is one of the best surfing destinations in the USA, offering surfers a chance to catch waves on a regular basis. It is one of the best places for surfing, thanks to its consistent surf and long stretches of beach.
23. Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina:
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is an east coast gem when it comes to surfing in the United States. As one of the best surfing destinations in the USA, it offers year-round waves for all levels of surfers. Its sandy beaches and crystal clear water make it a popular spot for beach-goers and surfers alike.
Known as one of the best surfing beaches on the East Coast, Wrightsville Beach boasts consistent, clean waves that break over a shallow sandbar. Its prime location near the Gulf Stream and its unique geography make it an ideal spot for catching great waves.
The beach is surrounded by charming beach town vibes and a lively surf culture that is sure to make any surfer feel at home. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you'll find plenty of surfing opportunities and surf schools in the area. With its perfect combination of waves, scenery, and amenities, it's no wonder why Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina is considered one of the best places for surfing in the USA.
24. Venice, Florida:
Venice, Florida is often overlooked by many surfers who flock to more popular surfing destinations in the United States like Hawaii or California. But this hidden gem on the Gulf Coast offers some of the best surfing in the country. With over 14 miles of white sandy beaches, Venice offers a range of waves suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers alike.
The best time to surf in Venice is from October to March when the water is cool and the waves are consistent. South Jetty is the most popular surf spot in the area, known for its long rides and hollow barrels. Another great spot is Brohard Beach, which is perfect for longboarders and beginners.
25. North Shore, Kauai, Hawaii:
Surfing in North Shore, Kauai, Hawaii is a must-do for any surfer visiting the United States. Known as the Garden Island, Kauai boasts some of the best surfing beaches in the world, and the North Shore is no exception. This rugged coastline offers a variety of breaks for surfers of all levels, from beginner to advanced.
With its stunning scenery and consistent surf, the North Shore of Kauai has become one of the top surfing destinations in the United States. Experienced surfers flock to the world-famous breaks like Hanalei Bay and Tunnels Beach, while beginners can learn to surf in the gentle waves of the nearby Kalapaki Beach.
26. Jensen Beach, Florida:
Jensen Beach, Florida, is one of the best places for surfing in the United States. The east coast of the US is well known for its excellent surf, and Jensen Beach is no exception. The beach is located on Hutchinson Island, and it's a great spot for surfers of all skill levels.
The waves at Jensen Beach are consistent and ideal for both longboarders and shortboarders. The beach break produces consistent peaks, making it perfect for beginners who want to learn the ropes. However, more experienced surfers can find challenging waves on good days.
27. New Smyrna Beach, Florida:
New Smyrna Beach in Florida is a top surfing destination in the United States. Known for its consistent waves and warm waters, this beach attracts surfers from all over the world. In fact, it has been named as one of the best places for surfing in the US, and even the world.
What makes New Smyrna Beach so special is its diversity of waves. From beginner-friendly waves to challenging barrels, this beach has it all. Plus, with over 17 miles of coastline, you can always find a spot to surf. It's no wonder that this beach has been ranked as one of the best surfing beaches in the US.
28. Narragansett, Rhode Island:
Narragansett, Rhode Island is one of the best places for surfing in the United States. The town is located on the southern coast of Rhode Island, offering a variety of surf spots that cater to all levels of surfers. Whether you're a beginner or a pro, Narragansett has something for everyone.
Narragansett's location on the East Coast means that the waves are best in the fall and winter months, when storms roll in from the Atlantic. However, there are still plenty of good waves in the summer, making it a great destination for a surf trip any time of year.
29. Malibu, California:
Malibu, California is one of the best surfing destinations in the United States. Known for its long, peeling waves and gorgeous beaches, Malibu attracts surfers from all over the world. It's no surprise that this stretch of coastline has been featured in numerous surfing films and competitions.
Advanced surfers will love the challenge presented by the famous Malibu Point, where the waves can get up to 10 feet high. If you're looking for a more secluded spot, head to El Matador State Beach, which offers both right and left-hand breaks and stunning scenery.
30. Lincoln City, Oregon:
When it comes to surfing in the United States, there are plenty of destinations to choose from. However, one spot that shouldn't be overlooked is Lincoln City, Oregon. With its rugged coastline and consistent swells, Lincoln City is quickly becoming one of the best places for surfing in the USA.
One of the best surfing beaches in Lincoln City is the aptly named "Surf City". This beach is known for its long, clean waves and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Other top spots include Roads End and Nelscott Reef, both of which offer challenging waves for more experienced surfers.
Important Rules of Surfing Every Surfer Should Know:
Surfing is an exhilarating sport that provides an adrenaline rush like no other. However, it is important to remember that surfing can be dangerous and requires a certain level of knowledge, skill, and respect. Here are some important tips to keep in mind when surfing:
- Never surf under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It impairs your judgement and reaction time, and puts you and others at risk. Save the drinking for the after-surf gathering where you can share your epic surf stories.
- Always be aware of your surroundings. This includes other surfers and water users, the surf conditions, and the location you are surfing. Make sure to know your comfort zone and avoid waves that are too big or dangerous for your skill level.
- Make sure you are physically fit before surfing. It is important to be able to swim back to shore if you lose your board or get caught in a rip. Also, avoid surfing for at least 45 minutes after a meal to prevent cramping.
- Remember that surfing is all about having fun. Don't take it too seriously and enjoy the ride.
- Know when to hold on to your surfboard and when to let it go. Keep hold of your board when paddling out, but let it go when you are about to wipe out.
- If you are surfing on a patrolled beach, stay within the designated surfing area and take note of where you should be surfing before you go out.
- Respect the locals if you are visiting a beach. Waves should be shared, and remember that you are a guest.
- Always wear a good waterproof sunblock and consider wearing a UV-proof rash vest for body protection.
- Always surf with at least one other person. Not only is it more fun, but it provides safety and security.
- Make sure the surf conditions are safe before you go in. Get advice from a local if you are unfamiliar with the surf spot and always have a quick warm-up and stretch before entering the surf to reduce the risk of injury or cramping.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a safe and fun surfing experience. Remember to always respect the ocean and those around you, and stay aware of your surroundings. Happy surfing!
The United States is home to some of the most incredible surf spots in the world, offering surfers of all skill levels and preferences the chance to catch some epic waves. From the sunny beaches of California to the tropical waters of Hawaii, and the rugged coastlines of the Pacific Northwest and New England, the top 30 surf spots in the USA offer a unique blend of consistent waves, natural beauty, and vibrant surf culture. Whether you're looking for the perfect barrel or a fun day out on the water, the surfing destinations in the United States are sure to exceed your expectations and provide an unforgettable experience.
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