Ride the Waves: The Top Surf Spots Around the World

The sport of surfing is actually a way of life, one that puts you directly in contact with the powerful force of the ocean. From a pro in search of monster swells to the grommet searching for gentle waves, there are scores of incredible surf destinations around the world. Tropical paradises, rugged coastlines-from 1 to whatever, here are most hailed surf spots around the globe which every surfer should know.

 

1. Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii

The mecca of surfing, Pipeline ranks among the most famous-and dangerous-waves in the world. Located on Oahu's North Shore, this surf spot is known for huge, barreling waves that break over a shallow reef, offering perfect tubes. While for the pros surfing here is the place to be, even if you are watching from the shore, these powerful waves make Pipeline a sight to see.

Best time to surf: Winter is between November and February when swells are at their biggest.

Pro tip: You get some of your best views of the surfers in action at Ehukai Beach Park.

 

2. Jeffreys Bay, South Africa

effreys Bay-or J-Bay-is renowned for having one of the most perfect right-hand point breaks in the world, and it is fast and long. This is located in South Africa, and such a spot would be great for advanced surfers who love riding long waves and pulling off multiple maneuvers. For many years, J-Bay has been home to the World Surf League events and among the best spots on Earth.

Best time to surf: Winter months, June through to August, show the best waves.

Pro tips: It's worth timing your visit to coincide with the annual J-Bay Open, which will allow you to watch the world's best surfers tackle this legendary break.

 

3. Gold Coast, Australia

The Australian Gold Coast has gained a significant reputation for its not inferior consistent and world-class waves, along with the surfing culture. A long stretch of over 70 kilometers of the Gold Coast hosts numerous surf spots, of which Snapper Rocks, Kirra, and Burleigh Heads are included. Snapper Rocks offers the Superbank, which is believed to produce a few of the world's longest rides.

Best time to surf: Swells are most consistent during the months of March to May.

Pro tip: Beginners can enjoy classes at more mellow spots like Greenmount or Rainbow Bay.

4. Uluwatu, Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a surfer's dream, and Uluwatu is one of its crowning jewels. Lying on the southern tip of the island, Uluwatu offers powerful reef breaks and stunning cliffside views. Meant for intermediate and advanced surfers alike, there are several sections through this wave to accommodate any level of experience. The surf is highly consistent here, with waves peeling perfectly over the reef.

Best time to surf: Dry season, April to October, is when swells are most consistent.

Pro tip: After your surf session, make sure to catch the famous Uluwatu sunset at one of the cliffside bars that overlook the waves.

 

5. Teahupo'o, Tahiti, French Polynesia

Teahupo'o is legendary for heavy, fast-breaking reef waves that create some of the thickest tubes in the world. This spot gets raw power with perfect barrels and isn't for the faint of heart-only experienced surfers should attempt Teahupo'o. The wave breaks over shallow reef, delivering a glassy, hollow tube so beautiful it's dangerous.

Best time to surf: May to August when the South Pacific swells hit hardest.

Pro tip: While this wave is best left to pros, you can take a boat tour to see the action up close or enjoy the scenery from the safety of the shore.

6. Trestles, California, USA

But Trestles, one of the most famous surf breaks in the world, invites all levels of surfers to San Clemente, California. Legendary for its fast, hollow waves to mellow and playful waves, Lower Trestles is the most famous section, with long rides perfect for high-performance surfing. It's a favorite stop on the WSL Championship Tour.

Best time to surf: Late summer to early fall, August to October, when Southern Hemisphere swells roll in.

Pro tip: Be prepared for a short hike from the parking lot to the beach-it's worth it for some of the best waves on the U.S. West Coast.

 

7. Hossegor, France

The city of Hossegor lies on the southwest coast of France and is representative of a spot known for its powerful beach breaks and heavy barrels. It has very often been referred to as the "surfing capital of Europe." With swells throughout the year, Hossegor boasts one of the most active surf cultures. Beach breaks in Hossegor are good for intermediate to advanced surfers during the fall season, a period when the Atlantic swell is at its best.

Best surfed: September to November for big, clean waves.

Pro tip: Quiksilver Pro France goes on; now is a good time to come and see the cream in surfing and really turn up at having a blast on the beach.

8. Nazaré, Portugal

Nazaré was globally famous for giant waves; this place on earth attracts big-wave surfers. A little fishing village against rough Portuguese coastline, it has grown legendary in the surf world because of its enormous winter swells topping 100 feet high. In turn, the waves were powered by Nazaré Canyon, a trench in the ocean floor, amplifying the swell to create some of the most monstrous surfable waves around the world.

Best time to surf: From October to February, when storms off the North Atlantic produce the biggest waves.

Pro tip: While Nazaré's monster waves are best left to very experienced big-wave surfers, Praia do Norte, and other nearby spots further down the beach, offer waves more suitable for intermediate skills. Those not ready to tackle the giants will find that visiting during big-wave season to watch the world's best is an unforgettable experience.