100 Surf Spots

Antarctica Surfing at King George Island means icebergs in the lineup, drysuits, and penguins on the beach. Expeditions are rare and expensive. It is the ultimate frontier. Antarctica is one of the world's most extreme and bucket-list surf experiences and a top 100 spot for the obsessed.

Banzai Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore is the world's most famous and dangerous wave: hollow tubes over a shallow reef. Winter (December–February) brings the biggest swells and the Vans Triple Crown. The wave has claimed lives; only experts should surf it. Watch from the beach or join the pro event. Pipeline is the ultimate barrel and one of the world's top 100 surf spots.

Chicama in Peru is the world's longest left wave—up to 4 km on rare conditions. The port breaks in a chain. The wave is fickle but when it's on it is legendary. Chicama is one of the world's most unique and bucket-list waves and a top 100 destination.

Desert Point on Lombok is a legendary 200 m left barrel. Offshore wind is essential; access is by remote boat. The wave is one of Indonesia's best and most fickle. Desert Point is for experts and patient surfers. It is one of the world's most perfect and remote waves and a top 100 spot.

Gardar in Iceland is a remote reef with sub-zero suits, unpredictable katabatic winds, and full commitment. The spot is for the most dedicated only. Gardar is one of the world's most extreme and rare surf experiences and a top 100 destination.

Jaws (Pe'ahi) on Maui is the tow-in wave that pioneered big-wave surfing. Faces can reach 20 m; winter swells are the trigger. Tow-in jetskis are used to catch the wave. The spot is on the north shore; access and safety require experience. Jaws is one of the world's most legendary big-wave spots and a top 100 destination.

Kaldbakur in Iceland is Arctic surfing: sub-zero water, lava reefs, and possible northern lights. Drysuits and commitment are essential. The spot is for the adventurous only. Iceland surfing is one of the world's most extreme and unique experiences and a top 100 spot.

Nazare in Portugal is where the Atlantic funnels into a canyon to produce 100 ft+ waves. Praia do Norte and the cliff view are iconic. Big-wave surfers have set records here. Winter is the season; the town is a surf pilgrimage. Nazare is one of the world's most dramatic and photographed surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Shipstern Bluff in Tasmania is a remote mutant wave: thick lips and step sections. Access is by helicopter or boat; sharks are a concern. The wave is for big-wave specialists. Shipstern is one of the world's most dangerous and unique waves and a top 100 spot for the committed only.

Skeleton Bay in Namibia is a 3 km+ left point with perfect offshore SE wind. It rarely breaks but when it does it is one of the longest waves on Earth. Access is remote. Skeleton Bay is one of the world's most fickle and legendary waves and a top 100 destination for the patient.

Teahupoo in Tahiti is one of the heaviest waves on Earth: a thick slab over shallow reef. The Billabong Pro has been held here. The wave is brutal and can hold 20 ft faces. Access is by boat; the village is small. Teahupoo is for experts only and one of the world's most iconic and dangerous surf spots. Respect the ocean and local culture.

Anakao in southern Madagascar has uncrowded Indian Ocean reef breaks and zebu cart transport. The coast is pristine. Madagascar is an adventure. Anakao is one of the Indian Ocean's most remote and beautiful waves and a top 100 destination.

Boulders Samoa on Upolu Island is a right-hander with dangerous shallow reef. The wave is world-class but risky. Samoa is a Pacific gem. Boulders is one of the world's most beautiful and dangerous waves and a top 100 destination for experts.

Cape Town Crayfish Factory (Kommetjie area) is a cold Benguela Current right with kelp beds and seals. The tube is powerful; the water is cold. The Cape has many spots; this is one of the more accessible. Winter swells are best. It is one of South Africa's most respected waves and a top 100 cold-water spot.

Cloudbreak in Fiji is a boat-access left that can run for 2 km. Tavarua Island hosts the Volcom Pipe Pro. The wave is warm, powerful, and world-class. May–October is the season. Cloudbreak is one of the world's best left-handers and a top 100 surf spot. Book a boat or stay on Tavarua.

Donkey Bay in Namibia is cold Atlantic surf with rare perfect conditions and Skeleton Coast backdrop. Fog and remoteness add to the vibe. Donkey Bay is one of the world's most fickle and atmospheric waves and a top 100 destination for the patient.

Dungeons in Hout Bay, South Africa, is a big-wave spot over granite boulders. South swells light it up; shark cage diving is nearby. The wave is for big-wave specialists. Dungeons is one of the world's most dramatic and dangerous waves and a top 100 spot for the committed.

Easter Island (Rapa Nui) has consistent Pacific swell and surf in front of Moai monuments. The water is clear and the island is isolated. The wave is a bonus to the culture and history. Easter Island surfing is one of the world's most unique and bucket-list experiences.

G-Land (Grajagan) on Java is a 3 km left point break with boat access and a jungle camp. May–October is the season; the wave is long and powerful. The setup is remote and legendary. G-Land is one of the world's longest and most consistent lefts and a top 100 destination. Book the camp well ahead.

Galapagos Surf is remote Pacific breaks with marine iguanas and sea lions in the lineup. The water is cold by tropical standards. Access is by boat; the experience is epic. Galapagos surfing is one of the world's most unique and wildlife-rich experiences and a top 100 destination.

Gwadar in Pakistan is an Arabian Sea surfing frontier on the CPEC coast. The wave is remote and adventurous. Pakistan is emerging for surf travel. Gwadar is one of the world's most remote and pioneering waves and a top 100 destination for the bold.

Hava i Nui in French Polynesia is part of the Teahupo'o 2024 Olympic surfing test event region. The water is crystal clear and the waves are powerful. French Polynesia is the ultimate surf paradise. Hava i Nui is one of the world's most idyllic and high-performance regions and a top 100 destination.

Libreville Surf in Gabon is equatorial: warm water, boat access to outer reefs, and pristine jungle. The wave is uncrowded and the country is raw. Libreville is one of Central Africa's most pioneering and exotic surf destinations and a top 100 spot.

Mavericks at Half Moon Bay, California, is a cold-water big-wave spot that broke into the mainstream with the Eddie Aikau hold-down legend. Winter swells are massive; the water is cold and sharky. The spot is for experts; viewing from the cliff is safer. Mavericks is one of the world's most respected and dangerous surf spots.

Mullaghmore in Ireland is a big-wave spot with 20 m+ swell possible and a castle background. The UK Big Wave contest has been held here. The wave is for experts only. Mullaghmore is one of Europe's most dramatic and dangerous waves and a top 100 destination.

Mundaka in the Basque Country is a legendary left that breaks in the estuary on big swells. The Rip Curl Pro was held here when it worked. The wave is fickle but when it's on it is one of Europe's best. The town is surf-mad. Mundaka is one of the world's most iconic and temperamental waves and a top 100 spot.

Nias in Indonesia is Lagundri Bay's right-hander: cobblestone bottom, long rides, and 1970s pioneer history. The wave is world-class when it's on. The island is remote. Nias is one of the Indian Ocean's most legendary waves and a top 100 destination.

Nouakchott in Mauritania is West Africa's unexplored surf: consistent swell, remote wild coast, and French colonial legacy. The wave is raw and the country is emerging. Nouakchott is one of the world's most pioneering and remote surf destinations and a top 100 spot.

Pasta Point in the Maldives is a resort-only left (Cokes area) with uncrowded atolls. The wave is warm and perfect. Access is by surf charter or resort. Pasta Point is one of the Indian Ocean's most exclusive and idyllic waves and a top 100 destination.

Puerto Escondido in Mexico is the Mexican Pipeline: an aggressive beach break with shorebreak slabs. August–September is peak. The wave is heavy and for experienced surfers. The town is a surf hub. Puerto Escondido is one of the world's most powerful beach breaks and a top 100 destination.

Saint-Leu on Reunion Island is a right-hander with a perfect wall and warm water. Bull shark history means caution; the wave is world-class. Reunion is in the Indian Ocean. Saint-Leu is one of the Indian Ocean's best and most controversial waves and a top 100 destination.

Sunset Beach on Oahu's North Shore is a big-wave classic and the Eddie Invitational location. December–February is the season. The wave is powerful and for experts. Sunset is one of Hawaii's most respected and historic waves and a top 100 spot.

The Box at Margaret River, Western Australia, is a square tube over a deep-water slab. Hold-downs are serious. The wave is for experts. Margaret River has multiple world-class spots. The Box is one of the world's most dangerous and unique waves and a top 100 destination.

Todos Santos Island off Baja California is a big-wave spot with 20 m waves possible in January–February. The Todos Santos Big Wave Classic is held here. The wave is for experts only. It is one of the world's most prestigious and dangerous big-wave spots and a top 100 destination.

Unstad Arctic Surf in Norway's Lofoten is -5°C surf with possible Northern Lights and fishing village charm. Drysuits are essential. Unstad is one of the world's most extreme and beautiful cold-water spots and a top 100 destination for the adventurous.

Ain El Turck in Algeria is North Africa's undiscovered surf: Mediterranean swell and autumn perfection. The surf culture is growing. Algeria is opening to tourism. Ain El Turck is one of the Mediterranean's most secret and promising waves and a top 100 destination.

Anchor Point near Taghazout, Morocco, is a right-hander with constant swell, cheap surf camps, and an Atlas mountain view. The wave is long and forgiving. Taghazout is the base. Anchor Point is one of Africa's most accessible and popular waves and a top 100 spot for surf camps.

Assinie in Ivory Coast is a beach break with a growing surf scene and warm Gulf of Guinea water. The coast is emerging. Assinie is one of West Africa's most accessible and up-and-coming waves and a top 100 destination.

Barra de la Cruz in Oaxaca, Mexico, is a right-hander over rock reef with barrels and clear water. Once a local secret, it now draws surfers. The wave is quality and the coast is beautiful. Barra is one of Mexico's best and most scenic waves and a top 100 destination.

Bells Beach in Victoria, Australia, is an iconic right-hander and the home of the Rip Curl Pro every Easter. The wave works on south swells; the cliff and car park are part of surf culture. Bells is a pilgrimage for Australian and international surfers. It is one of the world's most historic and consistent point breaks and a top 100 spot.

Big Wave Bay in Hong Kong is the territory's main surf spot: a typhoon swell magnet with a longboard community. August is the season. The wave is small but the scene is real. Big Wave Bay is one of Asia's most urban and unique surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Blacks Beach in La Jolla, California, is a powerful south swell reef break with a cliff access hike. The beach is clothing-optional. The wave is for experienced surfers. Blacks is one of California's most powerful and iconic spots and a top 100 destination.

Busua in Ghana is West Africa's most consistent spot: warm water year-round and a novice-friendly beach break. The surf scene is growing. Busua is one of Africa's most accessible and welcoming waves and a top 100 destination for surf exploration.

Cabo Polonio in Uruguay is off-grid: sea lion colony, beach breaks, and a lighthouse backdrop. The wave is mellow and the vibe is bohemian. Cabo Polonio is one of South America's most unique and laid-back surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Chiba Tsurigasaki in Japan was the Tokyo 2021 Olympic surfing venue—the first Olympic surfing. The wave is beach break; the scene is growing. Chiba is near Tokyo. Tsurigasaki is one of Asia's most historic contest waves and a top 100 destination for Olympic legacy.

Cloud 9 on Siargao Island in the Philippines is a hollow right-hander and the host of the Philippine Surfing Cup. The wave is world-class; the island is a surf destination. Cloud 9 is one of Southeast Asia's most famous and perfect waves and a top 100 spot.

Da Nang (China Beach) in Vietnam has September–November typhoon swells and a growing kite and surf school scene. The wave is improving as infrastructure grows. Da Nang is one of Southeast Asia's emerging surf destinations and a top 100 spot for adventure.

El Gorrión in Cantabria, Spain, is a seasonal gem with consistent long rights from October to March. The Basque and Cantabrian coast has many spots. El Gorrión is one of Spain's best-kept secrets and a top 100 spot for European winter surf.

El Hierro in the Canary Islands is a secret gem with Jacks and other consistent spots on volcanic reef. Year-round swell and fewer crowds than other Canary islands. El Hierro is one of the Atlantic's most underrated surf destinations and a top 100 spot for exploration.

El Valle in Colombia's Pacific is remote: whale season, Chocó jungle access, and uncrowded waves. The coast is wild. El Valle is one of the Pacific's most adventurous and underrated waves and a top 100 destination for the explorer.

Elands Bay on South Africa's West Coast is a right-hander with kelp forests, cold Atlantic, and whales. The wave is long and the coast is remote. Elands Bay is one of South Africa's most scenic and consistent waves and a top 100 destination.

Hikkaduwa in Sri Lanka has reef breaks and a December–March north swell season. Turtles sometimes surf the same wave. The town is backpacker-friendly. Hikkaduwa is one of the Indian Ocean's most accessible and fun waves and a top 100 destination for winter surf trips.

Hilton Beach in Tel Aviv is Mediterranean swell with autumn–winter season and a city skyline backdrop. The wave is small but the scene is real. Tel Aviv is a party and culture hub. Hilton Beach is one of the Mediterranean's most urban and unique surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Honolua Bay on Maui is a winter right that breaks inside a protected bay. Overhead barrels and fewer crowds than the North Shore make it a favourite. The wave is for intermediate to advanced surfers. Honolua is one of Hawaii's most beautiful and classic waves and a top 100 spot. Respect the bay and the locals.

Hossegor in the Landes, France, is a beach break zone with multiple peaks. The Quiksilver Pro Europe has been held here. October swells are classic. The town is the heart of European surf culture. Hossegor is one of the world's most dynamic beach break regions and a top 100 spot.

Itacaré in Bahia, Brazil, has 15 breaks in 12 km of jungle-backed coast. Engenhoca is the famous barrel; the water is warm. The town is laid-back. Itacaré is one of Brazil's most diverse and beautiful surf regions and a top 100 destination.

Kirra Point on the Gold Coast is a classic sand-covered reef right, adjacent to the Superbank. WCT history and long walls define it. Kirra is one of Australia's most iconic and high-performance waves and a top 100 spot. Visit when the sand is right.

Kovalam in Kerala, India, has longboard-friendly waves in the Indian Ocean. November–March is the season; the water is warm. The town is a backpacker and yoga hub. Kovalam is one of India's best and most accessible waves and a top 100 destination for surf and culture.

Krui Left on Sumatra's southwest coast has long points, empty jungles, and a right at Some. The area is uncrowded and raw. Krui is one of Indonesia's most underrated and adventurous waves and a top 100 destination for the explorer.

La Gravière in Capbreton, France, is a beach break with winter barrels and powerful shorepound. It is in the Hossegor area. The wave is punchy and the scene is strong. La Gravière is one of Europe's most powerful beach breaks and a top 100 spot.

Laniakea Beach on Oahu's North Shore is a beginner-friendly spot with gentle longboard waves and green turtles on the sand. It is one of the few North Shore spots that doesn't require expert level. Winter can still get big. Laniakea is one of Hawaii's most accessible and family-friendly waves.

Lanzarote Chicama (or similar Canary reef) offers year-round swell and consistent east swell on volcanic lava. The Canaries have many spots. Lanzarote Chicama is one of the Atlantic's most consistent and unique waves and a top 100 destination.

Lobos Point near Pichilemu, Chile, is a big-wave satellite and competition platform. The cold Pacific and powerful waves demand respect. Lobos is one of Chile's most serious spots and a top 100 destination for cold-water specialists.

Mar del Plata in Argentina has consistent reef breaks and has hosted Argentine WSL events. The water is cold; the surf culture is strong. The city is a holiday destination. Mar del Plata is one of South America's main cold-water surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Montañita in Ecuador is a surf and party town with a consistent left point, backpacker scene, and warm Pacific. The wave is fun and the nightlife is famous. Montañita is one of South America's most popular surf towns and a top 100 destination.

N'Gor Island off Dakar, Senegal, is a boat-access right with consistent year-round trade wind swell and local vibe. The wave is quality and the culture is rich. N'Gor is one of West Africa's most famous and accessible waves and a top 100 destination.

Nai Harn Beach in Phuket, Thailand, is the country's surfing hub in September–November, with kite season overlap. The wave is small but fun. Phuket is a holiday base. Nai Harn is one of Thailand's best and most accessible waves and a top 100 destination.

Oman Surf has monsoon season (June–September) beach and reef breaks with empty waves. The coast is emerging. Oman is safe and scenic. Oman Surf is one of the Arabian Sea's most unexplored and promising waves and a top 100 destination.

Pacasmayo in Peru is a left-hander that works on SE trade winds only, with a low tide slab and town pier. The wave is quality when conditions align. Pacasmayo is one of Peru's best and most atmospheric spots and a top 100 destination.

Padang Padang in Bali is the 'Little Pipeline': a hollow left that only works in June–August. It was featured in Eat Pray Love. The wave is heavy and shallow; experts only. The cliff and temple add to the vibe. Padang Padang is one of the world's most photogenic and dangerous waves and a top 100 spot.

Palau Surf in Micronesia has warm water reef breaks and pristine coral. The breaks are diverse and uncrowded. Palau is a diving and adventure destination. Palau surfing is one of the Pacific's most remote and pristine experiences and a top 100 destination.

Peniche in Portugal has Supertubos, a beach break that can produce Medewi-style barrels. The Rip Curl Pro is held here in October. The coast has multiple spots. Peniche is one of Europe's most consistent and contest-worthy waves and a top 100 destination.

Pichilemu (Punta de Lobos) in Chile is South America's premier big-wave spot and a WSL event venue. The cold Pacific and powerful waves demand respect. The town has a strong surf culture. Winter is the season. Pichilemu is one of the world's most dramatic cold-water spots and a top 100 destination.

Playa Hermosa near Jacó in Costa Rica is a consistent beach break with barrels and black sand. It is less crowded than some spots and warm year-round. The wave suits various levels. Playa Hermosa is one of Central America's best and most accessible waves and a top 100 destination for surf travel.

Ponta Preta in Cape Verde is a world-class right-hander with strong trade winds and Pro event history. The wave is powerful and consistent. Cape Verde is an Atlantic gem. Ponta Preta is one of the world's best and most consistent waves and a top 100 destination.

Popoyo in Nicaragua has offshore double peaks, consistent year-round waves, warm water, and a volcano backdrop. The area is less crowded than many spots. Popoyo is one of Central America's best value and most consistent waves and a top 100 destination for surf travel.

Pulau Mantanani in Sabah, Borneo, has clear water reef breaks, turtles, and sunrise surf sessions. The island is a short boat ride from the mainland. The wave is uncrowded. Pulau Mantanani is one of Southeast Asia's most beautiful and low-key waves and a top 100 destination.

Raglan in New Zealand is the country's best left-hander. Manu Bay is consistent and was featured in Endless Summer II. The wave is long and user-friendly. Raglan is a surf town with a relaxed vibe. It is one of the Southern Hemisphere's most famous lefts and a top 100 destination.

Rarotonga in the Cook Islands has Raemaru Right and other reef breaks: warm water and uncrowded paradise. The South Pacific swell is consistent. Rarotonga is one of the Pacific's most laid-back and beautiful surf destinations and a top 100 spot.

Santa Catalina in Panama is a remote Central American gem with consistent reef breaks. June–December swells are best. The village is small and surf-focused. Santa Catalina is one of the Pacific's most underrated and uncrowded waves and a top 100 destination.

Saquarema in Rio state, Brazil, is a right-hander that has hosted the ISA World Games. October–November swell is best. The town is a surf hub. Saquarema is one of Brazil's most important contest and free-surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Scorpion Bay in Baja California is an 8-point stretch with 10 consecutive rights and consistent NW swell season. The wave is long and mellow. The town is remote. Scorpion Bay is one of the world's longest wave rides and a top 100 destination for the road trip.

Snapper Rocks on the Gold Coast is the start of the Superbank: a 2 km right-hander that can connect through to Kirra. The Quiksilver Pro opens the WCT here. The wave is long, fast, and crowded. Snapper is one of the world's most high-performance waves and a top 100 spot. Visit in winter for the best swells.

Steamer Lane in Santa Cruz, California, is a classic reef right with the Cold Water Classic and seals in the lineup. The wave is consistent and the town is surf-central. Steamer Lane is one of California's most historic and iconic spots and a top 100 destination.

Strandhill in Ireland is on the Wild Atlantic Way: heavy shore break and Donegal right-handers. Autumn is best. The water is cold; the vibe is warm. Strandhill is one of Ireland's most famous and challenging waves and a top 100 destination.

Supertubes at Jeffreys Bay, South Africa, is one of the world's best right-hand point breaks. The J-Bay Open is a WCT event. June–July is peak season; the wave is long and fast. The town is surf-focused. J-Bay is one of the world's most perfect and consistent waves and a top 100 destination.

Tabarka in Tunisia has Mediterranean season surf (October–March) with a cedar forest backdrop. The wave is uncrowded. Tunisia is affordable and close to Europe. Tabarka is one of the Mediterranean's most relaxed and scenic surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Tavarua Island in Fiji is a private resort with Restaurants (left and right) and beginner waves. Boat access only; the setup is idyllic. May–October is the season. Tavarua is one of the world's most exclusive and perfect surf resorts and a top 100 destination for those who can afford it.

Thurso East in Scotland is a cold right-hander off the Caithness flag reef. November–February is best. The water is very cold; the wave is powerful. Thurso East is one of the UK's most respected and challenging waves and a top 100 destination.

Tofinho at Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique is an Indian Ocean right-hander with dolphins and whale season in July–August. The wave is uncrowded and warm. Mozambique is emerging as a surf destination. Tofinho is one of Africa's most beautiful and underrated waves and a top 100 spot.

Tofino on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, has winter swells, whale watching, and a cedar forest backdrop. The water is cold; the town is surf-focused. Tofino is Canada's surf capital. It is one of the world's most beautiful cold-water surf destinations and a top 100 spot.

Uluwatu in Bali is a long left-hander with a sea cave entry and a Balinese temple on the cliff. The wave is powerful and barrelling; the backdrop is iconic. Crowds can be heavy; respect the temple and local rules. Uluwatu is one of the world's most famous and beautiful surf spots and a top 100 destination.

Yangyang in South Korea is the country's surf mecca: consistent beach break, July typhoon swells, and two hours from Seoul. The scene is growing fast. Yangyang is one of East Asia's most accessible and up-and-coming waves and a top 100 destination.