Surfing Holidays: Ride the World’s Best Waves

There’s a certain magic that happens when salt spray hits your face, your board slices through turquoise water, and you catch that perfect wave. Whether you’re a first-timer learning to pop up or an experienced surfer chasing world-class barrels, surfing holidays offer the ultimate blend of adventure, connection, and serenity.

From the sun-kissed shores of Bali to the reef breaks of Fiji, the world’s oceans call to anyone with a taste for freedom and flow. But where do you find the best waves — and how do you plan a trip that’s as seamless as it is thrilling?

Let’s ride through five of the world’s top surfing destinations, each one offering something unique for beginners and pros alike.

Why Surfing Holidays Capture the Spirit of Adventure

Surfing isn’t just a sport; it’s a way of life. Every surf trip brings new people, new breaks, and that familiar rhythm of dawn patrols, waxed boards, and sunsets by the sea.

A surfing holiday lets you live this lifestyle, even for a week or two. It’s where mindfulness meets adrenaline: you paddle out, wait for the swell, and feel utterly alive. Add a few palm trees, local cuisine, and easy-going surf towns, and you’ve got the perfect escape.



But not all waves are created equal. Let’s look at the best places on earth to catch them.

Bali, Indonesia – The Island of Eternal Swell

If there’s one destination that embodies the spirit of surfing holidays, it’s Bali. With year-round waves, warm water, and a vibrant surf culture, the Island of the Gods attracts everyone from barefoot backpackers to pro surfers.

Where to Surf

• Uluwatu: Home to one of the world’s most famous left-hand reef breaks. A true test for experienced riders.
• Canggu: A friendly mix of beach and reef breaks, perfect for intermediates.
• Padang Padang: Known as the “Balinese Pipeline” — a must-see even if you’re not surfing it yourself.
• Kuta Beach: Soft sandy bottom and gentle waves, ideal for first-timers.

Best Time to Go

May to October brings consistent swell from the Indian Ocean, offshore winds, and clear skies — peak season for surfing perfection.

Stay Here

The Palm Surf Camp, Canggu offers guided surf sessions, board rentals, yoga decks, and a laid-back communal vibe.

Want to explore more surfing holidays in Bali? Jamie Wake Travel can tailor your stay to match your surf level and style — from luxe resorts to hidden beach bungalows.

Portugal – Europe’s Surfing Soul

You don’t need to cross the globe to find world-class waves. Portugal is Europe’s year-round surf gem, with golden beaches, charming coastal towns, and a proud surf heritage.

Where to Surf

• Ericeira: A UNESCO World Surfing Reserve, offering everything from mellow beach breaks to powerful reefs.
• Peniche: Famous for Supertubos — a fast, hollow wave known as “Europe’s Pipeline.”
• Nazaré: Home to some of the largest waves ever surfed, perfect for spectators and thrill-seekers alike.

Best Time to Go

September to November is prime season, but Portugal’s mild winters make it surfable year-round.

Stay Here

The Surfers Lodge, Peniche blends boutique style with surf-camp spirit — rooftop bar, heated pool, and guided surf safaris.

Want to explore more surfing holidays in Europe? Jamie Wake Travel can create your dream Portugal itinerary, whether you’re chasing barrels or sipping vinho verde at sunset.

Costa Rica – The Pura Vida Surf Escape

Costa Rica is pure paradise for surfers. With its warm Pacific waters, friendly locals, and lush jungle backdrop, this Central American gem lives and breathes surf culture.

Where to Surf

• Tamarindo: A fun, lively surf town perfect for beginners and intermediates.
• Nosara: Known for consistency — if there’s a swell, Nosara will catch it.
• Santa Teresa: Jungle-fringed beaches, rolling waves, and barefoot luxury.

Best Time to Go

The dry season (December to April) brings glassy conditions and offshore winds; May to November offers bigger, more powerful swells for advanced riders.

Stay Here

Selina Surf Club, Santa Teresa combines co-working vibes with surf lessons, yoga, and sunset cocktails — perfect for digital nomads on surfing holidays.

Explore more tropical surf escapes with Jamie Wake Travel — we’ll match your surf dreams with the right coastline and comfort level.

Australia – Gold Coast Perfection

Australia’s surf scene is legendary, and nowhere captures it better than Queensland’s Gold Coast. Stretching over 35 miles of pristine beaches, it’s the epicentre of Aussie surf life.

Where to Surf

• Snapper Rocks: The start of the world-famous Superbank, producing one of the longest right-handers on earth.
• Burleigh Heads: A classic point break surrounded by a laid-back surf town.
• Surfers Paradise: Ideal for newcomers, with easy beach breaks and plenty of surf schools.

Best Time to Go

March to May brings steady swells and pleasant weather — ideal for surfing holidays that balance adventure and relaxation.

Stay Here

Komune Resort, Coolangatta is a stylish beachfront hub for surfers, with ocean-view rooms, live music, and a pool that overlooks the break.

Let Jamie Wake Travel build your ultimate Australian surf adventure — from Gold Coast thrills to Byron Bay bliss.

Fiji – Luxury, Line-Ups, and Lagoon Blues

For surfers craving paradise with a touch of exclusivity, Fiji delivers. Its crystal-clear reef breaks, tropical climate, and warm hospitality make it one of the most desirable surfing holidays on the planet.

Where to Surf

• Cloudbreak: Legendary left-hand reef that draws professionals and big-wave chargers.
• Restaurants: Perfect, glassy rights over coral reef — best for confident intermediates and pros.
• Namotu Lefts: Friendly, consistent, and accessible by boat from nearby resorts.

Best Time to Go

April to October offers ideal conditions with offshore winds and consistent south-swell energy.

Stay Here

Tavarua Island Resort is a private island shaped like a heart — and truly feels like one. With world-class surf, gourmet meals, and paddle-out access to Cloudbreak, it’s bucket-list perfection.

Jamie Wake Travel can secure limited-availability stays at Fiji’s most exclusive surf resorts — just ask!

Jamie Says:

“Surfing holidays aren’t just about waves — they’re about finding flow, balance, and new horizons. Whether you’re riding Cloudbreak or your first whitewater, every wave teaches you something new. And that’s what makes travel so special.”

Planning the Perfect Surfing Holiday

Before you grab your board, consider a few key planning tips:

Know Your Level

Choose a destination that matches your ability. Beginner? Pick sandy-bottom beach breaks. Intermediate? Look for mellow reefs. Advanced? Go where the reef and swell size challenge you.

Travel Light (or Not)

Many surf camps provide boards and wetsuits, so you can skip oversized baggage fees. But if you’ve got a favourite board, pack it securely with padded protection.

Seasons & Swells

Check local swell charts before booking. Sites like Surfline give real-time forecasts, wind direction, and tide info for thousands of breaks worldwide.

Community & Coaching

Surf camps often include video analysis, coaching, and yoga — ideal for improving your technique while meeting like-minded travellers.

Peace of Mind: Booking with Confidence

When booking your surfing holiday through Jamie Wake Travel, you’re covered by ATOL protection and Supplier Failure Insurance, giving you peace of mind no matter how far you travel.

If the surf’s flat or weather shifts, our partners will suggest local excursions — from island tours to snorkelling trips — ensuring your holiday stays unforgettable.

Because the only thing unpredictable should be the waves, not your booking.

Why Choose Jamie Wake Travel for Your Surfing Holiday

Planning a surf trip can be thrilling but tricky — coordinating flights, transfers, surf camp stays, and the right season takes expertise. That’s where Jamie Wake Travel shines.

We specialise in bespoke surfing holidays built around you. Whether you want a luxury Fijian surf resort, a Portuguese surf road trip, or a week of yoga and waves in Costa Rica, we’ll handle the details.

Enjoy 100% financial protection, personal service, and insider knowledge.

Call us on 01495 400005 or complete our easy enquiry form to start your surf adventure today.
Or use our online holiday search tool to craft a getaway as unique as you are.

If you’ve ever dreamt of riding endless waves, share this surf guide with a friend who needs a little ocean therapy! 🌴

Frequently Asked Questions