Much like explorers who set sail into uncharted waters, surfers often find themselves seeking out the best surf spots in America, driven by the thrill of discovery and the allure of untouched breaks.
From the iconic waves of Oahu's North Shore to the hidden gems along the East Coast, the United States offers a diverse array of surf destinations that cater to every level of surfer.
We bring a list of popular as well as lesser-explored surf havens in America, each with its own unique character and wave quality.
Whether you're a surfing elite looking for big swells or a beginner seeking gentle rollers to hone your skills, there's a spot for you.
So grab your board, queue up your Beach Boys playlist, and let's explore the 15 best surf spots in America.
Table of Contents:
- Best Surf Spots in America
- Malibu, California
- North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii
- Santa Cruz, California
- Maui, Hawaii
- Mavericks, California
- New Smyrna Beach, Florida
- Cocoa Beach, Florida
- Outer Banks, North Carolina
- Ventura, California
- Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
- Montauk, New York
- Narragansett, Rhode Island
- Folly Beach, South Carolina
- Kauai, Hawaii
- Galveston, Texas
- Essential Safety Measures to Follow While Surfing
- Frequently Asked Questions
15 Best Surf Spots in America for All Skill Levels
Here are the fifteen best places to surf in the US that cater to surfers of all skill levels, providing a variety of breaks to explore:
1. Malibu, California
Famous for its picturesque beaches and consistent waves, Malibu is one of the best surf destinations in the US.
Surfrider Beach offers ideal conditions for longboarding, especially during fall and winter swells. The area is known for its localism, but the waves are worth the challenge.
Check out the best surf spots in California to learn more about the amazing surfing culture there.
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Wave Type: Point Break
- Wave Characteristics: Malibu features long, peeling right-hand waves that are ideal for longboarding. The waves can range from mellow to powerful, with favorable conditions during summer and fall. The area has three main peaks, each offering different challenges
2. North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii
The North Shore is renowned globally for its competitive events like the Triple Crown of Surfing.
It hosts famous breaks like Pipeline and Waimea Bay, offering some of the best surfing experiences in the USA during winter.
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Wave Type: Reef Break
- Wave Characteristics: Known for its massive waves, the North Shore offers powerful and hollow barrels, particularly at spots like Pipeline and Waimea Bay. These waves are suitable only for experienced surfers, especially during winter when swells can exceed 20 feet
Explore the best surfing spots on the Pacific Coast for legendary waves and year-round surfing.
3. Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz - a vibrant beach situated in what is considered the best state for surfing, is a quintessential surfing destination.
This iconic surfing spot boasts a thriving scene with numerous surf shops, schools, and events, welcoming surfers of all abilities.
The local surf culture seamlessly combines classic longboarding with contemporary shortboarding while fostering a deep commitment to environmental conservation and preserving the pristine coastline.
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Wave Type: Beach Break and Point Break
- Wave Characteristics: Santa Cruz features a variety of breaks, including the famous Steamer Lane, which offers powerful waves that can be both left and right. The waves are consistent and can cater to all skill levels, with conditions varying from mellow to challenging
4. Maui, Hawaii
Hawaii is home to some of the best surf spots in America, reflecting a blend of traditional values and modern surfing practices.
Maui Island has produced many professional surfers, such as Kai Lenny and Billy Kemper, who embody the spirit of local talent and dedication to the sport.
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Wave Type: Reef Break and Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Maui offers a mix of powerful reef breaks like Honolua Bay and gentler beach breaks suitable for beginners
5. Mavericks, California
Mavericks is a surf beach known for its intense surf culture centered around big-wave surfing.
The community here is tight-knit, with a strong emphasis on respect for the ocean and the dangers it presents.
The annual Mavericks Invitational showcases some of the best surfing one can witness in the USA, highlighting the extraordinary skills and resolve required to tackle these powerful swells.
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Wave Type: Reef Break
- Wave Characteristics: Mavericks is known for its enormous waves, often exceeding 25 feet during winter swells. The waves are powerful and hollow, making it a spot for only the most experienced big-wave surfers
Looking for more hidden gems? Discover other great surfing spots on the Gulf Coast for a unique surf experience.
6. New Smyrna Beach, Florida
New Smyrna Beach is one of those surfing spots with a laid-back culture, often attracting families and beginners.
The area is known for its consistent surf and welcoming locals who are eager to share their passion for the sport.
Surf shops and schools are prevalent, making it easy for newcomers to get involved.
Learn more about the amazing surfing spots in Florida.
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Wave Type: Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: This spot features consistent, fun waves that are forgiving for beginners. The waves typically range from 2 to 6 feet and can provide both left and right breaks, making it an excellent training ground
7. Cocoa Beach, Florida
Cocoa Beach is a famous surfing spot, heavily influenced by local legends like Kelly Slater.
The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with a strong emphasis on community events and surf competitions.
Cocoa Beach hosts the annual East Coast Surfing Championships, which showcases local talent and fosters a sense of pride among surfers.
The local surf scene is characterized by a mix of longboarding and shortboarding, with a focus on adaptive surfing.
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Wave Type: Beach Break
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Wave Characteristics: This surfing spot is characterized by gentle, rolling waves that are perfect for beginners. The waves are typically small and consistent, making it an ideal spot for longboarding and for those learning to surf
For even more surf action, explore other top surfing spots on the East Coast, where waves and culture come together
8. Outer Banks, North Carolina
The Outer Banks is one of the best surf spots in America and is known for its diverse breaks.
This area attracts surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to surfing elites.
The local scene emphasizes respect for the ocean and its traditions, with many surfers participating in environmental initiatives to protect the coastline.
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Wave Type: Beach Break and River Mouth Break
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Wave Characteristics: The Outer Banks feature diverse wave conditions, with beach breaks providing fun, punchy waves. The area can produce powerful surf during nor’easters, with waves that can be both hollow and challenging
Don’t miss out on more amazing surfing beaches in North Carolina for a complete surfing adventure
9. Ventura, California
Surfing in America wouldn’t be the same without Ventura’s breaks and peeling waves.
This beach is considered one of the best surf spots in America by surfers looking for less crowded waves.
With year-round surf events and competitions year-round, Ventura has an active surfers’ community.
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Wave Type: Point Break and Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Ventura offers long, clean waves that can be both mellow and powerful. Rincon Point is particularly famous for its long rides, while other spots can provide more challenging conditions depending on the swell
10. Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
Situated in one of the best surf destinations in the US, Honolulu is known for its hospitality towards surfers from around the world.
Waikiki Beach is particularly popular for beginners, while more experienced surfers can be found at nearby breaks.
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Wave Type: Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Waikiki Beach is famous for its soft, rolling waves that are ideal for beginners. The waves are typically gentle and forgiving, allowing newcomers to practice their skills in a friendly environment
11. Montauk, New York
Montauk is one of the best surf spots in America, owing to its numerous surf shops and schools catering to both beginners and seasoned surfers.
The annual Montauk Surf Classic showcases local talent and helps surfers from all over the world connect.
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Wave Type: Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Montauk features long, powerful waves that can reach heights of 8 to 10 feet, especially during the fall and winter months. The breaks at Ditch Plains and Turtle Cove are popular among experienced surfers, offering both left and right waves
Explore more of the best surfing destinations in New York to find perfect waves up and down the coast.
12. Narragansett, Rhode Island
Known as a hidden gem on the East Coast, Narragansett has a passionate community that embraces both competitive and recreational surfing in America.
The local surf scene is friendly and welcoming, with a rich history and numerous surf contests held throughout the year.
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Wave Type: Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Narragansett offers consistent beach breaks with waves ranging from 2 to 10 feet, particularly during winter nor’easters. The surf can be fun and forgiving, making it suitable for various skill levels
13. Folly Beach, South Carolina
Folly Beach is counted among the best surf spots in America by surfers due to its bohemian surf culture.
The area is known for its friendly locals and vibrant surf community, with regular events and contests.
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Wave Type: Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Folly Beach features rolling waves that can be fun and challenging, particularly in The Washout area. Waves typically range from 3 to 6 feet, making it a popular spot for surfers of all skill levels
Discover more popular surfing beaches in South Carolina for an unforgettable experience
14. Kauai, Hawaii
Kauai is a surf beach in Hawaii known for its relaxed and welcoming surf culture, often described as the “Garden Isle.”
The island offers numerous surf schools and camps, making it accessible for beginners while still catering to experienced surfers seeking challenging waves. The local community values respect for the ocean and its traditions.
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Wave Type: Reef Break and Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Kauai offers a variety of wave conditions, from mellow beach breaks at Hanalei Bay to powerful reef breaks at Tunnels. Waves can range from 2 to 20 feet, depending on the spot and time of year
15. Galveston, Texas
Galveston is emerging as one of the best surf spots in America due to a growing surf community that embraces a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
The area hosts several surf events and competitions, fostering a sense of camaraderie among surfers.
The local surf shops often provide lessons and rentals, making it easy for newcomers to get involved.
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Wave Type: Beach Break
- Wave Characteristics: Galveston features choppy, inconsistent waves that are generally smaller, ranging from 2 to 5 feet. The surf can be fun, especially for beginners looking to practice their skills
Discover more exciting breaks at other top surfing destinations in Texas, perfect for surfers of all levels
Essential Safety Measures to Follow While Surfing
These are some safety tips so you can enjoy surfing while minimizing risks and ensuring your well-being:
1. Ear Protection
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Ear Drops: Combat swimmer's ear by using mineral oil-based ear sprays. These easy-to-use solutions help prevent water from entering your ears and can reduce the risk of infections.
Moreover, they are also good after-care solutions for surfing and other water sports
- Earplugs: Consider using specially designed surf earplugs, but be aware they may cause discomfort during extended sessions
2. Essential Gear
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Wetsuits: Choose a properly fitting wetsuit to guard against cold water and potential scrapes.
Water temperature is an important factor to consider while choosing the right wetsuit
- Board Leash: Always secure your board with an ankle leash to maintain control while surfing
3. Environmental Awareness
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Weather Check: Always review weather forecasts and surf reports before heading out. Avoid surfing in stormy or extremely windy conditions
- Tide Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with local tide patterns and their impact on wave formation
4. Surf with a Buddy
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Group Surfing: Whenever possible, surf with a companion for mutual safety
- Child Safety: Ensure children are supervised by experienced adults and equipped with appropriate safety gear, including eye and ear protection
5. Surfing Etiquette
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Mutual Respect: Adhere to surfing etiquette to promote a safe environment for all
- Wave Priority: Learn and follow right-of-way rules to prevent collisions and conflicts
6. Emergency Readiness
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Medical Kit: Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your vehicle or close to your surfing location
- Life-Saving Skills: Acquire basic CPR and first aid knowledge to handle potential emergencies
Conclusion
Each of the surf spots discussed here is uniquely characterized by its wave types, local culture, and surfing conditions.
Whether you're chasing massive swells or looking for the perfect longboarding wave, there's a beach for every surfer.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which part of the US has the best surfing waves?
Hawaii is one of the best surf spots in America.
The North Shore of Oahu and Maui's Jaws (Pe'ahi) break features massive winter swells that attract big wave surfers from around the globe.
2. Where is the surfing capital of the US?
Oahu's North Shore is often referred to as the surfing capital of the US.
It hosts world-class surf competitions like the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing and is home to legendary waves like Pipeline and Waimea Bay.
3. Is Florida or California better for surfing?
Both Florida and California have excellent surfing, but they offer different experiences.
California is known for its powerful, hollow waves like those found at Mavericks and Malibu, while Florida has a more mellow, consistent surf scene.
The best coast depends on your skill level and wave preferences.
4. What is the most famous surf spot?
Pipeline on Oahu's North Shore is arguably the most famous and challenging wave in the world.
This shallow, barreling reef break has produced some of the biggest names in surfing and hosts the prestigious Billabong Pipe Masters competition each year.
