The Beach Boys sang “
Surfin’ USA” – but the USA is just the beginning when it comes to catching waves this summer, from Costa Rica to Mexico, from southern California to … Utah? Read on to find some incredible surfing destinations.
Occidental Tamarindo
Costa Rica is a bucket-list destination for many surfers, with incredible waves and pristine beaches. But what if you’re new to surfing? No problem. The all-inclusive
Occidental Tamarindo, located on one of Costa Rica’s most spectacular stretches of sand, offers beginner surfing lessons. During the two-hour lesson, you’ll get the basics on a longboard from an expert guide, as well as transportation to and from the beach. You’ll be hanging 10 in no time.
SLO CAL
Surfing and southern California are inextricably linked – and some of the Golden State’s finest wave experiences can be found in
SLO CAL. Located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along California’s central coast, the area offers around 80 miles of diverse coastline and waves for every skill level of surfer.
- Journey to “The Rock” in Morro Bay to catch waves in the shadow of the 500-foot tall, 23-million-year-old volcanic plug.
- Beginners love Cayucos Pier, offering a variety of waves that keep you on your toes.
- Locals and visitors alike surf Pismo Beach Pier, home of the World Surf League’s Pismo Beach Open, taking place this year Oct. 11-14.
- The sandy breaks of Oceano and reef breaks of Shell Beach offer diverse experiences for all levels.
A plethora of surf schools and surf shops can point you in the right direction of the best break that day and set you up with all the essentials. Get the low-down at
slocal.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/surfing.
Barceló Ixtapa
The beaches in Mexico aren’t just good for sunbathing with a tropical cocktail close at hand. The surfing is fantastic, with killer swells year-round. For those looking to experience the sport for the first time (or get re-acquainted with the basics, the all-inclusive
Barceló Ixtapa offers guests surfing and standup paddleboarding (SUP) lessons through a local surf shop just a five-minute walk from the hotel. The lessons are given at the nearby Playa Linda (ten minutes from the shop) every morning and last three hours.
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park
Surfing in landlocked Utah? Well, almost. You can go “sand surfing” on a sandboard at
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, which contains 3,730 acres of rolling sand dunes that have formed over thousands of years. Geographically this spot is perfectly situated to have gathered all these little sand grains blown in the wind from surrounding sandstone formations. Rent a sandboard inside the park and enjoy the unseasonal sensation of carving down a hill while soaking in the sun.