You planned your summer break months in advance, thought about hitting the beaches and doing some quality surfing while you’re at it, but you’re not sure whether the time and place coincide with the season. Choosing the right surfing
season and destination makes the difference between an unforgettable surf holiday
and possibly the worst time away.
Have you ever wondered when is the best time to catch the waves in the world’s most popular surfing destinations?
From beginners to experienced and pro surfers, the ones who like to spin the globe and pick a spot to those who prefer to do thorough research before deciding, there’s a season for all. The team at BookSurfCamps.com is here to lend a helping hand, and has put together the ultimate surf seasons guide that will show you when and where you need to be!
Surf Seasons in the World’s Most Popular Surfing Destinations
Surfing in Africa
Morocco High season between September and April. Prime time between December and March, when powerful, heavy waves hit the coast, suitable for more experienced surfers.
South Africa High season between February and November. April and May are the most pleasant months. You can expect cooler weather between May and July.
Surfing in Asia & Oceania
Indonesia High season between May and October, July being the best month. The wet season between November and April also receives quality swell. In Bali, the high season is between May and September, with good surfing conditions between November and March as well.
Australia High season between March and May, with sunny and warm weather. Powerful swells hit the coasts between June and September when it’s also less crowded.
Sri Lanka A year-round surfing destination, the surf season on the east coast is between May and September. On the west coast, the season lasts from October through April.
Thailand High season between April and November. Gentle waves can be found during winter months, suitable for beginners.
Fiji A year-round surfing destination, the best surf can be expected between April and October.
The Philippines A year-round destination, the best surf hits the coasts between December and April.
Surfing in Europe
Portugal High season between May and September, with warm and sunny weather and gentle waves for beginners. Prime time is between October and April, with big waves and cold water.
Spain Prime time is between September and April, with powerful swells and cold water. Summer months receive beginner-friendly waves. On the Canary Islands, the high surfing season is between October and February.
The UK High season between September and May. The best surf can be found during autumn months. The water is cold all year, so make sure you pack your wetsuit!
France High season between June and October, with warmer water. Winter months receive heavy swells and cold water.
Surfing in the Americas
California A year-round destination, the best time to surf in California is during winter months.
Hawaii High season is between November and March when large swells kick in. Prime time is between March and May, with quality waves and fewer crowds.
Brazil A year-round destination. Surfing season in Southern Brazil is between April and September, and in Northern Brazil between November and March.
Costa Rica A year-round destination, prime time is between May-October and November-March.
Mexico A year-round destination, prime time is between June and September.
Peru A year-round destination. Northern Peru receives consistent swell all year. In South and Southwestern Peru, the surf season is between April and October.
Chile A year-round surfing destination, Chile counts an average of 300 days of surf per year.
Nicaragua A year-round destination, prime time in Nicaragua is between May and November.
When it comes to surfing, it’s important to be in the right spot at the right time.
Depending on your level of expertise, this can be a beginner-friendly location with gentle waves or some destination that offers epic big-wave surfing conditions. Just remember that no two waves are the same, the element of surprise is ever-present and the conditions are always changing.
Tides and swells can affect the waves from one day to the other, even during peak season. Stay positive and be patient. Your wave will come!
Pick your moment. When you wish to get into the big surf, so not plunge right into it.
Spend some time on the beach and observe the conditions, look for patterns and watch other surfers try their hands at them.
ABOUT THE WRITER
Octavia Drughi is a travel writer for BookSurfCamps.com. She is a passionate mountaineer, “fanatic” rock climber and adventure addict who feels just as comfortable high on the rocks as she does deep down in the sea.
DISCLAIMER
The surf seasons chart shared above is based on the average surf conditions in the
world’s most popular destinations. Please note that severe weather changes can occur, which may affect the waves. Some places may be perfect for your level today, and be completely different tomorrow. The ocean is ever-changing and daily wave conditions must also be taken into account.