The Best Surf Destinations by Season:Where to Surf Around the World All Year Which One Should You Use?

Surfing is amazing, but here’s the truth: it’s not just about the country, it’s about the surf spot, the season, and your skill level.

I’ve made the mistake more than once of showing up somewhere without doing research, only to find the waves were way too big for my level. Other times, the waves were so small that I barely got to practice, and I left frustrated. These experiences taught me that surfing is all about trial and error, and no one gets it perfect on their first try unless you’re extremely lucky.

Even if you pick a popular surf destination, you can still hit the wrong spot. The season, surfboard, environment, and your ability all play a role. That’s why I always ask locals for advice on which surf spot fits my level and the current conditions. It makes all the difference.

Here’s a beginner-friendly guide to the best surf destinations by season with the lessons I learned about choosing the right spot:

Winter (December)

Australia (Byron Bay, Gold Coast)

·        Winter can be gentler in some areas, but certain beaches get powerful swells

·        Local surf schools can point you to safe beginner-friendly spots

Spring (March – May)

Bali, Indonesia

·        Consistent waves, perfect for beginners and intermediates

·        Not every beach is beginner-friendly, some reef breaks can be tricky

·        Ask locals which beach breaks suit your skill

Portugal (Ericeira, Peniche)

·        Spring brings medium waves, great for learning

·        Make sure to choose a beach break, not a reef break, for your first lesson

Philippines (Siargao)

·        During this season, the waves are in general smaller compared to the winter period

·        Warm water, tropical vibes, beginner-friendly waves

Summer (June – August)

Costa Rica (Tamarindo, Santa Teresa)

·        Beach breaks with consistent, manageable waves

·        Even here, some spots are better for first-time surfers,  check with surf schools

Mexico (Sayulita, Puerto Escondido)

·        Warm water, reliable beginner waves

·        Puerto Escondido has some very strong breaks, beginners should stick to sheltered areas

Autumn (September – November)

Philippines (Siargao)

·        While this season is considered Siargao’s best surfing period, its important to ask locals for sheltered beginner spots

·        Fewer tourists, perfect for progression

·        Locals can recommend beginner-friendly spots vs. advanced reef breaks

·        Warm water and tropical vibes

Morocco (Taghazout)

·        Mild weather, beginner-friendly beach breaks

·        Check tides and local recommendations, even beginner spots can get tricky

 

Tips for Choosing the Right Spot

1.     Skill + Season + Spot = Success

o   A beginner on a reef break will struggle, even in a beginner-friendly country

o   A strong surfer on tiny waves will feel bored and unchallenged

2.     Ask Locals First

o   They know where the waves match your level today

3.     Don’t Get Discouraged

o   A bad first experience usually comes from the wrong spot, season, or surfboard, not you

4.     Trial and Error Is Part of the Fun

o   Surfing is a journey, and every mistake teaches you something

o   Sometimes you get lucky on your first try, but often learning comes gradually

Surfing is about more than a destination. It’s about choosing the right spot, at the right time, with the right board, for your level. Don’t let one frustrating session discourage you, even pros had countless failed attempts.

Join one of our LUNA SURF Trip and we’ll guide you to the best spots for your level, teach you how to progress safely, and make sure you catch waves the right way every time.