Surfer riding waves in Santa Cruz, one of the beaches for surfing in the U.S. (Photo by Jeff Nissen on Unsplash)
Ready to hang 10? You don’t have to stray very far on the hunt for the ultimate surf. Places like Florida, California, the Carolinas, and Hawaii have enormous beaches perfect for finding the perfect “Big Kahuna.” Our list of the best beaches for surfing in the U.S. is based on the most recommended locations across nine expert reviews. If you have a beach that’s a must-visit for fellow surfers, please leave your suggestion in the comments below.
StudyFinds is a research-driven platform that analyzes and synthesizes expert recommendations from trusted sources. Rather than writing reviews ourselves, we meticulously compile consensus findings from leading industry experts and established publications to save consumers valuable research time. Each article represents hours of analysis across multiple authoritative sources to identify the most consistently recommended choices.
Expert wave riders say these are the best beaches for surfing in the U.S.:
1. Cocoa Beach, Florida
Surf’s up, dudes and dudettes! If you’re looking for the ultimate wave-riding paradise, look no further than Cocoa Beach, Florida. This sun-soaked slice of heaven is making serious waves in the surfing world, with ParkSleepFly crowning it as their top pick for surf spots. Can you blame them? With water temps that’ll make you feel like you’re in a bathtub and more surf breaks than you can shake a longboard at, it’s a surfer’s dream come true. Oh, and did we mention it’s the hometown of surf legend Kelly Slater? No wonder this place is blowing up on social media!
But Cocoa Beach isn’t just about catching gnarly waves. Trip Savvy says it has a prime location, just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Orlando. It’s like the beach gods decided to plop a surf town right in the middle of Florida’s Space Coast. And get this – it’s not just one surf superstar that calls this place home. Caroline Marks, another world-class surfer, also hails from these parts. Talk about a talent hotspot!
Now, if you’re thinking Cocoa Beach is only for pro surfers, think again! Surfing Waves gives us the lowdown on why this spot is a must-visit for surf enthusiasts of all levels. With its mellow waves, it’s like Mother Nature created a giant, salty swimming pool perfect for beginners and longboarders alike. And hey, if you need a break from the waves, Gotham mentions that there’s plenty more to do. Fancy a trip to the Kennedy Space Center? Or maybe you just want to chill in a quaint beach town surrounded by lush maritime forest? Whatever floats your boat, Cocoa Beach has got you covered. It’s not just a surf spot – it’s a slice of paradise!
2. North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii
Hang ten, surf enthusiasts! If you’re looking for the holy grail of wave riding, look no further than Oahu’s North Shore. This legendary stretch of coastline is like the Hogwarts of surfing – it’s where the magic happens! Trips to Discover spills the beans on why this spot is the stuff of surfing lore. Not only does it host the Triple Crown of Surfing (think Superbowl, but with more board wax), but it’s also the breeding ground for surfing superstars. And let’s not forget about the Pipeline – a wave so epic, it’s practically surf royalty.
That’s not all, though. 57 Hours describes the North Shore like it is a buffet of perfect waves. We’re talking every flavor of surf break you can imagine – reefs, points, beaches, you name it! And get this – the names of these breaks read like a who’s who of surf history. Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline – these aren’t just waves, they’re legends in their own right.
If you thought the North Shore was all about the surf, think again! Gotham says that this iconic strip of sand has more to offer than just world-class waves. When you’re not busy hanging ten, you can hang out at the cool eateries and shops that line the streets. It’s like the cherry on top of an already perfect sundae. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to tackle the Pipeline or just a beach bum wanting to soak in the surf culture, the North Shore has got you covered. It’s not just a surfing destination – it’s a slice of paradise with a side of adrenaline!
3. Huntington Beach, California
Like the famous song says, “Surf City, here we come!” Grab your board and slap on some sunscreen, because we’re heading to the one and only “Surf City USA” – Huntington Beach! Gotham‘s raves about this sun-soaked paradise, and let me tell you, it’s not just about catching waves (although there’s plenty of that). Picture this: eight miles of pristine beach, a boardwalk that’ll make your Instagram followers drool, and more longboards than you can shake a stick at. And the best part? The surf culture here is livelier than a beach party on the Fourth of July!
But hold onto your board shorts, because 10 Best is spilling the tea on why Huntington Beach truly deserves its “Surf City USA” crown. This place is like the gift that keeps on giving for wave riders. With year-round surf conditions, it’s a playground for everyone from total newbies to seasoned pros. So, whether you’re dreaming of shredding like a pro or just hoping to stand up on your board without face-planting, Huntington’s got your back.
Now, if you thought Huntington Beach couldn’t get any cooler, Trips to Discover is here to blow your mind. This place isn’t just a surf spot – it’s a bona fide mecca for wave lovers, with a side of history on the rocks. We’re talking surf pioneers, the Big Kahuna himself, and enough surf schools, camps, and shops to make your head spin. And get this – even your four-legged friend can hang ten here! That’s right, Huntington Dog Beach hosts its very own doggy surfing competition. Grab your board, your best furry friend, and get ready for the ride of your life in this surfer’s paradise!
4. Folly Beach, South Carolina
We’ve already ranked the historic city of Charleston as one of the best places to retire. As it turns out, not too far down the street is one of the best beaches for surfing in the U.S. If you’re on the hunt for the East Coast’s answer to surf paradise, look no further than Folly Beach. Trip Outside loves this chill surf town, and it’s serving up some serious beach vibes just a stone’s throw from Charleston. Sure, it might not have the consistent swells of its West Coast cousins, but catch it during a hurricane and you’ll be riding waves that’ll make even the most seasoned surfers go weak in the knees. For all you Southeast wave chasers, this is your holy grail!
Why is The Washout such a perfect spot for surfers? Salty Home is dishing out the 411 on why this spot is a surfer’s dream come true. Picture this: a long beach break that, when Mother Nature’s in the mood, can transform into a powerhouse of waves. Whether it’s hurricane swells or northeastern winds stirring up the pot, The Washout lives up to its name, washing away any doubts about the East Coast’s surfing cred.
TripSavvy‘s giving us the full scoop on why Folly Beach is more than just a surf spot – it’s a whole vibe. This little slice of Atlantic heaven is serving up year-round waves with a side of Southern charm. We’re talking mild temps that’ll make your wetsuit jealous, a pier that’s perfect for catching both waves and stunning views, and enough parks, shops, and eateries to keep you entertained when you’re not hanging ten. And if you’re a newbie looking to catch your first wave? No worries! Folly’s got surf shops aplenty, ready to turn you into the next Kelly Slater. So grab your board, slap on some sunscreen, and get ready to experience the laid-back luxury of Folly Beach – where the waves are pumping and the good times never stop!
5. Santa Cruz, California
Many surfers might be shocked that this location isn’t number one on the list. Trips to Discover explains why this California gem is the talk of the surfing world. Picture this: a smorgasbord of waves catering to everyone from ankle-biters to big-wave warriors. And let’s not forget about the legendary Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point – these aren’t just surf spots, they’re basically wave-riding royalty!
But hold onto your board shorts, because Trip Outside is here to drop some serious knowledge. They’re calling Santa Cruz the crème de la crème of Northern California surfing, and possibly the whole dang planet! Sure, the water might be chillier than your ex’s heart, but with breaks for every skill level, from total newbies to seasoned pros, who cares about a little goosebump action?
Now, if you thought Santa Cruz couldn’t get any cooler, Surfing Waves is here to blow your mind. This place isn’t just a surf spot – it’s another spot nicknamed “surf city”! Whether you’re looking to catch your first wave at the beginner-friendly Pleasure Point or Capitola Beach, or you’re ready to graduate to the more challenging swells at Cowell’s Beach, Santa Cruz has got you covered. And for all you adrenaline junkies out there, Steamer Lane is serving up some seriously gnarly waves.
After a day of shredding waves, you can fuel up at the Crow’s Nest restaurant (because let’s face it, surfing works up an appetite), and then geek out at the local Surf Museum. Just remember to pack your 4/3 wetsuit – because while the waves are hot, the water’s definitely not! So wax up your board, zip up that wetsuit, and get ready to experience the surfing nirvana that is Santa Cruz!
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