The best destinations to learn to surf (and enjoy it from the very first wave!)

Do you dream of gliding on the water, feeling the adrenaline surge with every wave, and finally understanding what the word "stoke" truly means? Learning to surf is a bit like falling in love: at first, it's a mess, you wipe out, you doubt yourself... and then, one day, you catch your first real wave. And that's it, you're hooked. 🌞

Whether you're team boardshorts, team full wetsuit, or just curious to try surfing during your vacation, we've put together a solid selection of the best destinations to learn to surf. We're talking accessible spots, good vibes, cool surf schools, and perfect waves for beginners without ending up in the washing machine.

Ready to dive in? Come on, wax your mental board, we'll take you to discover where to lay your board to begin your adventure in the world of surfing.

1. 🌴 Taghazout (Morocco) – The North African gem to start with without breaking the bank

Why is it so great?
Taghazout is a small fishing village that has become the surfing headquarters of Morocco. It boasts a mild climate almost year-round, progressive surf spots, and surprisingly affordable prices compared to Europe. The waves are long, gentle, and perfect for learning to paddle, stand up… and repeat without stress.

Places worth knowing:

• Panorama : ideal for beginners.
• Devil's Rock : accessible and more varied if you progress quickly.

When to go?
From September to April for the best conditions.

Bonus atmosphere:
Yoga, incredible sunsets, comforting tagines after the session. In short, pure bliss.

2. Hendaye (France) – The reassuring choice, between the Basque Country and the Atlantic

Why is it so great?
Hendaye is a classic for French surf schools. The beach is super wide, the waves break far out and gently, and the atmosphere is relaxed. No crazy currents or shorebreaks that turn you upside down: here, you can take your time.

Surf schools?
There are plenty! Some like Lehena or Hendaia Surf School have a great reputation for beginners.

When to go?
Between June and September to get warmer water (although you'll still need your wetsuit!).

Why is that clever?
No need to fly if you're in France, and it's also great for an introductory weekend.

3. Ericeira (Portugal) – Surf and pastel de nata vibes

Why is it so great?
Ericeira is classified as a World Surfing Reserve (yep, like some natural parks). And for good reason: you'll find a perfect mix of spots for beginners and areas for more advanced surfers. Not to mention that Portugal is the land of friendly and affordable surf camps.

Recommended places to learn:

• Foz do Lizandro : large, not crowded, gentle waves.
• São Julião : sometimes a little more energetic, but progressive.

When to go?
Spring and autumn: fewer people, ideal conditions.

Atmosphere ?
Small restaurants, cute alleyways, hostels full of riders. You progress quickly thanks to the collective emulation.

Ericeira is also mentioned among the best surf spots in Europe for beginners according to O'Neill.

4. Tamarindo (Costa Rica) – Surf, jungle and pura vida

Why is it so great?
Costa Rica is one of the easiest and safest places to travel for surfing. Tamarindo is THE beach resort for beginners. The waves are long and easy to read, all with 27°C water and coconut palms in your field of vision.

Spots to try:

• Playa Tamarindo : the perfect learning spot.
• Playa Grande : a bit more challenging but often calm in the morning.

When to go?
Between November and April, during the dry season.

Fun fact:
You can encounter monkeys, do yoga at sunrise, and drink pineapple smoothies between sessions. Not bad, right?

To learn more about the importance of surf camps in learning to surf, see Surf Session's article "Surf camps, the key to surfing on holiday for everyone" .

5. Canggu (Bali) – Paradise for stylish surfers

Why is it so great?
Canggu is like Bali, but the cool version: hipster cafes, scooters, gentle waves, and a vibrant surf scene. The beach breaks are perfect for learning, especially early in the morning when the swell is calm.

The best spots:

• Batu Bolong : THE wave for beginners.
• Old Man’s : long and soft, the perfect school to work on your take-offs.

When to go?
April to October for the best conditions (and a little less rain).

But beware!
It's packed in peak season. Choose your surf school or camp carefully to avoid struggling with 20 beginners on the same wave.

Canggu is also among the best places to learn to surf, according to Lapoint. 😎

6. The Canary Islands – Year-round sunshine and spots for everyone

Why is it so great?
Fuerteventura or Lanzarote is a bit like the European Hawaii. The weather is beautiful all year round, flights are short from France, and you have beaches that resemble California, with fewer people and more of a Spanish accent.

For beginners?

• Corralejo (Fuerteventura) : lessons in French possible, easy waves.
• Famara (Lanzarote) : huge beach, volcanic view and rustic atmosphere.

When to go?
All year round. Really.

The little extra:
You can combine surfing and volcanic hiking. If you want to exert yourself, you'll be well served!

7. Byron Bay (Australia) – Hippie vibe and laid-back waves

Why is it so great?
It's THE iconic destination. Australians are practically born with a surfboard in their arms, and Byron Bay is their favorite playground. The atmosphere is relaxed, the instructors are incredibly professional, and the beaches are safe.

Gentle spots for learning:

• The Pass : longboard heaven.
• Clarkes Beach : gradual and shallow.

When to go?
December to March, but be aware, it's the Australian summer so very touristy.

What about the budget?
More expensive than in Morocco or Portugal, but the experience is worth it if you want to combine road trip, nature and surfing.

8. Weligama (Sri Lanka) – Learn to surf, slow life style

Why is it so great?
Weligama, on the south coast of Sri Lanka, is THE beach for beginners. The water is warm, the waves are long, and the cost of living is very affordable. The atmosphere is relaxed, a far cry from the stress of crowded surf spots.

Recommended schools:

• Surfaris Lanka,
• Soul & Surf,
• Local camps are in place.

When to go?
From November to April to avoid the monsoon.

A little extra zen touch:
Between sessions, you can meditate, eat vegetarian food, and take your time. Really take your time.

9. Sardinia (Italy) – The unexpected but brilliant option

Why is it so great?
It's rarely thought of, but Sardinia has waves! And it's perfect for beginners: few people in the water, accessible beach breaks and a setting... mamma mia! Deserted beaches, top-notch cuisine, and turquoise water.

Cool spots:

• Buggerru : a lovely village with a beautiful beach.
• Portixeddu : calm, perfect for first take-offs.

When to go?
Autumn and winter (yes, that's when the swell arrives).

Favorite:
Learning to surf between two plates of fresh pasta, there are honestly worse things.

10. Bonus France: La Torche, Crozon, and Breton surprises

Why is it so great?
Brittany isn't just about rain and kouign-amann (although that's part of it). It's also an increasingly popular surfing destination. The water is cool, yes, but the waves are consistent and often deserted. And that's invaluable for improving your skills.

Good deals:

• La Torche (Finistère) : huge beach, motivated schools.
• Crozon : picture postcard scenery, clean waves.

When to go?
May to October if you want to avoid the 5mm wetsuit + balaclava.

Travel style:
Road trip in a van, post-session sausage galette… Total authenticity.

Comparative table of the best destinations to start surfing

Destination	Recommended level	Average price of lessons (per session)	Ideal time	Atmosphere
Taghazout (Morocco)	Complete beginner	€25.00	September to April	Surf chill & tajine
Hendaye (France)	Complete beginner	€35.00	June to Sept.	Classic & family
Ericeira (Portugal)	Beginner to intermediate	€30.00	Spring/Autumn	Surf camp & chill cafe
Tamarindo (Costa Rica)	Complete beginner	€20.00	November to April	Nature & pura vida
Canggu (Bali)	Beginner to intermediate	€15.00	April to October.	Hype & scooters
Fuerteventura (Canary Islands)	Complete beginner	€30.00	All year round	A rustic atmosphere
Byron Bay (Australia)	Beginner to intermediate	€45.00	Dec. to Mar.	Zen & hippie
Weligama (Sri Lanka)	Complete beginner	€20.00	November to April	Yoga & slow life
Sardinia (Italy)	Complete beginner	€30.00	Autumn/Winter	Gastronomy & tranquility
Brittany (France)	Complete beginner	€35.00	May to Oct.	Authentic & wild

🌊 Bonus tips for choosing the right destination

• Look at the swell level (and not just the weather).
• Opt for beach breaks : safer and more progressive than reef breaks.
• Choose a school with good customer reviews , ideally certified.
• Check the language of instruction (French or English if you're not comfortable with either).
• Avoid crowded peaks if you really want to learn without stress.

❓FAQ – Everything you want to know before learning to surf

🏄♂️ What is the best age to learn to surf?

Honestly? There's really no age limit. Some start at 5, others at 50, or even older. The most important thing is to be reasonably fit and, above all... have the desire! Surfing isn't about age, it's about mindset and patience.

🌊 Is surfing dangerous for beginners?

Not if you follow a few basic rules: choose a spot suited to your skill level, take a lesson with a certified instructor, and don't venture too far out to sea. That way, you minimize the risks. The hardest part, really? Dealing with the muscle soreness the next day!

🏖️ How long does it take to learn to surf?

It depends on many things: your balance, your fitness level, the frequency of your sessions… Generally, you can stand up on a board from the first or second day of lessons . But to really start reading the waves and enjoying yourself on your own, allow one to two weeks of regular practice.

🧘‍♀️ Does surfing help you relax?

Absolutely! It's one of the most powerful sports for disconnecting . You're forced to be in the present moment: between the approaching wave, your positioning, your balance... your brain no longer has time to think about your emails. The result? You come out of the water exhausted, but happy.

🌍 Can I learn to surf on my own, without lessons?

It's possible, but frankly not recommended. You risk struggling, developing bad habits, or worse: injuring yourself. A good instructor will explain the basics (safety, positioning, reading the waves...) and save you a lot of time .

🧳 What should you pack for a beginner surf trip?

Here's a handy little checklist:

• Swimsuit + wetsuit (depending on water temperature)
• UV-resistant Lycra
• Eco-friendly sunscreen (high SPF)
• Bath Towel or Poncho (hello KIMA Rolls) 👋)
• Flip-flops or sandals
• Gourd
• Small energy snacks (bananas, bars, dried fruit)
• And if you have your own beginner board (softboard), that's even better.

🏄‍♀️ Which surfboard should I choose to start with?

The golden rule: a large foam board (softboard), like 7 to 9 feet. They're stable, safe, and easy to handle. Forget about those rigid shortboards you see in movies; you'll just struggle.

🌦️ Can you surf even when it's raining?

Yes, as long as there's no storm! Rain doesn't change the waves, but storms or rough seas mean no-go. Always prioritize safety, and check the conditions with your surf school or on apps like Magicseaweed or Surfline.

👩🏫 How much does a beginner surf lesson cost?

It varies from country to country, but on average:

• France: between €30 and €45 for a 1.5-hour lesson
• Morocco/Portugal: around €25 to €35
• Bali or Sri Lanka: sometimes €10 to €20 for group lessons

Surf camps often offer very advantageous "all-inclusive" packages to make great progress in a week.

🧘 Does yoga help with surfing?

Absolutely! Yoga improves your balance, flexibility, and concentration. And it relaxes your muscles after a good session. That's why there are often yoga classes at surf camps. A winning combination.

🏄‍♀️ In summary…

No matter where you choose to learn to surf, the important thing is to just go for it. Take a few wipeouts, laugh, try again, and above all, savor that magical feeling of gliding on the water. Whether you head to Morocco, Brittany, Bali, or Sardinia, the world offers countless spots to learn to surf. If you're unsure and looking for other sources for a comprehensive selection of the world's best spots, check out Manawa's Top 10 Best Surfing Spots in the World . We also give you some tips on what to avoid when you're starting out in this article.

So, when are you waxing your board?