BEGINNER SURF DESTINATIONS
THE BEST WORLDWIDE BEGINNER SURF DESTINATIONS
Even though our surf camp is in the Dominican Republic, we are also surfers ourselves and have travelled extensively for years in the search for waves to catch.
Why Choosing the Right Spot Matters
For new surfers, picking the best spot is crucial. The waves, water temperature, and access to lessons and rentals matter a lot. These factors help make your first surfing steps smooth and rewarding.
Factors to Consider for a Safe and Enjoyable Experience
- Wave size: Beginners need small, gentle waves for a safe learning space.
- Water temperature: Warm water makes surfing more comfortable for beginners.
- Accessibility: Beaches close to surf schools and rentals help you get started faster.
- Surf lessons and equipment: Good surf lessons and gear improve learning and safety.
Think about these factors to pick the best beginner surf destinations. The right spot and support help you surf with confidence quickly.
WHAT ARE THE IDEAL SURF CONDITIONS FOR BEGINNERS
Small and consistent waves
When you’re just starting out, you want waves that are small and steady. Big, unpredictable waves can be scary and dangerous. Look for spots where the waves break gently and at a slow pace. This makes it easier to stand up and ride them all the way to the shore.
Shallow Water
Shallow water is a must for beginners. If you fall off your board, you want to be able to stand up quickly. Plus, it’s less intimidating to learn in water where you can touch the bottom. Beaches with a gradual slope into the ocean are perfect for this.
No dangerous rips or currents
Safety first! Avoid places with strong rips or currents. These can pull you out to sea and make it hard to get back to shore. Always check local surf reports or ask a lifeguard about the water conditions before you paddle out.
Separate surf area for surfers of different levels
It’s great when a beach has different areas for beginners and more experienced surfers. This way, you won’t feel pressured or get in the way of someone doing advanced tricks. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by other newbies, which can make the experience more fun and less stressful.
Finding the best beginner surf destination involves looking for these key conditions.
Surf Camps and Lessons: Kickstart Your Journey
Starting with surfing can be exciting, but it’s better with a surf camp or lessons. These options are great for beginners or those wanting to improve. They offer many benefits that make learning faster and safer.
Benefits of Professional Instruction
Having an experienced instructor is key when learning to surf. Here are the main reasons to choose surf camps and lessons:
- Develop Proper Techniques – A skilled instructor teaches you surfing basics like paddling and riding waves. This ensures you start with the right skills.
- Enhance Safety Awareness – Instructors focus on safety. They teach you how to read waves and avoid dangers, making you a responsible surfer.
- Boost Confidence – Personalized feedback and support in lessons help you feel more confident. This lets you enjoy surfing more and progress faster.
- Progress Faster – A good instructor knows how to improve your skills. They help you work on your strengths and weaknesses, speeding up your progress.
When looking for surf camps or lessons, choose reputable schools for beginners. This ensures you get the right support and attention to start your surfing journey well.
BEST BEGINNER SURF DESTINATIONS
Based on our experience, here are our top beginner surf destinations in the world, which could also suit intermediate and expert surfers.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
We must begin with one of our own places of course: Swell Cabarete is located on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic. We very deliberately chose this location after having visited many countries around the globe which might have been suitable as a place to build a surf camp, especially a surf camp which offers perfect, complete-beginner waves for learning to surf.
The boxes we feel that must be ticked to be considered a great beginner surf destination are as follows:
- Consistency of surf
- Are there waves for multiple levels of surfers?
- Are there any dangers in or out of the water?
- Ease of access to the waves
- Distance to an international airport
Consistency of surf
To be suitable as a beginner surf camp destination we need to be able to offer our guests surfable waves at least 300+ days of the year.
The North Coast delivers on this, with at least 340+ days of surfable waves at Playa Encuentro.
Waves for multiple levels of surfers
Of course, not everyone is a beginner surfer, so in order to consistently make it into the top ten surfing destinations, a great surf camp needs to cater not just for complete beginners, but for intermediate and even expert surfers. Fortunately for us at Swell in Cabarete, once again Playa Encuentro delivers; there are multiple waves and different peaks, all within a short walk from each other. From mellow inside beginner waves to big barreling waves on shallow reefs for expert surfers + everything in between.
Are there any dangers in or out of the water?
Playa Encuentro is also a very safe spot to surf or to learn to surf because there are no dangers in or under the water. Tidal differences are minimal so getting injured from the reef bed is almost impossible. There are no dangerous rips or currents at Playa Encuentro, so there’s no danger of being dragged out to sea.
Neither are there sharks or other dangerous sea life (for example crocodiles and sharks as can be seen in certain parts of Costa Rica) so the Dominican Republic scores very highly on this element too. It also helps to have very warm water year-round, so another bonus point is scored there.
Ease of access to the waves
‘Highway surfing’ is not a term that surfers want to hear as it means they are constantly on the search for waves, without finding them. Again, the Dominican Republic’s waves score highly on the ease of access criteria; it’s only a journey of 10 minutes to a charming, completely unspoiled surf beach.
Distance to an international airport
Just as with the afore-mentioned highway surfing we also wanted to minimize the travel time for our clients, so we wanted to be close to an international airport. Our location in Cabarete is just 25 minutes from Puerto Plata International Airport (code POP).
Santiago International Airport (airport code STI) is one and a half hours away. Santo Domingo International Airport (airport code SDQ) is also an option at 3 hours car journey time and with buses on offer running north every hour during the day.
Because Cabarete and Playa Encuentro ticked all the right boxes, that’s where we put our first, purpose-built surf camp.
We haven’t talked much about other important criteria, such as choice and quality of food, the beauty of beaches, additional activities on offer, or an available party scene when required, but Cabarete has all of these too, so it remains our firm No.1 complete-beginner surf destination.
Where else in the world can you learn to surf?
As mentioned earlier, we have also visited more than 20+ surf destinations and countries over the last 25 years in our search for waves and fun. Here is our honest opinion on some of them:
COSTA RICA
Costa Rica is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and surf tourism is growing fast there. It’s mountainous and beautiful and there are some fine surf camps and surf resorts in Costa Rica, suitable for an awesome surf holiday.
Pros:
- Very pretty country and scenery
- Famous for its nature and animal/reptile species
- Some good surf spots are available
- Lots of eco-tourism
- Politically safe country
- Plenty of flights to Costa Rica from lots of countries
Cons:
- Costa Rica has become very expensive in recent years: on average 40 to 70% more expensive than a surf holiday to another comparable destination such as Bali or the Dominican Republic
- Many of the surf areas are remote and require long road journeys or another internal flight once you have arrived at San Jose airport. Travel time from the airport to the beach can be between 4 and 8 hours depending on where you stay.
- The surf can be crowded these days
- Theft is an issue
- People say that Costa Rica has become too ‘Americanised’
- Not a wide choice for eating out in these remote surfing areas and food choices can be very limited/rather expensive
- Some known water hazards, such as crocodiles at river mouth spots.
NICARAGUA
Nicaragua is less popular than it’s neighbour Costa Rica, because of fairly regular political turmoil. Tourism only started to take off 20 or so years ago and it’s much less developed than its neighbour, which can be seen as a real plus. Like Costa Rica, it’s also a beautiful country.
Pros:
- 30-40% cheaper than Costa Rica
- Offshore winds create very clean surf conditions
Cons:
- Not a large variety of good beginner surfing spots
- Travel distances between surf spots is very long
- Not a wide choice of dining is available
- Recent political unrest is again causing instability
PORTUGAL
If you are based in Europe then one of the most popular places people go surfing is to Portugal. The long, exposed coastline with plenty of beaches is suitable for surfers of all levels. Portugal is also rich in culture, especially around Lisbon.
Pros:
- There are plenty of cheap and basic surf camps (please note that these tend to be more suitable for 18 to 25-year-olds)
- Variety of surf spots suitable for people of all levels
- Surf & culture & city life close to Lisbon
Cons:
- Coldwater year-round so you will need to bring and wear a wetsuit at all times of the year
- There are literally 100’s of surf camps and schools so it’s surfboard mayhem at times.
- Because of the cheap nature of the majority of surf schools, they tend to teach in very large groups; often 20 students to one surf coach
- Cold air temperature between November and April
- Basic food choices in the north of Portugal (more choice towards the Algarve region).
SAYULITA, MEXICO
A charming fishing village just north of Puerto Vallarta; it’s one of the most beautiful Mexican towns we have ever visited. We actually lived there for 10 months whilst we researched its possibility as a new surf camp for Swell. The food and ambience in Sayulita is wonderful. In the end, we left because of its rather inconsistent surf, but when there are some waves it’s great fun.
Pros:
- Stunning town and some really fun surf out front.
- Within a short drive, there are a variety of surf spots suitable for people of all levels
- Incredible food on offer in the town.
Cons:
- Surf gets very busy
- Mexico’s infamous cartel crime hangs a shadow over the area, even though we found Sayulita to feel safe
- It’s rather expensive to stay there
- The water in Sayulita bay can get rather dirty.
CANARY ISLANDS, SPAIN
This group of islands lies off the coast of Morocco and are a part of Spain. Rugged and volcanic (not active volcanos) the landscape of most of the islands is dramatically barren and in places resembles the moon-surface. The Canary Islands have a great winter climate (Nov to April) and some fun surf spots.
Pros:
- Easy to get to from Europe
- Quite a few surf spots dotted around most of the Canary Islands (Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerto Ventura have the best surf spots)
- Good climate
Cons:
- Surf gets very busy
- The Canary Islands are notoriously wind-swept, so many surf spots get blown out by mid-morning.
- You will need a wet-suit year-round as the water is always cold
- They are known as cheap islands to stay on, which for some is an advantage, but if you are looking for any kind of luxury, it’s hard to find.
SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka is a relative newcomer to the surf holiday market but has gained a reputation for having some fun waves. There are two provinces with very different surf seasons, so make sure that you do your research on where you should go at what time.
Pros:
- A variety of surf spots
- Warm water
- Great local food
- Relatively inexpensive
Cons:
- Strong monsoon season
- Crowd levels
- Long-distance between surf spots.
- Crowded in high season
- Drops in and bad surf etiquete
HAWAII
Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing. Year-round warm weather and water and great beginner waves around the south coast of Oahu make it a great place to have your first surfing experience.
Pros:
- Beautiful scenery and beaches
- A safe place to visit
- Plenty of other activities besides surfing
- Great surf for expert surfers
Cons:
- Very expensive (there are only a few surf camps but they are pretty basic and tend to be double or triple the price of Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic.)
- Very, very crowded in the water leading to well-known local aggression.
All of the above entries are based on our experience with several trips to each of the countries mentioned. We haven’t commented on places we haven’t experienced ourselves, so it’s far from a definitive list. There are many more countries in the world that cater to beginner surfers with suitable surf camps and surf resorts.
If you have any questions about surfing destinations, feel free to send us a message; normally, we’ve been there and can tell you if it’s suitable for you. If you prefer to come and see us in either of our two fabulous Swell locations, please do check out Swell surf camp in the Dominican Republic or our brand new location, Swell Bali in Indonesia, you can contact us easily by using the contact us links on either of those websites.
Enjoy the waves wherever you go!
Jeroen & Clare
Owners Swell Surf Camp
ABOUT SWELL SURF CAMP
Located on the scenic north coast of the Dominican Republic is our purpose-built surf resort
We cater for surfers of all levels, from beginners to expert surfers who are looking for an active surf holiday
Swell offers full surf packages holidays
FAQ
Why is choosing the right surf destination important for beginners?
Choosing the right spot is key for beginners. It means finding waves that are easy to ride, water that’s not too cold, and places where you can easily get lessons and rent gear. This makes learning to surf safe and fun.
What factors should I consider when choosing a beginner surf destination?
Think about wave size, water temperature, how easy it is to get there, and if there are surf lessons and rentals. These things make sure you have a good time as you learn to surf.
What is important to know about surf etiquette as a beginner?
Knowing surf etiquette is important for beginners. It means respecting the ocean, surf culture, and other surfers. We’ll share tips on being a good surfer and taking care of the ocean and its people.
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WHERE IS SWELL LOCATED?
Swell Surf camp is located on the North coast of the Dominican Republic, right in the center of the cool surfer town of Cabarete. With 3 international airports to choose from it's also one of the easiest places to get to for a quick surf getaway. Puerto Plata Airport is only 25 minutes away from Swell. On the' getting here' page you'll find the different options of getting to us.
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ABOUT SWELL SURF CAMP
Founded in the winter of 2009, Swell Surf Camp emerged from Jeroen and Clare Mutsaars vision. They lived in the Dominican Republic for eight years and spotted a gap in the surf camp market for higher quality accommodations combined with an engaging social atmosphere. Their extensive travel and stay experiences across different countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Peru, Hawaii, Indonesia and various European nations fueled their passion to elevate the surfing retreat experience.
Swell Surf Camp is renowned as the world’s first luxury surf camp tailored specifically for beginners. The founders collaborated with a notable Swiss architect to design facilities that blend comfort with style. This innovative approach ensures every guest enjoys superior lodging and amenities. Since its inception, Swell has taught over 9,000 people how to surf with an emphasis on safety, fun, and structure.
Our achievements speak volumes. Swell has collected numerous accolades and maintains hundreds of stellar reviews from guests globally. Recognized repeatedly as the leading destination for luxury surf vacations, our commitment to excellence keeps us at the forefront of the industry.
Beyond surfing, Swell offers a diverse range of activities including kitesurfing, wingfoiling, and yoga classes. Guests can also enjoy horse riding both on scenic beaches and mountain trails—plus exciting adventure-filled excursions like canyoning.
A crucial element of any vacation is food, and here at Swell we excel. We provide delicious home-cooked meals daily. For evenings out, guests find themselves just minutes away from an array of dining options that promise satisfying culinary adventures.
For those who prioritize upscale amenities and wellness in a unique setting built around learning surf skills amid profound natural beauty, Swell should be on the top of your surf destination list
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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A 1 WEEK LEARN TO SURF HOLIDAY
Dreaming of catching your first wave but wondering if surf lessons are really for you? At Swell Surf Camp, our lessons are designed specifically for beginners, and we mean absolute beginners, particularly those between 40 and 55 from cities like New York, Boston, or Toronto. You’ll never feel rushed, lost, or out of place. Our expert instructors genuinely love teaching, and their approach is as much about encouragement as it is about skill-building. Every instructor carefully tunes each lesson to fit one person, you, so you always get personalized support, whether you’re working on basic paddling, learning to pop up, or building confidence in the water.
The journey at Swell Surf Camp is about progression, not perfection. You’ll start with the very basics, practicing on the sand before moving into gentle ocean waves with your instructor right beside you. Throughout every lesson, our focus is on clear communication, safety, and keeping things fun. As you progress, our instructors give you feedback in real-time, helping you celebrate small wins and guiding your next steps. You’ll learn solid surfing foundations, water safety, and even the unwritten rules of surf culture. By the end of your stay, you’ll be amazed at your own growth and how natural surfing feels. Don’t wait to discover how transformative a single lesson can be, book your surf adventure at Swell Surf Camp and let your surfing journey begin!
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WHAT SPORTS DOES SWELL OFFER?
It's not only surfing that's on offer at Swell, we also offer learn to wingfoil and learn to kitesurf packages.
“Think of Swell as the anti-surf camp. There’s plenty of surfing, of course, but the similarities to other surf camps end there. For starters, the rooms are stylish — more boutique surf retreat than reggae-loving surfer digs. Then there are the legendary breakfasts (omelets, pancakes and crepes, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and fruit bowls). Structured surf lessons take place each morning. An instructor alongside you and the head surf coach watching from shallow water, ready to offer learn to surf tips between riding waves. If you are serious about learning to surf, then Swell should be on top of your destination list. Highly recommended! ”
Reference Source:
[Frommer’s Travel Guides]
Designed with the discerning surfer in mind, Swell is far from a crash pad. The spare clean lines, plush bedding, modern photographs and funky furniture say ‘boutique surf retreat’. The pool, ping-pong and foosball tables and social vibe suggest otherwise. A huge wood communal table is the center of the hanging-out action, after all the surfing is done. Highly recommended!
Reference Source:
[Lonely Planet]