Surfing is one of the oldest and most physically demanding sports in the world. With origins in Hawaii, surfing has grown into an internationally famous sport and has produced a large surf culture. The energizing adrenaline rush often experienced while surfing is exactly what surfers travel the world to discover.

World class surfing destinations have sprouted up in famous places, as well as overlooked parts of the world. One of the legendary surfing locations in the world is right on the islands where the sport took shape. The North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii is often considered to be one of the most dangerous, but optimal surfing locations in the surfing world.

The constant presence of unique waves ranging from 3 to 10 feet allow for surf enthusiasts to challenge themselves on large waves. The North Shore is host to the Triple Crown of Surfing, which includes the O’Neill World Cup of Surfing, Billabong Pipeline Masters and Reef Hawaiian Pro. Professional surfers from around the world convene on the North Shore every December for these events.

Located at Ehukai Beach is the world renowned Banzai Pipeline, an elusive wave that is the epitome of extreme surfing. It is known to be a very dangerous wave and only the most skillful surfers dare to challenge its waves. Experiencing the waves on the North Shore is highly recommended for advanced surfers and is often considered to be the best spot in the world for the sport.

The tropical waters of French Polynesia are also a highly desired surfing location. Teahupo’o, located in Tahiti, is an area surfers travel to in search of the perfect wave. Waves in Teahupo’o usually reach upwards of 10 feet and provide consistent conditions for the sport. It is the site of the Billabong Pro Tahiti surfing competition and constantly attracts professionals.

Teahupo’o is known for its extreme barrels and like the waves on the North Shore of Hawaii, are dangerous for even the most professional surfers. Chasing these severe waves has become a drivingforce for those who travel to Teahupo’o, often having to be towed in to these waves just to ride them.

The Central American countries of Costa Rica and Nicaragua have been steadily climbing the favorability ladder in terms of being an optimal surfing destinations. Costa Rica has many spots where surfers can enjoy the ocean, including Jaco, Tamarindo, and Hermosa. The beaches and waves are easily accessible from these coastal towns and surf schools have emerged in these areas.

There are over 700 miles of beach to choose from in Costa Rica, making it one of the most desirable surfing destinations. Nicaragua offers prime year round surfing conditions and consistently warm waters. In contrast with neighboring Costa Rica, Nicaragua offers more secluded beaches and less crowded waves.

The Popoyo Surf Lodge on Playa Guasacate is the first surf camp established in Nicaragua and continues to be a favorite. Surfers are constantly in search for increasingly difficult waves to provide an adrenaline rush. Sleepy coastal communities around the world have exploded in popularity because of their proximity and direct access to some of the most favorable surf conditions.

With waves rising well over 10 feet, areas in Hawaii, Tahiti, Central America, are just some of the world renowned surfing destinations.

 
Mana Photo / Shutterstock.com

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About the author

Sarah Dayan
I'm a Brooklyn native with a strong love for New York City, traveling, photography, writing, and music. I have my Bachelors degree in psychology and communication, and my Masters degree in school counseling. Through my writing, I want to share all my fun experiences in New York City.