Top Digital Nomad Destinations for Surfers
For the digital nomad who thrives on the thrill of riding waves, the quest often revolves around finding that perfect balance: a place where the surf is consistent and the Wi-Fi robust. Here’s a list of destinations that promise the best of both worlds for the surfer nomad.
Canggu, Bali, Indonesia
With its hipster cafes, robust internet, and consistent waves, Canggu has become almost synonymous with the surfing digital nomad lifestyle. Located on Bali's southwestern coast, Canggu is a world-renowned surfing destination, drawing enthusiasts from all skill levels with its consistent waves and warm waters. Whether you're a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer seeking challenging breaks, Canggu has it all.
Highlights
Echo Beach: This iconic black-sand beach is the heart of Canggu's surf culture, offering reliable waves suitable for all surfers. Surfboard rentals and lessons with local instructors are readily available right on the beach.
Batu Bolong Beach: Close to Echo Beach, Batu Bolong is another popular surfing spot known for its long, playful waves and vibrant atmosphere, with plenty of beachfront cafes and bars for post-surf relaxation.
Old Man's: This legendary surf spot is not only famous for its consistent waves but also for its social scene. After catching waves, surfers often gather at Old Man's beachfront bar and restaurant to unwind and share their surf stories.
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
A serene beach town bordered by the jungle, Santa Teresa boasts reliable waves year-round. With consistent waves, warm waters, and a laid-back atmosphere, Santa Teresa offers fantastic surfing conditions for all levels. Co-working spaces have sprouted amidst the laid-back Tico culture, offering remote workers the perfect blend of surf and work.
Highlights
Playa Santa Teresa: The eponymous Santa Teresa Beach is the epicenter of the area's surf culture. It offers consistent beach breaks that are perfect for both novice and advanced surfers. Surfboard rentals and surf schools abound, making it easy for beginners to learn the ropes. The relaxed vibe of the beach and its breathtaking sunsets add to the overall charm.
Playa Carmen: Located just south of Santa Teresa, Playa Carmen is known for its powerful and more challenging waves. It's a preferred spot for experienced surfers looking to ride larger swells. The beach also has a range of surf shops and eateries where you can refuel after a surf session.
Mal Pais: Adjacent to Santa Teresa, Mal Pais offers a quieter and more secluded surfing experience. The waves here are diverse, catering to different skill levels. Mal Pais is an excellent choice for those who want a serene atmosphere while still enjoying the thrill of the waves.
Ericeira, Portugal
Ericeira, a picturesque fishing village turned surfing mecca, is nestled along the rugged coastline of Portugal. With its world-class waves, consistent swells, and a vibrant surf culture, Ericeira has earned its reputation as a top surfing destination in Europe, attracting surfers of all levels from around the world.
Highlights
Ribeira d'Ilhas: Renowned as one of Europe's best right-hand point breaks, Ribeira d'Ilhas is a gem of Ericeira. This consistent and powerful wave offers long rides, making it a favorite among both professional and amateur surfers. The annual World Surf League competition held here underscores its international acclaim.
Coxos: For experienced surfers seeking a challenge, Coxos is the spot to conquer. Its fast and powerful left-hand point break delivers exhilarating rides, but it demands skill and experience to navigate its waves safely. The reward is an unforgettable surfing experience amidst stunning natural surroundings.
Praia do Norte: Located near the town center, Praia do Norte is an excellent spot for beginner and intermediate surfers. It features a sandy bottom, making it a safer option for those still mastering their skills. The beach also offers surf schools and rental shops, ensuring that newcomers to the sport can enjoy their time in the water.
Byron Bay, Australia
On the eastern coast of Australia, Byron Bay is a coastal paradise celebrated for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and exceptional surf breaks. With a laid-back atmosphere and a backdrop of lush rainforests, Byron Bay has firmly established itself as one of the premier surfing destinations in the world.
Highlights
The Pass: The Pass is arguably Byron Bay's most iconic surf break, suitable for surfers of all levels. This long, peeling right-hand point break offers gentle waves ideal for beginners on smaller days and more challenging sections for the experienced on bigger swells. The scenic beauty surrounding The Pass makes it a must-visit spot for surfers and beachgoers alike.
Wategos Beach: Just a short stroll from The Pass, Wategos Beach is a sheltered cove with consistent, gentle waves that are perfect for learners. It's also known for its pristine beauty and tranquil ambiance, making it a delightful spot for a relaxing day of sun and surf.
Tallows Beach: Located to the south of Cape Byron, Tallows Beach is known for its powerful beach breaks that attract experienced surfers seeking more challenging conditions. It's less crowded than some of the other breaks in Byron Bay, allowing surfers to enjoy their sessions in a relatively uncrowded environment.
Siargao, Philppines
Siargao, once a hidden gem in the Philippines, has rapidly gained international recognition as a premier surfing destination. With its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an array of surf breaks to suit all levels, Siargao has firmly secured its place on the global surfing map.
Siargao is also a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Beyond the waves, explore the island's lush landscapes, crystal-clear lagoons, and unique rock formations.
Highlights
Cloud 9: Perhaps the most famous surf spot on Siargao, Cloud 9 is renowned for its perfect, hollow right-hand reef break. This challenging wave has earned its name for its consistent tube rides, making it a dream come true for advanced surfers seeking thrilling barrel experiences. The iconic boardwalk leading to Cloud 9 offers an excellent vantage point for spectators.
Daku, Guyam, and Naked Islands: Beyond Cloud 9, Siargao offers a variety of other breaks and beach breaks. The islands of Daku, Guyam, and Naked are accessible by boat and provide an array of waves suitable for surfers of all skill levels. These locations also offer a glimpse into the laid-back island lifestyle that makes Siargao so special.
Jacking Horse: Located in the town of General Luna, Jacking Horse is another popular break known for its powerful left-hand reef wave. This spot caters to intermediate to advanced surfers and provides consistent waves and reliable swell year-round.
Santa Cruz, California, USA
Santa Cruz is a beloved surfing haven with a rich surf culture and a diverse range of waves to suit surfers of all levels. With its scenic beauty, consistent swells, and a vibrant surf community, Santa Cruz has earned its reputation as one of California's top surfing destinations.
Beyond its exceptional surf breaks, Santa Cruz boasts a thriving surf culture that permeates the town. You'll find numerous surf shops, board rentals, and surf schools, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned surfers and those looking to catch their first wave. With its beautiful coastal scenery and a range of surf options, Santa Cruz invites you to experience the quintessential California surf lifestyle on the stunning shores of the Pacific Ocean.
Steamer Lane: Known as the crown jewel of Santa Cruz surfing, Steamer Lane offers a world-class right-hand point break. This iconic surf spot is famous for its consistent waves and challenging conditions, attracting experienced surfers looking for long rides and powerful swells. It's also a prime location for spectating, with a cliffside vantage point providing stunning views of the surfers in action.
Pleasure Point: Located in the heart of Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point is a popular surf spot known for its consistent waves and accessibility. The area offers a mix of reef breaks and beach breaks, making it suitable for surfers of varying skill levels. The surrounding neighborhood exudes a laid-back, surf-friendly vibe, with cafes and surf shops lining the streets.
The Hook: Just south of Pleasure Point, The Hook is another favored spot among locals and visitors alike. It's known for its consistent left-hand point break and offers a friendly atmosphere for surfers to enjoy. The beach is easily accessible, making it a convenient choice for those staying in Santa Cruz.
Taghazout, Morocco
Along the rugged Atlantic coastline of Morocco, Taghazout has emerged as a hidden gem for surfers seeking a unique North African surf experience. With its consistent waves, diverse surf spots, and a vibrant surf culture, Taghazout has firmly established itself as a top surfing destination in the region.
The area offers a captivating blend of Moroccan culture and stunning natural beauty. The town is home to a variety of surf camps, hostels, and accommodations catering to surfers from around the world. The warm hospitality of the locals, the tantalizing Moroccan cuisine, and the vibrant souks (markets) create an unforgettable surf and cultural experience
Highlights
Anchor Point: Taghazout's most renowned surf spot, Anchor Point, is world-famous for its long, powerful right-hand point break. It offers excellent rides, making it a magnet for advanced surfers. The wave's reliable consistency and the thrilling rides it provides have earned it a place on many surfers' bucket lists.
Panoramas: Just south of Anchor Point lies Panoramas, a versatile surf break suitable for surfers of varying skill levels. It features both left and right-hand point breaks, offering a more forgiving wave compared to Anchor Point. This makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and intermediate surfers.
Hash Point: Hash Point is a friendly and mellow break known for its longboard-friendly waves. The wave here is slower and less challenging, making it a great spot for surfers looking to relax and enjoy a more laid-back session. The nearby town of Taghazout adds to the charm, with its bustling surf shops and cafes.
Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Puerto Escondido is a legendary surf destination known for its massive waves, consistent swells, and an adventurous surf culture. With a stunning natural backdrop and a variety of surf breaks catering to different skill levels, Puerto Escondido ideal for surfers seeking exhilarating wave-riding experiences. The town boasts a lively surf scene, with numerous surf schools, board rentals, and a welcoming community.
Highlights
Zicatela Beach: Puerto Escondido's claim to fame is its powerful beach break known as "Zicatela" or the Mexican Pipeline. This colossal wave is not for the faint of heart, as it can reach massive heights and deliver thunderous barrels. Zicatela is a magnet for advanced and professional surfers looking to challenge their skills on some of the world's heaviest waves.
La Punta: Located just a short distance from Zicatela, La Punta offers a more forgiving and accessible surf experience. It's an excellent spot for surfers of varying skill levels, with a fun left-hand point break that provides long rides and a relaxed atmosphere. The vibrant beachside community adds to the charm, making it a great place to unwind after a surf session.
Carrizalillo Beach: For beginners and those looking for gentler waves, Carrizalillo Beach is the go-to spot. Accessible via a short hike down a set of stairs, this picturesque cove offers a sandy bottom and manageable waves, perfect for learners and longboard enthusiasts. The scenic surroundings make it a favorite spot for both surfing and sunbathing.
