There is something about summer that makes surf travel feel different. Longer days, warm water, and the feeling that the ocean is open in every direction. After more than 12 years traveling across six continents in search of waves, we have learned that the best surf destinations are not just about perfect surf. They are about matching the right place to the right kind of trip.

We are currently writing this while on a surf trip in eastern Fiji, and it is a reminder that every destination has its own rhythm. 

We also have a Tamarindo surf trip coming up from June 14 to June 20 in Costa Rica, which fits perfectly into this mix of accessible, high quality surf travel. We would love to have you all join us!

Here are some of our favorite summer surf destinations depending on the kind of trip you are looking for.

Nosara, Costa Rica for Family and Mixed Ability Trips

Nosara is one of the most balanced surf destinations in the world for families or mixed ability groups.

The main beach, Playa Guiones, offers soft and forgiving waves that are ideal for beginners while still producing enough energy for intermediate surfers to have fun and improve. The consistency means there are usually waves year round, and the conditions are rarely intimidating.

Beyond the surf, Nosara is a very relaxed coastal town with healthy food, yoga culture, wildlife, and a strong sense of community. It works especially well for groups where not everyone wants to surf every session, because there is plenty to do off the beach as well.

Learn more: https://www.americansurfmagazine.com/article/noosa-surf-guide 

Sayulita, Mexico for First Time Surf Travel

Sayulita is one of the easiest and most approachable international surf destinations.

The waves are soft, playful, and perfect for learning how to catch your first green waves. The town is compact, walkable, and full of surf schools, making it ideal for first timers or anyone nervous about their first surf trip abroad.

It is also highly accessible from Los Angeles, which removes a lot of friction for people taking their first step into surf travel. Warm water, simple logistics, and a fun beach town atmosphere make it a natural starting point.

Learn More: https://www.theoutdoorgems.com/blog/sayulita-mexico-the-ultimate-guide-for-a-surf-trip 

Popoyo, Nicaragua for Fast Progression

Popoyo is one of the most efficient places in the world to improve your surfing especially for barrel and beach break surfing.

The coastline offers a wide range of waves within a short driving distance. You can surf soft beach breaks in the morning and move to more powerful reef setups in the afternoon depending on conditions and ability level.

One of the defining features is the consistent offshore wind pattern that keeps many days clean and surfable. For intermediate surfers, this creates the perfect learning environment because you can practice in a variety of wave types almost every day.

Learn More: https://nomapsorfoottracks.com/foot-tracks/popoyo-nicaragua 

Cloudbreak, Fiji for Advanced Surf Travel

Cloudbreak is one of the most respected waves in the world.

It is a long, powerful left hand reef break that demands experience, positioning, and commitment. When it is working, it delivers some of the best waves on the planet.

Staying at Tavarua Island Resort gives access to Cloudbreak as well as several other world class waves in the surrounding area. The combination of warm water, clear reef systems, and consistent swell makes this one of the ultimate surf trips for experienced surfers. Be sure to ask your boat captain about the other less surfed waves nearby! 

Learn more: https://www.tavarua.com/ 

Indonesia for Endless Wave Variety

Indonesia offers one of the most diverse surf experiences anywhere on earth.

From mellow waves in Bali to heavy reef breaks in the Mentawai Islands, the range is almost endless. It is a destination where you can design the trip around your exact level and goals.

For advanced surfers, there are powerful and highly refined waves. For intermediates, there are plenty of playful, high quality options. The consistency of swell and warm water make it one of the most reliable surf regions in the world.

Explore more: https://www.perfectwavetravel.com/indonesia-surf-guide/ 

Tamarindo Surf Trip June 14 to June 20

One of the trips we are most excited about this summer is our Sunrise Surf Academy surf trip to Tamarindo from June 14 to June 20! 

Tamarindo is one of the most reliable and accessible surf towns in Costa Rica. It offers a wide sandy beach break right in town that works for beginners and intermediates, plus nearby reef and beach options for more advanced surfers looking for variety.

What makes this trip special is the structure. It is designed to blend coaching, progression, and surf travel in a way that works for all levels. Mornings are focused on surf sessions and coaching, while afternoons allow for recovery, exploration, and time in town.

It is also one of the easiest destinations for group travel. Everything is close, the water is warm, and the vibe is relaxed without losing that real surf energy.

If Nosara is about family balance and Popoyo is about progression, Tamarindo sits right in the middle as an ideal all around surf trip for early summer.

Why Southern California Still Matters Most for Learning

Even after surfing around the world, Southern California remains one of the best places to learn how to surf. 

The coastline offers an unmatched variety of beginner friendly waves, from soft longboard setups in Malibu and San Onofre to more playful beach breaks throughout Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego.

The biggest advantage is consistency of access. You can surf often, build real repetition, and develop confidence over time, which is something many international trips cannot always provide.

Sometimes the best surf destination is not the most exotic one. It is the one that allows you to keep showing up.