Are you ready to surf the best waves in the USA? Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a beginner looking for your next wave, this guide provides everything you need to know about the best surfing spots across the United States.

From flight prices to accommodation, food, and things to do, we’ve got you covered with all the details. Let’s dive in!

1. North Shore of Oahu: Hawaii’s Surfing Paradise

The North Shore of Oahu is undoubtedly one of the best surfing destinations in the world. Famous for its legendary breaks like the Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach, it attracts surfers from all over the globe. Here's everything you need to know:

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is from October to April when the big wave season is at its peak.

Getting There: You can fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) in Honolulu, Oahu. Round-trip flights from major U.S. cities like New York or Los Angeles usually range from $400 to $800.

Where to Stay: For a more authentic experience, stay in Haleiwa, a charming local town with plenty of surfing shops. Hotels here range from budget to upscale, with prices from $100 per night for basic accommodations to $300+ for beachfront resorts.

Where to Eat: Head to the Haleiwa Joes for local seafood. A meal here can cost around $20-30 per person. For a more casual meal, try Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, where a plate of garlic shrimp costs about $15.

Things to Do: Aside from surfing, check out local hiking trails like the Diamond Head Crater, or visit the famous Pearl Harbor Memorial.

Activities and Cost: Surf lessons for beginners cost about $100-150 for a 2-hour session. Surfboard rentals range from $20-30 per day.

2. Maui and Kauai: The Best of the Hawaiian Islands

If you're looking for varied surf experiences in a more relaxed setting, Maui and Kauai are perfect options. Maui’s Hookipa Beach and Kauai’s Tunnels Beach are renowned for their stunning surf.

Best Time to Visit: Maui’s surf conditions are great year-round, but winter (November to March) offers the biggest waves.

Getting There: Fly into Kahului Airport (OGG) for Maui and Lihue Airport (LIH) for Kauai. Flights usually cost between $350 and $700 depending on the season.

Where to Stay: In Maui, the Wailea area has luxury resorts starting at $350 per night. Kauai offers a range of accommodations, from beach cottages at $150 per night to high-end resorts.

Where to Eat: On Maui, enjoy a delicious poke bowl at Mama’s Fish House ($25-35 per meal). On Kauai, the Hanalei Dolphin serves fresh seafood for around $20-30 per person.

Things to Do: Visit Haleakalā National Park on Maui or go snorkeling in Kauai’s Na Pali Coast.

Activities and Cost: Surf lessons cost about $80-100 for a 2-hour session. Renting a surfboard costs $20-25 per day.

3. San Diego County: A Year-Round Surf Destination

San Diego offers perfect surf spots for both beginners and experts. From Pacific Beach to La Jolla, the waves here are consistent throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit: San Diego’s surf is great year-round, but summer (June to August) offers warmer waters and mild temperatures.

Getting There: Fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN). Flights from major U.S. cities range from $100 to $400 for a round-trip.

Where to Stay: Accommodation in San Diego ranges from affordable motels starting at $100 per night to beachfront resorts at $350+ per night.

Where to Eat: Grab a bite at the Pacific Beach AleHouse, where a meal costs around $15-25 per person. For a beachside treat, check out The Mission in Mission Beach for amazing breakfast burritos ($10-15).

Things to Do: Besides surfing, explore Balboa Park or visit the San Diego Zoo, one of the world’s best.

Activities and Cost: Surfboard rentals are about $20-30 per day, and surf lessons for beginners cost around $50-75 per hour.

4. Orange County: Surf’s Up in Southern California

Orange County, with its iconic surf spots like Huntington Beach and Trestles, is a must-visit for surfing enthusiasts.

Best Time to Visit: The waves are great year-round, with peak surf conditions in the winter months (October to March).

Getting There: Fly into John Wayne Airport (SNA) for the quickest access to surfing hotspots. Flights generally range from $100 to $300 for a round-trip ticket.

Where to Stay: There are plenty of options in Huntington Beach, with budget motels starting around $90 per night and beachfront hotels at $250+ per night.

Where to Eat: For a casual meal, grab tacos from The Cut ($10-15 per meal) or try the legendary Ruby’s Diner at the Huntington Beach Pier for American classics ($15-25).

Things to Do: Aside from surfing, check out Disneyland in Anaheim or visit the Orange County Great Park.

Activities and Cost: Surf lessons start at $75-100 for a 2-hour session. Renting a surfboard for the day costs around $25-30.

5. Malibu and Ventura County: Iconic California Surf

Malibu offers perfect longboard waves, while Ventura’s Rincon Beach is famous for its powerful breaks.

Best Time to Visit: The best surf is in the winter months, particularly from December to March.

Getting There: Fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Round-trip flights can range from $150 to $400.

Where to Stay: Malibu’s beachfront hotels are on the expensive side, starting at $300 per night. Ventura offers more affordable options starting at $100 per night.

Where to Eat: In Malibu, eat at the Malibu Farm Restaurant with ocean views ($20-40 per person). In Ventura, try The National for fresh farm-to-table meals ($15-25).

Things to Do: Visit the Getty Villa in Malibu or hike in the Channel Islands National Park in Ventura.

Activities and Cost: Surfboard rentals cost about $20-25, and lessons range from $75-100 for a 1-2 hour session.

6. San Francisco and Santa Cruz: Northern California Surfing

Known for cooler temperatures, Northern California offers rugged, beautiful surf. Santa Cruz and San Francisco are perfect for those looking for a more challenging experience.

Best Time to Visit: Best conditions are from September to November, with smaller crowds and solid waves.

Getting There: Fly into San Francisco International Airport (SFO) with round-trip tickets ranging from $200 to $400.

Where to Stay: In Santa Cruz, budget accommodations start at $100 per night, while hotels in San Francisco range from $150 to $350 per night.

Where to Eat: Grab a bite at the Surf City Coffee in Santa Cruz ($10-15 per meal), or enjoy fresh seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco ($20-40).

Things to Do: In San Francisco, visit Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. In Santa Cruz, enjoy the iconic boardwalk and local shops.

Activities and Cost: Surf lessons are about $70-90 per hour. Rent a board for $25-35 a day.

Wrapping Up: Your Perfect Surf Trip Awaits

From the legendary waves of Hawaii to the charming beaches of the East Coast, the USA has a surf spot for every surfer. Whether you're flying across the country or planning a road trip, there's plenty to explore, eat, and experience. Don’t forget to check out local attractions and enjoy the surf culture as you ride the waves!

Lykkers, where will you catch your next wave? Ready to book your trip? Let’s hit the surf!