Where to learn to surf in the US

Between the crashing waves, the sheer physicality of paddling out and jumping up on your board, and even the etiquette around who gets to catch the next wave, it's easy to feel like a fish out of water if it’s your first time surfing. Fortunately, there are tons of beginner-friendly surf destinations across the U.S., complete with knowledgeable instructors, friendly surf shops, and plenty to do on dry land when your body could use a break.

Below, we tapped Andrea Swayne, COO and contest director for USA Surfing—the national organization for surfing in the U.S.—to share her top spots for newbies of all ages. If learning to surf is at the top of your travel list, read on for her expert recommendations.

It was in Santa Cruz in 1885 that three Hawaiian princes—David Kawananakoa, Edward Keli’iahonui, and Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana’ole—first introduced surfing to mainland America. “The surf vibe in Santa Cruz runs strong,” says Swayne. “There is so much local knowledge and history.”

Start your visit at Freeline Surf Shop, where big-wave surfer Peter Mel has been designing boards since 1969. Here, you’ll find everything you need to get started, from rentals and wax to wetsuits and booties. Staffers can also offer tips and advice on where to go for optimal surfing conditions.

Once you have your gear, gain confidence in the water with a class at Santa Cruz Surf Academy. The instructors choose your lesson location based on your experience level and goals, explains Swayne, so you're not overwhelmed on your first tries.

Tip: Tour the Santa Cruz Surfing Museum, which is conveniently located next to longtime surfing hotspot, Steamer Lane.

About an hour northeast of Orlando, Volusia County has some of the most consistent waves in all of Florida. Beginner surfers, says Swayne, should try New Smyrna Beach and Ponce Inlet. “The two breaks are on opposite sides of an inlet and produce a variety pack of wave conditions perfect for learning and pushing your performance to the next level,” she says.

She suggests Nichols Surf Shop (founded in 1969, it’s the oldest surf shop in New Smyrna Beach) for board rentals and lessons. Each two-hour class is split between an hour on land and an hour at sea, with instruction on safety, technique, and everything in between.

When you’re ready to say goodbye to the waves for the day, explore Florida’s tallest lighthouse, the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum. Or go to the Marine Science Center to learn about the many sea creatures swimming right alongside you in the Atlantic.

Where to stay: For easy access to the beach, book a room at the Salty Mermaid Oceanfront Hotel or a spacious two-bedroom condo at Atlantic Terrace.

A collection of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, the Outer Banks is known for having some of the best waves on the entire East Coast. This “swell magnet,” as Swayne calls it, encompasses a vast expanse of surf breaks that are ideal for perfecting your technique. It's a year-round surf hub—just remember to pack or rent the proper cold-water gear (wetsuit, hood, boots, and gloves) if you plan to come in the winter, she says.

If you’re new to the sport, she recommends renting gear and booking lessons through Secret Spot Surf Shop, located on Jennette’s Pier in Nags Head, or REAL Watersports in Cape Hatteras.

“You really feel like you’re getting away from it all in the Outer Banks,” Swayne says. “The locals are friendly, the surf breaks are uncrowded, and the sunrises over the ocean and sunsets over the bay are stunning.”

Located between Los Angeles and San Diego, Oceanside—or O’side, as it’s known locally—is a quintessential SoCal beach town, with laid-back vibes and plenty of great waves year round.

For gear rentals and surfing lessons, try Oceanside Pier or Oceanside Harbor, where you’ll find experienced (and patient!) teachers at spots like Oceanside Surf School, North County Surf Academy, and Learn to Rip Surf Lessons. Several hotels in the area, including Mission Pacific and the Seabird, can also set you up with beginner lessons, plus they make for inviting home bases.

Tip: After drying off, Swayne suggests heading to the California Surf Museum to brush up on the history and culture of the sport. On display, you’ll find one of world champion surfer Kelly Slater’s surfboards, alongside exhibits on the history of boogie boarding and a groundbreaking 1930s camera used for action shots in the water.

Many of Hawaii's surf breaks are best left to the pros, but Waikiki Beach in Honolulu has been easing first-time surfers into the water for decades, thanks to smaller, more subdued waves. The beach (and surf) can get crowded, so it's best to join a lesson here for some guidance. According to Swayne, the area’s best lessons can be found at Sparky’s Surf School, Kai Sallas' Pro Surf School Hawaii, Stoke Drift, or Kahu Surf School. Just be sure to refuel with a banana ice cream bowl from Banán’s Waikiki Beach Shack when you’re done.

For a break from the sun and sea, wander through the historic Bishop Museum, about 15 minutes northwest, which offers a window into Hawaiian culture. Or, closer to Waikiki, check out the 12-story mural near South King and Pensacola streets honoring two local surfing legends who lived 100 years apart: Duke Kahanamoku, widely considered the father of surfing, and Carissa Moore, the winner of the first Olympic gold medal for surfing in 2020.

Where to stay: Rest up at Halekulani Hotel or Aston Waikiki Beach Tower, both within a 10-minute walk of the beach.