SURF'S UP: TOP 7 SURFING SPOTS FOR BEGINNERS AND PROS

There’s something about surfing that captures our attention and ignites our imaginations, even if we’ve never set foot on a surfboard. It’s a sport that involves skill, athleticism, and sound judgment and is surrounded by a unique culture that appeals to many.

Surfing has become an incredibly popular water sport worldwide, with many surfers setting their sights on tropical destinations, hoping to catch their next big wave or venture onto the water for the first time. Of all these destinations, these seven are some of the top spots sought by surfers of all levels.

PHOTO CREDIT | Unsplash/Jeremy Bishop

1. Hawaii, United States

Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing and remains a significant aspect of Hawaiian culture. Because of Hawaii’s long history with surfing and its iconic, massive waves, it’s a top destination for beginner and pro wave riders alike. Most islands in Hawaii have lessons for beginners, making this a beginner-friendly destination, but Hawaii is also home to some of the most intense surf competitions and impressive waves.

In the winter, between November and February, Hawaii sees its biggest waves, primarily on Oʻahu’s North Shore. Major surfing competitions are held during this peak time, including the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing, the biggest surfing event in the world, which some make even more interesting by betting on the outcome in person or online. While such wagers can yield some big returns, the ones available through casinos.com are even bigger.

2. Algarve, Portugal

Portugal may be known for its sardines and pastéis de nata (Portuguese custard tarts), but for surfers, there’s a whole other appeal: stunning beaches with gorgeous waves. The surf scene in the country is one of the best you’ll find in Europe.

Portugal’s Algarve region is one of the best-known surfing spots in the country and is popular among both locals and tourists. Lagos is one of the most beginner-friendly locations in the Algarve, but the region does have a few large breaks for more seasoned surfers, including in Sagres.

You’ll find solid waves in the Algarve all year long, thanks to its position on the south side of the country and its exposure to the Atlantic. The best time of year for beginners is early spring, as the waves are calmer and more manageable.

3. Taghazout, Morocco

Regardless of the time of year, heading to the coast of Taghazout offers breaks for beginner and pro surfers alike. However, beginners may appreciate the smaller swells present between September and June if they’re not as confident on their boards. Taghazout has more than a dozen places to paddle off the coast and wait for the waves to break. Some are better suited to pros, like Anchor Point or Draculas, while others are gentler and welcoming to newcomers, like Banana Beach.

Taghazout also boasts an array of surf camps and accommodations, allowing you to reach this destination and immerse yourself entirely in surf culture. Even beginners will feel welcome at these accommodations, as surf schools are available to help you get started with the basics.

4. Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Known for its surfing opportunities, Tamarindo is a stunning coastal town where beginners will find gentle breaks between November and May, and experienced surfers will find challenging breaks throughout the rest of the year. Like other major surf destinations, beginners will also find knowledgeable instructors to help them get started.

Tamarindo is along the Pacific coast and can require long waits for the waves to roll in, but they are well worth the time and patience. The surfing atmosphere in the town is known to be party-centric, making this a place to surf all day and party all night.

5. California, United States

Aside from Hawaii, the Golden State is one of the best-known states for surfing due to its long coastline and relatively warm waters of the Pacific. Cities like Malibu and Santa Cruz lead the surf scene, reaching their peak surf season in the summer thanks to warm weather and favorable tides. California boasts an official surfing holiday (every September 20th) and a surf museum, and it has made surfing the state’s official sport. With the state’s emphasis on surfing, it’s no surprise that many surfing competitions are hosted yearly, including the U.S. Open Adaptive Surfing Championships.

For beginner surfers, beaches like Mondos Beach, Linda Mar Beach, and Hermosa Beach are some of the best options. They offer smaller swells and are protected from larger breaks by other landmasses.

6. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a popular tropical getaway that combines the allure of warm, sunny days and resort living with abundant surfing opportunities. Nusa Dua Beach and Green Bowl Beach are exciting options for experienced surfers looking for a challenge and stunning scenery, while places like Kuta and Canggu are better suited to new surfers. Bali also offers surf schools for beginners, meaning you can enjoy the surf lifestyle during your stay even if you have no idea what you’re doing.

The beaches in Bali are busy, so to make the most of your surfing time, arrive early in the morning. This will also offer the benefit of avoiding high heat, humidity, and sun in the afternoons.

7. Byron Bay, Australia

Australia is known for many things that appeal to outdoor enthusiasts, including its beaches and surfing. The country is home to extensive, meandering coastlines offer surfers of all levels many opportunities to test their skills and perfect their form. For beginners, Byron Bay is one of the most popular destinations year-round, though if you prefer the warmest water possible, aim to get there between February and May. The swells in Byron Bay usually remain on the smaller side, so more experienced surfers may want to look for a place like Manly Beach or Crescent Head for more challenging break points.

Conclusion

From continent to continent and coast to coast, these seven places are top destinations that appeal to both beginner and experienced surfers. They combine the gentle swells new surfers need while learning the ins and outs of the sport and the giant swells that challenge even the most experienced surfers—plus, they’re tropical paradises where anyone, regardless of their surfing interests, can enjoy vacationing.

THE STAR OF THE FOOTBALL SEASON IS COLD-PRESSED JUICE

Tailgate parties are known for being fun, wild, and rowdy.  That’s why it’s no surprise that beer is often the go-to beverage to enjoy before the big game.  Most families pack a collection of snacks, a batch of burgers to cook on the grill, and a cooler full of beer to sip on before and after the game.  But while beer has long been the reigning champion of tailgating beverages, this year there’s a new king in town: cold-pressed juice. 

Not only is cold-pressed juice healthy and delicious, but it’s the perfect ingredient in any cocktail or mocktail recipe.  Bold and refreshing, cold-pressed juice is the perfect thing to add a fresh twist to the tailgating experience.

What Is Cold-Pressed Juice?

Cold-pressed juice is a beverage made by crushing the juice out of fruits and vegetables using a hydraulic-powered press.  Since it’s created without the use of heat, cold-pressed juice is much less processed than most other juices.  The cold-pressed method prevents the killing off of vital enzymes and flavors, retaining the nutrients and flavor of fresh fruits and vegetables.  Some cold-pressed juices do contain preservatives and added sugars, but the best ones are made from 100% organic fruits and vegetables–and nothing else.

Why Cold-Pressed Juice Is Tailgate-Ready

Tailgate parties are about a sense of community and a shared love of football, but beyond that, it’s about enjoying really delicious food and drink with loved ones.  Many people don’t drink alcohol for a number of reasons, which makes cold-pressed juice a refreshing, alcohol-free alternative.  For kids, it’s a better option than sugary sodas full of added sugar and preservatives.  But even the pickiest eater will be able to find a flavor that’s perfect for their tastes.

Celebrity Chef George Duran has a lot of experience messing around with unique flavors to produce exciting new recipes.  Outside of his work hosting TLC’s Ultimate Cake Off and his Food Network show Ham on the Street, Chef Duran has created several cocktail and mocktail recipes that incorporate cold-pressed juice in innovative ways.  One of his tastiest recipes is his Wonder Melon Gin Fizz, a refreshing cocktail that combines cold-pressed melon juice and gin with the skill of a master chef.  This cocktail is easy to follow and is the perfect thing to liven up any tailgate party:

Ingredients:

1 8.45 fl. oz. jar Wonder Melon Juice

2 oz. gin

1 oz. lemon juice

1 egg white

1 oz. seltzer

Directions:

Add ice into a large shaker and then add the rest of the ingredients.

Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled glass.

Serves 2

PHOTO CREDIT | Wonder Juice

The best part of cold-pressed juice is its endless number of combinations of fruits and vegetables.  In his Wonder Melon Gin Fizz recipe, Chef Duran uses Wonder Juice, a brand of cold-pressed juice that relies on 100% organic fruits and vegetables free from artificial additives and added sugars.  Those looking to branch out to new flavors can try out juices in the Wonder Melon, Wonder Lemon, and Wonder Beet brands.  Wonder Beet Beet + Lemon + Ginger can be a great ingredient in a spicy-sweet cocktail, while Wonder Lemon Lemon Mint can be the perfect mocktail substitution for a hard lemonade.

Whether one is a drinker or abstains from alcohol, cold-pressed juice is a beverage that anyone can enjoy.  Easy to mix into a cocktail/mocktail or enjoy all on its own, cold-pressed juice is healthy, refreshing, and packed with flavor.  Before the next tailgate party, stock up on cold-pressed juice to impress guests with a drink that’s as delicious as