As the summer sun illuminates the West Coast, surf enthusiasts in Los Angeles eagerly await the opportunity to catch epic waves beyond their local breaks. If you're yearning for an unforgettable surf adventure departing from Los Angeles, we've curated a list of the best surf spots to explore. Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey to these top destinations where sun, surf, and adventure await!
1. Mexico - Riviera Nayarit
A short 2-hour 30-minute flight from Los Angeles transports you to the stunning surf haven of Mexico's Riviera Nayarit. Dive into the waves at Sayulita, a vibrant surf town offering consistent swells. Explore Puerto Escondido's barreling waves, perfect for advanced surfers seeking a thrilling challenge. For a luxurious surfing experience, head to Punta Mita, where pristine breaks meet breathtaking coastal landscapes.
2. Costa Rica - Guanacaste
With a 5-hour flight from Los Angeles, you'll find yourself immersed in Costa Rica's surfing paradise. Guanacaste boasts the enchanting surf town of Tamarindo, offering a mix of waves suitable for all skill levels. Discover the vibrant surf scene in Jaco, renowned for its consistent breaks and lively atmosphere. Make your way to Santa Teresa, a hidden gem with stunning beaches and world-class surf breaks.
3. El Salvador - La Libertad
Embark on a 5-hour 30-minute flight from Los Angeles to discover the captivating surf spots of El Salvador's La Libertad region. Ride the waves in El Tunco, a laid-back village known for its consistent swells and vibrant surf culture. Experience the thrill of Sunzal's long, peeling waves that attract surfers from around the globe. For a more secluded surfing experience, venture to La Bocana and immerse yourself in its untouched beauty.
4. Nicaragua - Rivas
A 6-hour flight from Los Angeles transports you to the pristine surf beaches of Nicaragua's Rivas region. Popoyo offers world-class waves and a scenic backdrop, making it a favorite among surfers. Explore Playa Maderas, known for its consistent surf breaks and vibrant beach atmosphere. Journey to Playa Hermosa for breathtaking coastal vistas and powerful waves that will challenge even the most experienced surfers.
5. Hawaii, USA - Oahu and Maui
Embarking on a 6-hour 30-minute flight from Los Angeles, you'll find yourself in the iconic surf mecca of Hawaii. Discover the renowned Waikiki Beach in Oahu, where legendary breaks have shaped the history of modern surfing. Venture to Lahaina in Maui, offering a mix of beginner-friendly waves and challenging breaks. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Hanalei Bay in Kauai, renowned for its picture-perfect waves and awe-inspiring scenery.
For surfers seeking thrilling summer adventures departing from Los Angeles, these top destinations provide an escape to extraordinary waves and coastal beauty. Whether you choose Mexico's Riviera Nayarit, Costa Rica's Guanacaste, El Salvador's La Libertad, Nicaragua's Rivas, or the captivating surf havens of Hawaii, each destination promises an unforgettable experience. So, pack your surfboard, book your flight, and get ready to ride the waves in these surf paradises that lie just a few hours away from Los Angeles.
