If you're just getting into surfing and based out of LA, you're in a good position. Mexico and Central America are a short flight away, the water is warm, and several of these destinations have been catering to beginner surfers for years. Here are five of the best options.
1. Mexico – Sayulita, Riviera Nayarit
A 2-hour 30-minute flight from LA drops you in the Riviera Nayarit, and Sayulita is one of the best places in the world to start surfing. The main beach has a mellow, forgiving wave with a sandy bottom that rolls in at waist to chest high most of the time. There are surf schools right on the beach, the town is easy to navigate, and the warm water means no wetsuit. A week here with a few lessons will get most beginners up and riding confidently.
Our Mexico surf trip location guide
2. Costa Rica – Tamarindo, Guanacaste
Costa Rica is a 5-hour flight and one of the most beginner-friendly surf destinations in the world. Tamarindo in Guanacaste is the top pick for learners: consistent small waves, a large surf school scene, and an easy town to settle into as a first-time surf traveler. Jaco is another option with beginner-friendly beach break and plenty of accommodation nearby. The pura vida atmosphere is real, and most instructors here are patient and experienced with complete beginners.
Our Costa Rica surf trip location guide
3. El Salvador – El Tunco, La Libertad
El Salvador is a 5-hour 30-minute flight and more beginner-friendly than its reputation suggests. El Tunco is the go-to for learners: a laid-back village on the La Libertad coast with a mellow beach break, affordable accommodation, and a relaxed surf scene. Sunzal is right next door and slightly more challenging, worth visiting once you have a few sessions under your belt. La Bocana further along the coast is quieter and good for those who want a more secluded experience.
Our El Salvador surf trip location guide
4. Nicaragua – San Juan del Sur
A 6-hour flight from LA reaches one of the most affordable and uncrowded surf destinations in Central America. Playa Maderas near San Juan del Sur is the pick for beginners: a consistent beach break with a forgiving bottom, plenty of space in the water, and surf schools nearby. The area has solid infrastructure with easy accommodation and restaurants within reach. Playa Hermosa is a step up in power and worth checking once you're more comfortable in the water.
Our Nicaragua surf trip location guide
5. Hawaii – Waikiki, Oahu
Hawaii is a 6-hour 30-minute flight and the birthplace of surfing, which makes it a natural place to take your first steps in the sport. Waikiki Beach on Oahu is the most famous beginner break in the world: long, gentle, rolling waves that are slow enough to give you plenty of time to stand up and find your balance. The water is warm, board rentals are everywhere, and the instructors know how to get beginners on their feet quickly. Hanalei Bay in Kauai is worth a visit if you want something more scenic and quieter after a few sessions in Waikiki.
Our Hawaii surf trip location guide
Any of these five destinations will give you what you need as a beginner: warm water, consistent waves, and surf schools that know how to teach. The best pick depends on your budget and how far you want to fly, but you really cannot go wrong with any of them.
