10 of the best luxury destinations in the world to go surfing
Welcome to the ultimate guide for luxury surfers! If you crave the thrill of riding the waves while indulging in top-notch amenities, you’re in for a treat. Here are 10 of the most exclusive surfing destinations where you can experience the perfect fusion of luxury and adventure. From pristine beaches to world-class waves, these destinations offer an unforgettable surfing experience paired with luxury accommodation to cater for your every need.
1. Veligandu Island, Maldives
Many people don’t realise you there are places where you can surf in the Maldives. Surfing there is a dream come true for enthusiasts seeking luxury and seclusion. Crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands and consistent waves make Veligandu Island the perfect choice. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, the gentle breaks and warm waters provide an ideal setting to hone your skills or catch some epic waves.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Veligandu Island Resort & Spa
2. Tavarua Island, Fiji
Tucked away in the heart of the South Pacific, Tavarua Island boasts some of the best reef breaks in the world. With legendary waves like Cloudbreak and Restaurants, this exclusive destination offers a thrill for advanced surfers seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences amidst breathtaking scenery.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Tavarua Island Resort
3. Gold Coast, Australia
Renowned for its golden beaches and world-class breaks, Australia‘s Gold Coast is a mecca for luxury surfers. From the iconic waves of Snapper Rocks to the pristine barrels of Kirra, there’s something for surfers of all levels. After a day of shredding waves, unwind in style at one of the area’s opulent resorts.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Palazzo Versace Gold Coast
4. Maui, Hawaii
Maui’s North Shore is synonymous with big-wave surfing and luxury living. With infamous breaks like Jaws and Honolua Bay, experienced surfers can test their skills in challenging conditions. Beginners, on the other hand, can find more sheltered spots to catch their first waves. After a day on the water, pamper yourself at a luxury resort nestled along Maui’s stunning coastline.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
5. Mentawai Islands, Indonesia
Escape to the remote paradise of the Mentawai Islands, where world-class waves meet unparalleled luxury. With reef breaks like Lance’s Right and Macaronis, this Indonesian archipelago offers an unrivaled surfing experience for intermediate to advanced surfers. Try Kandui Villas for a luxury stay surrounded by pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Kandui Villas
6. Biarritz, France
Experience the epitome of European luxury surfing in the chic coastal town of Biarritz. Home to the renowned Côte des Basques beach, this French gem attracts surfers because of its consistent waves and vibrant cultural scene. After a day of surfing, indulge in Michelin-starred dining whilst overlooking the Bay of Biscay.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Hôtel du Palais
7. Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
For luxury surfers seeking adventure off the beaten path, Jeffreys Bay offers an unbeatable combination of world-class waves and untamed wilderness. Known for its iconic Supertubes break, this South African gem attracts experienced surfers from around the globe. After conquering the waves, retreat to a luxury safari lodge for an unforgettable African safari experience.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Bayethe Tented Lodge
8. Tahiti, French Polynesia
Embrace the spirit of aloha in Tahiti, where luxury meets paradise in the heart of the South Pacific. With legendary breaks like Teahupo’o and Papara, this island paradise offers adrenaline-pumping waves for experienced surfers seeking the ultimate challenge. After a day of surfing, unwind in a luxurious overwater bungalow surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons.
Luxury hotel recommendation: The Brando
9. Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Discover the laid-back luxury of Santa Teresa, a hidden gem on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. With consistent waves and pristine beaches, this bohemian surf town offers a relaxed atmosphere for surfers of all levels. After catching some waves, rejuvenate your body and soul with yoga sessions and spa treatments at a luxury eco-resort.
Luxury hotel recommendation: Latitude 10 Resort
10. Ericeira, Portugal
Experience the charm of Portugal’s surf capital, Ericeira, where luxury meets Old World charm along the Atlantic coast. With world-class breaks like Coxos and Ribeira d’Ilhas, this picturesque fishing village offers epic waves for surfers of all abilities. After a day of surfing, unwind in a historic boutique hotel and savour freshly caught seafood paired with fine Portuguese wines.
Luxury hotel recommendation: The Yeatman
Paul Johnson
Paul Johnson is Editor of A Luxury Travel Blog and has worked in the travel industry for more than 30 years. He is Winner of the Innovations in Travel ‘Best Travel Influencer’ Award from WIRED magazine. In addition to other awards, the blog has also been voted “one of the world’s best travel blogs” and “best for luxury” by The Daily Telegraph.
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We are planning to do Costa Rica later this year. I had no idea at all that it would give us surfing as well. Heading to one of the world’s great surfing spots is a real bonus.
Surprised that Surfers Paradise on Australia’s Gold Coast doesn’t get a shout out. A very clever piece of marketing to rename that once quiet town.
From my experience in the Maldives it’s hard to believe that you can get the waves there.
If the waves are there – and I’ll take your word for it – then it’s an idyllic location with world class hotels.
My knees aren’t up to surging anymore though that doesn’t stop me from dropping into some surfing hotspots if I’m in the neighbourhood.
I enjoy watching the youngsters pull the moves that are now beyond me, then there’s the surf culture. I enjoy the talks, the gear and a beer at the end of the day.
Great post. I’ve now got a lot longer list of places I gotta surf !!!
Great picture of the surfer at sunset. Has he finally caught the perfect wave? Probably not. That’s still a dream for tomorrow. Or the day after …
Surfing in Fiji ! Does life get any better than that ?
So glad to find Maui on this list! I had my first surf lesson in Kihei on the island’s south coast. Standing up on that board for the first time was so exciting!
Because of this blog, I might be willing to try and learn surfing. Keep this up!