Looking to ride some waves after travel restrictions are lifted? To celebrate the return of international travel, here are some of the best surf destinations around the globe. Make sure to book early, plan thoroughly, and don’t forget to bring your waterproof camera!

Jeffreys Bay, South Africa

Jeffreys Bay is a small town on the Eastern Cape with easy access to the beach. It’s also home to the famed “Supertubes” surf waves. The best time to visit is in winter when waves can reach 12 feet in height. It’s not hard to get around Jeffrey’s Bay on foot, but if you plan on staying longer, you can purchase cheap beach bikes. 

Huntington Beach, California

This beach is the ultimate surfer’s paradise because you can pretty much catch a wave anytime of year. While surfing conditions will be good whenever you visit, you can avoid crowds by planning a trip in winter. Many competitions, including the WSA Championships, are held at this SoCal spot.

Bondi Beach, Australia. 

The most famous surfing beach in Australia is less than an hour from Sydney. The north side of the beach is ideal for surf beginners while the south side is the hot spot for experts. A variety of surfing competitions make a splash at Bondi Beach, where waves can reach up to 40 feet.

Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

The best time to hit the waves in Arugam Bay is between May and September—the dry season. There are several spots along the bay to catch gnarly waves, but the best by far is Main Point, where you’ll find swells of up to 8 feet. Be prepared for windy conditions and large crowds. 

Hanalei Bay, Kauai, Hawaii

You can’t make a list of great surfing destinations without including Hawaii. Hanalei Bay, on Kauai, is renowned for its giant waves and beautiful scenery, and it’s the backdrop to some of YouTube’s most epic surfing videos. After a long day riding the waves, head to a local restaurant for some authentic Hawaiian cuisine.