- \n
- Our Review of 19 Epic Surf Camps in Bali for 2019 (+Essential Bali Surf Tips)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surfing in Vietnam: 20+ Bangin\u2019 Breaks for Your Next Adventure<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surfing in Thailand: 10 Badass Spots for Surfing Nomads<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
This article will walk you through all of the best countries to surf in Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Medewi-Surfing-review.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThe goal is to give you a solid overview of where to surf in Asia on a country by country basis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For quick scanning, we\u2019ve thrown down some bullet points with key info about the best season, wave size, level suitability, the best surfing locations, and \u2018surf scene score\u2019 which refers to how developed\/integrated the surf culture is in each country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Without further ado, let\u2019s rip right into an ultimate list of the best surf spots in Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in the Philippines<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in the Philippines: September-February<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-3.5 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 4\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best spots for surfing in the Philippines: Siargao<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The Philippines has some of the best surf in Asia, no question.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But the cream of the crop?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It has to be Siargao<\/a> with its famous barreling wave, Cloud 9.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like the name suggests, it can be pretty heavenly to ride- but since it often measures in well over 3 meters, it\u2019s safe to say this is only a barrel for the ballsy among us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For the rest of us mere mortals, Siargao and its surrounding islands have a bunch of easy rollers and gentle waves that are ideal for learning to surf on (Rock Island has baby barrels which are perfect for beginner surfers).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Add that to the affordable cost of living and chilled out island vibes and it\u2019s no wonder surfing in Siargao has come to be a crowd favourite (we love this spot not just for its awesome surf, but also for its friggin\u2019 delicious smorgasbord of other activities- from kitesurfing<\/a> to hiking).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But a lot of people have voiced concerns:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some travelers are starting to question the future of Siargao as it continues to become more and more popular with tourists- in no small part, because of its sister Boracay\u2019s temporary closure<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But still:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Philippines is an island nation, which means tons of surfable coastline all over the country.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of the other best places to surf in the Philippines are Sorsogon, Daet Camsur, Bagasbas, Pagudpud, and Calicoan Island- to name just a few.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"a](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/kitesurfing-ireland-17.jpg\")
Image courtesy of Kite Sport Centre<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n Zambales is one of the more popular spots for surfing in the Philippines, as well as being the closest surf spot to Manila. Zambales is one of the best beginner surf spots in the country and it\u2019s also a perfect place to go hiking and camping too (make sure to check out the pine forest around the campsite nearby).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Last but not least:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our recommendations wouldn\u2019t be complete without a run-down of the truly stunning Palawan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When the southwest monsoon peaks, the western coast of Palawan is heaven for surfers. You can find some sweet little barrels breaking over the sandbar at Duli Beach and long, lazy lefts at Nacpan. The airport point is one of the best places to surf in Palawan, but since the barrels break over a reef it\u2019s definitely not one for beginners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Indonesia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Indonesia: May-September<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 1-5 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 5\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best spots for surfing in Indonesia: Bali<\/strong>, Mentawai<\/strong>, Lombok<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n
\n![\"Surfing](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/02\/653x490-5.jpg\")
image source: Kamafari Surf Camp \/ courtesy of booksurfcamps.com<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\nKeeping in line with our last lovely archipelago:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Indonesia is a country made up of over 17,000 islands<\/a>. Since many of those islands receive perfect swell almost throughout the entire year, it means Indonesia has some of the most consistent surf in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At the heart of it all is Bali, an island where surf culture is so deeply ingrained in the society that it\u2019s hard to think of one without the other. From the big-ass waves in Uluwatu<\/a> to the popular line up at Kuta<\/a>, you can\u2019t throw a stone in Bali without hitting a dude with a surfboard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The island is rife with dreamy surf spots, and thanks to the abundance of surf camps (which we reviewed in detail in our Bali surf camps<\/a><\/em> guide<\/em>) there’s a break for surfers of every level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Though our own favourite place to surf in bali is definitely Medewi, the likes of Canggu<\/a>, Kuta, Seminyak, Uluwatu and Padang Padang are all worth checking out too (though be warned, the latter is only suitable for confident surfers).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Psst: <\/em>if you’re keen to get inspired for your own Bali surf trip, head over to our adventure-fuelled 10 day Bali itinerary<\/a> and find out exactly where we recommend hitting on your surf trip!<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Aside from Bali, some of the other best places to surf in Indonesia are Lombok, Java\u2019s Grajagan Bay, Sumba Island (God\u2019s Left is a legendary wave), Sumatra, and the remote Mentawai Islands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Surfing in Mentawai is something special- but not for the faint of heart. This chain of nearly 70 islands is big wave territory. If you\u2019re up to the challenge though, you\u2019ll be rewarded with near empty lineups and barrels big enough for a Boeing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With those pristine conditions, we reckon Mentawai might be one of the very best surf spots in Indonesia. Check out the few ho<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
tels<\/a> available on site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a detailed look at the best surfing in Bali and the top Bali surf spots, see our sports & outdoors guide to Bali<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Thailand<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Thailand: April-October<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-3.0 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 3\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best spots for surfing in Thailand: Phuket<\/strong>, Koh Lanta<\/strong>, Koh Phayam<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The question \u201cis there surf in Thailand?\u201d comes up pretty often, and weirdly enough, a lot of people shrug it off and assume it\u2019s not worth a cheap boogie board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The reality of Thailand\u2019s surf scene has yet to be discovered by the world at large.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those who know where to look know that there are plenty of places to surf in Thailand<\/a> (as I\u2019m writing this, the live reading for one of our favourite spots down the southwest coast is showing a 2.4 meter swell!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a way, the fact that surf tourism has yet to hit Thailand in a big way is actually a good thing; it means there are miles and miles of untouched coastline with empty waves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s the deal with surfing in Thailand:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During the northwest monsoon, the exposed coasts on the south and west side of the country receive sizable swell, peaking around September\/October.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Phuket is the main hub, with well over a dozen wave washed beaches facing out over the Andaman Sea. Kata<\/a>, Band Tao, and Pansea Beach are among the most popular with Surin, Kalim, and Kalaman offering emptier lineups still.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The surf on Koh Lanta, Phuket\u2019s neighbouring island, is also decent. Klong Dao Beach is the spot to head for in this neck of the woods.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"surfing\"](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/surfing.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nA little further north:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Koh Phayam has a collection of beautiful, rugged, sand bottom beach breaks which pump out 2-2.5 meter waves when the monsoon is on. The surf here happens on 3 km long Ao Yai beach, where you’ll also find a couple of raggae bars, this cool surf and yoga retreat, and even some budget, surf shack style bungalows right on the beach like Coconut Beach Resort<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Occasionally you can surf on Koh Phangan and Koh Samui, but the waves are smaller and less consistent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Khao Lak is one of the better-known surf spots on the mainland and gets rideable surf on 60% of days at best, while further north Rayong can get a solid 1-1.5 meters of swell- and seeing as it\u2019s the closest surf spot to Bangkok<\/a>, it\u2019s worth noting for a lot of city dwellers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like this post? Then you might also dig our write-up of the best surf movies on Netflix<\/a> right now.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Vietnam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Vietnam: October-April<\/strong>, and during the summer monsoon<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-2.5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: beginner, intermediate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 2.5\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Best spots for surfing in Vietnam: Da Nang<\/strong>, Phan Rang<\/strong>, Nha Trang<\/strong>, Mui Ne<\/strong>, Vung Tau<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The surf scene in Vietnam is small but thriving- and with that ridiculously long coastline exposed to the weather fronts from the South China Sea, it\u2019s no surprise that surfing in Vietnam is taking off.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As for where you\u2019ll find the best surf in Vietnam:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From Da Nang in the north to Vung Tau in the south, there are waves to be found at regular(ish) intervals along the coast. In between you\u2019ve got known watersports hubs like Nha Trang, Phan Rang, and Mui Ne, all of which have their own cult-like surf crew.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nha Trang is one of Vietnam\u2019s better-known surf spots. Head 23 km outside of the limits of the notorious party town and you\u2019ll reach Bai Dai Beach, which is where the surfing goes down. There’s also a decent choice of hotels<\/a> on the spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Just an hour down the coast, you\u2019ll hit the surf in Phan Rang<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The region is surrounded by reef for more than 50 km and with countless capes and point breaks, there are dozens of surfable spots out there for the taking. That said, you\u2019ll want to hook up with some local surfers for location tips because discovering the spots on your own can be a bit of a challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"surfing](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/surfing-vietnam.jpg\")
<\/ta>Phan Rang – Photo by Grahame Booker<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n Further south still you\u2019ll reach Mui Ne<\/a>, a spot known best for its kitesurfing<\/a> and windsurfing- but head for the likes of Little Buddha or Suoi Nuoc Beach and you\u2019ll find yourself some clean little waves. You might even score yourself a little barrel or two!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We’ve actually lived in Mui Ne for a while, and loved the tight kite and surf community, the good choice of local and foreign restaurants, and the busy but laid back nightlife. Go to Joe’s Cafe for great live music, Dragon Beach for house and club vibes, or good ol’ Irish Mooneys Bar for the pool table, friendly owner and if the stock is good, Guiness and craft beer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You also have plenty of hotels<\/a> and guesthouses to choose from: higher end Mia Resort<\/a> has some of the best breakfasts in town, while Backpacker Village<\/a> is a popular choice of the younger crowd.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re looking to learn the ins and outs of the surf in this country, head over to our detailed guide about 20+ amazing surf spots in Vietnam<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Cambodia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Cambodia: July-October<\/strong> during the monsoon<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: <1 meter<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: beginners<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 1\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in Cambodia: Bamboo Island<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Cambodia isn\u2019t the first place you\u2019d think about bringing a surfboard to, and considering the direction of exposure of its coastline, it should come as no surprise to hear that surfable waves in Cambodia are rare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But if you\u2019re itching for some board time there are a small handful of spots that are known to get some small waves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The best spot for surfing in Cambodia is Bamboo Island, situated less than half an hour off the coast of Sihanoukville. As of quite recently, there weren\u2019t any proper facilities in the way of board rentals or clubs so it\u2019s always been necessary to bring your own kit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Back on the mainland, Otres Beach and Ochheuteal Beach occasional get some small waves- but it\u2019s not consistent enough to plan a trip around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Expect to sit on the beach drinking a couple of cold Angkors while you wait.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Malaysia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Malaysia: late October-March<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-2 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 3.5\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in Malaysia: Cherating<\/strong>, Tioman Island<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
It\u2019s often overshadowed by its wave battered neighbours in Indo, but in truth:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Surfing in Malaysia is alive and kicking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The east coast is where you\u2019ll find the best surf in Malaysia, with the most popular spot being Cherating- a place known not just for its awesome waves, but also as breeding grounds for leatherbacks and other sea turtles (there\u2019s a sanctuary near Chendor Beach that\u2019s well worth visiting).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Since the surf scene is pretty developed in Cherating, it\u2019s easy as pie to rent boards and score lessons with local instructors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
North of Cherating, there are a handful of \u201csecret\u201d surf spots that are well worth the effort of getting to- but you\u2019ll have to flirt with the right locals if you want to find out where they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As for the other best spots for surfing in Malaysia:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check out Terengganu, Pahang, Kijal, and the beautiful, exotic Tioman Island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We\u2019re also big fans of surfing on Malaysia\u2019s southerly coast around Johor (extra brownie points for the fact that Johor has the closest surf spots to Singapore, meaning plenty of wave-craving Singaporeans hop over the border for a weekend surf sesh).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n![\"surfing](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Desaru-surfing.jpg\")
<\/ta>Desaru Coast – KTA Media – Photo by Alexandru Baranescu<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\nNow:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From July to March the swell dies down in a big, big way, but there are still a couple of surf spots in Malaysia that work during the off-season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sabah is one to watch, as is Langkawi (but be warned, the waves are usually pretty small and inconsistent).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re heading for some surfing in Malaysia during the summer season and you find yourself disappointed by the waves, you\u2019ve always got the artificial surf pool at Sunway Lagoon as a plan B.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Myanmar<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Myanmar: June\/July<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-1.8 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: beginners, intermediate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 1.5\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in Myanmar: Cheduba Island<\/strong>, Ngwe Saung<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Surfing in Myanmar has started to take off over the past couple of years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With its exposure to the Andaman Sea and swell from both Antarctica and the Indian Ocean, it\u2019s no big surprise that some of the more adventurous locals have begun to embrace the board life.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The surf in Myanmar is generally quite small, but the biggest and best waves hit the sandy shores of Ngwe Saung on the southwest coast and Cheduba Island (also known as Manaung Island) slightly to the north.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ngwe Saung was the host of Myanmar\u2019s first ever kitesurfing event (run by the Kiteboard Tour Asia) back in 2015, and no surprise this was the place they chose to hold the festivities: Ngwe Saung\u2019s moderate winds, gentle swell, and crystal clear waters make it an ideal place for kitesurfing, surfing, and scuba diving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plus:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ngwe Saung sits on a 9 km stretch of pristine sandy coastline lined with shaggy palms. *sigh* It\u2019s a dreamland.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"kite](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/06\/kite-surfing-new.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nBut there\u2019s another surf spot in Myanmar that\u2019s starting get people talking:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Sittang River runs across south central Myanmar for 420 kilometers and is the home of one of the world\u2019s rare tidal bores<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In case you didn\u2019t know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A tidal bore is a wave that rushes in off the sea and flows against the direction of the river\u2019s current. Measuring in well over 2 meters at times, the Sittang tidal bore is one of the top 3 in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Word on the street is that the bore was first surfed in 2017 by Jerome Cordoba, Antony Colas, and Patrick Audoy, who described riding the wave up the river as \u201cmagical\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe wave is almost infinite, it goes up the river against the current and we fall because we are tired.\u201d (Check out the video here<\/a>.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Other noteworthy places for surfing in Myanmar are the Baronga Islands off the coast of Sittwe, the river mouth at Lanthaya, the sand bottom beach break at Gottaung Beach, the Elephant Head in Ngapali (there’s also a bunch of other awesome things to do in Ngapali<\/a>), and Chaungtha (with its best waves measuring in at 1.8 meters and it being a 5 hour drive from Naypyidaw, it\u2019s one to watch).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Brunei<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Brunei: October-March<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-1.5 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: beginners, intermediate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 1\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in Brunei: Tanjung<\/strong>, Berakas<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Sharing most of its border with Malaysia\u2019s Sarawak state, Brunei\u2019s small coastline faces out over the South China Sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The coast of Brunei gets hit by some small, though surfable swell- the best of which comes during the northeast monsoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In fact:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Brunei held its first ever Surf Fest in early 2017 to great success, which just goes to show that even though it\u2019s still in its infancy, surfing in Brunei is becoming more and more popular.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tanjung Batu is among the best places to go surfing in Brunei, with its easy right handers that break across the sandbar. There\u2019s also another spot at the river mouth just west of the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apart from Tanjung, you can also surf at the manmade headlands at Pantai Tungku and Berakas Reserve Beach which is right next to the Berakas Forest Park- a popular spot for hiking, trail running, biking, and camping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Sri Lanka<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Sri Lanka: November-March<\/strong>, May-September<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-2.5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 4\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in Sri Lanka: Weligama<\/strong>, Arugam Bay<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
The wandering watersports community are no stranger to Sri Lanka<\/a>, with crowds of wind-seeking kitesurfers heading to hit up the lagoons in Kalpitiya<\/a> all through the summer season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But that\u2019s not even half of what this crazy little country has in store for adventurous water sports lovers:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sri Lanka has its hat in the ring as one of the best countries to surf in Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s what you need to know:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The southern portion of the island that gets the biggest swell, with the best Sri Lanka surf spots being Weligama in the south and Arugam Bay in the east.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Arugam Bay is everything a bona fide surf town should be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"surfing](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/surfing-vietnam-4.jpg\")
<\/ta><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n Chilled vibes, slow pace of life, and a surfboard strapped to the side of every other motorbike driving down the beach road (that is until the police banned surfboard racks).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The best time to surf Sri Lanka\u2019s east coast is between May and October, at which point the surf community heads to the south and southwestern spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apart from Weligama and Arugam Bay, some of the other top Sri Lanka surf spots are Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Mirissa. There\u2019s also Dewata and Hiriketiya, both of which are among Sri Lanka\u2019s best places to surf for beginners since they\u2019re never too crowded and the beaches are well protected. The beautiful city of Galle can also get pretty good waves. Galle is actually a world heritage site, and the largest remaining city in Asia fortified by European colonialists (in this case the Dutch).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in China<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in China: October-March<\/strong> and before or after the summer typhoons<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-3 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 2\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in China: Hainan Island<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Surfing in China? Na.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(That\u2019s most people\u2019s reaction whenever it comes up in conversation.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And when we tell them it\u2019s one of the best exotic surf spots in East Asia? They usually balk!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But in reality, there is some seriously awesome surf on China\u2019s most southerly (tropical!) island, Hainan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hainan is easily reached from airports in Asia as well as mainland China (a grand excuse to combine your surf trip with a visit to one of the mainland’s attractions. Forbidden City? Shanghai Disneyland<\/a>? Or maybe a weekend out and about in Hong Kong?!)<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hainan Island itself is littered with beaches, headlands, and regular points. And since most of the coastline is unchartered territory for surfers, there\u2019s tons of potential out there on those empty breaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The south and southeast coasts are the best places for surfing in Hainan.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/surfing-in-sea-review.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAs for the best spots?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ri Yue Bay tops the list. No big shock, considering it\u2019s a regular stop-off for international surf comps like the O\u2019Neill\u2019s Surfing Open, the ISA World Longboarding Championships, and the Jeep International Surfing Open.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s a tidbit for you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The locals in Ri Yue Bay are super proud of the fact that they have a point break with one of the best lefts in China.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Along the 2 km stretch of sandy beach there are easily half a dozen surfable waves- the biggest of which is a barrel nicknamed \u201cGhost Hotel\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
…how creepy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Speaking of hotels, there’s a couple of surf specific resorts both with very, long names of course: Ri Yue Bay Surfer’s Stop Hostel, or you can go for the Forest Inn Ri Yue Bay Surf Branch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Moving along swiftly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apart from Ri Yue Bay, you\u2019ll also be able to score some waves at Lingshui, Yalong Bay, Da Dong Hai, and Houhai- the latter of which is a favourite of ours for its quirky mishmash of traditional Chinese fishing culture and newage surf style.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pssst: did you know China is also an insanely awesome kitesurfing destination? Read up all about it in our complete guide to kitesurfing in China<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in South Korea<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in South Korea: September-November<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-2 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: beginner, intermediate<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 2.5\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in South Korea: Jukdo<\/strong>, 38th Beach<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
In fairness, surfing in South Korea isn\u2019t exactly the epitome of sunkissed, coconut oiled version of the sport that we not-so-secretly adore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you can brave the cold of the winter, you\u2019ll be rewarded with a surfing experience that\u2019s an adventure unlike anywhere else in the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The east coast of South Korea receives some of the best swell in the country, and most interestingly, it\u2019s emerged that one of the best places to surf is Gangwando\u2019s 38th Beach- a hop, skip, and jump away from the DMZ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whaaaaat.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Yup, c\u2019est vrai. One of the most politically tense places on planet earth- location of a massive military base and an hour away from the friggin\u2019 border of North and South Korea- has awesome surf.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The sport was pioneered here by members of the local fishing community who used to have to apply for government permission before they could take their boards out on the water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although surfing is now officially allowed (and pretty decent numbers of foreign and local surfers ride there), the military is still known to move people along if they think the swell is \u201ctoo big\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As for the season:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The biggest swell hits the east coast during the winter months when it\u2019s bitingly cold.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/surfing-in-new-review.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nAt least you can warm up sippin\u2019 on sweet coffee and soju after your sesh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Apart from 38th Beach, you can also surf at Yangyang\u2019s Jukdo Beach, Busan, and the southerly Jeju Island, whose Pacific coast gets an easy 1-1.5 meter swell during the summer monsoon and is much, much warmer than the blustery east coast in winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Don\u2019t go packing your board bag too quick though; in the words of Hugh MacDonald, ex Jeju surf junky and author of surfinghandbook.com<\/a>, \u201cthe waves [are] notoriously hard to predict\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Oh well, 6mm wetsuit and DMZ it is then.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Taiwan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Taiwan: November-March<\/strong> and July-October<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 1-4 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 3.5\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in Taiwan: Taitung County<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Taiwan\u2019s coast stands in fairly stark contrast to the neon lights and tightly packed alleyways that we\u2019ve come to associate with its cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Out on the coast it\u2019s all dramatic cliffs and ocean swell, baby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The offshore winds and regular gorges along the southern and eastern coasts work to channel sand around the river mouths, while the beach breaks, point breaks, and reefs create barreling waves pretty much year round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plus, Taiwan sits right in the middle of Typhoon Alley.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Which, if you\u2019re wondering:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is where the most intense tropical cyclones in the world tend to hit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Typhoons can bring insane swell to the Taiwanese coast, particularly between July and October. But it\u2019s the winter northeast monsoon that brings the most consistent waves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although Taiwan\u2019s surf scene is still quite young, it\u2019s growing fast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Local surf clubs advertising day trips from Taipei remind us that you can surf just an hour outside of the city. Meanwhile, international surf competitions like the Taiwan International Surfing Invitation and the World Longboard Championships have set up comp stops along the coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can see the best of surfing in Taiwan at Eight Immortals Cave, Wushibi, Yiwan, Chenggong Township, Duli, Dong River, Jinzun Bay, Xingchang and Jiqi on the Hualien coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But Taitung County is the epicenter of it all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With its fast waves and clear water, Taitung\u2019s surf spots are starting to get noticed by pro riders from the US and Oz. And since this is where a lot of the big competitions are held, it\u2019s showing up on the radar more and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taitung is home to some of the best surf spots in Taiwan, such as Donghe and Changbin whose sloping seabeds and surrounding continental shelf create consistent waves throughout the winter months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWinter?\u201d I hear you say, \u201cPlease no more snow covered surf beaches!\u201d.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rest assured, Taiwan\u2019s winter temperatures average 16-20 degrees Celsius, so it\u2019s really not too vicious at all. Plus, Taiwan\u2019s balmy summer surf season is pretty awesome too, which is when it all kicks off on the southern coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As well as surfing, Taiwan\u2019s amazing kitesurfing, hiking, cycling, climbing, and rafting conditions mean that we\u2019re more than kinda crazy about this place (check out our local’s guide to adventure activities in Taiwan<\/a> for more!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in Japan<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in Japan: August-October<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 0.5-3 meters<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 3.5\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in Japan: Chiba<\/strong>, Kagoshima<\/strong>, Okinawa<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
With a long, Pacific facing coastline and close to 7,000 islands, Japan\u2019s surfing potential is endless (not to mention the insanely good food, state of the art cities, and dangerously drinkable awamori rice liquor<\/a>!). The only real downside is it\u2019s waaaaay expensive compared to most other countries in Asia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But back to the bright side:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can surf pretty much everywhere along the eastern coast (although a number of Japan\u2019s best surf spots are disappearing due to coastal development).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can literally surf just outside of Tokyo. Chiba is a 40-minute ride away and has a dozen known surf spots easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beach breaks and point breaks are the bread and butter for Japan\u2019s surfers, but you\u2019ll find some of the best conditions at the river mouths. Shikoku is a name we hear a lot, but these days all eyes are on Shidashita Beach which is where the 2020 Olympics will be held (and surfing is *finally* on the menu!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Okinawa is another crowd favourite- and for good reason.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/extremenomads.life\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/best-surfing-review.jpg\")
<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nThis southerly chain of islands enjoys tropical weather and sits bang in the middle of Typhoon Alley, which means you can surf in boardshorts and bikinis pretty much year round. White Beach is a must-do for beginner surfers while experienced riders can head out to the more challenging reef breaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can experience more awesome surfing in Japan at Tohoku\u2019s Veedol Beach, Kansai, Kagoshima, Kochi, and Miyazaki.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\nSurfing in India<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Best time to surf in India: May-September<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wave size: 2-4.5 meters during high season, 1-1.5 rest of the year<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suitable for: all levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Surf scene score: 2\/5<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Where to find the best surfing in India: West coast<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Surfing in India is equal parts awesome and unbearable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Why?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Well, let\u2019s start with unbearable:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because surfing in India has yet to take root in a mainstream way, the roads that lead to many a surf spot are terrible (or non existent) and fewer spots still are known to the public- let alone mapped.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They are there in plentiful amounts, and when you find them they are f\u2019ing brilliant.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nIndia\u2019s coastline is more than 7,500 km long, and with 200 surfable river mouth and countless open beach breaks, it\u2019s a wonder the sport isn\u2019t more popular here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On top of that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
India\u2019s coast is exposed to the Arabian Sea, the Bay of Bengal, the Indian Ocean, and Antarctica, and since there\u2019s no land mass in between, it receives perfect, uninterrupted swell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can surf on parts of the west, east, and south coast of India pretty much year round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
From Dwaraka in the far northwest to Kovalam in the south, the west coast usually gets the biggest swell- particularly before and after the monsoon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s something that might come as a surprise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can surf in Goa (the end of May through June is the best time to do so). Good news for all you surfing digital nomads out there, as Goa is pegged to become Asia\u2019s next hot digital nomad destination<\/a>, and thanks to an already flourishing tourism industry, you have plenty of hotels and guesthouses to choose from.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Meanwhile, Kerala and Varkala are the places to go to score some hollow breaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Tamil Nadu is one of the premiere surf spots in India\u2019s southeast. From Tuticorin to Rameshwaram, there are countless points and beach breaks dotting the coast, while Odisha is the main region for surfing in India\u2019s northeast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Awash in the Bay of Bengal, you have the dreamlike Andaman Islands, an archipelago that\u2019s made even more idyllic by the fact that it\u2019s more or less escaped mass surf tourism. At the moment, the beautiful barrels and perfect corduroy lines that wash up on the Andaman shores are only surfed by a select few.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Surfing in Vietnam: 20+ Bangin\u2019 Breaks for Your Next Adventure<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n