There is a unique magic in combining the freedom of the open road with the pursuit of the perfect wave. Surfing road trips are not just about the destination; they are about the coastal highways, the hidden breaks, and the culture found between spots. Whether you are chasing long, rolling longboard waves or testing your skills against heavy barrels, the world offers incredible routes that blend adventure with surfing. Here are 12 of the best surfing road trips to try for an unforgettable coastal journey.
1. The Pacific Coast Highway, California, USAStarting in San Francisco and ending in San Diego, the PCH is the quintessential American surf trip. This route offers a mix of cold-water, moody breaks in the north and sunny, iconic spots like Malibu, Huntington, and Trestles in the south. Drive through Big Sur for breathtaking views and stop at Rincon for world-class point breaks.
2. The Garden Route, South AfricaStretching from Cape Town to Jeffrey’s Bay, this route offers dramatic scenery and incredible waves. Along the way, you can surf spots like Muizenberg for beginners and Elands Bay for faster waves. The trip culminates in Jeffreys Bay, home to Supertubes, one of the best right-hand point breaks in the world.
3. The Baja Peninsula, MexicoFor those seeking a rugged, off-grid adventure, driving down Baja is unmatched. Leaving the border, you can find quiet, long right-handers at Scorpion Bay or surf the consistent waves around Todos Santos. This trip requires a sturdy vehicle and a love for desert landscapes meeting the Pacific Ocean.
4. The North Coast of Spain and PortugalStarting in Basque Country and driving down to Peniche, this trip offers an incredible mix of culture, food, and surfing. Visit Mundaka in Spain for a world-class river mouth wave, then head to Portugal to experience the varied, powerful breaks around Peniche and Ericeira, catering to all skill levels.
5. The Great Ocean Road, AustraliaBeginning in Torquay, the birthplace of iconic surf brands, this route is a pilgrimage for many. You will pass Bells Beach, famous for the Rip Curl Pro, before driving through picturesque coastal towns with consistent beach breaks. It is a stunning drive through forests and cliffs, consistently rated among the top road trips globally.
6. The Wild Atlantic Way, IrelandFor adventurous surfers, Ireland offers raw power and incredible beauty. Driving the west coast allows you to find everything from sheltered, scenic bays to heavy, Atlantic reef breaks. Bundoran is a fantastic hub for this, providing access to top-tier surfing in a stunning, rugged landscape.
7. The Gold Coast to Sunshine Coast, AustraliaIf you prefer warmer water and faster, consistent point breaks, Queensland is the destination. Start in Coolangatta to surf the famous Snapper Rocks and Kirra, then drive north through vibrant coastal towns to the Sunshine Coast. This trip offers some of the best right-handers in the world during the Southern Hemisphere winter.
8. The Atlantic Coast of FranceStarting in Biarritz, the birthplace of European surfing, and heading north towards Bordeaux, this coastal route is a summer dream. The coast is dotted with numerous beach breaks, sandbanks, and surf-friendly towns like Hossegor and Lacanau, making it perfect for exploring diverse, fun waves.
9. Costa Rica’s Nicoya PeninsulaDriving through the Nicoya Peninsula allows you to experience the “Pura Vida” lifestyle. Starting in Tamarindo and heading to Nosara, you can surf consistent, fun beach breaks surrounded by lush jungle. The roads are challenging, but the tropical, warm-water waves are worth the effort.
10. The East Coast of New ZealandStarting in Auckland and exploring the North Island’s east coast, this trip offers scenic coastal drives and varied, fun surf spots. Explore the breaks around Whangamata and Tauranga, surrounded by beautiful beaches, forests, and friendly, laid-back surf culture.
11. Peru’s Northern CoastStarting in Lima and driving north, you will experience a truly unique surf trip. This arid, desert landscape hides some of the longest left-hand point breaks in the world, including Chicama. It is an adventurous trip for those looking to improve their riding on long, consistent waves.
12. The Atlantic Highway, Cornwall, UKThis route offers a quintessential, rugged British surf experience. Driving from North Devon down to Cornwall, you can explore the consistent, powerful beach breaks of Croyde and Bude, leading to the premier surfing spot at Fistral Beach in Newquay. It is a scenic route with historic pubs and a passionate local scene.
Each of these surf trips offers a unique perspective on coastal culture and a chance to experience some of the finest waves on the planet. From the sun-drenched point breaks of California to the rugged, cold-water waves of Ireland, planning a route ensures a mix of adventure, relaxation, and, most importantly, great surfing. Pack your wetsuits, prepare your board bags, and hit the road for an unforgettable journey along the world’s best coastlines. If you’re interested, I can: Recommend the best time of year for each of these trips
List must-visit surf towns and local spots along these routes Offer suggestions for beginner-friendly vs. advanced routes
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