The 10 best uncrowded surf destinations around the world

The dream of every surfer is the same: To have all the waves you can handle without having to compete with other surfers. A private break just for you and your friends, where you can catch wave after wave and cheer on each other and leave the ocean completely exhausted with the biggest wave count of your life. To achieve this beautiful dream, let’s take a look at the 10 best uncrowded surf destinations. Yes, they do exist.

The dream of the empty perfect wave

So many surfers and wannabe surfers say the same thing: I enjoy uncrowded waves. (No shit Sherlock.)

Probably your best sessions are the ones when you had the surf break to yourself. I still remember mine! Let’s try to find the right place to make those memories; I’m also going to be conscious of our budget. I know you don’t want to go home now when you have found the whole grail of surfing.

1. Indonesia

When you want to score uncrowded waves, Skip Bali and go explore the rest of this amazing country. All those sweet waves that roll into Bali also hit the rest of Indonesia.

South Sumatra and West Java are where the uncrowded action is. If you are brave, there are even more remote places. Just trail your finger along the map.

The price of a room in a surf house

If you are prepared to live simply, you can find a room for a couple of dollars. If you spend a bit more, you get amazing features such as ocean views and stylish decoration.

Price of a local meal

When you leave Bali behind, the prices significantly drop; this is true for food as well. You will be full for less than US$ 5 at the local Warung.

When to go

From April to October, the breaks fire up with great waves.

If you want to go in the winter (November- March), I recommend the Aceh province.

Where to start

You could fly into Jakarta, explore west Java, and move on to Sumatra for more off-the-grid adventure.

If you are a beginner, Batu Karas Point Break is considered one of the best places in Indonesia to learn to surf.

Why should you visit Indonesia when looking for uncrowded surf?

Everyone is looking for that place that’ like Bali 20 years ago, and what better place to start the search than Indonesia?

Indonesia is such a big country with 1000s of islands (17,504 islands to be exact.) and lots of untapped surf potential. It deserves the top position on a list of uncrowded surf destinations around the world.

Things to plan for and take into consideration:

Well, as someone who spent a couple of weeks in Banda Ache when it was still off the radar, I can say that after a while, you start craving spaghetti and pizza and other modern comforts.

Bring a lot of books, be prepared that Wi-Fi and even electricity don’t always work in the more remote places. Also, bring a lot more gear (such as extra fins, wax, and leash) than you think you will need. Surf shops are not always available in these parts.

Pack a pair of high-quality surf boots since the reef can be vicious in some of these places.

2. Chile

Chile is such a cool and unusual surf destination. Not many surfers have experienced Chile’s rugged charm and remote surf breaks. But that’s exactly why you should go.

The price of a room in a surf house

US$ 38

Prices in Chile are a bit higher, but that’s what helps keep the crowd away. So just bite the (rather expensive) bullet and book a month at Lilafken Apart 13 CABINS & Clothes boutique.

I also love the look of this place: Surf House in Chile. It looks like everything you want from a surf trip in Chile.

Price of a local meal

US$ 12-15

When to go

That’s the good thing about Chile as a surf destination, you can score good waves almost year around. Avoid the two local winter months, July and August. The best time to go if you need a big swell is November to April.

For beginners or improvers, April- October offer smaller waves, which are by no means small, if you know what I mean.

Where to start

Pichilemu is the surf capital of Chile and, according to some, the surf capital of the whole world. It got this reputation thanks to the 800-meter-long Punta de Lobos wave.

This is a wonderkid of a wave that every surfer needs to see at least once in their lifetime. It can hold up to 12 meters high. Truly one of the wonders of the surfing world. (The pyramids of Egypt got nothing on this beast.)

Soak up surf culture that is unapologetic dedicated to exploring unsurfed waves along the 6,435 km long coastline.

Pichilemu is also the best place to go if you are a beginner.

Why should you visit Chile when looking for uncrowded surf destinations?

The remoteness of some of the break together with the cold water helps keep the crowds away. Chile is a place where you can really surf your heart out.

Things to plan for and take into consideration

You might want to catch local flights to move between the different surf spots. That’s how long the coastline is. You also, most likely, want to hire a car at some point on your trip. This is how you truly find uncrowded surf along Chile’s remote coastline.

I also strongly recommend getting a local guide for a week or two; Chile is one of those places where the locals really know where it is.

You need good wetsuit gear to surf in Chile, especially in the wintertime. Buy a new 4.3, and bring your hood and your thickest booties.

3. La Reunion

Hire a 4-wheel drive, pack many different surfboards, water, and strong sunscreen, and hit the road.

La Reunion had such a crisis with sharks that the government forbade surfing for a couple of years, but those sharks are long gone, which is why you should go. There are still fewer people in the water.

La Reunion never really recovered as a surf destination.

But you are not easily scared, right? No, I was just kidding; the government has put up nets and other preventative measures to keep the sharks away.

Is La Reunion good for beginners?

Although mainly catering to experienced surfers, La Reunion has something for surfers on every level. If you are a beginner, stay close to Trois-Bassins or the Saint-Leu region.

The price of a room in a surf house

La Reunion is a part of France, so the prices are more “Paris level” than what you would expect from a tropical Island. For around US$ 70, you can have a nice double room.

Price of a local meal

For US$ 12, you can get a cheap meal.

When to go

April to November is the surf season.

Where to start

The west coast of the Island is where the majority of the surf breaks are located.

Why should you visit La Reunion when looking for uncrowded surf destinations?

Between the prices and the sharks, La Reunion doesn’t see a flood of eager surfers. Most of the breaks are much less crowded than well-known surf destinations like Sri Lanka, Portugal, and Bali.

There are some remote surf places around the island for anyone prepared to explore. Since the roads are not always roads, I recommend a 4—4-wheel and a local guide.

Things to plan for and take into consideration

The swell is on the heavy side; it is the same swell that has made South Africa one of the most epic surf destinations. So, La Reunion is loved by experienced surfers such as Rob Machado.

Sunstroke is a real concern; limit surfing to mornings and afternoons/evenings.

4. Namibia

Many surfers overlook African countries, but some of them boast epic empty waves and the possibility of long, uncrowded surf sessions.

All you have to do is book a ticket and all those gorgeous uncrowded waves can be yours. Namibia, home to the legendary Skeleton Bay, is the most popular African surf destination. In this uncrowded surf destination, it is still possible to score empty lineups.

If you are a beginner

Visit from November to March for smaller waves.

The price of a room in a surf house

If you are also a remote worker, there is no better place than this Coworking.

Have a private room for US$ 1600 or stay in a dorm for US$ 600.

Price of a local meal

Prices for a local meal start at US$ 5.

When to go

The most consistent months are April and May. The winter is generally considered the time to go, but there is some swell even in summer; it all depends on your experience and what you are looking for.

Where to start

The Swakopmund area is the primary surf destination in Namibia and where you should start your African adventure looking for uncrowded waves.

After this ”soft” start, venture out and explore this strange land where the desert meets the ocean.

Why should you visit Namibia when looking for uncrowded surf?

This is the perfect destination when you want to push your surfing as well as experience something new.

Things to plan for and take into consideration

Well, it is off the beaten track, so expect to go camping when searching for waves outside of the Swakopmund area. The desert landscape has a raw beauty that is original and impactful.

A surf safari is one of the best ways to discover your own treasure box of waves. 

5. Andaman Islands, India

This surf destination is one of those rare gems, truly off the beaten track, often recommended in this kind of lists. And even though I wanted to be original, I still had to include it.

It’s been a dream destination of mine for 20-plus years.

The Andaman Islands are located between Thailand and India; it belongs to India. You can visit by boat, but it is a long journey, so the easiest way is to catch a flight from mainland India.

The price of a room in a surf house

Rooming around booking.com, I found some truly affordable options for US$ 30 and some high-end options that looked straight out of a tropical paradise dream.

Price of a local meal

Delicious curry for US$ 5. Do consider that everything has to be produced on the islands or shipped a long way.

When to go

March to May.

Where to start

From Port Blair, you can hire a local boat guide to take you to some of the more remote spots.

Kumari Point is the most well-surfed spot on the island.

Why should you visit the Andaman Islands when looking for uncrowded surf destinations?

I’m not going to lie; it will take some planning to get this surf trip right. But it will be the very one trip you remember on your deathbed. That single time when you went all in to have an experience that not many people get the chance to have.

If you love researching your surf trips, this one will put your best skills to good use.

Things to plan for and take into consideration

There is a reason this is such a top contender for best uncrowded surf breaks around the world. The surf breaks on Andaman are fickle and the session is short. You need to know what to look for.

Some of them are hard to reach since there is not much infrastructure.

6. North Portugal

Living in the surf haven of Ericeira, I know all about crowded surf spots. But the thing about Portugal is that the North is so freaking uncrowded. I visited Espinho in the peak of summer, and the main break was not even crowded. (In Ericeira, 20 people were taking off in every wave.)

(If you still insist on coming to Ericeira and looking for uncrowded breaks, I’m happy to assist.)

If you are a beginner?

Do come in the summer; the waves are small and gentle. 

The price of a room in a surf house

You can find good cheap apartments on booking and Airbnb. Portugal also has great dormitories. For US$ 20 you can find something. Or come and stay with us at Villa dos Irmãos.

Price of a local meal

When you finish surfing, have an arroz the Marsico for US$ 15. In the north, you can find Prato do dia for US$ 10.

If you are on a budget, the local chicken places will feed two people for less than US$ 20.

When to go

The trick to a successful Portugal trip is to pick the right month and have a bit of luck. October is the best month. September is the second-best month. You can also be lucky during the spring. August and the general summer are less windy but also have smaller swell.

Where to start

I would explore the whole stretch of coast, from the border of Spain down to Peniche. It’s the perfect surf road trip destination since the distances are very small. Some surf breaks are just 30 minutes apart.

Staying in Porto and doing day trips to different surf breaks, depending on the conditions, is another good idea.

Why should you visit North Portugal when looking for uncrowded surf?

There are lots of coastlines to explore. Breaks are suitable for all levels, and there are both beach breaks and point breaks. The surf breaks are easily accessible and work consistently during the “surfing months.”

Things to plan for and take into consideration

The Atlantic Ocean is surprisingly forceful; never enter a beach without checking with the lifeguard or the locals first. If no one is surfing, the conditions are probably not good.

Ripe tides are strong in Portugal. Always seek the advice of locals.

7. The Philippines

<p>You might not expect the Philippines to be on a list of the best uncrowded surf destinations around the world, but this destination has still managed to fly under the radar compared to more well-known surf destinations.

The reason is that the waves in the Philippines are fickler than Bali and Sri Lanka. But there are also plenty of swells coming in and lots of waves to score.

Make sure that your travel itinerary is flexible since you never know where the swell might show up.

The price of a room in a surf house

You can have a dreamy room or bungalow for US$ 20. This is the “most surf for your bucks” kind of destination.

If you are a beginner?

The Philippines is perfect for anyone who wants to learn how to surf. There are many breaks with mellow waves. The warm water and paradise scenario will make you never want to leave.

There is a good digital nomad scene in Siargao with yoga, trekking and cool parties. Bring your laptop and beprepared to exstend your stay.

Price of a local meal

Local food is around US$ 5.

When to go

The official season is the summer months, April through September. But we heard a lot of people who say it’s good in the winter as well. Just expect smaller waves.

Where to start

The Philippines is one of those places where studying the forecast really pays off. But you should start at Siargao, which is the top surf destination. There, you can try to find out information about more secret spots.

Things to plan for and take into consideration

From December to March, the swell hit the other side of the Philipines, with famous surf destinations La Union and Zambales firing up. But as mentioned, the surf forecast for the Philippines is more unpredictable than Bali and Sri Lanka, so it is better to just go and follow the tips from other surfers.

8. Senegal

If you have watched the first Endless Summer, you know that the guys kicked off their search for uncrowded surf breaks by landing in the capital of Senegal: Dakar.

You can follow the same procedure on your own treasure hunt. Many things have changed, but the place where we go looking for waves has not. Let’s discover Senegal as a surf destination.

If you are a beginner

Yes, Senegal is one of those surf destinations where a beginner can have fun and learn a lot.

Price of a local meal

You can find tasty local food for around US$ 5.

The price of a room in a surf house

For lots of local tips and good community, check out Ngor Island Surfcamp.

Otherwise, the price is around  US$ 40 for a simple double room.

Where to start

Most well-known and great waves are located around the capital, Dakar, so once you fly in, you don’t have to embark on a long journey.

Why should you visit Senegal when looking for uncrowded surf?

Senegal is one of those “surfing secrets.” The waves are amazing (same quality as Portugal and Morocco), with consistent swell both in the winter and in the summer.

Things to plan for and take into consideration

You might think Senegal sounds a bit dangerous, but it is actually a country with a stable political situation and one of the safest countries in Africa.

One big perk of visiting Senegal is that the local surfers are very welcoming and happy to share their waves. So, if you hate localism, this country should be next on your list.

The summer (April-September) is the rainy season, but since the waves are smaller, this time is better for beginners.

9. Fiji

Are you dreaming of Hawaii but not sure if you will ever have the funds?

Or if you really want to paddle for the same waves as some of the world’s best surfers? A paddle battle you are sure to lose.

Fiji is Hawaii on a budget. The same waves (well, kind of,) the same majestic nature. Waterfall, green mountains, and golden sunsets are what make Fiji magic.

For beginners?

Yes, don’t worry; there are plenty of beginner-friendly breaks.

The price of a room in a surf house

Fiji Beach house for around US$ 60 seems perfect. There is even a pool.

Or this splendid surf resort, Maqai. What a dream vacation.

If you are interested in a surf camp, check out this one, Endless Summer.

Price of a local meal

US$ 10-15

When to go

March to October is considered to be the main season, with bigger swells rolling in. But the breaks are so good, you really don’t need any huge swells. The winter season (summer in Fiji) (October-March) is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to improve. 

Where to start

There are three main surf places to choose between: Mamanucas, Coral Coast, and Taveuni. You will be spoiled for choices.

Why should you visit Fiji when looking for uncrowded surf?

Doing research about Fiji, I’m surprised it doesn’t attract more attention from the surfing crowd.

Sure, there are plenty of luxury resorts, but everyday life in Fiji, once you step out of the resorts, is actually cheap. Maybe it is the long flight that keeps the crowds away?

Because the surf is a tropical dream and there are so many waves, you are bound to find uncrowded surf.

Things to plan for and take into consideration

Well, Fiji is a dream, but the flight there does come with a price tag. Start saving. Just like any pricier destination, you can save money by cooking your own meals and staying in hostels.

Mosquitos are a bit of an issue in Fiji, so bring your strongest repellant.

Bring booties since most breaks are reef. Also, many of them are accessed by a short boat trip, so be prepared for this.

10. El Salvador

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Searching for other people’s recommendations for uncrowded surf destinations, most people recommended El Salvador.

The reason behind this was that El Salvador has suffered a lot of civil unrest over the last 30 years.

Most people would avoid El Salvador simply by the fact that it doesn’t feel especially safe. But safety has majorly improved over the last five years, and both tourists and surfers have returned. And you should book your ticket to be among them and soak up this revival of a classic surf destination.

For beginners?

There are plenty of opportunities for beginners. El Salvador is a nice place to learn to surf. There are also many well-priced surf camps.

The price of a room in a surf house

Get some friends together and rent a surf house with a private swimming pool.

Hunt around, and you can find a nice room for US$ 800 a month.

Price of a local meal

Simple, popular dishes start at US$ 2 (Sometimes even less, vamos.)

When to go

May through to October is the peak season with the biggest swell. But for beginners, the winter is equally nice with chest-high mellow waves and pleasant weather.

Where to start

Start finding out what surfing in El Salvador is all about in El Zonte. Learn about local conditions before you start exploring more uncrowded alternatives. Finding uncrowded spots is always about “live the search.” The more you learn about conditions, the more you can make informed decisions about where to go.

Why should you visit El Salvador when looking for uncrowded surf?

Right now, El Salvador is safe. But looking at the past 20 years, different problems have kept the tourists away, and some traveling surfers have scored unbelievable uncrowded waves as a result.

You just have to sit back and wait for the next political setback or natural disaster; that’s when you can really score 😉

Things to plan for and take into consideration

El Salvador is in many way a perfect surf destination. Cheap, easily accessible breaks and a great surf culture.

Don’t bring any values, never walk alone after dark, and listen to the advice of the hostel owners.

Final words about the best uncrowded surf destinations around the world

There is only one strategy to find uncrowded surfbreaks: to talk with locals. They know when the conditions are favorable for a particular break.

The other tip is that the longer you stay in a country, the more you learn. After a while, you will be the one showing new surfers around.

Keep on chasing the waves

The third tip is just to keep surfing. My most uncrowded moments of surf have been partly because of luck. You go to your favorite break 100 times, and one of those times, it is, for some unexplained reason, completely empty.

Here in Ericeira, Saturday evening and Sunday evening are particularly good, especially in summertime when it doesn’t get dark until 9.

Epic breaks usually have less well-known spots around them that attract fewer people. Everyone knows about the famous breaks, but the less famous ones are less good and also much more uncrowded. But when the conditions are right, the become amazing in their own right. That’s how you score.