Best Beaches for Surfing in America Catch epic waves at these top surfing destinations! From beginner-friendly breaks to expert barrels, here's where to surf in the USA. ## West Coast Surf Meccas ### California Huntington Beach - "Surf City USA" - Consistent year-round waves - Perfect for beginners (south side) and pros (north side) - US Open of Surfing held here annually - Warm water (wetsuit recommended in winter) Malibu - Surfrider Beach - Legendary right-hand point break - Made famous by surfing movies in the 1960s - Best May-September - Can get crowded - arrive early Santa Cruz - Steamer Lane for experienced surfers - Cowell's Beach for beginners - Cold water - full wetsuit required year-round ### Oregon - Seaside - Beginner-friendly beach break - Cannon Beach - Scenic backdrop with Haystack Rock - Pacific City - Consistent swells ### Washington - Westport - Best surfing in Washington - La Push - Remote, powerful waves ## East Coast Surf Spots ### Florida Cocoa Beach - Consistent waves year-round - Home of 11-time world champion Kelly Slater - Warm water - no wetsuit needed most of year Sebastian Inlet - Best waves in Florida - Strong currents - not for beginners - Peak season: September-March ### North Carolina - Outer Banks - Cape Hatteras - Hurricane swells create massive waves - Nags Head - Family-friendly - Rodanthe - Featured in surf films ### New Jersey - Belmar - All levels - Manasquan - Consistent waves - Cape May - Less crowded ## Hawaii - World-Class Waves ### Oahu North Shore Banzai Pipeline - Most famous wave in the world - Expert only - extremely dangerous - Winter swells (November-February) Waikiki - Perfect for learning - Gentle waves, warm water - Longboard paradise ## Essential Surf Gear Beginner: - Softboard (8-9 feet) - Rashguard for sun protection - Wetsuit (check local water temps) Intermediate: - Fiberglass shortboard or funboard - Leash and wax - Booties (for rocky breaks) ## Safety Tips - Never surf alone - Always have a buddy - Know your limits - Start small, work up - Check conditions - Use surf forecast apps - Respect locals - Learn surf etiquette - Rip current awareness - Swim parallel to shore if caught ## Best Time to Surf West Coast: Fall/Winter (October-March) for biggest swells East Coast: Fall (August-November) for hurricane swells Hawaii: Winter (November-February) for North Shore, Summer for South Shore Gulf Coast: Year-round small waves, best after storms Find these surfing beaches and more in our beach directory or explore coastal beaches collection.