The Best Places to Go Surfing in 2024
If you’re planning to cruise across the country in a camper van or RV to hit all of the best beach spots, then you may want to grab a surfboard. All around the country, there are some awesome places to catch a wave or two. There’s nothing like watching the sunrise over the sand dunes in Cape Cod or viewing the coastal landscape in Malibu while riding a wave. From beginners to experts, here are the best places in the U.S. to go surfing in 2024.
1. Cape Cod, MA
One of the best spots to surf in Massachusetts is the 65-mile peninsula known as Cape Cod—lined with sand dunes and surfers catching rides left and right. Not only is the seafood delicious and sunsets absolutely stunning, but the big swells, choppy seas, and long rides on waves attract surfers from all over. Take your RV here and check out spots like White Crest or Marconi Beach in Wellfleet, Ballston Beach in Truro, or Nauset Beach in Orleans. Be aware that Cape Cod is known for having Great White Sharks, so always be aware of your surroundings and track shark activity.
2. Kauai, Hawaii
As one of the best places in the entire world to catch some waves, mentioning an island in Hawaii is a must. Kauai, located in central Hawaii, offers everything from stunning rainforests and waterfalls to beaches with the best surf. While many professional surfers come here to surf the North Shore breaks, there are also plenty of places for beginners to get their feet wet. Check out Hanalei Bay, a two-mile curve that’s known for its beauty, or even Shipwreck Beach, known for its whales, shipwreck history, and wild waves.
3. Cocoa Beach, Florida
Known as being the surf capital of the East Coast, Cocoa Beach is an iconic spot to catch a break. It’s located on an island off the east coast of Florida and is known for its warm water, consistent swells, and variety of surf spots. Catch a wave at the popular Westgate Cocoa Beach Pier or head to 2nd Light Beach or Lori Wilson Park to avoid the crowds. Cocoa Beach is also the place where Ron Jon opened its first location and professional surfer Kelly Slater grew up and learned how to surf!
4. Huntington Beach, California
Located southeast of Los Angeles and officially known as Surf City USA, Huntington Beach is one of the most popular spots in the state to surf. It includes 10 miles of coastline, consistent swells, and a solid surf vibe. It includes several beaches that new and experienced surfers can check out. Explore spots such as the dog-friendly Huntington Dog Beach, family-friendly Huntington State Beach, or the stunning Sunset Beach for some outstanding surf breaks.
5. Little Compton, RI
Explore the small coastal town of Rhode Island for some relaxing surf time. This hidden gem is home to South Shore Beach, where surfers can catch big breaks before heading into town to the vineyards and wineries or to check out America’s oldest operating general store, Gray’s General Store. If you’re looking for a surf spot that’s off the grid, quiet, and where you can catch some gnarly waves, then Little Compton is the place for you.
6. Outer Banks, NC
Perhaps you recognize this town from the Netflix series Outer Banks. This seaside town includes miles upon miles of shoreline, so it’s no surprise that it’s a place where surfers congregate. Known as having the largest waves on the East Coast, those who live for riding waves are drawn to this place for its big swells that come from different directions. Check out several different surf spots in Outer Banks, such as Kitty Hawk for consistent waves, Carova Beach for bigger waves, or Nags Head, which has been surfed for decades.
Whether you’re an RVer who is new to surfing or experienced, there are so many places for you to enjoy getting out on a surfboard this summer. Explore everything from big swells on islands to small, beginner-friendly waves on the East Coast. In order to properly store surfboards in your RV, make sure to find practical ways to keep your RV organized.
See you on the road!