As much as we'd like to ignore it, money often comes in a way of things we love to do. And sometimes, our hobbies require a great amount of cash. If you like surfing, you already know that it may be expensive as well. A decent board, a good wetsuit, and most importantly, a good surfing location may cost you a pretty penny. Although catching the perfect wave can come with a high price tag, here are 5 budget-friendly travel options to the top surf destinations.
1. Chile
Chile is rapidly gaining popularity as a surfing destination in South America. Though there are tons of low-cost flights to South America, a trip to Chile may be time-consuming. If you’re neck-deep in studies, you can find people who always "write my essay for me" – save lots of time and prepare for the journey better. Catching a wave on Chilean beaches is an experience you don’t want to miss.
The Pacific coast offers a variety of high-quality surf breaks. Chile is an ideal destination for both new and advanced surfers. The waves are above-average and the cost of accommodation is relatively cheap. Plus, due to its remote location, the beaches are not overcrowded. Make sure to visit Pichilemu – it is considered the surfing capital of Chile. Multiple surf shops and schools, a relaxed atmosphere, and consistent waves – everything you need for a perfect surf break.
2. Portugal
Surfing in Europe is different from surfing in Asia or Central America, where the best surf spots are often located in remote areas. The best surfing destinations in Europe are easily accessible, with good infrastructure and reasonable distances between spots. Portugal is one of the countries with a well-developed surf movement in Europe. It is one of the sunniest countries with some of the best waves on the continent.
Compared to other European countries, surfing in Portugal can be really affordable. A great variety of surf camps, schools, and rental shops are available for a tourist on a budget. The cost of your trip, however, can vary depending on the time of year and specific surf spots you want to visit.
Regions such as North Porto, Costa da Prata, and Algarve are great to start exploring the country. Beaches in Lagos, Cascais, or Ericeira are perfect if you have low experience in surfing. In Portugal, you’ll find anything for any surfer, that’s for sure.
3. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka is a small island off the coast of India that is gradually gaining recognition in the surfing community. The island is an ideal location for surfing, with the east coast facing the Indian Ocean, and the west coast overlooking the Bay of Bengal. Both sides of the island have optimal surf conditions at different times of the year. The southwest is perfect during the winter and the east is great to visit in the summer.
Over the past ten years, surf culture has emerged in separate regions of the country, such as the Hikkaduwa and Galle regions. Main Reef is one of the coolest and convenient surf spots, with affordable accommodations located right on the break. You can rent a room for as low as $4-$15 per night. Sri Lanka is still relatively uncrowded, which makes it a hidden gem that is quickly becoming a world-class surf destination. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned surfer – Sri Lanka should be on your to-visit list.
4. Peru
Yet another country from South America is on the list. Peru is a must-visit location, not only because of its historical Inca ruins but also for its excellent surfing opportunities. With a coastline spanning over 1,400 miles, there is a wide range of every imaginable type of waves for you to surf. The Humboldt Current flowing along the coastline of Peru provides the country with year-round swells, warm water, and outstanding pointbreaks.
Peru is undoubtedly one of the cheapest destinations in South America. The local surf scene has not yet been fully explored, so you still have a lot to see and experience in Peru. From the Peruvian surfing lifestyle to freshly prepared seafood – none of it will exceed your budget. The most popular places to surf in the country are Mancora, Chicama, Cabo Blanco, and Lobitos. But it’s not them all – tons of spots are located along the country's vast coastline, you just need to find them out.
5. Angola
Africa may not come to mind at first when planning a surf break. Though other countries like Namibia or Morocco attract a lot of surfers from all over the world, people still often overlook Angola as a surfing destination. However, the abundance of excellent waves, relatively few local surfers, and extra cheap cost of living make it a perfect place, even for experienced surfers. The long civil war used to discourage foreign visitors, but now Angola is open for any tourists, including surfers.
Well, some lack of infrastructure can hold you off a bit, and you may have a little trouble with getting a visa due to strict regulations but the country is gradually changing for the better. If you don't have time to investigate the peculiarities of traveling to Angola – use some of the best essay writing services – save some time, and learn a bit about the country instead!
Besides, there are plenty of surfing spots in Angola that are still unexplored. Who knows, maybe you’ll be the one to discover them first?
Conclusion
Finding a decent and cheap place to go on a surf break sometimes may be hard. Hopefully, this list will help you with that.
Related Pages
- Surfing home
- Nutrition Guide for Traveling Athletes
- Surfing is part of the World beach Games, and also now part of the Olympic Games.
- Surfing equipment