10 Best Beaches for Surfing in the US

Some of the best beaches for surfing in the US include Waikiki Beach, Venice Beach, Cocoa Beach, and Huntington Beach, offering consistent waves for all skill levels. But planning your next surf trip isn’t always as simple as picking a famous beach name. 

For anyone trying to find the right match, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the options. Some beaches look inviting but might pack heavy waves under the surface. Others are beginner-friendly on certain days and unpredictable the next.

So, where should you go, and what makes each spot worth your board and time? Let’s dive into the best beaches for surfing in the US and what makes each one stand out.

 

1. Waikiki Beach, Oʻahu, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic beginner-friendly surf beaches in the world. Located on the southern shore of Oʻahu, the waves here are slow, mellow, and incredibly forgiving—perfect for first-time surfers and those still mastering the basics. The consistent swells and sandy bottom create a safe environment, while numerous surf schools dot the shoreline ready to get you up and riding.

Despite being a global tourist hotspot, Waikiki remains a favorite for longboarding and laid-back wave riding. The best time to surf is typically during the summer months when south swells roll in regularly. While it’s not known for big, barreling waves like the North Shore, Waikiki’s charm lies in its predictability and accessibility—making it a top beach for learning and enjoying casual surf days. If you want your home to reflect that same relaxed surf energy, The Spirit Rack is a stylish way to display your board while keeping the aloha spirit alive in your everyday space.

 

2. Venice Beach, California

Venice Beach isn’t just about the boardwalk and skateparks—it’s a solid surf spot too. With consistent beach breaks and small to medium-sized waves, Venice is especially good for beginners and intermediate surfers. The vibe in the water matches the eclectic energy on land: laid-back, diverse, and always buzzing.

The break tends to work best on a west or northwest swell, with early mornings being ideal before the winds pick up. While not the place for massive waves, Venice makes up for it with accessibility and energy. It’s also a great place for longboarding, making it a staple surf destination in the Los Angeles area. After your session, keeping your board safe and dry is easy with The Sun Rack—a clean, coastal-inspired solution for storing your surf gear at home.

 

3. Huntington Beach, California

Dubbed “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach is the heart of Southern California surf culture. The beach stretches for 8.5 miles and hosts some of the best surf competitions in the country, including the annual U.S. Open of Surfing. Its dependable beach breaks and sandbars make it suitable for a wide range of skill levels, from aspiring surfers to seasoned pros.

With consistent swell all year round—particularly strong during the summer months—Huntington Beach’s pier and south side are especially popular spots. The town itself thrives on surf culture, with board shops, surf-themed eateries, and endless surf talk lining the coast. If you're serious about surfing, Huntington Beach is a must. To keep your gear organized and your wax clean and ready, grab The Wax Box from Living in Sunshine—a simple essential every regular surfer should have in their kit.

 

4. Surfrider Beach, California

Surfrider Beach in Malibu is legendary for its long, peeling right-hand point break. This beach is synonymous with the golden era of Californian surfing and remains a sacred spot for longboarders. The wave is slow and steady, perfect for drawn-out rides that allow you to perform classic manoeuvres.

The break works best during southern swells, typically in summer, and is divided into three take-off points—First, Second, and Third Point. Crowds are part of the experience, but so is the scenic backdrop and the classic surf vibe. Malibu is for those who appreciate wave style and length over intensity. To keep that coastal feeling with you even after the session, the Air Freshener Trio from Living in Sunshine brings beach-inspired scents into your car or home.

 

5. Rincon Beach, California

Located just south of Santa Barbara, Rincon is often ranked among the best point breaks in the continental U.S. The waves here are incredibly clean and offer long rides—sometimes hundreds of yards when the conditions are just right. Rincon breaks over cobblestones and is divided into three sections: The Cove, Rivermouth, and Indicator.

The best time to surf Rincon is during the winter months when west and northwest swells push in from the Pacific. It’s not ideal for beginners due to the technical take-offs and crowd intensity, but for advanced surfers, Rincon offers an unparalleled ride that can stretch down the entire beach on a good day.

 

6. Trestles Beach, California

Trestles, especially Lower Trestles, is a world-renowned surf destination known for its perfect waves and pro-level surf scene. The area includes several breaks (Uppers, Lowers, Middles, and Church), each offering something different. Lowers is the crown jewel—delivering consistent, high-performance rights and lefts that attract both top amateurs and world tour professionals.

Despite the 15-minute hike to reach the break, surfers are rewarded with glassy waves and minimal coastal development. Trestles is best during south swells in late summer and early fall, and while it's open to all levels, its popularity and wave speed make it most suitable for intermediates and up.

 

7. Montauk Beach, New York

Montauk, located at the eastern tip of Long Island, has evolved from a quiet fishing village into one of the East Coast’s most sought-after surf spots. The Atlantic offers consistent waves year-round, with fall bringing in strong hurricane swells that can rival those on the West Coast.

Surfing in Montauk ranges from beach breaks to reef breaks, and popular surf spots include Ditch Plains and Turtle Cove. The water can be cold, especially outside of summer, so wetsuits are a must. Despite its rise in popularity, Montauk retains a laid-back surf vibe and offers a solid scene for both local and visiting surfers.

 

8. Narragansett Town Beach, Rhode Island

Narragansett Town Beach is a standout spot in New England’s modest surf scene. This well-known beach break provides relatively consistent surf, especially during the hurricane season in late summer and early fall. It’s a great location for beginners due to the gentle waves and sandy bottom, and there are surf schools right on the beach.

Winter storms bring more challenging conditions for advanced surfers, and while it’s not world-class in size, it has earned a loyal following for being reliable and friendly. Narragansett also offers a scenic New England backdrop, making surf sessions here especially picturesque.

 

9. Cocoa Beach, Florida

Cocoa Beach is Florida’s surf capital—and the hometown of famous surfing legend Kelly Slater. This Atlantic Coast gem offers consistent, smaller waves ideal for learning to surf. The beach break is soft and forgiving, making it the go-to destination for beginners and families alike.

During hurricane season, the wave size picks up, offering more challenge for seasoned surfers. The pier and nearby breaks can be crowded, but there’s always a friendly, beginner-welcoming atmosphere in the lineup. With warm water year-round, Cocoa Beach is a reliable surf destination for all skill levels.

 

10. Ocean Beach, San Francisco, California

Ocean Beach is known for its powerful, often intimidating surf, and is best left to advanced surfers. Stretching for over three miles along the western edge of San Francisco, this beach gets strong swell exposure from the Pacific, especially during winter months.

The beach break is fast and heavy, with strong rips and chilly water. Despite its challenging nature, Ocean Beach is loved by locals for its raw energy and uncrowded sessions (thanks in part to how tough it can be). On a good day, it delivers hollow barrels and long walls—perfect for thrill-seeking surfers with the skills to handle it.

Keep the Ocean Spirit Alive

From the slow-rolling waves of Waikiki to the powerful swells of Ocean Beach, every surf spot offers a different kind of thrill. Picking the right one isn’t just about wave size—it’s about what fits your rhythm, skill, and lifestyle on the board.

At Living in Sunshine, we’re all about helping you stay connected to that lifestyle—on and off the water. Our surfboard racks and accessories are made for those who live and breathe the ocean, whether you’re riding daily or just want your space to reflect your coastal spirit. Have questions? Reach out anytime at contact@livinginsunshine.com  or give us a call at +1 (269) 533-7127.

 

FAQs

What time of year is best for surfing in the US?

Winter is best for surfing on the West Coast, especially in California and Hawaii, which are home to some of the best surfing spots in the US. The East Coast gets better waves in late summer to early fall due to hurricane swells.

Do I need to bring a surfboard to popular surf beaches?

No. Most major US surfing spots and beaches have rental shops that offer surfboards and gear, so you can surf without bringing your own equipment.

What are the best surf beaches for beginners in the US?

Waikiki Beach, Venice Beach, and Cocoa Beach are great places to surf for beginners. They offer gentle waves, soft bottoms, and nearby surf schools.

Can beginners surf at places like Trestles or Ocean Beach?

No. Trestles and Ocean Beach are better for advanced surfers due to strong waves and currents. Beginners should choose safer, softer breaks.