America’s Best Surf Spots

The Beach Boys coined the term “Surfin’ USA” with their ever so popular song in 1964. Exploring regions from California to Hawaii, we have named our favorite surf cities in the USA that not only offer great waves, but also amazing dining and activities.

Encinitas, California, USA

The charming town of Encinitas, California operates as a Mecca for surfers. With countless surf shops and unparalleled waves, a surfer will love the time spent here. We recommend stopping in at family-run Hansen’s Surf Shop to fulfill your surfer shopping desires. In addition, whether you are a surfer or not, Swami’s beach is a perfect place to spend your day. Time not spent at the beach should be spent in town. Downtown Encinitas is full of delicious Mexican restaurants like Juanita’s, whose fish tacos are worth the wait in line. After dining, head to Lou’s Records, an institution for SoCal vinyl lovers.

Recommended Restaurants: The Crack Shack, Morada
Recommended Lodging: L’Auberge Del Mar, Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

 

Haleiwa, Hawaii, USA

Haleiwa proclaims itself to be the surf capital of the world, as it is home to the sandy shores of Pipeline Beach – a locale where the waves do not disappoint, reaching as tall as forty feet. This small surfer community on Oahu’s North Shore stands proud as a perfect mix of preservation and bohemian personality. Brightly colored boutiques, restaurants, surf shops and galleries line the main street, Kamehameha Highway. For those looking for a real chill out, pay a visit to Matsumoto’s for a serving of shave ice doused in tropical-flavored syrups.

Recommended Restaurants: Kua’Aina, Café Haleiwa
Recommended Lodging: Halekulani, Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina

 

New Smyrna Beach, Florida, USA

This 13-mile stretch of sandy white beach on Florida’s Atlantic coast harbors major breaks. The town also offers both surfers and non-surfers alike a great variety of outdoor cafes to dine at, as well as shops to buy from. When you are at New Smyrna Beach, there is also a plethora of water activities that you can discover, including kayaking and paddle boarding. Those individuals who would opt to stay on land can enjoy great bike rides or relax on the pristine sand of the beach.

Recommended Restaurants: CorkScrew Bar & Grille, JB’s Fish Camp & Seafood Restaurant
Recommended Lodging: The Shores Resort & Spa

 

Montauk, New York ,USA

The coast town of Montauk in East Hampton on Long Island lures in the elite from Manhattan whilst also provides great waves, attracting laid-back surfers as well. Two great spots to catch killer waves are at Ditch Plains Beach and Turtle Cove. It is difficult to find a stellar surf on the East Coast, which makes Montauk a jewel for surfers. If you are not a surfer, there is plenty to enjoy about Montauk, such as several outdoor concerts, music events, shopping and unparalleled food and beverage.

Recommended Restaurants: Swallow East, The Gig Shack, Backyard
Recommended Lodging: Surf Lodge, Gurney’s

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