Best Surfing Spots in Asia

Recently on our blog, TOAD gave a rundown on the seven best surf spots in the World. Besides those heavenly locations, however, there are lots of great breaks in Asia, which are definitely worth a visit!

Due to its massive size, the continent is connected to numerous bodies of water, making it home to many coveted surf spots.

We hope you enjoy our list of six of the best surf spots in Asia that are well worth the trip!

Indonesia

Kuta and Uluwatu, Bali

Bali is one of the most popular places tourists go to for the beach in general, and its coastlines definitely attract surfers as well. Both Kuta and Uluwatu offer glassy waves catering to surfers of all levels.

Kuta offers a 3 km stretch of surf breaks, with amazing parties during the night. Surfers and tourists are always guaranteed a good time.

(Source: Almost Landing Bali)

Almost Landing Bali suggests visiting Uluwatu’s 5 km stretch if somewhere more peaceful and pristine is desired. It offers peaks and waves that are just as gorgeous, with the promise of a bit more serenity.

Find the Spot

Kuta is only a 15-minute drive or cab ride from Ngurah Rai International Airport, and it’s located on the west coast of Bali. Uluwatu, on the other hand, is on the south coast of Bali, which is 30 to 45 minutes away from the airport.

Philippines

Cloud 9, Siargao Island

Another country famous for pristine beaches, the Philippines is home to plenty of surf spots in its islands.

While there are other beaches with breaks worth chasing after in Siargao, Cloud 9 is deemed as the most popular. It’s known for its hollow and thick waves which are sought by many surfers from all over the globe.

Cloud 9 holds a surfing competition called the Siargao Cup every year, and both local and international surfers can join. The Travel Magazine suggests going from August to November when waves are usually the biggest.

(Source: http://caragaregion.com)

Find the Spot

Cebu Pacific Air has direct flights to the island’s airport. Alternately, you can go to Manila and take a domestic flight to Siargao City. Afterwards, surfers and tourists are taken via boat or ferry to the island.

Japan

Shikoku Island

Japan may not be one of the first countries that come to mind when it comes to surf spots in Asia, but it should definitely not be overlooked. Magic Sea Weed shares that Shikoku Island is hailed as the best region to surf in Japan for many reasons. Boasting beautiful swells, it attracts many tourists because of its ease of access and ideal beach conditions.

Besides surfing its gorgeous waves, Shikoku Island is an excellent spot to visit when on a hunt for a nature trip. It has a rural atmosphere and is less populated, which people appreciate. While travellers may not be able to spot surfing dolphins and other fascinating marine life forms that Entertainment Daily mentions were featured on Blue Planet II, the scenery will be enough to satiate the senses with its beauty. The best time to visit is June to November.

(Source: www.bikerumor.com)

Find the Spot

There are plenty of options in getting to Shikoku from Japan’s international airports, but the closest main air hub is in Osaka. You can then take a bus, train, or ferry to the island.

Vietnam

Bai Dai Beach, Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang is a popular location for surfing, and its coast offers vibrant nightlife and beautiful, clear waters. Many celebrities have even been spotted on its sandy beaches.

Go ASEAN points to its 20 km stretch as the reason why a lot of local and international vacationers frequent the place for surfing and day trips. Travelers are sure to find their own spot in the beach and enjoy privacy while still experiencing an urban ambiance.

Bai Dai is Vietnam’s longest beach (the secret’s in the translation of the name), and underdeveloped, so you’ll find plenty of secluded spots to surf. The surf is best through the Winter.

(Source: http://www.goasean.com)

Find the Spot

Bai Dai beach is around 20 km south of Nha Trang. It’s advisable to take a rental car so that exploring the expanse of the beach is easier. Drive along the coastal road in the direction of Cam Ranh International Airport. A big sign welcomes the guests, and admission is free.

Thailand

Kata Beach, Phuket

Hailed as the Southern Mecca of Phuket Island, Kata Beach is one of the country’s most popular destinations for surfing. Packed with a lot of people, this beach has an eternally friendly and festive vibe. From surfing equipment and souvenirs to lessons, it has everything beginner surfers could possibly need, and there is even an area where people can practice surfing via artificial simulation.

Surfers who frequent the place prefer venturing to the southern part of the beach, aptly called Kata South, as this is where the bigger breaks show up. Amateurs who are ready to take their surfing skills to the next level may also join yearly surfing competitions. December to February is the ideal time to visit.

(Source: http://www.goasean.com)

Find the Spot

From the airport, there are buses that take tourists near the beach. Afterwards, most of the accommodation establishments are accessible via a short taxi or Tuk Tuk ride.

Sri Lanka

Narigama Beach, Hikkaduwa

Even though Sri Lanka is smaller than some of the countries in this list, it has made a lasting impression in the surfing community in terms of break size and beautiful beaches. Narigama Beach is one of the most popular destinations, as its waters are always in near perfect temperature, a good balance between warm and cold.

The waves are usually big, which call out more to seasoned surfers than beginners.

Because of the geographical location of Sri Lanka, Nerd Nomads notes that surfing is pretty good year-round depending on where you go. Surfing is best from October to April in the south and west coast, while May to September is ideal for the north and east coast.

(Source: http://cirquelingtheworld.com)

Find the Spot

It is best to ride a taxi from the airport to Narigama Beach. If renting a car, head south of the national road that links Colombo to Galle. Narigama Beach is 5 km from Hikkaduwa.

Feeling excited to hit the waves? These surf spots will definitely not disappoint surfers of any level. Proper planning and timing for the trip will ensure an overall fun experience. As with any sport, practice any safety measures and be prepared for a day in the sun. And after hitting the beach, each country offers unique cultural experiences that will surely make for an unforgettable trip.