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Water travel Word Surf

You've come to our website, which offers answers for the Word Surf game. This webpage with Word Surf Water travel answers is the only source you need to quickly skip the challenging level. This game is made by developer Marul Games, who except Word Surf has also other wonderful and puzzling games.

More tips for another level you will find on Word Surf Level 8354 answers page.

Word Surf Water travel Answers

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Water travel Word Surf Answers

Greetings, player! You came to the right place, where all the answers for the Word Surf game are published. Looking for help? Need someone to help or just stuck on some level? Thank you very much for that! This simple page contains for you Word Surf Water travel answers, solutions, walkthroughs, passing all words. Just use this page and you will quickly pass the level you stuck in the Word Surf game. Besides this game Marul Games has created also other not less fascinating games.

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Water travel Word Surf Cheats

Simple, yet addictive game Word Surf is the kind of game where everyone sooner or later needs additional help, because as you pass simple levels, new ones become harder and harder. On this page we are posted for you Word Surf Water travel answers, cheats, walkthroughs and solutions. It is the only place you need if you stuck with difficult level in Word Surf game. This game was developed by Marul Games team in which portfolio has also other games.

More tips for another level you will find on Word Surf Level 451 answers page.

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The 11 Best Surfing Destinations in the World

TripSavvy / Chris VR 

Beach lovers who dream of escaping to a wonderful surf destination can choose from an abundance of locations across the globe. Be it the tropical, picturesque sandy coves of Hawaii to the lush jungles of Costa Rica and the quaint shore towns along Portugal’s coastline, there’s a special surf break out there for everyone—from beginner to lifelong shredder. Although all surfers may possess a different idea about the optimal places to paddle out, there are several beaches that are famous for their exceptional breaks, distinctive scenery, and unique role in surfing history. So when you’re planning a getaway to catch your own “perfect wave,” consider these world-class beaches.

Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

With the majestic Diamond Head State Monument as a backdrop, Waikiki beach is a legendary surf spot, as the beautiful turquoise rolling waves offer seemingly endless fun rides on longboards. It’s all about the waves in Waikiki, you can easily rent a board as soon as you step on the sand and you’ll be paddling out (and learning to cross-step) in no time at all. Experienced instructors (traditionally called “Beach Boys” here) offer lessons at Waikiki Beach Services in front of the Royal Hawaiian Resort or other locations along this notoriously busy beach. You can surf year-round in Waikiki without a wetsuit, and summer traditionally brings larger swells. The best part? Everything is close-by: hotels, restaurants, shops, and fun, casual beach bars for that refreshing after-surf tropical cocktail.

Maui, Hawaii

TripSavvy / Christopher Larson

The stunning Hawaiian island of Maui (also known as the “Valley Isle”) is a premier surfing destination offering an array of great places to catch waves—surrounded by palm trees, mountains, and crystal blue water. Home to several world-class surfing events that draw tons of avid fans, Maui’s biggest waves crash at Pe’ahi (famously known for the massive “Jaws” surf break). For casual surfers or to take surfing lessons, be sure to check out Goofy Foot surf school near the bustling town of Lahaina or Maui Surfer Girls at Ukumehame Beach Park. You’ll find Maui’s beaches to be magnificent, with tropical jaw-dropping scenery. 

Oahu’s North Shore, Hawaii

The island of Oahu ’s famous north shore is known far and wide in the surf community for its massive winter waves, and it’s the location for several major surfing competitions that draw pros and spectators from around the world. Annually from November to March, the waves at Banzai Pipeline and other area breaks are incredible and can reach well over 35 feet high. As such, only experienced surfers should hit the water in the winter. If you plan to go, start out early because this area gets a lot of traffic when the surf is pumping. In summer, however, the waters here are usually calm and mellow—ideal for a tranquil beach day with some snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding. Most north shore beaches offer some type of basic facilities, such as picnic tables, showers, and restrooms, but it’s best to check in advance.

Huntington Beach (Surf City, USA), California

Famously known as “Surf City, USA,” Huntington Beach is located about an hour’s drive south of Los Angeles and offers a big dose of the cool Southern California beach vibe that surfers and beachgoers crave. If you know your stuff, you can show off your expertise by paddling out by the pier near the center of town—or you can sign up for lessons at schools in the area. The ocean here is chilly, so plan to wear a wetsuit most of the year.

When you’re not hanging out on the beach, you can keep busy with a number of ocean-related activities. Check out some local surf shops to purchase your own board—and don’t miss the Huntington Beach International Surfing Museum for some fascinating surf history.

Punta de Mita, Mexico

Tranquil and rustic, with expansive beaches, the lovely Punta de Mita is a truly awe-inspiring coastal region in mainland Mexico. It's home to several popular surfing beaches with sapphire water and golden sand, including La Bahia (“The Cove”), Palmitas, and La Lancha, which is considered the most consistent wave in the area. This shoreline has breaks that are optimal for both long and short-boarders, so be sure to do a bit of research before choosing your location.

Situated about 40 miles from Puerto Vallarta , Punta de Mita is an ideal day trip that’s not far from the city —and lessons and board rentals can be arranged at a variety of local surf shops. To schedule lessons in advance or to get your specific surf questions answered, check out SurfMex .

La Jolla, California

Further down the California coast is the lovely, laid-back town of La Jolla, home of the famous “Windansea” surf break, a historical spot that’s steeped in surf culture. Although this wave is for experienced ocean riders only, it’s fun to admire the surf from the paved walkway that stretches above the beach, with access points tucked away in a residential neighborhood (though there are no facilities here). For those who wish to surf easier conditions, head to La Jolla Shores, an area on the northern part of town that’s beginner-friendly and features several places to rent boards and take lessons (including Surf Diva ). This area is usually crowded with shops and there are plenty of amenities, food stands, and restrooms.

TripSavvy / Chris VR

With over 1,000 miles of dramatic coastline, Portugal is home to several picturesque surf breaks up and down the stunning shore, providing an array of beaches that draw avid surfers all year long. From rugged and rocky ocean-scapes to wide sandy coves, Portugal is a fantastic destination for beach lovers and avid shredders. In winter, adventurous big wave pros head to Nazare, a town that’s famous for some of the largest and most powerful waves in the world. There are also a number of surf camps based throughout the country that caters to all levels, so it’s easy to find lessons on a beach that offers plenty of practice time.

Portugal's many surf towns offer something unique, and each has its own personality. One of the most well-known is Cascais, which is an easy train ride from Lisbon and can be reached within 30 minutes. Another picturesque area, Sesimbra, is also within driving distance of the city. Keep in mind the Atlantic Ocean is very chilly, so expect to wear a wetsuit even on sunny days during the summer months.  

Bali, Indonesia

Many surfers consider Bali to be the ultimate surf destination, as this tropical locale offers exceptional surfing year-round at 60 different left-hand and right-hand breaks. Overall, the calm, relaxed ambiance attracts surfers and beach lovers from across the world. For travelers, there’s an added bonus: Prices are budget-friendly, there are plenty of affordable guesthouses and local cafes, and you’ll meet many other passionate surfers of all ages from around the world. Bali’s lovely, aquamarine surf breaks are exceptionally beautiful, yet varied, so surfers of all levels will most certainly find their own favorite places here.

Surfers know why Costa Rica is often referred to as the “happiest place on earth.” This country boasts some of the best surfing on earth with waves crashing against golden sand and isolated beaches right next to lush rainforests. On the Caribbean coast, one of the more famous surf breaks is Puerto Viejo in the southeast, with its massive waves that are best during the dry season (November to April). One of the country’s best-known spots is Witch’s Rock, a favorite for beginners and intermediates that’s best from December to March. With a variety of surf camps (including many women-only surf camps), it’s easy to find a surfing beach that’s ideal for your lifestyle and level – and there are plenty of opportunities to advance your skills.

In northern Africa, Morocco is an exceptional year-round surfing destination, as it offers varied waves along its unique coastline that faces both northwest and southwest. October to April attracts surfers of all levels from around the world, but for those who are seeking larger, more powerful swells, it is best to go in the mid-winter season. Visitors adore the laid-back surf vibe in the coastal towns and keep returning for the vast selection of tranquil surfing beaches.

A few of the well-known challenging breaks are La Source, Safi, and Anchor Point. For beginners and intermediate surfers, Essaouira and Hash point are two of the more mellow spots. There are a number of shops along the beach that rent boards. The water is cold here so a wetsuit is a must, even in warm weather,

Bondi Beach, Australia

 Kokkai Ng / Getty Images

One of the most legendary surfing beaches in Australia is the world-famous Bondi beach. Situated about 4 miles from the center of Sydney, it’s a major tourist attraction and often the first stop when visitors arrive in the city. It’s also a favorite for locals, too. With jaw-dropping views, crystal-blue waves (with lefts and rights), and a consistent swell year-round, it’s no surprise that Bondi draws passionate surfers who wish to catch waves at this iconic warm-water destination throughout the year. In addition to the surf and sand, Bondi is also famous for the lively culture, as it’s home to bars, restaurants, boutique shops, food markets, and lovely hiking trails.

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The Best Places to Surf Around the World

By Ali Wunderman

Surfing made its Olympic debut this year in Tokyo , showing the world just how a challenging the sport is. But even with its new global platform, surfing maintains its laid-back, adventurous culture—which, for many surfers, comes with the urge to chase and conquer the best breaks around the world.

When heading out on surf trip, either as an experienced surfer or someone trying the sport for the first time, there are plenty of factors to consider—the best wave-chasing getaways aren't just about the conditions. Olympic silver medalist Kanoa Igarashi says when it comes to picking a surf destination, his priorities are, in order, “food, culture, and then waves.”

With nearly 400,000 miles of oceanic coastline in the world, there is no shortage of great places to take such a trip. Some destinations are known for their surf culture, while others offer worthy breaks that few people know about (don’t expect the pros to give up the really good spots, though). Whether you’re looking for challenging waves in close proximity to great restaurants or simply want to build your skills in a scenic new setting, these are some of the best places in the world to take your next surf vacation.

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Bribie Island, Queensland, Australia

Best for: City-loving surfers

An exploration of the world's best surf spots has to include Australia , where many legends and pros hail from—which makes sense giventhat the vast majority of the country’s population live along the ample coast. The waves here are legendary, as are many of the surf towns that have sprung up around them. One such example is Bribie Island, halfway between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast, and a favorite spot among Queensland locals. It’s the closest surf beach north of Brisbane, making it easy to explore the city’s famous art galleries and craft breweries once you've dried off. The best breaks here can be found at Woorim Beach, where swells average about three feet (though check the surf report before heading out: they can sometime get much larger). The best time to visit is between March and May.

Huntington Beach, California

Best for: Soaking up surf culture

There’s a reason that Huntington Beach is known as Surf City USA: It’s everything one would expect from a town created by and for surfers. The US Open of Surfing takes place in this sunny southern California town every September, thanks to waves that are some of the most consistent in the world, while also being challenging enough for the pros. After hitting the water, explore the sport’s history at the International Surfing Museum and check out statues of notable figures along the Surfing Walk of Fame. For friends and family that don’t surf and want to tag along, we promise sitting on the warm sand and watching the action in the water is plenty of fun. Afterward, pop into Pasea Hotel’s Aarna Spa for its new surf treatment—a scrub and massage designed to ease the aches brought on by a day on the water.

Watamu, Kenya

Best for: Combining surf and safari

African surfing destinations like Senegal and South Africa have gained worldwide recognition, but there are still many places along the continent's 18,950 miles of coastline that continue to be overlooked by travelers— Kenya is just one case in point. “If you want to go off the beaten path to a place that has the establishment to support you in terms of accommodation and restaurants, then Kenya would be the destination for you,” says Ben Kelliher, the Kenyan-born owner of Tribe Watersports in Watamu. This spot, which is considered best for experienced surfers, offers a rare chance to ride waves up to six feet tall along a coral reef. Kelliher says that a busy day on the 4.5-mile long beach will see 20 surfers in the water, when a similar destination elsewhere might have 200. Plus, the spot is only an hour-and-a-half drive from safari adventures in Tsavo National Park.

Tairāwhiti (Gisborne), New Zealand

Best for: Riding with the pros

Tairāwhiti, also known as Gisborne, is a region on New Zealand’s North Island known for its consistent waves, pleasant weather, and friendliness to outsiders—it’s also a lesser-known alternative to the country’s surfing hotspot of Raglan, which makes Gisborne popular among professional surfers. "The East Coast of the North Island is a haven for offshore winds, calm seas, and good vibes,” says Kiwi surfer Ricardo Christie , a regular fixture among Gisborne’s breaks. That said, Christie, like many local pros, won't tell you exactly which spots are the best—he recommends checking out the diversity of waves along the coast, and keeping things low-profile: “Don’t go naming all the spots online,” he asks of visitors. 

Shannon McMahon

CNT Editors

Hannah Towey

Waikiki, Hawaii

Best for: The classic surf experience

Surfing’s origins begin at least as early as the 12th century in Polynesia , before the sport was modernized and popularized in Hawaii. To tap into that history, look no further than Honolulu’s Waikiki beach, with its gentle crescent shape and subsequently consistent conditions. Waikiki is scenic, too, with Diamond Head serving as a backdrop for surfers catching the turquoise waves of the Pacific. It’s a popular spot for first timers—link up with Faith Surf School to learn the ropes—but even experienced surfers flock to Oahu for their chance to surf the same waters as the original legends (if that’s you, know that you'll find taller waves at Ala Moana Bowls nearby). Stay at Moana Surfrider to take advantage of its beachfront position and impressive collection of surf memorabilia.

Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica

Best for: Beginners

Playa Hermosa is Central America’s first World Surfing Reserve , with a pristine white-sand beach offering consistent waves and a number of surfing schools that cater to novice surfers, like Costa Rica Surf Camp . In fact, along Costa Rica’s 900 miles of Pacific and Caribbean coastline are even more places to learn, plus challenging breaks for more experienced surfers, like Playa Tamarindo. Surfers agree the sport is in large part about connecting with the earth, which is Costa Rica’s specialty in all regards. “Surfing in Costa Rica is so special and unique it fills the ‘soul surfer’ within you,” says Brisa Hennessy, a Costa Rican native who provisionally qualified to represent Costa Rica at the Tokyo Olympics. 

Punta Borinquen, Puerto Rico

Best for: The sustainability-minded surfer

The Caribbean’s first World Surfing Reserve is a nearly five-mile section of the coast north of Aguadilla, Puerto Rico . It earned this title in 2018, protecting more than a dozen world-class surfing points—including Surfer’s Beach, Table Tops, and Survival Beach—from pollution and encroaching hotel development. Some of the Caribbean’s best surf can be found here, with certain breaks attracting serious surf enthusiasts from around the world. Stay at Surf 787 for an all-inclusive experience focused on surfing, including gear , lessons, and post-surfing massages.

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World’s 25 Best Waves and Surf Spots

For decades, surfers have been travelling around the globe, looking for the world’s best and most challenging waves. Whether it is in Indonesia, Australia, Hawaii or Mexico, many surfers now claim that they found the perfect wave.

Here are 25 of the world’s best waves and surf spots that should be on every surfer’s bucket list…

Try our unique WaveFinder search engine to find the surf spots that fit your needs!

Anchor Point, Morocco

Morocco is known for having several world-class right-hand waves along its coastline. One of them is Anchor Point, an iconic surf spot located near Taghazout , the country’s most popular surf town.

Anchor Point is a forgiving point break that can be surfed by all types of surfers as long as the swell isn’t too big. This long, perfectly peeling wave is hands down one of the best waves on the African continent and in the world.

Read our full surf guide to Taghazout, Morocco

Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

Jeffrey’s Bay is a series of several points which will sometimes connect to form an epic wave that can run for more than a couple miles. This wave requires a certain skill level to generate enough speed to make every section. More often than not, it will also offer a few barreling sections…not only is this Africa’s surfing mecca, but it is also considered as one of the three best waves on Earth by several pro surfers.

Read our full surf guide to Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa

Pasta Point, Maldives

This wave is a very consistent left-hander and also one of the best breaks in Maldives. Located on a private island near the capital city and its international airport, Pasta Point is a long, challenging and catches swells more than any other spots in North Male.

Read our full surf guide to the Maldives

Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii

The North Shore of Oahu is probably the world’s most iconic surfing destination. Not only is it the birthplace of several surfing heroes, it is also home to some of the world’s best surf spots. One of them is Pipeline, the deadliest, yet most amazing wave on this planet. This gem breaks consistently on a NW swell, generating perfect A-frame barrels. Experts only, crowds guaranteed.

Read our full surf guide to Oahu, Hawaii

Punta de Lobos, Chile

One of the world’s best left-hand waves, Punta de Lobos works from knee size to tow-in triple overhead. Located near Pichilemu, in Chile, this point break is a true gem of the South American continent.

In winter, conditions are very hostile with massive swells coming from the south Pacific producing gigantic waves and water temperatures being close to the freezing point. This is when big wave chargers thrive and score epic Punta de Lobos.

Read our full surf guide to Pichilemu, Chile

Skeleton Bay, Namibia

Skeleton Bay is often referred to as the world’s longest barrel. It may not be the most consistent wave, but when it’s on, it gives a hell of a show.

Every year, pro surfers go on strike missions to Namibia in order to get that crazy footage of a 45 seconds tube and simply enjoy the wave of a lifetime.

Read our full surf guide to Namibia

Superbank, Australia

One of Australia’s most popular (and most crowded) waves is Superbank, in Coolangatta, Gold Coast. This point break offers several high-quality sections with barreling potential and works most days of the year.

On a good day, this wave runs for a couple miles all the way from Snapper Rocks to Kirra.

Read our full surf guide to the East Coast of Australia

Pavones, Costa Rica

Located on the southern end of Costa Rica, Pavones is definitely one of the longest waves in Central America. This point break is usually not so busy compared to the rest of Costa Rica due to its remote location. However, on a good day, this principle doesn’t really stand and you can expect a good amount of surfers.

Here is our favorite surf camp in Pavones, Costa Rica

Mundaka, Spain

Mundaka is a dreamy point break with a few hollow sections allowing to either go straight down the line or stall in the pit for some cover, if desired.

This wave is considered as one of the best surf spots in Europe and works best from low to mid tide.

Honolua Bay, Maui, Hawaii

Honolua Bay is a true Hawaiian gem and a mythical wave. Located on Maui’s west side, this right-hand point break works consistently over winter and provides epic waves generally more suitable for experienced surfers due to its shallowness and power.

From the takeoff spot, several barreling sections will take you all the way into the bay for what will become a ride to remember!

Read our full surf guide to Maui, Hawaii

Cloud Nine, Philippines

Cloud Nine could be known as the Asian version of Pipeline and Backdoor. A short, punchy barreling wave that tends to get pretty heavy and scary on medium to large swells. Although swells rolling into the Philippines are not nearly as consistent and massive as what we see during a Hawaiian winter, Cloud Nine still works more often than not and offers epic rides to whoever adventure themselves to the island of Siargao.

Read our full surf guide to Siargao Island, Phillippines

Uluwatu, Bali

Our countdown wouldn’t be complete without a Balinese wave. This surfing mecca is home to some of the world’s most incredible and consistent breaks.

Uluwatu is one of the few amazing left-hand reef breaks that can be found around the Bukit Peninsula, located on Bali’s south side.

A fast and hollow wave that is very challenging, yet more forgiving than Padang Padang or Impossibles, for example.

Uluwatu usually has 3-4 peaks which can connect on larger swells and create a very long wall going on for a few hundred meters.

Read our full surf guide to Bali, Indonesia

Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

Arugam Bay is a small town located on the east side of Sri Lanka, away from all the big city noise. In the area, multiple point breaks provide nice and mellow waves, perfect for any levels of surfers.

Arugam Bay is the most accessible wave, being located right in the bay, just a short walk from town. Every other break, like Peanut Farm and Whiskey Point will require a scooter or car.

Read our complete surf guide to Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka

Teahupo’o, Tahiti

Often considered as one of the heaviest waves on Earth, Teahupo’o is a truly mesmerizing wave…

Not only is the wave itself absolutely unique, but the whole setup is just remarkable. A backdrop like no other, crystal clear water and a channel packed with boats and photographs, are all aspects that make Teahupo’o stand out even more.

Read our full surf guide to Tahiti, French Polynesia

Yo-yo’s, Sumbawa, Indonesia

Sumbawa is another great Indonesian island to visit on a surf trip with several world-class waves like Scar Reef, Super Suck, Lakey Peak and, of course, Yo-yo.

The reason why we make Yo-yo stand out from all these other great breaks is because of its consistency.

Known for being a swell magnet, Sekongkang bay catches every bit of energy coming from the south-west which means if there is swell, Yo-yo’s will work.

The wave itself is a punchy right-hander, which is already pretty rare in Indo (most waves in Bali, Lombok and Sumbawa are lefts) that provides a great setup either for airs, barrels or rail game.

Read our full surf guide to Sumbawa, Indonesia

Lance’s Right, Indonesia

Lance’s Right, also known as HT’s is one of the world’s most perfect and high performance barreling wave. Located in the Mentawai Islands, a real surfing paradise, Lance’s Right handles pretty much any swell and offers consistently clean conditions through the whole season.

HT’s should only be surfed by experienced riders as the reef is very exposed and sharp. In season, many boats can take you to the break and crowds will be a factor.

Read our full guide to the Mentawai Islands, Indonesia

Manu Bay, Raglan, New Zealand

First put on the map by the movie “Endless Summer” back in 1966, Raglan is now known as the surfing capital of New Zealand and one of the world’s best surf spots.

The main attraction in Raglan is Manu Bay, a long and consistent left-hand point breaking over smooth pebbles. On a good day, every point can link together from Indicators and Whale Bay all the way down to Ngaranui Beach.

Read our full surf guide to Raglan, New Zealand

Scorpion Bay, Mexico

In the dry heat of Baja California’s desert is hidden an absolute gem of a pointbreak…

On a normal day, Scorpion Bay has 4 to 5 distinct points and takeoff spots. However, when a decent-size swell lines up properly and hits Baja California’s coastline, this wave becomes one of North America’s longest point break.

Its remote location and lack of infrastructure also prevents it from being overcrowded. Definitely worth the trip…

Read our complete surfing guide to Baja California Sur, Mexico

Desert Point, Lombok, Indonesia

Desert Point is nothing less than Lombok’s best wave. A dreamy barreling wave with a respectable length that should only be attacked by experienced surfers as it requires speed and agility to simply make the ride.

Without these abilities, the sharp and shallow reef will literally eat your skin. Desert Point is without a doubt, one of the world’s best left-hand waves .

Read our full surf guide to Lombok, Indonesia

Soup Bowl, Barbados

Soup Bowl is a punchy right-hand wave located on the east side of Barbados, in the lesser Antilles. In the winter months, when good swells push in from the Atlantic, barrels are insane and very common. It is even one of Kelly Slater’s favorite waves in the world!

Read our full surf guide to Barbados

Rincon, California

Rincon is located near Santa Barbara and is arguably California’s best wave. This classic point break works on a westerly swell and is a truly mythical wave for its length and perfection. 

When conditions align, Rincon is considered by many people as one of the world’s best waves.

Cloudbreak, Fiji

Cloudbreak is a mythical wave located near Tavarua, a small island in Fiji. It has been hosting the World Surf League for a good period of time and is also a big strike mission target for professional surfers hunting the world to catch the best waves.

Cloudbreak is a fast and hollow reef break that works from 3 feet to triple overhead. It isn’t a very accessible wave for the common surfer due to its remote location but it definitely should be on every surfer’s bucket list. A once in a lifetime surf trip.

Read our complete surf guide to Fiji

P-Pass, Federated States of Micronesia

This wave is the reason why Pohnpei, in the Federated States of Micronesia, was first put under the surfers radar. Professionals started shooting this unbelievable right-hand barrel reminding everyone of the Hawaiian and Indonesian type of waves, with barely anyone out in the water. An actual dream, making it one of the best surf spots in the world.

Since then, regular tourists are starting to realize the potential of P-Pass and the surrounding breaks.

It surely is hard to get access to the waves, but the reward is astonishing.

Read our full surf guide to The Federated States of Micronesia

G-Land, Indonesia

G-Land is a classic Indonesian wave located on the island of Java that delivers stunning barrels all the way across its super long point. There are multiple sections and takeoff zones that connect on decent swells, most of which will offer great barrel opportunities.

On smaller days, G-Land can be attacked by less experienced surfers but it generally is a high-level wave.

Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Playa Zicatela, in Puerto Escondido is often referred to as the “Mexican Pipeline”. During the swell season, this spot becomes a massive beach break where chargers from all around the world rush to in order to catch one of those giant barrels.

During the slow season, families and beginners can even catch some waves either at the point or at any of the surrounding and more sheltered beaches.

Through the years, Puerto Escondido has built for itself a reputation of being nothing less than the Mexican surfing mecca and one of the world’s best waves.

Read our full surf guide to Puerto Escondido

Coxos, Portugal

For many people, Coxos is Portugal’s best wave. A heavy and challenging right-hander that works consistently on the NW swell throughout the year. It breaks on an exposed reef and should be kept for experienced surfers who know how to handle themselves in crowded spots.

Praia dos Coxos is located in Ericeira, a surf town close to Lisbon that was designated a World Surfing Reserve in 2011. 

Read our full surf guide to Ericeira, Portugal

Winkipop, Torquay, Australia

The legendary town or Torquay is home to one of the world’s most iconic surfing brand, Ripcurl. It also is home to Bells Beach and Winkipop, two very popular surf spots in Australia.

Winkipop is a decent point break that peels nicely and offers wonderful walls to set up carves and work on your rail game. Torquay also hosts the World Surf League every year for what became the oldest and most prestigious event on tour.

Read our complete surf guide to Bells Beach, Australia

• Adventure Travel

7 Best Surfing Locations in the World for Every Skill Level

Hannah Sorila (she/her) aims to align intention and impact in global education and education abro...

• Before You Go
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Has cold weather, a busy schedule, or feeling stuck in a routine have you looking for a break? Surf adventures may do just the trick! Take time out of your normal day-to-day to soak up the sun, and catch some gnarly waves. A surfing holiday is the perfect combination of vitamin sea, a new destination, and connecting deeply with nature and this beautiful world we live in. Nothing reawakens the soul like being one with the ocean. But... where are the best surfing destinations in the world?

Imagine spending international surfing day here...

Experiencing new cultures while simultaneously doing what you love—in stunning destinations nonetheless—is an incredible way to experience the world. You will be able to connect with fellow travelers and surfers, as well as the local communities who share a love and passion for the ocean. Being connected by the oceans wonder and power is a deep bond, no matter what culture you come from. Embrace each moment, and ride the waves during you international surfing adventure in the best surf travel destinations around the world.

Why are surf adventures the new kind of travel?!

Whether you are looking for a chill surfing holiday, amazing surf adventures, or the perfect way to spend international surfing day, packing your bags and catching a flight to an exhilarating new destination brings a whole new excitement to surfing. You get to experience new cultures while feeling the rolls of the waves in a new part of the world. What a way to interconnect vastly different places around the world. 

Nothing like enjoying the sun setting after the perfect day of riding the waves

You may experience some new languages during your international surfing adventures, but one of the cool things about surf culture, is that no matter where you are in the world, you’ll already have a shared language—the ocean. Riding waves feels like riding waves no matter where you are, but these are the best surf travel destinations for meaningful travelers. Period.

7 best surf travel destinations

1. Australia

It would be hard to imagine a list of the best surf travel destinations without the land down under. Australia is known for its beautiful beaches and gnarly waves. Popular Australian destinations to stay in while enjoying a surf holiday include Brisbane , Melbourne , Perth , and Sydney . Surfing in Australia is not a hobby, it’s a lifestyle. So much so, many surf innovations and brands originated along the Australian coast. People come from far off destinations to experience the waves of Australia. If you do the same, you won’t regret it!

• Pros: Surf alongside some of the best in the sport, or if you are a beginner, learn from the best in Australia.
• Cons: You cannot surf in northern Australia due to coral reefs, but that still leaves plenty of ocean for surfing.
• Recommended program: Australia Arrival Package with Welcome to Travel: Melbourne

2. South Africa

South Africa is a top travel destination for many. From its resilient people and culture, exciting safaris and wildlife, and incredible coasts—South Africa is one of the top surf travel destinations. By traveling to the Rainbow Nation, you’ll be surfing where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic. South Africa’s temperate climate makes for perfect surfing conditions, especially for those just starting out. The beautiful sites and the beautiful culture won’t make for a bad trip either. Check out amazing surf adventures based out of Cape Town , Johannesburg , and Pretoria . 

• Pros: Has ideal surf travel destinations for beginners.
• Cons: There are so many exciting adventures in South Africa, going just to surf may feel like you’re missing out on the rest… because you are.
• Recommended program: Broadreach Summer Adventures for Students

3. Indonesia

As a country built upon more than 17,000 islands, you can imagine the influence water has on life in Indonesia. Such easy access to the ocean means it is an ideal location for surfing—and a beautiful one at that! Indonesia is described as a kaleidoscope of diversity in people, cultures, animals, and ways of living. Connecting with people within a kaleidoscope is a truly unique experience, and surf adventures in Indonesia bring you the opportunity to do just that. Bali is the ideal location for many travelers, including amazing surf adventures. Experience the rich and intricate culture, food, and landscapes of Indonesia, while getting to know it intimately through its oceans.

• Pros: Relax by nature in Indonesia through its biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and its beloved oceans.
• Cons: Weather is tempermental, which means that that surfing holidays may be postponed due to inclimate weather.
• Recommended program: Mojosurf Bali & Beyond

From the food, to the fiestas, and the palm-fringed beaches, Mexico is another top location for amazing surf adventures. Soak up the sun, learn the history and the language, and ride the waves. If you are looking for a quick getaway, Mexico is one of the best surf trip destinations! A quick plane ride later, you can be suiting up and feeling the motion of the ocean the same day! With lively jungles, volcanoes, and lagoons, and temples, museums, and mole, you will not be left disappointed—you’ll only be left wanting more!

• Pros: Close proximity, great for quick surfing adventures.
• Cons: You’ll fall in love with the beaches and the surfing, which will make it harder to choose other surf travel destinations in the future. 
• Recommended program: Learn Spanish and Surfing in Mexico! with Experiencia Puerto Escondido

Spain’s coast is known to be wild and awe-inspiring. Surfing adventures here are no different—adrenaline inducing and heart awakening. Spain’s passion and laidback lifestyle is the perfect combination for a surfing holiday. Whether you are looking for the charm of the Mediterranean, or the cliffs along the Atlantic northwest, Spain has many options for amazing surf adventures—no matter your speed. Plus, your down time will include siestas and sangria, and it’s hard to make any arguments about that!

• Pros: You will be rejuvenated and entertained in your (little) time spent outside of the water.
• Cons: You may feel a bit sore from all of the nightime Flamenco. Make sure to stretch it out before you hit the waves!
• Recommended program: Surf in Spain with Instituto Hemingway

Outside of exploring the lively Amazonian rainforest, Ecuador has some amazing opportunities for amazing surf adventures. Each day will be filled with cultural immersion, awe-inspiring natural wonders, and wildlife that will have you questioning, “what is that???” , many times throughout your trip. Your love for life, and other life forms, will expand immensely during your surfing holiday while you experience the excitement of the waves, the warmth of the people, and the uniqueness of the biodiversity. Ecuador will keep you on your toes, always wanting more.

• Pros: You can hop over to the Galapagos Islands to experience the life brought by the oceans wonders.
• Cons: Beautiful sunsets may get old after the sky is painted with watercolors night after night.
• Recommended program: Programs in Ecuador & the Galápagos - Putney Student Travel

7. United States

It cannot be denied that there are some amazing surf adventures awaiting surfers of all levels in the United States. Whether on the East coast or the West, you will find the perfect destination for your surfing holiday. No matter where you land, life will slow down once you reach the ocean. Spend your days riding the waves, and your nights soaking up the starry skies. Much is to be experienced along the coasts, so plan for surf hopping if it fits in your itinerary! 

• Pros: Close proximity, which may open up some flexibility in multiple surf trip destinations.
• Cons: If you are from the United States and want an international surfing adventure, staying Stateside may not seem like the most exciting option.
• Recommended program: Young Explorers: California Rush with Rustic Pathways

Browse ALL the Amazing Surf Adventures on GoAbroad.com

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We can hear the waves crashing along the shore already. Pack your bags and choose one of the many amazing surf adventures out there, because the waves are calling. If you are feeling a bit hesitant or less prepared than you should be, we’re here to help ! Your international surfing adventure will be the perfect change if pace and scenery. So catch a flight and then catch some waves, and then tell us all about it because we wish we could go too!

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The science of surfing

by Chris Woodford . Last updated: October 31, 2022.

S urfing is a cool way to spend a hot day—but there's much more to riding waves than just balancing on a board. Mastering surfing is all about mastering science: you need to know how waves travel across the ocean carrying energy as they go, and how you can capture some of this energy to move yourself along. Whether you're surfing or bodyboarding, riding a longboard or whizzing on a skimboard, you're using cool science in a very cool way. Let's take a closer look!

Photo: A surfer pulls off a 360° spin. during the US Open of Surfing. Photo by Adam Eggers courtesy of US Coastguard and DVIDS .

What are waves?

Waves are always the first thing you notice about the ocean. Except on very calm days, there are always waves skimming across the surface of the sea. What exactly are they doing there? We usually find waves in a place where energy has appeared. A basic law of physics called the conservation of energy says that energy can't be created or destroyed; it can only ever be converted into other forms. When energy suddenly appears, concentrated in one place, something has to happen to it. Usually, energy doesn't stay put: it tends to travel out in all directions to other places that don't have as much.

Picture: Energy likes to travel outwards! In that respect, the waves you see riding the ocean are no different from the ripples you make in a washbasin when you let single drops hit the water surface (which is what I'm doing here).

Think about a couple of familiar examples. Suppose you bang a kettle drum in the middle of a football stadium. As your arm beats the stick, you make the drum skin vibrate up and down with kinetic energy (the energy of movement). As the drum skin bounces back and forth, it produces waves of sound energy . These travel through the air, making air molecules vibrate in sympathy, carrying sound energy in all directions until it dissipates and gradually disappears. Something similar happens if you switch on a lamp in the middle of a dark room. This time, waves of light energy travel out from the lamp in all directions. Why can't you see sound and light traveling in the same way that you can see waves on the ocean? Sound travels at over 1000 km/h (600 mph)—so it is both quick and invisible. Light travels much faster than sound at 300,000 km per second (186,000 miles per second)—so it carries electromagnetic energy between two places virtually instantaneously. Even though you can see light, you cannot see it traveling.

Photo: The breaking wave behind this surfer provides all the kinetic energy that drives him forward. No waves, no energy, no surfing! Photo of surfer at Del Mar Beach Resort, California by Dylan Chagnon courtesy of US Marine Corps and DVIDS .

The great thing about ocean waves is that you can see them coming. If you're surfing, even fast-moving waves are slow enough to catch and carry you along. Try doing that with sound or light! The properties of an ocean wave are also very easy to see. You can estimate its amplitude (height) just by looking out to the horizon. Its wavelength (the distance from one wave crest to the next) and frequency (the number of waves that travel past in a certain amount of time) are also very easy to see.

If sound waves come from people beating drums, and light waves come from people switching on lamps, where do ocean waves come from? If you live in the northern hemisphere, far from the equator, you've probably noticed that there are more waves around in the fall (autumn) or spring than in the summer. In the UK, for example, there's most wind in the fall and winter—and that's usually the best time of year for surfing in places like Cornwall. Wind is important because it's what puts energy into the ocean: it makes ocean waves in more or less exactly the same way as you make sound waves when you bang the skin of a drum.

Make waves! (for younger readers)

Photo: Hurricanes aren't much fun if you're in the line of fire, but the energy they pump into the oceans is often great news for surfers. This is a satellite photo of the 200km/h (120mph) winds produced by Hurricane Isobel in September 2003, courtesy of NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory (NASA-JPL) .

It's easy to see how wind makes waves in this simple activity:

• Fill your sink or wash basin with a few inches of water.
• Bend down so you get as low as you can and as close as possible to the surface of the water.
• Take a deep breath.
• Blow as hard as you can directly across the surface of the water.
• You should see waves traveling over the water. If you keep blowing in a regular pattern, it's possible to send streams of waves—which look very much like ocean waves—across the surface.
• As the waves reflect back and forth in your sink, if you blow at exactly the right time, you'll find you can add more energy to the existing waves and make them bigger—and bigger. This is effectively how the wind keeps adding energy to ocean waves.
• Now imagine this experiment scaled up a few million times. Imagine your basin replaced by the Pacific Ocean and a gale-force wind replacing your breath—and you can see exactly how ocean waves are created.

Artwork: The wonder of waves—a Japanese woodcut by artist Uehara Konen. Courtesy of Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division .

What's the difference between wind swell and groundswell?

The waves that arrive at your beach are not necessarily created anywhere nearby. Back in the 1950s, an ocean scientist named Walter Munk conducted an amazing series of experiments with ocean waves. He managed to prove that some waves travel over 15,000 km (over 9000 miles) across the open ocean before they reach their eventual destination. [1] That's like traveling across the United States, from New York City to California, four times! Generally, the more widely spaced and the cleaner waves are when they roll up on the shore, the further they have traveled.

Waves like this are known as swell (or groundswell ) and they make the best waves for surfing. Groundswell is the reason you can have quite large waves washing up on your beach even when there's little or no wind blowing. Waves generated nearby (by winds blowing in the local area) are known as wind swell . They are usually choppier, smaller, messier, harder to surf, and less interesting to surfers than groundswell. Often the waves in a particular place are a mixture of groundswell and wind swell—a random collection of waves that have traveled from far away mixed with waves that have come a much shorter distance.

Photo: Small groundswell rolling in. Note how the waves are almost evenly spaced. The distance between one wave crest and the one following is the wavelength of the wave. These waves have a wavelength of about 15 meters (50 ft).

Why is groundswell cleaner than windswell? When the wind blows on the sea, it produces all kinds of waves of different wavelengths, frequencies, and speeds. As the waves travel, the faster waves gradually separate out from the slower waves. The further the waves go, the more chance they have to sort themselves into an orderly pattern. Groundswell has more time to get itself into shape than windswell. Eventually, the waves form into distinct little groups called sets : when they finally arrive at their destination, a little group of good waves will arrive at once. Then there will be a pause. Then the next group of waves will arrive a bit later.

When and why do waves break?

Swell is only one of the ingredients for great surfing. Surfers don't like any old waves: they want waves that peel (break gradually to the left or right along the wave crest) rather than close out (where the crest folds over and smashes to pieces all in one go). When a wave is peeling, you can ride back and forth across the crest as it slowly breaks; with a wave that's closing out, there's nowhere much to go. In surfing slang, waves that close to the right are called, not surprisingly, "righthanders", while left-breaking waves are "lefthanders". The angle at which the wave peels makes it more or less interesting to surf. The steeper the angle, the harder it is to surf and the more interesting moves you can pull.

Photo: Cross-purposes: This lefthand wave is moving in the direction of the red arrow but peeling in the direction of the blue arrow; so the surfer is moving almost at a right angle to the wave, as seen from overhead. Photo of surfer in Montecito, California by Carol M. Highsmith, courtesy of The Jon B. Lovelace Collection of California Photographs in Carol M. Highsmith's America Project, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division .

What makes a wave break... and peel rather than closing out? When water flows, in the ocean or in a river , its upper layers are traveling faster than its lower layers (indeed, the water is usually stationary on the ocean floor or on a river bed). Think about waves arriving at a beach. As they  travel from the open ocean to the shore, they move up a gradual sandy incline, and start to slow down. The bottom of a wave slows more quickly than the top. So instead of a wave moving forwards as one, we have a whole series of water layers sliding past one another, with the top layers moving fastest and the bottom moving slowest. A wave breaks when the top part of the wave goes so far over the bottom part that the wave can no longer support itself—so it completely collapses. A wave peels when this process happens gradually along the length of the wave rather than all at once. If you like, a peeling wave is breaking in two dimensions: along the crest of the wave as the wave advances up the beech or reef.

Photo: Two people surfing a peeling wave in Santa Cruz, California. A peeling wave breaks slowly and gradually along its length inside of "closing out" or "dumping" (where the whole length of the wave breaks in one go). Photo by Carol M. Highsmith , The Jon B. Lovelace Collection of California Photographs in Carol M. Highsmith's America Project, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division. .

Waves can break in many different ways, and that largely depends on the profile of the seabed underneath them (known as the bathymetry ). All waves will break eventually, but major features like rock or coral reefs, ledges, and sandbars will make one side break before another, causing waves to peel. Nearby groins (sea fences), piers, and jetties can also make waves peel. Different shapes of reef produce different breaking effects. Over the last few decades, surf science has become advanced enough for engineers to start designing artificial reefs . Rocks or ballast are buried at a key point offshore to give the waves a helping hand in breaking and peeling early in places where they might otherwise simply close out.

Swell and bathymetry are not the only things that affect the quality of your surfing. How the wind is blowing on your beach will make a big difference too. Waves are obviously always traveling from the open ocean towards the beach, like scaled-up versions of ripples on a pond, but the wind can be blowing in any direction. If the wind is blowing directly out to sea, it is known as an offshore wind. As it blows, it will naturally tend to prop up the waves, stopping them from breaking so quickly, cleaning out some of the smaller choppier waves, and making the waves finally break with greater intensity in shallower water. A combination of strong ground swell and a light offshore wind is always best for surfing, especially if the wind has been blowing for a few days (both to create groundswell and to give it time to travel to your beach). If the wind blows in the opposite direction, so it is onshore , it will make the waves collapse much too soon—spoiling your fun! A strong wind that is blowing directly onshore (at right angles to the beach) can produce a very random, choppy sea that is impossible to surf, but fun to mess about in with a bodyboard.

Why do you have to paddle?

Science (and physics in particular) can explain most of the strange things you'll notice when you're riding along on your surfboard. Questions like why you have to paddle...

Whether you're on a surfboard or a bodyboard, if a great wave is heading towards you, you have to paddle like mad to be able to catch it. In other words, you have to be traveling with some speed and momentum as the wave hits you to stand any chance of riding along with it. Why is that? To travel with a wave, you have to accelerate to the speed it's traveling. In other words, you have to gain a certain amount of kinetic energy very quickly. If you've already got some kinetic energy to start with—if you're already moving when the wave catches up with you—it's much easier for the wave to accelerate you a little bit more. Or in simple terms, the faster you paddle, the more likely you are to catch your wave.

Why can small kids ride small waves?

Have you noticed how young kids can ride almost any waves—but older ones can't? It's back to momentum again. To move you forward, a wave has to give you a certain amount of momentum and energy. Both of these depend on your mass (how much "stuff" your body is made from). The bigger you are, the more energy you need to travel at a certain speed. So the older and bigger you are, the bigger the waves you need for surfing—because bigger waves can supply you with more energy. If you're younger or smaller, you need less energy to move at the same speed, so a smaller wave will do the job.

Why do waves suck you backwards?

At school you learn about two kinds of wave. There are waves like sound, which travel by a sort of push-pull process, making patterns of alternately squeezed up dense air (compressions) and thinned-out, less-dense air (rarefactions). Sounds wave are called compression waves ; they're also called longitudinal waves , because the air molecules that carry sound energy move in the same direction as the wave travels. Then there are waves like light that travel in a familiar, up-and-down pattern. These are known as transverse waves , because they vibrate at right angles to the direction in which the wave travels.

But ocean waves are not like the waves you learn about at school. They move the water surface round in circles as they travel along. Watch a seagull sitting on the ocean as a wave approaches. The gull is sucked backwards up the front of the wave, lifted onto the wave's crest, pushed forward as the crest passes by, and then lowered down to pretty much the same place it started off in. This happens because ocean wave energy is not traveling purely on the surface of the ocean: it also affects the layers of water underneath. You'll have noticed this sucking effect if you've ever caught waves on a bodyboard. As you lie on the sea surface, you'll feel yourself being pulled backwards as a wave approaches. This is another reason why you have to be paddling forwards to catch a wave. If you're not paddling forwards, you're definitely going to get sucked backwards!

Photo: Layers of water slide past one another at the shore. At the top of the beach, water is sucking back down into the sea. Just offshore, a small wave is breaking inwards and up the beach. In between, another small wave has just broken and is coming to a halt. There are at least three layers of water sliding over one another here. In these calm conditions, the liquid layers are moving in what physicists would call laminar flow .

Why does a surfboard have a curved front edge?

Photo: The curved front edge of my Manta bodyboard. If I lay this board down on a flat floor, it has a very noticeable—amost banana-like—curve to it.

Everything from the biggest ocean liner to the smallest surfboard has a curved front edge. Why? If you push a curved edge over water, the curve makes water travel more quickly underneath than on top. This generates an upward force called lift that moves you up and slightly out of the water—an effect called planing . Because you're partly out of the water, there's less drag (water resistance) and you go faster. You can see planing happening on almost any boat as it picks up a bit of speed. With a hydrofoil—a kind of "surfing boat"—the planing is so spectacular that the entire craft lifts up out of the water. The same science is at work on a surfboard, only not quite so dramatic!

What about tides?

Photo: Low tide with offshore wind and a small groundswell. Even if you could catch "waves" this small, science tells us they have too little energy to take you anywhere. This water's definitely not for surfing, but you might get a few short rides on your boogie board if you're really lucky. Not that it matters. These guys are having more fun in the water than I am taking their photo: the number one rule of surfing is that there's always more fun in the water than watching from the beach.

Why wear a wetsuit?

The synthetic rubber traps water next to your body, which provides a useful layer of insulation to keep you warm. Read our article about wetsuits to find out more.

Can science make you a better surfer?

Of course! It won't make you stand on the board any better. But if you understand what waves are, how they are made, and where they come from, you'll have a much better idea of when the surf's going to be up. And if you can predict when the waves are ready to ride, you're halfway there already. If surfing is a quest for the perfect wave, science can at least point you in the right direction. It might not make you a better surfer, but it certainly won't make you any worse!

Who invented the surfboard?

Artwork: A sketch of Tom Blake's hollow, internally reinforced surfboard from his US Patent: 1,872,230: Water Sled , with colors added for clarity by me, courtesy of US Patent and Trademark Office. The internal skeleton of the board is colored red. As Blake's patent notes, the main advantages are this design are high buoyancy, low weight, and low cost.

If you liked this article...

Find out more, on this website.

• Science of sport

More surf science articles by me

• The Energy in Waves (July 2015). Explores where waves get their energy from, what makes the biggest waves, and estimates how much useful energy there is in a wave.
• The Wonder of Wetsuits (December 2012). Why do we need wetsuits for cold-water surfing? How do they work? Who invented them?

On other websites

• The Science of Surfing Waves : A more technical review from scientists at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
• Waves : A great guide to basic wave physics from the University of Salford (including lots of easy-to-understand animations). This site is mainly about sound waves, but a lot of the same physics applies to ocean waves.

Wave science

• Surf Science by Tony Butt. Honolulu, Hawaii: University of Hawaii Press, 2014. This is a very clear, simple introduction to wave and surf science, well illustrated with good color illustrations and photos.
• The Surfer's Guide to Waves, Coasts, and Climates by Tony Butt. Alison Hodge, 2009. A more general look at waves than you'll find in Tony's Surf Science book.

Oceanography

• Essentials of Oceanography by Alan P. Trujillo and Harold V. Thurman. Prentice Hall, 2016. A very readable introductory textbook on oceanography and marine science. A good starting point if you want to know how the oceans work. This was the book that kick-started my interest in ocean science some years ago. Chapter 8, "Waves and Water Dynamics", is a good introduction to why waves are formed and how they travel.
• The Wave Watcher's Companion: Ocean Waves, Stadium Waves, and All the Rest of Life's Undulations by Gavin Pretor-Pinney. Penguin Group USA, 2011. A very readable look into all the ways in which waves ripple through our lives. There's quite a bit about ocean waves and surfing, but lots of other wave topics get a mention too (in other words, it's not just about surfing).
• Waves, Tides and Shallow-Water Processes by John Wright, Angela Colling, and Dave Park. Butterworth-Heinemann/Open University, 1999. A more general look at water movements near the shore.
• Waves and Beaches: The Dynamics of the Ocean Surface by Willard Bascom. Doubleday, 1954 (and later editions). A classic of oceanography, this book inspired many of the later books about wave dynamics. Although long out of print, it's relatively easy to find secondhand copies. An excellent short article summarizing the main ideas was published as "Ocean Waves" in Scientific American , August 1959.

Surfing history and culture

• The Book of Surfing by Michael Fordham. London: Harper, 2012. A great, coffee-table introduction to surf-culture. Not much about surf science, but that doesn't matter.
• The History of Surfing by Matt Warshaw. Chronicle Books, 2011. A lavishly illustrated chronology from late-19th-century beginnings to the most recent innovations. There's also a shorter A Brief History of Surfing by Matt Warshaw. Chronicle Books, 2017, which is abut half the length.
• The Encyclopedia of Surfing by Matt Warshaw. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2005. A more general, more comprehensive, old-school encyclopedia. A–Z entries cover everything from surf terminology ("cutback," "deck patch") to history and culture, with many biographies of key surfers, and lots of information about famous surf spots around the world.

Practical guides

• Surfing Manual: The Essential Guide to Surfing in the UK and Abroad by Peter Carr. Haynes, 2017. A well-illustrated guide, but quite UK-centric.
• Surfing: A Beginner's Guide by Alf Alderson. Wiley, 2008. A comprehensive guide to the fundaments of surfing—water safety, equipment, fitness, where to surf around the world, and more.

References ↑     Surf Science by Tony Butt and Paul Russell. Honolulu, Hawaii: University of Hawaii Press, 2002, p.39–41. by Patrick Moser, The Journal of the Polynesian Society, Vol. 125, No. 4, Dec 2016, pp.411–432. ↑     The endurance of surfing in 19th-century Hawai'i by Patrick Moser, The Journal of the Polynesian Society, Vol. 125, No. 4, Dec 2016, pp.411–432. Please do NOT copy our articles onto blogs and other websites Articles from this website are registered at the US Copyright Office. Copying or otherwise using registered works without permission, removing this or other copyright notices, and/or infringing related rights could make you liable to severe civil or criminal penalties. Text copyright © Chris Woodford 2007, 2022. All rights reserved. Full copyright notice and terms of use . Follow us

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The 5 Best Surf Trips for Travel During the Pandemic

It feels like a lifetime since we were told “two weeks to flatten the curve!” One of the most frustrating elements of the past couple of years has to be the impact on surf trips, and just how difficult it has been to travel during the pandemic.

The incessant announcements of mutated variants, and the associated restrictions, has disrupted the plans of anyone with intentions of a foreign surf trip. Just as we thought Delta was dealt with and the opportunity to travel to surf destinations had become somewhat easier, along came Omicron. Travel during the pandemic has become even more confusing.

If you are like me, trying to work out IF and WHERE we are able to travel has become too much of a head ache. Why can’t we just have the Do’s and Don’ts laid out nice and simply?

I want to know where I can go, how long I can go for, and how safe will I be?

With this in mind we approached our good friends over at LUEX Surf Travel to find out more about just where surf travel is right now, and the best surf trip destinations for travel during the pandemic.

Table of Contents

Who are LUEX Surf Travel?

Rumour has it that Tim Heising was sat in a busy Sydney lineup when he came up with the idea of running surf charter boats in The Maldives. It sounds like the sort of pipe-dream we surfers come up with when we’re floating around in a crowd, waiting for sub par waves. However, Tim followed through on those initial thoughts and LUEX Surf Travel was born.

In 2007 a few successful strike missions in The Maldives were arranged. Tim soon realised he had a winning formula.

Fast forward somewhat, LUEX Surf Travel has grown to the point where they are heralded as one of the main players in the surf travel industry, with an ethos unlike no other. Adding snow trips bolstered their reputation as a major disruptor with the company now offering over 500 options for the discerning traveller.

At SURFD, we might be a touch biased, but in our opinion LUEX Surf Travel are the number one option for any surfer looking for a trip. Especially those considering a luxury option.

The company has a dedicated team who’s sole purpose is to make sure you guys have the very best surf trip possible.

We don’t just sell you a holiday, but we want to make sure that we find you a trip that’s made for you. We invite you to see traveling through our eyes while making sure you create your own memories.

There are no better, and no more trusted people to turn to when researching the best surf trip destinations during the pandemic.

The LUEX Covid Tool

The guys at LUEX Surf Travel have developed the incredible LUEX Covid Tool to assist you in making sense of the labyrinth of restrictions and regulations.

The tool has a straight forward interface allowing you to enter your location, immediately feeding back pertinent information regarding potential departures and destinations.

In true LUEX Surf Travel style there is even a comprehensive walk-through video of how to use the Covid Tool for best results.

The LUEX FM Podcast

I strongly recommend subscribing to the LUEX FM podcast, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts . Sunny Fassler and the team offer a wealth of topical discussion around surfing and surf travel, which makes for great listening.

Critically, the guys use the podcast as a means to update us about the fluid situation around surf travel, and their advice moving forward.

The discussions that Sunny, Tim, and Martin recently had regarding The Current State of Travel and The Future of Travel are well worth your time. These episodes are also available for you to watch on Youtube.

The Best Surf Trip Destinations for Travel During the Pandemic

In conjunction with LUEX Surf Travel, here are our choices for the best surf trip destinations for travel during the pandemic.

The Maldives

• Fully open since June 2020
• Vaccines Not Required
• Negative PCR test prior to arrival & Health Card Form
• Some limitations with moving to different resorts once there
• Some African Countries have recently been prohibited

The Maldives have a solid reputation for clean, almost beginner-friendly waves, that break on the most exposed parts of the atoll reefs.

Surfing in the Maldives remains focused on North Malé, which claims the highest density of lefts and rights within a 2hr cruise. Combined with an appealing proximity to Hulhumalé international airport, it’s an especially convenient, fun-wave playground for time-restricted travellers.

The Maldives are a true surf holiday destination, and its resorts take the word “paradise” to a whole new level. Luxurious resorts co-exist with breathtaking tropical landscapes and are surrounded by the ever graceful azure Indian Ocean and white sandy beaches.

Waking up in over water suites, or in an all-your-heart-desires bungalow with private beach access will set your day off in the right way. Some of the worlds best reef breaks are either a short boat ride or a short paddle away.

The Maldives are one of our dream destinations during more settled times. At this time they have become our number one destination for travel during the pandemic.

Famous Surf Spots

Pasta point.

Pasta Point is the wave-machine of North Male Atoll. Less affected by wind than any of the other spots, this reef break consistently pumps out pristine lefthanders of all sizes.

A hollow, heavy right hander, Cokes is the best big wave spot in the area, and the feature wave of the North Male Atoll. Cokes has two really good sections that provide consistent, if brief, shelter from the heat of the Maldivian sun.

Excellent right with great barrels over 4ft. Beautiful peak take-off that turns into a thick tube on the inside.

Arguably the best and most consistent left hander in the Maldives. Links up well on a big SE swell and high tides. 

$$ La Due Thulusdhoo

$$ Samura Maldives

$$ Surf Yoga Resort

Surf Resorts

$$$$ Niyama Private Islands

$$$$ Ayada Surf Resort

$$$ Hudhuranfushi Surf Resort

$$$$ Azalea

$$$ Gurahali

$ Blue Star

• Opened up on 01st Dec – Early reports suggest all is good so far.
• The current requirement is to be fully vaccinated and to present a negative Covid test result which should be done 3 days before you board your flight.
• Current Guidance From Fiji Government

Once upon a time, Fiji was invisible to the global surfing masses, having been surfed by only a select few nomadic go-getters, and kept hidden from surfing magazines and common folk until the early 1980s.

The crescendo of popularity has one benefit to the rest of us; Fiji is open for business. As if the powers above designed these islands for their own surfing addiction, Fiji is a mecca for those who love incredible almond-shaped barrels, crystal blue windows to the marine life beneath and consistent swell and conditions, ensuring not only an incredible visit but a good chance of the ride(s) of their life.

Fiji is a fantastic choice when you are looking to travel during the pandemic.

Restaurants

Small swells and mild winds from the south east produce waves tame enough for all but beginners. Larger swells and stronger winds produce waves that can reach 10 ft or higher. Experienced surfers will find super-smooth barrels over the exposed reef.

Cloudbreak has a fierce reputation for huge waves and fast barrels. The surf usually ranges between 5 and 8 ft, making it a great playground for intermediate surfers. With large swells from the southeast and southwest, Cloudbreak can produce the worlds most perfect 20 ft waves.

Wilkes Passage

The best waves are produced by swells from the southwest and trade winds from the northeast. Long barrels and powerful, fast waves make Wilkes Passage a thrilling surfing experience.

Desperations

Desperations is popular due to the breaks consistency. You’ll find powerful, fast barrels, even when other spots are flat. When swells from the southwest and winds from the northeast push in, the wave becomes truly awesome. .

$$$$ Tavarua Surf Resort

$$$$ Six Senses Fiji

$$ Gipsea Fiji Surf Charter

• All international tourists are permitted to enter Costa Rica by air, land and sea.
• Complete the digital form called HEALTH PASS
• Travel Policy – Tourists who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and individuals aged 18 and younger (even if unvaccinated) can enter the country without a travel policy. The last dose of the vaccine must have been applied at least 14 days prior to arrival in Costa Rica.
• Unvaccinated individuals aged 18 and older or with unauthorized vaccines must purchase a travel policy that is valid for at least 5 days and covers accommodation and medical expenses in the event of COVID-19 infection.

Nestled between the calm, pristine waters of the Caribbean Sea, and the deeper blue, open waters of the Pacific Ocean lies Costa Rica .

An intensely rich natural habitat made up of dense rainforest, simmering volcanoes, pristine beaches and some of the world’s most iconic waves.

If Earth was a crown then Costa Rica’s waters would be the emerald gem! Heading to Costa Rica opens up a world of adventure and activities, from hiking to sight-seeing and most importantly, epic surf sessions.

It is well worth considering Costa Rica as a choice destination for travel during the pandemic.

Witch’s Rock

Witch’s Rock is considered one of Costa Rica’s best surf spots. Made famous in the movie Endless Summer II, the beach-break provides world class sand bottom surfing almost every day of the year.

Playa Hermosa

A four mile long sandy beach which produces consistent hollow waves. Large swells can generate waves up to 10ft.

Tamarindo Bay

Beginners won’t need to look very far for perfect little waves. Advanced surfers can look a little further for the A-frame wedges and rivermouth barrels that are a bit further down the beach.

Costa Rica’s most famous wave. The left hander at Pavones is up there with one of the best waves on the planet. It has been called the second longest left in the world. Pavones is super consistent and breaks all the way through the tide.

$$ Lapoint Surf Camp, Zopilote Surf Camp

$ – $$ Dreamsea Surf Camp

$$$$ Four Seasons Costa Rica, Florblanca Luxury Resort

$$$ Pranamar Villas,

$$$ Nantipa

$$$$ Playgrounds

• PCR test taken 72 hours before arrival is required.
• Health screening procedures in place at airports

Nicaragua is almost unbeatable. An offshore breeze along the southern coastline ensures quality waves virtually year round. Every type of wave exists in Nicaragua, from punchy beach breaks, through concrete slab barrels, and ending with the mesmerising long walls of reeling point breaks. It’s because of this magic that Nicaraguan surf trips are becoming something of a must do on any surf seeking adventurer’s list.

Nicaragua has only become a mainstream surf trip destination in recent years. It is a brilliant option for travel during the pandemic.

Classic left-hand point break that works right through the tide and handles all swells. Theres an offshore slab that’s possibly Nicaraguas heaviest wave.

Playgrounds

The Nicaraguan version of Trestles, Playgrounds offer super fun waves that surfers of all levels can rip to pieces. The left has a smooth outside shoulder, perfect for carving, while the inside has a beautiful barrel. Although shorter, the right offers multiple hollow sections.

Playa Colorado

Hollow beach break with punchy waves. Waves at Playa Colorado generally range from shoulder-high to double overhead. Success can mean a stand up barrel, while failure can result in a good old fashioned slam and a broken board.

Manzanillo is a left-hand point break, that peels along a picturesque cliff background. A fantastic combination of open walls and hollow sections. The break is one of Nicaraguas more fickle spots, but if you luck into it, you’re not going to forget the session for a long time.

$ – $$ Punta Miramar Surf Camp

$$ Dreamsea Nicaragua

$$$$ Mukul Luxury Resort

$$$ Hacienda Nicaragua Mark & Daves

$$$ Rancho Santana Nicaragua

$$$ Malibu Popoyo

• “Fully Vaccinated” travelers can stay at any type of accommodation and no on-arrival PCR test required.
• “Not-Fully Vaccinated’’ travelers stay in a ‘Flexible bio-bubble’ with all facilities of the hotels made available and ability to visit approved tourist sites.
• “Not-Vaccinated’’ travelers can still have a great time under the protection of the Tourism Bio Bubble for a duration of 7 nights/8 days.
• All visitors must have Covid 19 insurance (Local Gov can provide this for 12 USD with one month cover)

The teardrop-shaped island off the coast of India has everything a surfer’s heart desires and much more! Perfectly shaped point breaks, secret bays, and an endless supply of reef setups. The surf zone stretches from Hikkaduwa on the southwestern coast, all the way across to Arugam Bay on the west.

Sri Lanka is one of those rare gems that has something for everyone. Conditions range from empty and mellow, to perfect barrels. Coupled with plenty of culture, epic food and mind blowing scenery, Sri Lanka is just as dreamy as the Mentawais or the Maldives, minus the heavy waves.

We definitely advise you take a good look at the options available in Sri Lanka when planning to travel during the pandemic.

Hikkaduwa Main Break

Rights and lefts over a flat reef. Mega consistent waves which can get pretty busy, however the vibe is usually cool and enhanced by the party time activity on the beach.

A beautiful crescent shaped beach surrounded by palm trees. A cruisey right hander breaks in a manner that makes it perfect for longboarding. A slightly heavier left hand option can be found near the harbour wall.

Lazy Left as it’s name suggests is a mellow left hand wave on a deep reef that holds to 5-6ft on a good day. You can get some really long rides up to 500m on this one and its mostly a deep and forgiving reef.

Situated on the East coast, Arugam Bay is the best wave on the island of Sri Lanka. The area boasts beautiful right-hand point breaks and a selection of reefs and barrels a little further out of town.

$$$ Salty Pelican Yoga Retreat

$$ The Green Rooms

$$$$ Cape Welligama

$$$ Anatara Peace Haven

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Surfing Terms Made Simple: 140+ Surf Sayings Defined

Sometimes, surfing slang and surf talk might feel like another language. In a sense, it is another language. In order to help you better understand the lingo, I’ve written this list of all the surfing terms I’ve ever heard, and I even learned a few new ones in the process of writing this list. Without further ado, here are all the surfing terms you need to know:

A-D Surfing Terms

E-h surfing slang, i-n surf phrases, o-s surf jargon, t-z surf sayings.

** This article contains affiliate links.  As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  Meaning, at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission anytime you purchase any of the linked products. Thanks for your support of Gathering Waves!

A-frame 

A wave that breaks in a peak, forming a shape like an “A.” You can ride it either right or left. 

A maneuver where a surfer launches off the lip of the wave and becomes airborne.

The term “amped” is often used in surfing culture to describe a feeling of excitement, enthusiasm, and heightened energy. It can refer to the adrenaline rush that surfers experience when riding a particularly challenging wave or the thrill of being in the ocean surrounded by the power of nature. The term can also be used to describe a state of hyperactivity or restlessness, which can be a result of the surfer’s excitement or anticipation of upcoming surf sessions. In general, being “amped” in the context of surfing means feeling energized, enthusiastic, and ready to take on the waves.

The term “aggro” in surfing culture is a shortened form of the word “aggressive.” It refers to a style of surfing that is characterized by intense, forceful maneuvers and a competitive attitude. Surfers who are described as “aggro” are often seen as highly skilled but also very competitive and prone to aggressive behavior in the water. The term can also be used to describe waves or surfing conditions that are particularly intense, challenging, or dangerous, such as large, powerful waves that require a highly aggressive approach to ride successfully.

In surfing, the term “backside” refers to riding a wave with the back facing the wave.

For a regular-footed surfer, this means riding left, and for a goofy-footed surfer, this means riding a right. 

Riding backside can be more challenging than riding frontside (the opposite)However, some surfers prefer riding backside as it can allow for more powerful, high-speed maneuvers.

Backdooring a wave is when the surfer takes off from behind the peak of a hollow wave and rides through the barrel, emerging on the opposite side of the peak. “Backoor” also refers to the backdoor of Pipeline on the north shore of Oahu, when surfers take the left rather than the right. 

There are meanings of the surfing term “bail”.

The first is when a surfer intentionally tosses or abandons their board. The second is when a surfer is paddling for a wave, and decides not to take it at the very last second. 

A “barrel” is a surfing term used to describe the hollow, tube-shaped section of a breaking wave. It is also known as a “tube” or “barrel ride” and is considered one of the most sought-after experiences in surfing. 

When a surfer “gets barreled”, they ride inside that hollow tube-shaped section while the wave breaks over them. 

Beach break

A “beach break” is a type of wave break that occurs when waves break over a sandy ocean floor, as opposed to a reef or a point break. Beach breaks are typically more forgiving than other types of breaks and can offer a variety of wave shapes and sizes depending on the conditions. They are popular among beginner surfers and are often found at popular surf spots around the world. 

Some of my favorite beach breaks include:

• Playa Guiones in Costa Rica
• Huntington Beach, California
• Praia Arrifana in Portugal

“Blown out” is a surfing term used to describe surf conditions that are poor or unfavorable for surfing because they are too windy. Specifically, it refers to strong, onshore winds that create choppy, messy waves with poor shape and texture. When a surf spot is “blown out,” it’s usually too much onshore wind and not surfable. 

In surfing, a “bomb” is a particularly large and powerful wave. 

Bottom turn

The surf phrase “bottom turn” refers to when a surfer is riding a wave, gets to the bottom of the wave face, and turns to go back up the wave face. The bottom turn is typically performed by shifting weight onto the back foot and using the rails of the board to turn back up the wave face. 

The surfing term “break” has two definitions. One definition of “break”  refers to the point where a wave begins to crest and break, creating a surfable wave face. 

The second meaning is used to describe different places to surf. 

Example: “My favorite surf breaks are in Costa Rica ” or “My home surf break is where I learned to surf”.

In surfing slang, “bro” is a friendly, informal way to address a fellow surfer, or just a friend. However, it can depend on the context. Surfers will also use the word bro when they’re upset with someone. 

“Bro, that was my wave!”

In surfing terminology, “carve” refers to the technique of making a smooth, arcing turn on the face of a wave.

Caught Inside

This surf phrase refers to a situation where a surfer is caught in the impact zone of breaking waves and is unable to paddle out to the lineup. This situation usually occurs when there is a big set of waves coming. 

In surfing, “charging” refers to the act of taking on and riding larger or more powerful waves, often with a great deal of speed and intensity. A surfer who is “charging” is often described as brave or fearless, and is ‘going for it’. 

“Chop” is a surfing term that refers to choppy or rough water conditions caused by wind or other factors. Choppy waves can be difficult to ride and can make it challenging for surfers to maintain their balance and control on the board. 

In surfing, “clean” conditions refer to ideal surf conditions that are free from chop or other factors that can affect wave quality. Clean waves have a smooth, glassy surface that is easy to ride and allows surfers to execute maneuvers with precision and control.

Cleanup set

When a huge set of waves comes out of nowhere and takes the whole lineup of surfers by the unaware, “cleaning up” the lineup. 

In surfing, a “closeout” is a type of wave that breaks all at once, with the entire wave face closing out or collapsing at the same time. Closeouts don’t usually have any rideable face. 

A variation of this is the surf phrase “closing out”, which is when you’re riding a wave and it breaks in front of you, or “closes out” in front of you. 

In surfing, the “crest” of a wave is the highest point of the wave as it begins to break. When you’re riding a wave and the wave starts to break right as you’re going, you can say the wave is “cresting”.

In surfing, a “cutback” is a maneuver that involves turning the surfboard back toward the breaking wave in a sharp, fluid motion. 

Daily Driver

A daily driver is a surfing term referring to someone’s surfboard that is versatile enough to take out in almost all conditions, that they take out usually every day. It’s a board that performs well in all types of surf. In other words, it’s someone’s “go to surfboard”.

Dawn patrol

A dawn patrol surf session is when you paddle out right at dawn, as the sun is rising. This is a great time to surf as it’s often before other surfers are even awake, so you get some of the best waves all to yourself! 

The top surface of a surfboard.

A ding refers to a small hole, crack, or other damage in a surfboard. Dings are caused by impact, like a surfboard hitting a rock, another surfboard, or anything else hard. Dings greatly affect the performance of the surfboard by letting in water, which can cause irreversible damage to a surfboard. Dings should be repaired immediately, either by a professional if it’s a bad ding, or you can do it yourself with some solarez if it’s a little ding. 

Double-overhead

This surfing term refers to a wave that is twice the height of the surfer.

When the tide is too low and there aren’t any waves.

In surfing, there are two definitions of “drop-in”. 

The first is when you’re surfing, paddle for a wave, and the moment you catch it and ride down the wave is referred to as your “drop” or “drop-in”. 

The second is when a surfer is riding a wave, and another surfer catches the wave in front of them and cuts them off . This is called dropping in on someone, and is against the rules of surfing etiquette. 

Dropknee is when a surfer rides with one knee on the board. This technique is often used to tuck into a barrel, or on bodyboards.

A technique used by surfers to get their board under an incoming wave as they paddle out. The surfer pushes the board underwater so the wave rolls under them, and they can continue paddline out. It’s primarily a method used by surfers riding smaller surfboards to avoid getting hit by oncoming waves.

A technique used by surfers to get their board under an incoming wave as they paddle out. The surfer pushes the board underwater so the wave rolls under them, and they can continue paddline out. It’s primarily a method used by surfers riding smaller surfboards to avoid getting hit by oncoming waves. 

A type of surfboard construction material. Epoxy surfboards are made with a type of resin that is stronger and lighter than traditional polyester resin. This allows for the creation of boards that are more durable and buoyant. Epoxy surfboards have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their longevity compared to traditional surfboards.

An egg surfboard is a type of surfboard that is a hybrid between a shortboard and a longboard. It typically ranges in size from 6’6″ to 8’0″ in length, and has a wide, round nose and a wide, full tail. The egg shape provides good stability and maneuverability, making it a popular choice for surfers of all skill levels. The board is often used for cruising small to medium sized waves, but can also handle larger surf.

An abbreviation for “Fin Control System,” a popular fin system used in surfboards that doesn’t use screws. However, I recommend even using screws with an FCS fin system, because sometimes they fall out, and fins are way too expensive to lose! 

The front surface of a wave that a surfer rides along.

The surfing term firing refers to when the waves are really really good, and there are LOTS of ‘em.

The opposite of firing- there aren’t any waves. 

A maneuver in which a surfer rides up onto the top of the breaking wave like their floating over the whitewater at the top of the wave.

The shape and design of a surfboard, including the rocker, rails, and bottom contours.

The opposite of backside, so you face the wave as you ride it. For goofy surfers, you ride lefts fronside. For regular surfers, you ride rights fronside. 

A fish is a type of surfboard with a tail like a fish. 

A wetsuit that covers the entire body, including arms and legs, used for surfing in colder water.

A small, usually triangular-shaped device attached to the bottom of a surfboard to help stabilize and steer the board.

The other fin system in which you screw your surfboard fins in. 

A funboard is a type of surfboard that is typically shorter and wider than a longboard, but longer and narrower than a shortboard. Funboards are designed to be a happy medium between the stability and ease of use of a longboard, and the maneuverability and performance of a shortboard. They are a popular choice for surfers who want to transition from riding a longboard to a shortboard, or for surfers who want a versatile board that can handle a range of conditions. Funboards usually have a rounded nose and a rounded or square tail, and are typically between 6’6″ and 8’6″ in length.

To be super excited, usually about the surf.

Surfing with your right foot forward on the board. For more info on surf stances, check out my blog post on goofy surfing vs. regular surfing .

A surfing term used to describe the surface of the water when it is calm and smooth, with little to no wind or waves.

“Gnarly” is a surfing slang term used to describe something that is extreme or dangerous, particularly in the context of surfing. It can refer to the size or power of waves, or the difficulty of a particular surf spot. It can also be used more broadly to describe anything that is intense or impressive.

The sensation of smoothly and effortlessly riding a wave, often associated with longboarding.

A technique used by surfers to hold onto the rails or sides of their board while performing maneuvers or turns.

A term used to describe being inside of a barrel or tube wave, where you’re surrounded by the greeness of the water. 

A wave that is unbroken and has not yet begun to curl or break, allowing a surfer to ride it for a longer distance.

Groundswell

A type of wave created by distant storms or winds, characterized by long wavelengths and greater energy than locally-generated waves.

Grom/Grommet

A young surfer, usually under the age of 16.

A type of surfboard that is longer and narrower than a standard shortboard, designed for riding larger and more powerful waves.

A classic longboarding maneuver in which a surfer walks to the front of the board and hangs all ten toes off the nose.

“Hang loose” is a gesture used as a greeting, farewell, or to convey a relaxed attitude. It involves making a fist with the thumb extended and then waving the hand back and forth from the wrist. The gesture is associated with Hawaiian and surf culture and is often used to convey a laid-back, friendly vibe. It’s the same thing as a Shaka. 

A term used to describe a wave that is large, powerful, and difficult to surf.

Hit the lip

“Hit the lip” is a term used in surfing to describe a maneuver where a surfer turns their surfboard up towards the lip of a breaking wave, smacks against it, and then surfs down the face of the wave. You might also hear it as “smack the lip.”

A wave that is barreling.

A technique some surfers use to get past a section in a wave, which involves smacking the front of their surfboard up and down in a sort of “hopping” motion. 

Impact zone

The area where waves break.

Inside section/Inside

The inside is the space between the shore and where the waves are breaking. 

Slang for a surfer who is inexperienced or more importantly, someone who displays poor etiquette in the water.

When a surfer catches a wave after it has already started breaking, typically requiring a steep drop down the face of the wave.

A left is a wave that breaks towards the left. Surfer’s left, that is, which is the same concept as stage left. 

The area where surfers wait for waves and position themselves to catch them. If you’re curious about how a lineup works, check out my guide covering the essential rules of surfing .

The top part of the wave that is breaking or has just broken.

A longer surfboard (typically 9-10 feet).

A cord that attaches the surfer’s ankle to the surfboard.

Surfers who live in a particular area and surf there every day. 

Localism refers to the aggressive behavior and territorial attitudes exhibited by some surfers toward others who are not from the local area. This can include verbal abuse, intimidation, and even physical violence in extreme cases. Localism is often associated with popular surf spots and is fueled by the desire to maintain control over the waves and protect the local surf culture. However, localism is generally frowned upon in the surfing community as it goes against the spirit of sharing and camaraderie that is at the heart of the sport.

A period of time when there are no waves breaking, and everyone is sitting around waiting for the waves to come.

Slang for a longboard.

Surfer slang for big waves or epic surf conditions.

Men in the grey suits

A mid-length surfboard is a type of surfboard that falls in between a shortboard and a longboard in terms of length and shape. They typically range from 6’6″ to 8’0″ in length and are designed to provide a combination of speed and maneuverability. 

Describes waves that are weak and lack power, typically caused by wind or tide conditions.

A smaller version of a longboard, typically around 7-8 feet long.

A material used to make wetsuits.

Noodle Arms

When you surf so long you can barely paddle anymore, and your arms feel limp like spaghetti noodles.

The front part of the surfboard.

A maneuver in which the surfer walks up to the nose of the board and rides the wave with both feet on the front of the board.

A type of longboard designed specifically for nose riding.

Wind blowing from the land toward the ocean, which can create clean and groomed wave conditions.

Wind blowing from the ocean toward the land, which can create choppy and messy wave conditions.

Waves that are taller than the surfer’s height.

The area beyond the breaking waves where surfers paddle out to wait for waves.

Out the back

Refers to the area beyond the breaking waves where the bigger waves typically form.

Over the falls

When a surfer falls off the board and goes over the crest of a wave. Or, when you’re paddling for a wave, decide to bail, and get sucked over anyways. Or, when you’re trying to paddle OVER the wave to get away from it, and get sucked over. Going over the falls is NOT a fun experience.

The act of paddling from the beach out to the lineup where waves are breaking.

A wave that multiple surfers ride together, usually a group of friends who have agreed to share the wave . 

A term used to describe when the waves break smoothly and cleanly, providing long, rideable sections for the surfers.

The highest point of a breaking wave where it begins to fold over and break.

When a surfer is paddling for a wave with their weight too far forward, the nose of the board slides underwater, and the surfer slides forward off their board. 

Swell period is the amount of time, in seconds, from one wave to the next. Typically in surfing, a longer period is better, although it depends on the break .

“Pitted” is a term used in surfing to describe a situation where a surfer is inside the hollow part of a breaking wave, also known as the barrel or the tube. 

The area of the wave face closest to the curl, where the wave is steepest.

The act of quickly getting to your feet on your board. The “pop up” is how you go from paddling for a wave, to riding it. 

The act of riding inside the barrel of a wave, often requiring a sharp bottom turn and quick acceleration to stay ahead of the wave’s crashing lip. Same thing as “tucking in”.

A technique used by surfers to generate speed on a wave.

Describes a wave that has a sudden increase in size or power.

Point break

A type of wave that breaks along a rocky or sandy point, producing long, clean waves that peel in one direction.

In surfing, a quad is a board with four fins. Or, your surfboard might have a “quad setup” where it is intended to be used with four fins. 

Quiver 

A collection of surfboards that a surfer owns and uses for different wave conditions or styles of surfing.

The edge or side of a surfboard.

Ragdolling in surfing refers to being thrown around violently underwater by a wave after a wipeout. When a surfer wipes out and gets caught in the wave’s turbulence, they may be thrown around like a ragdoll, tumbling underwater and losing all sense of direction and control. 

A type of surf break that forms over a coral reef or rocky underwater structure.

The opposite of goofy footed. A surfer who rides with their left foot forward. It is more common for a surfer to ride this way, which is why it is referred to as regular. 

Rip current

A strong, narrow current that flows away from the shore.

A surfer is “ripping” when they are surfing very very well, usually in a way that is aggressive and fast. 

The curve of a surfboard from nose to tail.

Every once in a while, a bigger group of waves come through the lineup than all the others. These are called set waves. 

Sendy is a surfing term used to refer to someone who really goes for it, and drops in on bigger, sketchy waves, or makes a lot of late drops.

Shacked is yet another surfing slang word to refer to someone inside a barrel.

A hand gesture made by extending the thumb and pinky finger, often used as a greeting or expression of stoke.

“Sharky” refers to a surf spot where it feels like there are lots of sharks. Or, it refers to a surf spot where there are lots of sharks . 

Shore break

Waves that break close to the shore, often resulting in a more powerful and hollow wave.

A shortboard is a type of surfboard that is typically under 7 feet in length. Shortboards typically have a pointed nose, narrow width, and thin profile, and are very maneuverable and responsive.

In surfing terminology, the “shoulder” refers to the sloping section of the wave face next to the breaking section. It’s the part of the wave that is unbroken, but still steep enough to ride. 

Shred/Shredding/Shredder

In surfing, the term “shred,” “shredding,” or “shredder” usually refer to riders surfing at a high level of performance and skill, often characterized by aggressive and stylish maneuvers.A shredder is a term commonly used to describe a skilled surfer who is able to rip up the waves with style and confidence.

In surfing slang, “sick” is an adjective used to describe something that is awesome, amazing, or impressive. It can refer to a great wave, a skilled maneuver, a cool surfboard, or anything else that is deemed impressive or noteworthy. It is a positive term commonly used among surfers to express admiration or excitement.

In surfing terms, a “snake” is someone who paddles around someone paddling for a wave so that they are closer to the peak. This is the same thing as backpaddling someone, and it is very poor surfing etiquette . 

Spitting happens when a wave is barreling, at the end of the barrel a huge plume of water comes spraying out of the barrel. Essentially, the wave “spits” water out at the end of the barrel.

Spring suit

A spring suit is a wetsuit with shorter arms and legs, usually used in the 65-75 degree Fahrenheit range when it’s warm out.

Excited or enthusiastic, often used to describe the feeling of catching a good wave or being in the water.

In surfing, “steep” refers to the slope or angle of a wave face. A wave is considered steep when it has a sharp and sudden increase in the angle of its face. 

In surfing, a stringer is a thin, narrow piece of wood, carbon fiber that runs down the center of a surfboard from nose to tail. Its purpose is to add strength and stiffness to the board.

Surfer’s ear

A common condition among surfers where bony growths form in the ear canal due to prolonged exposure to cold water and wind.

The series of waves that move through the water, often caused by distant storms or weather patterns.

Riding with your non-dominant foot forward on the surfboard.

The initial moment when a surfer catches a wave and begins riding it.

A surfboard design featuring three fins, which provide more control and maneuverability.

A cylindrical pocket of water formed by a breaking wave, also known as a barrel or pit.

Turtle roll

A maneuver used by surfers to get past incoming waves, by flipping their board upside down and holding onto the rails. This is usually practiced by longboarders, as their surfboards have too much volume to duckdive.

Learning how to turtle roll is also one of our top tips for beginner surfers !

Traction pad

A grippy surface attached to the top of a surfboard, allowing the surfer to maintain better footing and control.

The low point between two waves.

A surfboard design featuring two fins.

The act of riding inside a barrel or tube created by a breaking wave.

The overall feeling or atmosphere of a surf spot, influenced by the people, the waves, and the environment.

A wavehog is someone who takes an unfair amount of waves in the lineup, rather than waiting their turn and letting other surfers catch waves. Don’t be a wavehog! 

Washer machine

Getting “washer machined” in the surf is similar to being ragdolled. It happens either when you wipeout, or get hit by a wave, ang get spun around underwater with all the turbulence so badly it feels like you’re inside a washer machine.

Wetsuit 

Wetsuits are worn by surfers in cold water to stay warm. They’re usually made of a thin layer of neoprene.

White water

The broken part of a wave that occurs after the wave has broken.

A wave that is created by strong winds blowing over a large area of water.

A sticky substance that is applied to the top of a surfboard to create better grip and traction for the surfer.

When a surfer falls off their board while riding a wave.

A type of sunscreen that provides strong protection from the sun’s harmful rays. It’s one of the only types of reef safe sunscreen ! 

Go test out your new vocabulary of surfing terms

That’s a wrap on my glossary of surfing terms! I hope this guide has helped you learn the lingo, and better understand just what the surfers in your life are actually trying to say. If there are any other words you think should be added to this list, drop a comment and I’ll add it. Happy surfing! 

Haley is the founder of Gathering Waves. She has been surfing for 13 years, and teaching beginners how to surf for the last 7. Having traveled extensively through Portugal and Costa Rica, she shares surf tips and surf guides from her own travels. A California native, she also shares insider surf guides on surfing in California. She helps over 30,000 people a month plan surf trips around the world.

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What a long great trip it’s been going back to March of 1994 when WaterWays Travel started in a small office in Van Nuys California. In the early years the notion of organized international surf travel was new – with little to no competition. Each destination we launched was relatively new to the surfing community at large. Over time the world has become a smaller place with the internet, modern surf forecasting and social media pushing the limits of exploration.

Surfers still dream of getting away from their daily lives and reconnecting with their surfing roots. This may be on a solo trip, a trip with some friends, a trip with the girlfriend/wife – boyfriend/husband or increasingly a trip with the entire family. There is nothing better than winding down the day feeling tired, sun drenched and satisfied: surfed out, well fed and ready for bed to dream dreams that could be reality the next day.

The WaterWays approach to choosing destinations, locations and local operators also remains unchanged. Every location and operation in the WaterWays menu has been thoroughly checked out over all the seasons. WaterWays employees spend part of the year checking out each destination in detail: from the comfort of the beds, to that weird end section on the reef to the speed of the wireless Internet service. There are a lot of travel options and operations to choose from and WaterWays only chooses the most reputable, based on our own experience and the feedback from others. WaterWays employees specialize in different parts of the globe, but all have the information and experience available to assure they recommend the right place at the right time to passengers looking to turn their day dreams into dream days.

From all of us at WaterWays, thank you for your business and we look forward to working with each of you soon.

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Corpus Christi Grade School Pacific Palisades Palisades High School Santa Monica City Collage Humboldt State –BS: Business Degree – Emphasis in Accounting and Finance 3 Years Public Accounting 3 years Private Accounting Started WaterWays 1994 Owned and operated multiple live aboard charter boats. Developed two surf resorts from ground up – Salani Surf Resort & Nemberala Beach Resort

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17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow

Written By: Linda Voltaire

Updated On: December 21, 2022

Visiting Russia? These are the top 17 things to do in Moscow to help you plan your trip.

If the western world has New York City , the first great metropolis on the eastern side of our planet is Moscow. A huge city with a complicated and impressive history, Moscow gets a bad rep over Russian politics – but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. Capital to the largest country in the world, Moscow takes the grandeur of its standing very seriously.

This is a place where luxury is king and where opulence takes a front seat in every aspect of life. The buildings are grand and imposing, the parks are luscious and enormous, and even the subway stations look different in Moscow than anywhere else in the world.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Moscow, Russia

Walking around Moscow is also going through the tumultuous history of the 20th century, which had Russia as one of its main protagonists. There are fascinating remains of these times everywhere in the former Soviet capital, from the gorgeous Seven Sisters skyscrapers to the Orthodox cathedrals that were closed for the better part of a century.  Still, Moscow is also a completely modern city, with a vibrant social and party scene, incredible restaurants, and some of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

After living in Russia’s capital as an ex-pat for four years, I got the privilege to experience not only the main attractions in Moscow but also the everyday life in this huge city and quickly found my sweat spots off the beaten tracks! So here is my list of my top 17 things to do in this exciting metropolis!

Attractions in Moscow

When visiting a famous city like this one, it’s a must to go through the most iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin & Surrounding Area

No place tells the story of Moscow’s power in the past century the way the Red Square does. This is where the biggest political meetings in the USSR occurred for many decades, and you can feel the power on each step.

Here, you’ll also find the historic museum at the entrance, showcasing the decades of history behind this iconic landmark. The Lenin Mausoleum, perhaps the most famous resting place in the world and home to the remains of the former communist leader, is also here.

On one side of the Red Square you’ll find the Kremlin, the fortified complex that now hosts the presidential residence. This is also home to the most iconic of all Moscovite landmarks: St. Basil’s Cathedral, a 16th-century marvel of colors. This is the best spot to take a selfie and show the world you’ve reached the Russian capital!

• Get your Kremlin Skip the Line Tickets and Kremlin tour here.
• Free cancellation up to 24-hours in advance of the tour.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

You can easily spend a couple of days just exploring the Moscovite city centre, and the Bolshoi Theatre should be your second stop. Walk past the Red Square and then head to the nearby Bolshoi Theatre, one of the oldest and most renowned houses of opera and ballet on Earth.

Visit for the impressive early 19th-century architecture, but if you’re seeing a ballet performance, make sure you book between 3 and 6 months in advance! I can strongly recommend this as it is a truly unique experience!

• Book a private 2-hour tour of the legendary Bolshoi Theatre.
• See the presidential box reserved for tzars, watch a rehearsal and skip the lines through a separate entrance.
• Free Cancellation up to 24-hours in advance.

3. Luxury Shopping at GUM and TSUM

While many might think of Moscow as the sad place with the long bread queues from the USSR days, it’s been quite the capitalist haven for a while.

If you’re up for some shopping, you’ll find one of the biggest luxury malls in town, TSUM, right behind the Bolshoi and GUM, at the red square. GUM is the most famous department store in town, where you’ll find luxury everywhere and all high-end brand. 

All in an imposing late 19th-century building with lots of history, worth a visit just for the design, its bridges and the glass roof even though you are not up for shopping!

4. Christ the Savior Cathedral

A newer addition to the gorgeous Moscovite cathedrals and my grandeur neighbor during my years in the city Don’t let the young age of this building fool you. After the perestroika in the early 90s, the newly revived Russian Orthodox Church received permission to build a cathedral on this site. They did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church.

The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes as tall as the skies in bright gold and gorgeous paintings and decor! Bring a shawl to cover your hair to adjust to the local tradition.

Head to the back of the cathedral and you will find one of the most photographed bridges in Moscow, the Patriarshiy Most. This is the perfect spot to get a good view and photo of the cathedral but also to see the Kreml and Gorky Park from a distance. Or why not just enjoy a moment watching the river and its boats!  

• Get around Moscow with ease using the Hop On Hop Off boat and Bus ticket. 24, 48 or 72-hour tickets available.

5. Gorky Park

Cross the river and head to Gorky Park along the Moscow river. The most famous green area in town, similar to New York ’s Central Park and the weekend hangout for locals. There are many beautiful parks in the city, but if you’re only visiting for a few days, this is the unmissable one! 

With fair attractions to entertain children, beautiful artificial lakes and gardens, and lots of outdoor activities, it’s a lovely place to relax. A place of rest in the middle of the metropolis. The area in front of the New Tretyakov Gallery & the Muzeon Park of Arts is actually one of my favorite oasis as a bit more quiet and peaceful than Gorky itself.

Why not spend some time in the museum to get a great tour of Russia’s history through art or just enjoy the art exhibition outside where local artists spend their weekends. 

6. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow is from the Moscow River. There are many stops for the boats and one is just next to Gorky Park. See the city from another perspective – and turn the ride into a romantic one by taking the evening cruise. Moscow is magic during the night.

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, take the Radisson Blu cruise – or the Erwin for a delicious seafood dinner. Both stop at Gorky or at the luxury Radisson Royal Hotel, set in one of the Seven Sister’s skyscrapers.

• We use Get Your Guide when booking city tours and they offer a River Sightseeing Cruise seeing all the main tourist attractions in Moscow

7. Metro Hopping

First inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow subway system is one of the oldest in the world, and certainly the most beautiful. Started under Stalinist times, each metro station is dedicated to grandeur and oozing personality.

Visiting the subway stops is an attraction in and of itself, and Komsomolskaya, Mayakovskaya, Kropotkinskaya are my favorites. Those surrounding the Red Square are also mesmerizing – in general, these are kind of like underground palaces.

Most of the signs at the Moscow Metro now have Latin letters, so it’s very easy to get around!Unfortunately, the trains are not as beautiful and pleasant as the stations but still, this is a true Moscow experience.  Take a guided tour of the 9 most beautiful Metro Stations including the award-winning art deco station. See more details here.

8. Arbatskaya & Artsy Moscow

Novy Arbat Street is one of the most touristy areas in the city, with lots of shops and cafés directed at visitors. When you walk a little beyond, you’ll find a different part of town, where the hip scene thrives because so many artists live in the area. Just follow the small streets with fewer tourists!

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings hosts the main building of the Moscow State University, one of the most prestigious colleges in Russia – and the one with the best view.

Although this is a little outside the city centre, the sight from above is more than worth it, with the nearby fountains and park and then the whole of the city behind them.

10. Russian Market

If you love to visit markets wherever you go, Moscow has one of the most impressive ones in the world – the Izmailovsky. You can easily take the metro here and feel like you’ve been transported to another time.

This place was first built in the 16th century and retains the look of an old fairytale, with a lineup of colorful old castle. A lovely local experience beyond the confines of the bustling metropolis, where you can also try some delicious Russian barbecue.

Here, you’ll find beautiful souvenirs at great prices.

Off The Beaten Track Moscow

Once you’ve covered the most touristic spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer – and the places below will also be full of locals! Moscow is a city for hipsters, full of trendy and arty spots where you can literally feel the creativity oozing! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend my sweat spots below!

11. Patriarshiye Prudy

This is my favorite area in the entire city! While Moscow is generally a very noisy metropolis, Patriarch Ponds is far quieter, yet such a vibrant place. This is a very hip and trendy area making you think you are rather in Paris than in Moscow. Here the streets are narrow and full of chic eateries and clubs to see the local crowd.

A little bohemian and with an air of peace you won’t find anywhere in the city this is a great spot to spend an afternoon with your thoughts.

12. ArtPlay

Barely 15 minutes away from the city center you’ll find the artsiest Moscow district: ArtPlay. For decades, this block was a factory, but it was renovated to become a hub for the arts not too long ago.

Now, you’ll find it’s full of exhibitions, showrooms and art schools – and some of the most creative people in town. Writers, painters, and young hip people use ArtPlay as a rendezvous, and you can feel the creative energy here. The industrial design with modern interior decoration is also a feast for the eyes!

13. Shopping Local Designs

If you’re into design, both international and local, you’ll find lots of cute things at Patriarshiye Prudy. Department store Podium Market is also a great spot for shopping, as a department store everywhere in town, with lots of local and international brands. There’s one in the Four Seasons Hotel next to Red Square. My favorite Moscow mall is Tsvetnoy Central Market, a cool spot with great brands, lots of inspo, and even a cute café!

14. Moscow City

Like many other great capitals of the world, for the past few decades, Moscow has hosted a super modern area full of modern skyscrapers – Moscow City. With a completely different vibe than the rest of town, it’s like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressively tall glass buildings. Here, you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, such as Ruski and Sixty they are perfect spots for dining or enjoying a glass of wine with a view. There are also a relatively new shopping mall with lots of international brands called Affimall!

Wine, Dine, and Party in Moscow

Gone are the gloomy Moscow days – cold as it might be in the winter, Russia’s capital is a place for the senses. Great food and drinks abound – and the clubs are hot, too!

15. Where to Eat in Moscow

Moscow is a great metropolis where people love to dine out, and there are endless options for delicious food. The flavors are as diverse as you’d expect from a big city, with options of fine dining and little hipster eateries. 

• For traditional Russian flavors, I can’t recommend Café Pushkin, Dr. Zhivago, and Turnadot enough.
• When looking for international cuisines, Italian is always the way to go, and my local favorite is Probka.
• Fine dining is best done among the clouds at White Rabbit, with European flavors.
• As for the hip spots, you can spend a full day just eating around trendy places, from burgers to Asian fusion.

More Dining Options

• Patriarshiye Prudy offers a lot of small and classy spots with cool concepts, like breakfast restaurants I Love Cake and Fresh.
• For dinner, I love the NYC experience of Saxon & Parole, and the wonderful trendy Pins, with its delicious food and drinks.
• For delicious Asian food head to CutFish. 
• Lastly, there’s a recent revival of food markets in Moscow, offering lots of great choices of international flavors at affordable places.
• Don’t miss out the Vietnamese food stand at the Danilovsky market, and everything at Usachevsky!

16. Rooftopping

Big cities deserve to be seen from above, having a cocktail among the clouds. These are my recommendations for rooftop bars in Moscow.

• As I mentioned in the Moscow City section, Sixty & Ruski are two of my favorites, overlooking the newest part of town. 
• White Rabbit and its fine dining is also a lovely place for a fun dinner looking down on Moscow.
• O2, in the city center, has an advantage above all others: amazing views of the Red Square.
• Buono, above the Radisson Royal Hotel, might be the most romantic rooftop hotel in town, with its candlelit setting.
• Also on the Radisson stands the Mercedes. It’s a luxurious and posh experience with delicious cocktails.
• The Sky Lounge offers a peculiar experience, mixing an old Soviet building with futuristic additions.

17. Moscow by Night

Party the night away! The city is full of bars everywhere, but there are some areas where you’ll find more than others.

• Patriarshiye Prudy has lots of hip and small clubs and great bars, including the super fun private club Clava, which has a great vibe and people from all walks of life.
• For more hipster style bars, Red October is the place to go.
• Streak is a summer favorite, with a lovely terrace to catch a beautiful sunset – plus, their mozzarella bar is delicious.
• At night, Red October lights up with clubs everywhere, including the cool rooftop one Gipsy.
• Jagger is also a great spot during summer with a more relaxed vibe in garden setting. 
• For the traditional Russian luxury experience, go to SohoRooms, a whole other world including all-night go-go dancers.

There are so many things to do in Moscow at night and during the day, you definitely need several days to explore this exciting destination.

Moscow is a must-see city, a city like no other ! I hope you will enjoy this Russian metropolis as much as I did!

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About Linda Voltaire

Linda Voltaire is the owner of Travel with a Silver Lining, home to reviews of gorgeous boutique & design hotels, hip & trendy eateries as well as authentic and personal travel experiences beyond the crowd. She started blogging after a life-changing trip across South America. Follow Linda at TravelWithASilverLining / Facebook / Instagram /

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10 thoughts on “17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow”

These places look so awesome! Moscow is truly a beautiful city

Very good article, you have explained so nicely. Russia has always been a part of history and its good to know about much more about architecture and other things, wish i could see the inside of façade

Thanks for sharing such a nice article.You have very beautifully explained everything that one need for a trip to Moscow.

Nice article. Love the hidden gems and graffiti art, would love to visit Artplay. Thanks for a comprehensive guide to Moscow!

Moscow is a city where the past and the future live side by side. Here we can find everything from medieval fortresses and Soviet monoliths to glass skyscrapers and innovation centers.

Your article is good and meaningful .

Thanks for sharing about ArtPlay district, we didn’t know about it and it looks amazing 🙂 Hopefully there’ll be a second time in Moscow, we visited last May and really liked the city!

Wonderful stuff! I’ve been to Moscow, but not properly – it’s a long story lol!

Anyhoo, my next thing is to fly from Berlin to Moscow and then travel from there to Beijing via the Trans-Mongolian / Trans-Siberian train. Now, if only I could just find the time …!

I hear Moscow is very beautiful at night. I hope to get out there one day. A friend of mine went to St. Petersburg and had a great experience. Despite all the tension we see on the news with Russia and other Countries like the U.S. I wonder what the sentiment is with Russians and foreigners visiting their country for tourism. Especially Americans.

that looks like quite a beautiful place. 🙂

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Top 10 moscow tourist attractions.

The majestic capital of Russia , Moscow is the perfect destination for those seeking to explore the culture, history, and architectural heritage in the country. An extensive Moscow tour is arguably the best way to get acquainted with the one-of-a-kind city, as there is an abundance of sites to visit, such as the Kremlin, the Red Square, the State History Museum, Zaryadye Park, numerous churches and theatres and more! Don't miss the chance to enjoy Moscow sightseeing and explore the bustling hub yourself! Below we offer a list of the best places in Moscow not to miss.

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