## Island Time: The Best Island Surf Destinations to Add to Your Travel List
There is something magical about escaping to an island nation for a surf trip.The dream is to go somewhere remote, with waves breaking across multiple pointbreaks or reefbreaks around the circumference of saeid island. And yeah, while that is fairly scientifically impossible, given swell directions and bathymetry and storm systems and whatnot, we have to dream.
However, there is a whole range of islands across the globe that are home to some dazzling surf setups, with the remote surf exploration element all baked into them. There are immediate favourites that spring to mind, like the Mentawais or the islands across Fiji. But if you pick away under the surface of more surf zones across the globe, thereS plenty on offer away from the more popular, bucket list destinations.
Whether you’re chasing heaving, throaty barrels, glassy points or longboard-pleasant lazy cruisers, here are some of the best island surf destinations to add to your travel list.
The Azores, Portugal
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Perhaps one of the most underrated surf zones on the planet, the Azores, are located about 1,500 kilometers off the coast of Portugal, right in the path of swells out of the North Atlantic.This nine-island, volcanic archipelago creates a whole range of different waves, the perfect balance of reefbreaks, pointbreaks and beachbreaks with both left- and right-hand waves on offer.Sao Miguel and Terceira islands offer a range of waves for surfers, bodyboarders and everything else in between. Swells are consistent from October through to March, in line with the North Atlantic swell season. the water’s also pretty warm, even in the winter, topping out at 63°F in December. Also, the Azores are a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, with wild beauty everywhere, plenty of waterfalls, crater lakes and coastal hiking trails are also on tap.
Madagascar, East Africa
You don’t see a lot of surf media out of Madagascar. Yet, this large island, off the coast of southeast Africa is remote, isolated and right in the swell path of swells that rip across the southern half of the Atlantic as they move from South America, under South Africa and fan out toward Australia and Indonesia. Madagascar has 5,000 kilometers of coastline, with a huge variety of waves on offer.
Hollow reefbreaks, mellow beachbreaks, pointbreaks in the island’s southeast, and many of these surf spots remain uncrowded. The water’s not bad either, ranging from 77°F-82°F all year round, which means you can surf in boardshorts almost anywhere, with maybe a spring suit for early mornings in the south. Try to find a 4×4 as Madagascar is remote, logistically tricky and the island’s infrastructure is limited outside of major towns. One for the more adventurous surfer.
For surfers seeking adventure beyond the crowded lineups, the world offers a wealth of remote surf destinations. These spots aren’t always easy to reach, and they often demand a high level of skill and readiness, but the reward is uncrowded waves and an unforgettable experience.Here are a few of the most remote surf spots on the planet. Located in northern Peru,chicama is famous for having the longest left-hand wave in the world. This wave can peel for over two miles, offering an incredibly long ride for experienced surfers. The remote location and consistent swell make it a haven for those willing to make the journey. Access involves traveling to the small coastal town of Huanchaco and then heading north along a dirt road.The wave is best suited for intermediate to advanced surfers due to its size and length. While not entirely remote, Barbados offers a unique Caribbean surf experience away from the typical tourist hotspots. The island’s east coast, facing the Atlantic, receives consistent swells, creating powerful waves at spots like Bathsheba and Soup Bowl. These waves are known for thier challenging conditions and are best suited for experienced surfers.Barbados provides a blend of surf and caribbean culture, making it a rewarding destination for adventurous surfers. Tasmania is one of the most raw, rugged, and rewarding surf frontiers in the Southern Hemisphere. This Australian state offers a mix of powerful waves and dramatic scenery, in a mostly remote setup. Tasmania is located right in the path of the roaring forties, which are westerly winds that whip up swell across the Southern Ocean. That means the island is constantly bombarded by powerful, long-period swells, making it one of the most consistent wave zones in the world. More on this
The World’s Most Remote Surf Spots
Chicama,Peru
Barbados
Tasmania, Australia
It’s also a especially sharky area,as Tasmania’s waters are recognized as shark refuge areas,set up to help with breeding. Head here if you’re looking for big, powerful waves, but go knowing what to expect; this is not a place for the casual surfer.Key Takeaways