With the qualifying events finally over, these champions are more than ever determined to showcase their skills to the world. Every surfer has a different story to tell. Only time will tell who takes home the medal.

Are you curious about the qualifying criteria for Olympic Surfing and the surfers who made the cut? Dive into the article to find out.

Where Will the Surfing be in the 2024 Olympics

Experience the thrill as seasoned surfers battle it out against the monstrous Teahuppo’ in Tahiti, French Polynesia. Known to give a tough time to surfers, the epic spot is located 9,755 miles from Paris, setting the record for the most distant Olympic medal event location from the host city.

The event will run from July 27 to August 8, with 48 surfers trying to score a PERFECT 10. After making its debut in 2020 in Tokyo, Japan, surfing is back in the Olympics as a core game, attracting spectators from worldwide.

Is Surfing a Permanent Olympic Sport

Surfing had a tough time getting into the Olympics because it’s tricky to host in landlocked countries and there’s a big risk of drowning. The IOC was pretty cautious about these issues. But on August 3, 2016, surfing and four other sports finally got the green light for the 2020 Olympics.

The next Olympic games are scheduled to be held in Los Angeles from 21 July to 8 August 2028.

The Paris 2024 Qualification System

To compete in the Olympic Surfing Event in Paris 2024, surfers must meet the specific criteria set by the International Surfing Association. To qualify, surfers need to do well in certain competitions so that they can earn a spot in the main event.

Key Competitions

ISA World Surfing Games

Surfers need to participate in the 2022, 2023, and 2024 ISA World Surfing Games to qualify. It’s a must to earn a spot at the Olympics.

World Surf Championship Tour

The top ten guys and the top 8 ladies from the 2023 WSL Championship Tour will qualify for the Olympics.

Pan American Games

The winners of the men’s and women’s shortboard events at the 2023 Pan American Games will secure a place at the Olympics.

Host Country Quotas

France being the host country, has guaranteed spots for one male and one female surfer. 

Universality Places

The IOC is introducing Universality spots, which let eligible NOCs send surfers to the game. Surfers need to be in the top 50 at the 2023 or 2024 ISA World Surfing Games to qualify.

Surfer’s Eligibility

To compete in the Olympic Surfing Event, surfers need to follow some rules:

• Be from the country they represent
• Be in good standing with their surfing organization like ISA and the National Federation
• Participate in key competitions mentioned above
• Accept their nomination to compete.

National Federation Requirement

The National Federation (NF) can only pick surfers who meet the requirements for the Olympic Surfing event. If there are surfers from the areas in the World Surf League Championship Tour, NFs have to follow certain rules based on WSL rankings. If a nominated surfer says no, the NF has to choose the next best surfer.

These rules may change over time.

Participants Competing in the 2024 Olympics

Let’s take a look at the surfers who qualified for the olympics 2024 Games. Paris will witness these 48 surfers in action, competing for the gold medal.

Men

• Rio Waida (Indonesia)
• John John Florence (US)
• Alonso Correa (Peru)
• Jordy Smith (South Africa)
• Ethan Ewing (Australia)
• Reo Inaba (Japan)
• Leonardo Fioravanti (Italy)
• Joan Duru (France)
• Andy Criere (Spain)
• João Chianca (Brazil)
• Ramzi Boukhiam (Morocco)
• Filipe Toledo (Brazil)
• Matthew McGillivray (South Africa)
• Griffin Colapinto (US)
• Lucca Mesinas (Peru)
• Tim Elter (Germany)
• Kanoa Igarashi (Japan)
• Kauli Vaast (France)
• Billy Stairmand (New Zealand)
• Jack Robinson (Australia)
• Alan Cleland Jr (Mexico)

Women

• Sanoa Dempfil-Olin (Canada)
• Camilla Kemp
• Brisa Hennessy (Costa Rica)
• Saffi Vette (New Zealand)
• Sarah Baum (South Africa)
• Caroline Marks (US)
• Vahine Fierro (France)
• Johanne Defay (France)
• Shino Matsuda (Japan)
• Carissa Moore (US)
• Sol Aguirre (Peru)
• Tyler Wright (Australia)
• Nadia Erostarbe (Spain)
• Siqi Yang (China)
• Taina Hinckel (Brazil)
• Yolanda Sequeira (Portugal)
• Anat Lalior (Israel)
• Tatiana Weston-Webb (Brazil)
• Teresa Bonvalot (Portugal)
• Janire Gonzalez-Extabarri (Spain)
• Molly Picklum (Australia)

Conclusion

As anticipation builds for the Paris 2024 Olympics at Teahupoo, surfers from across the globe are gearing up to ride the legendary waves. It will consist of three rounds – quarterfinals, semifinals and finals. 

With John John Florence and Carissa Moore returning from last year, Team US is standing strong against the competition.  The event matches the Teahupoo’s usual peak season, from April to October, when big swells bring the waves to life. You don't want to miss the electrifying showdown to be held in Tahiti.

Maine offers some of the best waves you can find in the country, assuming you’re there at the right time and under the right conditions. The best times to visit are during the Fall and Winter seasons, while spots like Higgens Beach, Wells Beach, and Ogunquit Beach are often preferred by surfers. 

Before diving into the best places to surf, let’s first take a look at why you’d want to visit Maine in the first place. 

Why Surf in Maine? 

Maine has plenty to offer for both beginner and experienced surfers. From its various beaches along the entire coast to its relatively untrodden territory, all while surfing behind a gorgeous mountainous backdrop, there’s bound to be something for any surfer.

What’re the Waves Like?

The sheer area of unexplored coastlines and the presence of large swells are the main reasons why Maine is sometimes considered the “last frontier of surfing.” 

In the north of the state, there are plenty of unexplored beaches and rock reefs that make it a great place to surf in privacy. Down south, you’ll find a more developed surf scene with several beaches to catch swells on, as well as more beginner-friendly locations. 

With near-continuous northerly winds and the Caribbean hurricane belt being everpresent in the fall and winter seasons, you’ll find plenty of south-southeast swells that produce a ton of optimal waves. 

How’s the Surf Culture? 

The overall surf culture is quite varied since it depends significantly on timing and location.

While locals generally prefer the calmness of the place due to many amateur surfers avoiding the area, they may be just as excited to see a new face or two. On the other hand, you may come across some folks who just endured a harsh winter and flat summer, so they can naturally be a bit less enthusiastic seeing groups of visiting surfers in their area. 

Surfing Season in Maine 

With Maine being the most northern state of New England, you can expect the winter temperatures there to be frigid, to say the least. However, if you’re looking to catch the optimal wave, you’d best go during the fall and winter seasons.

Best Times to Surf 

Your best bet to catch some decent waves would be during fall when the nor’easters form off of the Great Lakes or the Carolinas. The winds usually intensify off of the mid-Atlantic and can form gusts as strong as 30-50 mph. Late-season hurricanes can form by the end of October as well.  

The winters, while having strong swells and regular off- and cross-shore winds, are extremely cold, with water temps below 32 degrees Fahrenheit and air temps sometimes feeling like 20-30 below zero. 

If you can’t make it during fall or winter, go during the early months of spring, as you might be able to catch some mild swells before it all goes away, along with the cold as you enter summer. 

Best Surf Spots in Maine 

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there’s bound to be a site in Maine that’s just fit for you. Here are 5 of the best surf spots in Maine: 

1. Ogunquit Beach 

Ogunquit arguably has some of the best waves you can find along all of New England, mainly due to it having an exposed river mouth, thus being a point break and having long rights and inside lefts. Its location is orientated just perfectly for the S-SE swells that originate from the Caribbean. 

The beach can get quite busy, though, as it's quite popular with surfers, but the wave itself can be quite scattered. 

2. Higgens Beach 

Best for experienced surfers, Higgens Beach is an exposed beach break that produces the best waves during southeast swells. Your best chance to visit is during November, when the northwest and offshore winds match. 

Another popular area in north Maine, Higgens Beach, can get rather crowded, but having right and left peaks allows the crowds to disperse a bit. 

3. Wells Beach 

One of the best beginner-friendly surf spots in Maine, Wells Beach is another exposed beach break that, while consisting of relatively consistent waves throughout the year, has the most potential during east swells and northwestern offshore winds. During a rising mid-tide, you should have no trouble finding waves from both left and right. 

Wells Beach is not as crowded as the previously mentioned spots, making it accessible for beginners to practice. 

4. Popham Beach 

Another spot to check out in northern Maine, Popham Beach, has river mouth breaks and sandbars that are orientated for hurricane swells. Combining offshore winds from the Great Lakes with winds from the Atlantic and accurately positioned banks, you can find some decent waves in this relatively deserted area in December or January. 

5. Moody Point

Under the right conditions (when southeast swells mix with offshore northwest winds), you can find some long peeling waves at this reef break. It’s best to visit Moody Point in December. 

Although it has potential, Moody Point is usually seen with milder waves that are just right for beginners. 

Best Area to Learn to Surf 

The best spot for beginners is, no doubt, Wells Beach. With its consistent surf and its offering of left and right waves, surfers shouldn’t have any trouble finding a decent wave here throughout the year. 

All this, without the presence of crowds, makes Wells Beach arguably the most popular spot among beginners just looking to get out into the water. 

FAQs

What are some hazards you should look out for? 

With Maine’s extremely cold climate in the winter seasons, hypothermia is no doubt the biggest hazard to look out for. If your wetsuit is not suitable, you may find yourself developing frostbite if the wind chills are especially low. 

Rocky bottom breaks are also something to look out for, as they can easily break your equipment and result in injury. 

What type of equipment should you bring? 

As previously mentioned, you should be well prepared for the climate in Maine before you head out, especially in the winter months. This includes bringing equipment such as a hooded 6/5/4 full suit, 7mm wetsuit boots, and 5mm or 7mm gloves. 

Conclusion

Maine has a plethora of surfing spots suitable for surfers of all levels. As long as you’re well prepared for the climate, you should have no trouble finding a decent wave in the Pine Tree State. 

The increased numbers make heads spin because choosing the best can become a nightmare. So, how do you go about it?

1. Picking the perfect venue

This is perhaps the most important step. If you know where you want to head to learn surfing, you’ll already be able to narrow down your search for the perfect surf camp. Once you pick a spot, you can search for all the surf camps that exist at that location and browse through their offerings, rates, and other benefits.

Choose the one that corresponds well with all your needs to make your surf camp journey a successful one. Be sure to not only make this experience about surfing, even if that is the goal, but also to venture out into this new location to learn more about local culture, art, food, and its people. 

2. Making sure you choose according to your level and requirements

If you’re a beginner or an intermediate surfer, you’d want to pick a camp that offers surf lessons. Advanced surfers usually go for surf guiding rather than lessons in which they take a few refresher courses and work with a guide to master their techniques further. Since they already know surfing, guiding helps them to become better at their own game. 

Deciding on the courses you’re most comfortable with is an integral part of selecting the best surf camp. Group lessons are fun because they involve many people learning at the same time and give you real human experience. However, if you’d like more individual and focused coaching to work on a technique you’ve been struggling with for a long time, you might want to go for personalized coaching. 

Research on the experiences and qualifications that professors possess. Skills like knowledge about lifesaving techniques and CPR are important competencies that coaches need to have. While surfing skills are important, they also need to be great teachers.

Making sure that you choose a camp based on your own needs is important for a successful progression in this field.

3. Checking if they have all the equipment you might need

While it's great if you’re considering taking your own surfboard and surfing gear, carrying these things around can be a nightmare. Check if a surf camp you’re interested in has these items on sale or to borrow.

Having access to everything in one place makes sure that even if you forget or don’t prefer to carry equipment with you, you’ll be able to get it while there. Good surf camps will always make sure that they are fully stocked so that their clients are not inconvenienced. 

4. Analyzing the ambiance

Different surf camps will offer you a different vibe, and you need to make sure that the place you’re investing in offers you just what you’re looking for.

Whether you’re a party animal, love your solitude, or are looking for a little bit of nature for a completely zen experience, you’ll have to search for the kind of ambiance each camp has and then make your decision based on that.

It’ll also be worth checking the languages the courses are offered in. If you don’t understand the language, there will be no point in registering. You should feel at ease with the curriculum and atmosphere and look forward to the experience.

5. Reading the reviews

Check what other people are saying about a specific camp. Reviews help you understand and see something from another person’s viewpoint. Platforms like TripAdvisor and Google give you a chance to do just that. If you like a particular place and read many positive reviews about it, you can take that as a confirmation that it’ll be everything that you dreamed of. You can also leave your questions, in case you have any, for other people to respond to. This way, you’ll get clarifications and added information.  

6. Verifying the curriculum

While the ambiance is great, the bottom line is that you’re going there to learn. Check their curriculum to see if they include everything that you desire to learn and whether they teach basic surf etiquette or not. If the course doesn’t cover all, ask their coaches or representatives whether they can revise it or add the particular courses you’re interested in. If not, you can check out other camps.

7. Checking the visa and document requirements

If you’re traveling to a foreign country, you need to research their specific document requirements and processes. This is important for a smooth procedure. If you’re unable to get a visa or are restricted because you didn’t fulfill a specific obligation, you might not be able to visit your dream destination or get the surfing experience you wanted.

8. Understanding refund and cancellation policies 

If you want to be able to handle any unforeseen circumstances without loss, you would need to familiarize yourself with the camp's policies. Find out about their penalties, the latest dates when you can make cancellations, and when you can get refunds so that you know what to do in case of an emergency.

Surf camps provide an amazing, all-rounded experience where you learn, grow, make new friends, and master this amazing sport. But, remember that each camp has different facilities to offer and it is wise to study them well before finalizing on one. These retreats typically cost a lot of money, so you need to be sure that your investment is worth it. 

With its abundance of wildlife, natural sceneries, and a general lack of people, Alaska (particularly Cannon Beach and Fossil Beach) can be a desirable option for certain surfers. But with its somewhat desolate locations and icy cold waters, you’ll need to be well prepared before your trip.

Before we dive into detail on the best places and times to surf in Alaska, let’s first take a look at why you might want to consider Alaska to surf in the first place. 

Why Surf in Alaska?

While it can certainly be a bit difficult catching that perfect wave in Alaska, there are nonetheless several reasons why you may wish to consider visiting the Last Frontier. Some common reasons why people might choose Alaska include its pristine and extensive wildlife, the calmness of the environment, and the decent waves that can be encountered if you know where and when to go.

What’re the Waves Like? 

If you don’t mind the cold temperatures of the water (this usually averages about 52 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year), you can find some decent waves near the river mouth point breaks that often contain some sandy or cobblestone bottom. The reef breaks, on the other hand, are rather small due to the often frigid waters. The chances of surfing virgin waves are still quite high if you know where to go (more on this later). 

Another thing to note is that, due to the low salt content of the water, you won’t have as much buoyancy out over the water. Therefore, you should remember to pack in a board with more volume to stay afloat. 

How’s the Surf Culture? 

One of the greatest advantages (if you’re an introvert or beginner, perhaps) of surfing in Alaska is the lack of crowds; it can be rare to find even one other person in some areas. 

Despite this, certain groups of surfers will take visitors out to specific islands and other areas along the Alaskan shorelines via boat or bush plane (in some guide shops, day-long helicopter rides are offered so that you can get some nice scenic views along the way). 

Surfing Season in Alaska 

Because of the usually frigid temperatures in Alaska, you should visit the state only during its optimal seasons. The best times to go are typically during Spring or Fall. 

Best Times to Surf

As mentioned, it's best to visit Alaska during the Spring or Fall seasons, as the winters are extremely cold (with water temperatures easily dipping into the 30s), and the daylight cycles can be unpredictable. Summer is also not optimal for surfing since the waves can be quite flat and are often inconsistent. 

5 Best Surf Spots in Alaska 

While Alaska as a whole might not have the best waves suitable for surfing, there are certain places with the right conditions that make them attractive to both locals and visiting surfers. Of course, this also depends on when you’re visiting. 

1. Cannon Beach 

Cannon Beach, located in Yakutat (a city/borough in Alaska), is one of the most popular choices among all surfers. Yakutat, in general, has more surfers than other areas in the state, but Cannon Beach, in particular, is popular due to the offshore wind in the Summer. 

The beach itself is quite mushy and can only be reached by boat or plane. However, because it's still considered part of the mainland, there’s not as much island hopping needed. 

Although relatively popular, Cannon Beach still hosts few surfers due to its accessibility. Hence, it shouldn’t be too difficult for you to find a breaking peak to surf. 

2. Fossil Beach 

Fossil Beach, located on Kodiak Island, is another top choice for surfers. 

Similar to Cannon Beach, Fossil Beach also requires access using either a boat or plane, as it is part of an island off of the mainland. An airport is present on the island, making traveling by plane a potentially more attractive choice. 

Although it can be difficult to reach, Fossil Beach has some of the most consistent waves on this list due to the presence of a cobblestone bottom at its break. 

The overall amount of surf breaks found on Kodiak Island makes it, as a whole, quite attractive to surfers in general.

3. Shoals Reef/Wall

Located in the small fishing town of Sitka sits a shoal wall that can sometimes have rather large swells, occasionally rising to over 15 feet high. A south swell can be particularly high. 

Reaching the wall requires a roughly 30-minute boat ride from Sitka’s shoreline. Due to this, don’t expect many surfers here despite the swells. 

4. Sea Lion Cove 

Another popular surf spot, also located in Sitka, is Sea Lion Cove, which you can reach by taking a roughly hour or so walk by the Sea Lion Trial, which will guide you straight to the surf. 

This particular cove has two sides, with the north side having swells that can occasionally reach up to 20 feet high, while the south side is usually more tame and beginner-friendly. 

The north side of the cove is more of a reef, while the south is primarily a beach break. 

5. Sandy Beach 

Finally, if you’re looking for somewhere more road accessible, you may wish to consider Sandy Beach, also located in Sitka. 

With its sandbar and mushy waves, don’t expect to find huge swells here, though the waves can be pretty consistent. 

The biggest advantage of this site is the fact that it's one of the few road-accessible areas in Alaska in general, meaning you’re more likely to find others with you, unlike the previously mentioned locations in Sitka. 

Best Area to Learn to Surf 

A few of the best places for beginner surfers specifically include the previously mentioned Sea Lion Cove and the relatively newer discovered Turnagain Arm. 

Although it can take a while to reach Sea Lion Cove, its south side can often provide beginners plenty of chances to ride the mellow waves. And with its north side offering more intense swells, beginners can get the chance to test their skills at the same location. 

The reason why Turnagain Arm has gained traction recently as a spot for beginner surfers is due to the presence of bore tides, which are two moments during the day when the water level rises and allow the formation of waves capable of reaching 12 feet in height.

These tides, the result of a converging of outgoing water from a river and incoming tidal water from the ocean, can only be seen during high tide in the mornings and nights. Since these waves are much scarcer than those in the ocean, it's less dangerous for beginner surfers who aren’t looking to paddle out too far to find the next wave (you only get 2 shots each day). 

FAQs

What type of equipment should you bring? 

Cold water gear is essential when looking to surf in Alaska. 

A thick, hooded wetsuit (preferably a 5/4), boots, and gloves are crucial to avoid the cold waters on your skin. 

When considering Turnagain Arm in the summer, some surfers prefer just going in their typical swimwear when the water temperatures reach 50 degrees Fahrenheit, but ultimately, that decision will be up to each person’s preference. 

What can you do when the waves are flat? 

With the immense biodiversity present in Alaska, there’s no limit to your options when it comes to exploring the outdoors. 

Hiking, for example, can be a great way of seeing the wilderness around the state. National parks, such as Denali National Park and Glacier Bay, are decent options if you’re looking to stay on land. 

If you’d prefer to go out in the water while the waves are flat, you can consider going on a boat tour or kayaking on your own across a river or lake. 

Finally, something that’s rarely seen elsewhere in the world is the Northern Lights. If you’re ever in the mood, there are plenty of tour guides who will take you to see the natural phenomenon. 

Conclusion

Although Alaska may not be your first choice when it comes to surfing, several areas can provide you with an experience similar to what you’ll find in the more popular states. Along with the expansive wilderness and overall sparse visitors, the Last Frontier just may be an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. 

What exactly are surf camps?

These camps are retreats, especially planned and designed to offer you a complete surfing experience. But, don’t think for a second that you’ll be limited to surfing alone at these retreats.

In fact, by a whole experience, we mean a chance to not only develop the skills you need to one day be a professional surfer but also give you an opportunity to meet exciting people, both professionals and learners like yourself, and have a fun time at the beach.

Of course, camp organizers know that all work and no play makes Tim a dull boy. Camp packages, therefore, offer an all-inclusive retreat that will leave you refreshed and full of valuable surfing techniques by the end of it.

However, be sure to also read through the downsides of surf camps. Nothing on this planet is all bliss. If you want a rose, you’ll have to deal with its thorns too. 

3 Key benefits of surf camps

Surf camps are afresh, making a buzz, and for good reason. Lots of people flock to these ideal places of instruction and leisure to boost their game and have a good time. Here are some of the benefits of these programs you should check out:

1. You’ll develop valuable skills

The entire purpose of a surf camp is to up your surfing game by the end of it and help you acquire the manoeuvers and talent that will help you tackle monstrous waves with ease. These retreats have a comprehensive program that follows a rigorous schedule and teachers who instruct meaningful content according to your level.

If you’re a beginner and have never been out in the ocean with a surfboard before, you can be sure that during this training, you’ll learn how to ride your board while maintaining balance and stability.

2. You’ll meet professors and make valuable friends 

The people that you meet at surf camps will change your life. Remember that while some of these people are there to learn just as you, others are present to offer meaningful surfing advice that will remain with you for the rest of your life.

Either way, whether you meet a newbie or someone with the skills that you hope to acquire, your knowledge about surfing and about life, in general, will increase with each interaction that you have the privilege of having.

So, while there, don’t lock yourself into your cozy room just to be comfortable. Instead, venture out into the open and see how your life will change. You won’t return the same!

3. There will be other activities too!

A surf camp doesn’t mean you’ll spend all your time surfing. That will become too boring after a few days. Surf camps are called retreats for a reason. They include other interesting activities, which might vary with different camps, food, and accommodation.

The entertainment will help to refresh you and give you a chance to indulge in light-hearted games and events that’ll leave you energized for your next surfing lesson. 

Why surf camps might not be all that you dreamed of

While the benefits are great, we cannot neglect the cons of surf camps that might make you reconsider joining one. Here are the top four:

1. They can cost a lot of money

Most surf camps aren’t cheap because of a lot of planning and the costs involved in creating them in the first place. This is, for the most part, true if you plan on attending one for several months.

If you don’t have enough money or savings to invest in this activity, then you’ll have to find another way to fulfill your dream of being a great surfer, like perhaps joining a surf school.

2. They don’t offer you much flexibility

With a strict schedule in place that needs to be followed if you want to keep up with the program, you might not be able to get sufficient time to explore the new area or city you’re in. while some surf camps might be located near where you live, there are others more exotic ones that give you a chance to travel to places you might have never seen before.

A tight schedule means a limited time to see a different place and learn about its culture.

3. You might get overwhelmed by the pressure

The entire purpose of a surf camp is to make you learn what you’ve been wanting to perfect all this time: surfing! Some camps might be more intense than others, which can get pretty overwhelming if you aren’t used to their pace.

Also, remember that surfing demands physical exertion. If you’re not fit, you’ll be left behind.

4. You might be constrained by the level

While there may be retreats that train advanced surfers, most invest their time and energy into introducing beginners to the sport or upping the game of intermediate surfers. If you’re already a pro and are looking for a camp that’ll cater to your level and need a challenging course such as surf guiding, you might have a hard time finding one and you might be required to do extensive research.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt that surf camps are excellent training facilities that develop your skills, all the while offering you an enticing environment where you can learn, make friends, and have a wonderful time.

But you must study your preferred retreat before deciding to join. If a particular schedule does not offer a course that aligns with your skill level and preferences, it’s best to look elsewhere. 

When it comes to surfing in Georgia, it's best to visit around late Summer to early Winter, when hurricanes can potentially make the waters more suitable. Tybee Island should be the best place to learn surfing, while areas like North Jetty, St. Simons Island, and Wolf Island can all be great for general surfing. 

Before we go into the details of finding the right spot, let’s first have a look at why you might want to choose Georgia as a spot to surf in the first place. 

Why Surf in Georgia? 

When you think about going surfing, Georgia probably won’t be the first place to pop up in your mind, with its seemingly lackluster waves and somewhat difficult trek reaching the beaches. But, if you find yourself along the East Coast, there are several reasons why Georgia might be a strong option for you to explore. 

Decent Waves with the Right Timing 

Although the waves present off Georgia typically aren’t a great fit for surfing, the 100 miles of coastline and roughly 60-80 miles of continental shelf can provide many areas to catch a swell. This is especially true during the late summer to early winter seasons when northeasterly and hurricane winds can provide more suitable waves for surfing. 

While you might find the waves less appealing during the warmer months, another benefit of surfing around Georgia is that you can surf year-round thanks to its more southern location compared to states such as Maine or New York. 

Casual Surf Culture and Crowds 

Because the idea of surfing isn’t so strong in Georgia, there’s not a whole lot of competitive surfers (or even in general) who would be willing to wait for the right waves and so there’s not a whole lot of localism when it comes to the sport. 

The surf breaks are also usually public beaches, with surfers of all kinds visiting. Overall, this means that you should feel confident when you go out to surf in Georgia, as just about everyone there is doing so casually. 

Surfing Season in Georgia 

The surfing season in Georgia can vary annually, but generally, the best time to surf is from late summer to early winter. While these times are best for professional surfers and those looking to catch a powerful wave, there are benefits of surfing during the other seasons as well. 

Surfing in Summer 

Summertime in Georgia tends to be hot, especially in August. With water temperatures rising to over 80 degrees Fahrenheit in late August, you are more likely to find hurricane-force winds starting around then.

Tropical weather systems usually begin around mid-July, so be sure to keep an eye on the Weather Channel or National Hurricane Center for updates around that time. You’ll also see if it's an El Nino or a La Nina year, in which you can expect around 3-4 storms for the former or 5-6 for the latter. 

Except for hurricanes, though, you probably won’t find many waves optimal enough to surf on in the Summer. Considering the high pressure that comes in from Bermuda and the typical southeastern winds, it can be difficult to find a wave to surf.

Surfing in Fall 

Fall can be a great time to surf as water temperatures will usually vary from the low 80s to the mid-60s, and most tropical storms and nor’easter weather systems will occur during this time. During hurricane season, the waves will become more steady and powerful, making Georgia much more attractive to seasoned surfers. 

Surfing in Winter 

The chances of waves can be quite unpredictable during winter. While you may be able to find good swells when low-pressure systems come, the increasingly cold weather (and hence cold waters) can make the whole trip more difficult as the season goes on. 

Be sure to pack a good wetsuit when the outside temperature drops to around 30 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Surfing in Spring 

While occasional passing fronts and late nor’easters do bring in some strong waves during Spring, the majority of the season will see more mellow and calm waters. Spring is arguably best for beginners who are looking for more tolerant weather and those seeking to avoid the bugs, snakes, and alligators that usually roam the area. 

Best Surfing Spots in Georgia 

Because Georgia isn’t a place well-known for surfing, it’s crucial to find the right location and timing if you wish to catch the biggest wave. Here are some top places to check out: 

1. Tybee Island 

Tybee Island is arguably the best spot in Georgia to catch a wave. Its waves are consistent and usually average one to two feet during high tide. 

Tybee Pier and Little Tybee both offer routine waves, and the offshore sandbar breaks between the two locations can be great for longboarding. 

Location: Past McQueen’s Island and near Savannah, along the coast of Georgia 

2. North Jetty 

While beginner surfers often visit Georgia, this is especially true in North Jetty, since it has few crowds. 

Though waves are not as consistent here as around Tybee, waves break here and along the beach, therefore you’ll still be able to find plenty of chances when they do break and the weather’s kind. 

Location: St. Marys’ Entrance would be best 

3. St. Simons Island 

Though St. Simons Island is small (roughly 22 square miles), the barrier island has enough open beach breaks that you can potentially ride one or two, especially during hurricane season. 

Location: Roughly a 2 hour’s drive south of Tybee Island via I-95 S, an hour’s drive north of Jacksonville 

4. Wolf Island 

Wolf Island has a good number of swells and cross-shore winds from summer through early fall. 

Besides the waves, Wolf Island is also a National Refuge, meaning that it is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and thus contains a diverse group of animals and plants. Specifically, people often go there to observe shorebirds. 

Because of its location, Wolf Island is also used as a fishing, crabbing, or boating spot, so you can be sure you’ll find an activity to do there even if you’re not there to surf. 

Location: East of the Brunswick Airport and immediately north of Little Egg Island 

Best Areas to Learn Surfing in Georgia

While some things are required for all beginner surfers, such as being able to swim or being aware of hazards in the water, some areas in Georgia are better than others when it comes to learning the sport. 

1. Tybee Island

With Tybee Island being the most often visited surfing spot in general, it's not surprising to see it being so popular among beginners as well. 

With consistent and mild waves during most of the year, the island is great for those just getting into the water. 

2. St. Simons Island 

Another popular spot is the previously mentioned St. Simons Island, which has a handful of beginner-friendly spots, with East Beach being particularly popular thanks to its mild waves and sandy bottom. 

3. Jekyll Island

Along with St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island is also a popular beginner-friendly spot in the Golden Isles. Driftwood Beach has similar traits to East Beach, making it just as attractive to beginners. 

FAQs

What are some hazards you might encounter? 

Common hazards you might encounter include animal attacks, thunderstorms, and heat. 

Georgia’s many islands are home to a large diversity of wildlife, such as alligators, rays, jellyfish, and sharks. It's imperative to know where these animals usually stay, such as saltwater inlets (sharks), beneath the underwater sand (rays), and along beaches (alligators). 

Be wary of these places and bring necessary protective gear (i.e., Sting-eze, hat, sunscreen, etc.) to keep yourself safe from the animals and elements. 

What activities can you do when waves are absent? 

The main reason why Georgia isn’t such a popular surfing spot is due to the lack of waves. As such, you may want to find some other activities to do if you happen to travel there during one of those times. 

When it comes to wildlife, besides spots like Wolf Island, another potential candidate is Providence Canyon, sometimes called the “Little Grand Canyon.” 

If you’re more into urban life, you can consider visiting Atlanta or Savannah, with the former having several well-known sports teams and stadiums and the latter being very close to the coast and having a plethora of old southern-style architecture that’s certainly worth your time. 

Conclusion

Although Georgia probably wasn’t on your list of potential surf spots, hopefully, this article has convinced you that the state can be worthy of your time. With its many islands and surf spots, immense diversity, and overall peaceful atmosphere, the Peach State has much more to offer than one may think. 

Depending on the type of wave, there can be various reasons why they’re formed. While most waves, such as those we typically see out in the ocean, are caused by energy transfer within the water (brought on by wind), others may be formed by factors such as underwater disturbances, severe weather, or gravitational pull. 

From here on out, you’ll be taking a closer look at each type of wave, along with the reasons for their formation. Each type will be separated into its subheadings to simplify readability. 

What are Waves?

Before going into detail on the different types of waves and how they’re formed, it's best to have a clear understanding of what waves are in general so that the processes discussed later make sense. 

As discussed earlier, waves are primarily formed by energy traveling through the water, which happens to be the medium in this case. Depending on the medium, there are many other types of waves (i.e., electromagnetic and sound waves).

In all cases, waves transfer energy, not the medium itself, meaning if nothing is in its way, the waves can potentially travel through the whole ocean. 

This movement of energy is what causes waves to move in a circular motion. 

Below is a general overview of an ocean wave. It details the anatomy of a wave, including the crest (highest point)  and trough (lowest point), which will be mentioned several more times throughout the article. 

What are Wind-Driven/Surface Waves?

Wind-driven waves, otherwise known as surface waves, are the types of waves we’re most familiar with. These waves are the ones that travel continuously along the surface of the ocean until they eventually break over land. 

In the cases of these waves, the wind is the source of energy that, while traveling across the water, creates friction that eventually develops into a wave crest. 

These waves can be found in either smaller lakes or across the open oceans (and their coasts) around the world. 

Small Capillary Waves are Born

Wind-driven/surface waves begin as capillary waves (wavelengths are below 1.7 cm), which are small ripples on the water surface due to slight breezes. The capillary waves provide a source of friction as the wind “grips” onto them and creates larger waves, known as wind waves.

When these small waves are first formed, you have either the surface tension (of the water) or gravity (when the waves are larger) acting as a restoring force to return the water to its calm state. 

Wind Increases in Speed, Creating Larger Waves

When the energy of the wind increases, three factors then come into play that determine the amount of energy and, thus, the overall size of the waves: the wind speed, duration, and the distance over which the wind blows in a straight line. 

Regardless of which factor increases, the overall amount of energy moving through the water increases, and thus, the speed and size of the waves increase as well. 

However, wind-generated waves can only reach a certain size. As the waves grow larger due to increasing energy transfer, they become steeper as well. 

When the wave heights reach over 1/7 the length of their wavelength, the waves will collapse and form whitecaps (a sign of waves breaking). 

Different Types of Hazardous Waves

Unlike wind-driven/surface waves, there are a few other types of waves that are much rarer to see as they only form under specific conditions. However, these waves are usually also much more powerful as they typically contain significantly more energy behind them. 

Here, you’re presented with two types of hazardous waves, storm surges and tsunamis, which will be presented first in general and then specifically at their formation processes. 

What are Storm Surges? 

Storm surges are a series of long waves (waves with long wavelengths) that are formed in the deep waters far from shore. These waves, though starting mild and far from land, can intensify rapidly as they get closer inland, causing a significantly dangerous rise in sea level. 

Storm surges, per their namesake, occur due to the presence of strong storms and other severe weather phenomenon, such as hurricanes. The surges are due to the strong winds and pressure that accompany storms, the former of which can push water onshore. 

Many factors, such as the orientation of the storm track relative to the shoreline, the attributes of the storm (intensity, speed, size, etc.), and bathymetry (the depth of the water), go into play when determining the approximate amplitude/severity of a storm surge. 

When measuring storm surges, we look at how high the tide has gone over its normal predicted astronomical tide, meaning that anything above the normal tide level can be considered part of a storm surge. When you combine the two types of tides, you get the total observed seawater level, otherwise known as the storm tide. 

Because astronomical tides are highest during a new or full moon (details of which we’ll look at later), the highest storm tides are observed when there’s a powerful storm during a new or full moon. 

What are Tsunamis?

Another potentially even more devastating and usually much larger type of wave that is also quite rarely seen is tsunamis. 

Tsunamis are caused by various types of disturbances (typically underwater, such as earthquakes or underwater volcano eruptions, but sometimes also caused by landslides) that displace a tremendous amount of water. This causes the water to then spread out and away from the epicenter in a continuous series of waves. 

You can picture what the phenomenon looks like if you imagine the ripples that occur when you toss a pebble into a pond. Just like how the ripples spread out and away from the place where the pebble hit the water, tsunamis also move in a similar pattern except, of course, on a much larger scale. 

Like storm surges, tsunamis start mild out in the far ocean but become gradually more intense and higher as they approach land, where the ocean becomes shallower. 

The waves’ speed depends on the ocean’s depth instead of how far the waves have traveled from the epicenter. 

In this case, the speed of the waves is inverse to ocean depth, meaning the deeper the ocean is, the faster the waves travel, and vice versa. And, of course, when the waves slow down, the amount of energy gathered over the entire distance will fall onto a much smaller volume, becoming the extremely high waves we usually associate with tsunamis. 

Both tsunamis and storm surges are the types of waves that rapidly roll onto shores like enormous sea level rises, as opposed to the typical wind-driven waves we see that crash down onto the shores. 

What are Gravitational Waves? 

The final type of wave discussed in this article is gravitational waves, otherwise known as tidal waves or just tides for short. 

The reason for these waves is due to the sun and moon’s gravity pulling on the Earth’s surface. It’s because of this that people can accurately predict the rise and fall of these waves depending on the time of day. 

Because tidal waves are dependent on the gravitational pull of much larger and farther away objects, their periods (the time needed for a wave to travel its entire length) and wavelengths are also much longer. They originate in the ocean and travel towards the shore throughout the day, where they’ll look like the rise and fall of the ocean surface. 

Depending on which part of the wave hits the shore, people may see it as either high tide (at the wave’s crest) or low tide (at the wave’s trough), with the range between the two being the tidal range. 

Conclusion

Although people often don’t think much of waves as they repeatedly come crashing onto the shores, there is quite a large variety of them, each with their own form and formation process. Hopefully, this article has proven just how much of the natural world there still is to discover around us. 

Here are 9 things that you should keep in mind if you want to reach new surfing heights and tackle those big waves with grace:

1. Surfing isn’t easy

Surfing is hard, and not only need to be physically fit to be a good surfer, but you also need to perfect certain skills and techniques that will give you an edge while in the midst of waves. Out of all these techniques, learning how to hold your breath for more than 30 seconds is the most important.

Believe it or not, waves push hard, especially when you are underwater and right below one. If you panic at that moment, you’ll be out of breath quicker.

There are certain breath-holding exercises that can equip you for a perfect surf session. And, of course, this is a no-brainer, but if you don’t know how to swim, you should stay at the shoreline. 

2. You’re going to need professional help to get started

If you’ve never surfed before, there is a huge chance that you’re going to need a pro to help you learn important maneuvers so that you’re comfortable out there. Many beginners might even find it hard to maintain balance on their surfboard while on level water.

It’s important that you seek qualified guidance so that you can make the right decisions, such as whether to duck dive, bail out, or turtle roll when you see a huge wave coming at you. 

3. Understand the physics behind wave movement 

There are certain wave patterns that, if understood, will help you to navigate the waters better. For instance, if you bail out right when a wave is about to hit you and you’re underwater, you’ll notice pockets of spaces where the wave isn’t pushing down. If you get to this space, you’ll be able to swim up faster. 

Timing waves is also important because it helps you decide whether you want to duck dive or just bail. For instance, duck diving will be a bad strategy if the lip falls directly on you because your board can break due to all the force. 

4. Be respectful of nature

Water pollution is a huge NO if you are thinking about being an ethical surfer. If you have rubbish on you that you’d like to get rid of, be sure to dispose of it in a trash can before hitting the water. Remember that the ocean is an entire ecosystem where life flourishes. Polluting means risking the well-being of these species.  

5. Learn on a full stomach

Surfing is an intense, calorie-consuming sport. If you attempt it on an empty stomach, you’ll risk feeling drained and weak by the end of it. Eating a hearty meal before a surf session is important so that you can get all the essential nutrients for your body to function normally.

6. Never bail if there are other surfers in your vicinity

Bailing is dangerous because, with all that wave pressure, your leash can break. With a broken leash, your board is free to move around with the wave. And considering how strong wave pressure can be, it can hit someone forcefully, causing serious injuries, even to the point of a skull injury leading to unconsciousness.

Remember that you need to act responsibly if you don’t want to harm anyone else. At the same time, you need to be careful if someone else in your vicinity bails. If this happens, you’ll have no other choice but to bail as well if you want to avoid getting hit by their board.

7. Know how much you can handle

Don’t assume that everything will be easy once you’re out there. You should know your skills and judge if the conditions out there are too rough. You don’t need to master everything instantly because remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day!

Pace yourself at a rhythm that’s most comfortable for you, and you’ll notice yourself getting better with each passing day.  Call it a day when you feel you’ve exerted yourself enough for that surf session.

8. Don’t get demotivated

Learning any sport or skill takes time, and there are sadly no shortcuts. However, even if there are days when you feel like you aren’t making any progress, remind yourself that this is, in fact, a false impression because progress is small, daily, and sometimes unnoticeable changes that cumulate to give successful results down the line.

9. Know ocean safety rules

If you are just starting out, here are a few ocean rules to keep in mind so that you’re safe in the ocean.

1. Never learn at crowded spots. You’ll be more at ease and will be able to hit waves more frequently if you don’t have to share them with others. Crowded spots also increase the chances of collisions.
2. Make sure that your leash is securely on you.
3. Keep yourself away from your board during a wipeout so that you’re not injured by it.
4. Keeping calm is the number 1 strategy to avoid being rag-dolled. You can also lose your breath faster underwater if you become anxious. If you are naturally anxious or fear the ocean, you might want to overcome this by practicing holding your breath and meditating. 

Wrapping up

Now that you have the basics up your sleeve, you’re ready to move on to the next stage, i.e., putting your wetsuit on and learning how to surf. 

From massive wipeouts underwater to being thrown in the air like a ball, waves have their own way of treating their guests. Pipeline, Jaws, Teahupoo, and other big surfing places remain in the spotlight. However, there are other unusual and weird places in the world that surfers seek in hopes of experiencing an adventurous surfing trip. They travel far and wide across the globe to experience these crazy moments.

These places hidden from the world offer waves that will make you go all wild and rogue. No more surfing on predictions; it's all about spontaneous judgment.

Imagine surfing the freezing glacier waves or riding a long man-made wave pool. It's all about enjoying that unique experience.

In this post, you'll find some of the weirdest waves ever surfed and places where waves will make you dance to their own rhythm.

1. River Surfing in Eisbach, Germany 

Even if you don’t live near Pipeline, Hawaii, or California Mavericks – no worries. There is always a good spot nearby. You just gotta look a little deeper.

Surfing waves, surrounded by forest and peaceful ambiance, is an experience like no other. It’s one of the most amazing forms of surfing, known as River surfing. It involves catching a hydraulic jump wave while facing upstream, making it look like riding fast over still water.

One of the coolest hotspots for river surfing is Munich, Germany. River surfing began during the 70s era and soon became a worldwide style of surfing. Located in the heart of the city, the Bavarian capital witnesses almost 100 surfers catching the Eisbach waves. 

The man-made river has seen some of the biggest names, like Jack Johnson, hitting on Eisbach waves.

The place offers challenging waves – not so friendly for beginners, yet you can still watch pro surfers in action. It’s not hard to find quality waves year-round, but don't forget your 7mm wetsuits, as it can get freezing in winter.

2. Tanker Waves in Houston, Texas

Another wacky wave on the list is the tanker wave. Only a surfer can understand the true joy when a tanker or ferry passes nearby. Surfers wait patiently to catch that perfect moment and ride the craziest wave of their life.

If the ship is big and heavy, you’re gonna enjoy some waist-high waves. You can either take a jetski or paddle to the spot where you know the ship will pass.

In Galveston, Texas, surfers ride three-mile waves created by passing oil tankers in the Houston Ship Channel. Captain James Fulbright’s Tanker Surf Charter has offered this unique experience since 2009.

Unlike regular waves, these are formed by massive ship displacement. It’s also considered the longest wave in North America that may offer a ride up to 20 minutes.

The place is kept exclusive to avoid overcrowding. They prioritize safety and pick up surfers by boat after riding.

3. Glacier Waves in Beluga Point, Alaska

Glacier waves are one of the gnarliest waves to surf. Seriously, watching a big chunk of ice melt in front of you…looks really scary. Even though it’s a sign of global warming, surfers seek out the right moment to experience the thrill.

Garrett McNamara, the iconic big wave rider with eight Guinness world records, was part of a special group that surfed waves generated by a 300-foot glacier in Alaska. Depending on the size of the ice chunk and the angle of impact, the waves here can reach an impressive height of over 20-30 ft.

You won’t find these kinds of treacherous waves everywhere. But if you're up for the challenge, then Beluga Point in Alaska is an ideal spot for you to enjoy glacier surfing. 

4. Tidal Bore Waves in Silver Dragon, China

A tidal bore is when the leading tide sends a wave zooming up the river or a narrow bay, completely messing with the usual flow. It’s nature acting all rebellious.

You can hear the loud roars as it bumps into everything on its way. Tidal bores are dangerous and may turn destructive, but that doesn't stop surfers from enjoying an awesome ride.

There are few places in the world where you’ll find these loud tidal bores, like Mexico’s Colorado River or Canada’s Petitcodiac River, but one place that has a notorious reputation among surfers is China’s Silver Dragon.

In ideal conditions, Silver Dragon may go as high as 30 feet, speeding at 25 mph. It’s considered the tallest of all its kind, offering an hour-long ride.

Over the years, Silver Dragon has been a hotspot for surfers seeking the weirdest waves. Many top surfers have taken on this beast, aiming to conquer its wild waves.

5. Kelly Slater’s Wave Pool, California

Surfing isn't limited to oceans anymore. With man-made pools, there’s no more waiting or depending on predictions. Ingenious engineers, teamed up with skilled surfers, have successfully replicated ocean-like waves for an amazing and predictable experience.

Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch, a man-made wave paradise in Lemoore, California, is revolutionizing surfing in 100 miles from the ocean. Founded by 11-time champion Kelly Slater, the 20-acre site features a high-tech wave pool with four profiles for surfers of all levels. 

The $30 million investment in the pool, shaped by hydrofoils, offers consistent waves up to 20 mph and 8 feet high.

Session costs range from $6000 to $15,000, providing a personalized wave experience. You can also enjoy skateboarding, biking, and lakeside cabin amenities.

6. Lake Tahoe, California

Surfing in lakes is not the same as surfing in the ocean. Surfers have limited opportunities to ride good-quality waves. Also, it’s a bit more of a hustle with waves running their own marathon.

Lake surfers catch the action right in the storm, unlike ocean surfers riding swells that take days to hit the shore.

The good part is you don’t have to worry about sharks or jellyfish bites. You can enjoy surfing in pure freshwater without getting covered in salt.

One of the coolest spots for lake surfing is Lake Tahoe. The mountainous landscapes and storms can generate winds exceeding 100mph.

Despite the cold waters and fierce winds reaching 40 mph at lake level, Lake Tahoe is an awesome place for surfing and other water-related sports. You can also enjoy hiking, motorcycling, and gambling since it spans both Nevada and California.

7. Backwash Wave, Wyalup in Rocky Point, Western Australia

You can experience a backwash wave in coastal areas where waves break along the shoreline and then flow back towards the ocean. Waves touching the shore carry their own energy. 

That way, they can be constructive or destructive and can increase or decrease the size of the beach by bringing in more sand or taking a bit away. Destructive waves tend to have a powerful backwash.

One of the favorite surfing spots to experience backwash water is Australia's Wyalup-Rocky Point. The waves crash by some gnarly rocks and create high-energy waves that can throw surfers high up in the air (though surfers really enjoy that!)

Check out what surfing looks like at Wyalup-Rocky Point.

Conclusion

Surfing is not just about the oceans and catching the biggest wave in the world – it’s about experiencing the fun the sport has to offer. Whether conquering river challenges, riding amazing tanker waves, facing the risk of glacier surfing, or taming tidal bores, each wave offers a distinctive thrill. 

For those who need a break from the ordinary, they can explore these places where unusual and weird waves dominate the water.

It’s all about feeling the real stoke!