Surfing in the USA
Wednesday 21 March 2017 Here's a quick guide to a few surf spots in the United States, just in case you find yourself in one of these states and feel like going for a surf. This is paid content.
BEACH BARRELS: Perfect waves can be found breaking on the North Shore. Photo Jeremy Bishop
When it comes to holidaying in the states, there are plenty of breaks you can surf along a huge west and east coast that traverses a diverse range of cultures and climates. In this advertorial, we give you a range of regions where you will find wavs for beginners or seasoned surfers. Pack your gear, apply for your ESTA visa and get ready to go surfin' the US of A:
Santa Cruz, California
Santa Cruz is one of the most well-known and commonly visited surf regions in the USA, and seeing as it’s known as ‘surf city’ it’s not hard to see why. Santa Cruz is the perfect location for surfers of all levels. Pleasure Point is ideal for all levels of experience. Cowell’s beach is a pretty good all-round beachbreak, while Steamer Lane is perfect for seasoned, experienced surfers with some of the best waves not only in the country, but in the world.
BIG WAVE BOOST: Hurricane Maria brought proper surf to the Carolinas. Photo Windy.com
Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina
This town in North Carolina Outer Banks offers an ideal destination for surfers. With your typical slow-paced southern culture and high quality waves, you get a bit of everything, while you park off and chill. Summer can be epic when the hurricane swells are pumping. In fact, this month has seen some huge swell via a range of hurricanes, the most recent being Hurricane Maria. Besides surfing, however, there is a plethora of interesting cuisine to sample. From fried Mahl sandwiches, to the “black and blue” burgers at Food Dudes Kitchen, there are unusual but great options.
Cape Kiwanda, Oregon
While many surf spots are only good for the waves, Cape Kiwanda has it all, not least the fact that nearby Pacific City, a vibrant urban sprawl and interesting place to visit. Cape Kiwanda is home to serious surf in winter, with 15’+ waves here common. It's also gorgeous, with great views and wild coastline. The beachbreak is user friendly, framed by a monolothic cliff in the background. Pacific City is cool to check out - the South County Surf Shop - run by long-time local Bob Ledbetter - is an attraction all on its own. The city has an idyllic, laid-back vibe that spills to the beaches.
Waimea Bay, Hawaii
For the seasoned and the brave, Waimea Bay is the perfect location. With regular 20ft or higher giant waves to ride, this is where you test your adrenaline threshold. The currents are extremely strong and the reefs below the waves can be lethal, so only surf here if you are super fit and can hold your breath for quite a long time.