Ever watched someone ride a wave and thought, "I wish I could do that"? You're not alone. But let's be honest—those massive, roaring waves you see in surf competitions? Not exactly the best starting point. Beginners need soft, slow rollers that don't toss you around like laundry in a spin cycle. Gentle waves, sandy bottoms, and surf schools nearby—those are the absolute dream.

Here are seven beginner-friendly surf spots where the waves are as welcoming as the locals.

If surfing had a birthplace for beginners, this would be it. Waikiki Beach in Honolulu is where the old-school Hawaiian kings surfed, and it’s still one of the best spots to learn.

The waves here break far out, giving them time to slow down and become long, mellow rides—perfect for standing up and riding your first real wave. There’s a whole lineup of surf schools right along the beach. You’ll see everyone from first-timers to grandparents catching their balance on the water.

The beach vibe here is relaxed. Nobody's judging your wipeouts. They're probably cheering you on.

The best time to go is from April to October for smaller swells.

Wave type: Long, slow, and forgiving.

There's something about Byron Bay that makes you want to slow down. It could be the crystal-clear water or how surfers carry their boards like it's part of them. This little beach town is great if you're starting.

The Pass is the spot to hit if you're a total beginner. The waves peel slowly and cleanly—ideal for practising balance and turns. The sand is soft, the water is warm, and the locals are used to teaching newcomers how to catch waves.

You can rent a board off the beach and get started within minutes.

The best time to go is from December to March.

Wave type: Smooth, waist-high peelers.

Never surfed before? Weligama's got you covered. This place feels like it was designed for first-timers. It's a vast bay with a long stretch of shallow water, so even if you mess up, you're mostly just getting your knees wet.

The waves here don't crash down with force—they roll in slowly and predictably. That means you have time to get on your board, find your feet, and ride it out with a goofy grin.

There are dozens of surf camps and instructors in the area. Most will have you standing on a board by the end of your first day.

The best time to go is from November to April.

Wave type: Gentle whitewater and smooth green waves.

Sayulita feels like a secret that everyone's already in on. The town has incredible, artsy energy—colourful murals, taco stands, and barefoot surfers biking to the beach. And then there's the main break: gentle, easy, and full of beginners trying to ride their first wave.

The water is warm year-round, and the vibe is friendly. It's common to see surf instructors cheering from the lineup and strangers high-fiving you after your first ride.

And after a morning session, there’s nothing better than grabbing some fresh ceviche and lounging under a palm tree.

The best time to go is from December to April.

Wave type: Easy beach break, perfect for longboards.

If you're looking for waves with a side of culture, Taghazout is worth a visit. This Moroccan fishing village has quietly become a magnet for beginner surfers from all over the world.

The waves at Panoramas and Crocodile Beach are soft, slow, and manageable. No reef danger, no intimidating locals—just long sandy stretches and smooth surf.

When you're done, sip on sweet mint tea and watch the sunset over the Atlantic. Surfing here isn't just a sport—it feels like part of the rhythm of life.

The best time to go is from October to March.

Wave type: Soft beach breaks with minimal crowds.

Yes, really. Muizenberg Beach, just outside Cape Town, is famous for its colourful beach huts and perfect beginner waves. It's often called "Surfer's Corner," and for good reason—everyone from six-year-olds to sixty-year-olds is catching waves.

The water can be chilly, so a wetsuit helps, but the waves are textbook-perfect for beginners: consistent, slow, and knee-to-waist high.

Bonus: After your session, you can take a short drive to Boulders Beach to see the penguins. Surf in the morning and hang with penguins by noon.

The best time to go is from September to March.

Wave type: Long, easy rollers.

Kuta Beach in Bali gets a lot of traffic, and yeah, it can get crowded. But that’s mostly because it’s just so good for learning.

The beach has a flat, sandy bottom and breaks far from the shore, so the waves roll in slowly and gently. Most of the time, you’re surfing waist-deep water with plenty of room to practice.

Boards and lessons are cheap, the sunsets are next-level, and you can reward your efforts with a plate of nasi goreng or a coconut shake. It's one of those spots where learning to surf feels like a vacation.

The best time to go is from March to October.

Wave type: Gentle whitewater and soft green waves.

You don't need to be fearless to learn surfing. You need the right wave. Each spot has its charm, but they all share something in common: they make surfing feel doable. They make falling off fun and getting back up part of the adventure.

So, start somewhere friendly, whether it's your first time standing on a board or your fifth time wiping out with style—gentle waves, good vibes, and a beach that feels rooting for you.

The ocean’s not going anywhere. Neither is your board. What’s stopping you from paddling out?