Best Places For Surfing Without Sharks
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Introduction
Surfing is an exhilarating water sport, allowing both beginner and expert surfers to ride the waves of oceans, bays, and other bodies of water. For some, however, the thought of potentially coming into contact with a shark or another ocean predator puts some fear into their hearts. Fortunately, there are many great places to go surfing that can give a thrill without the worry of sharks.
This guide will provide information on some of the best spots to go surfing around the world without worrying about running into sharks. Tips for staying safe in these areas will also be provided for those looking for an added measure of security. Whether you’re looking for warm waves off the coast of France or powerful swells off Scotland’s east coast – this guide will ensure that you get to enjoy your surf session without having to worry about sharks.
North America
Surfing in North America is a great way to take in the incredible sights and sounds of the coastal area without the fear of a shark encounter. There are plenty of beaches located along the Eastern, Western and Gulf Coasts where it’s possible to find the perfect waves without worrying.
Let’s take a look at some of the best places to go surfing without sharks here in North America:
California
Visitors to California’s rugged coast are spoiled for choice when it comes to surfing spots that offer the ideal mix of perfect waves and no sharks. One of the best destinations is San Francisco, where the Pacific Surfliner train runs right into the area’s main beachfront. With plenty of surf shops and experienced surfers, the area can be a great introduction to surfing and offers reliable waves along its entire stretch.
Further down the coast, Santa Cruz features cold, but incredibly fun waters with consistent surf from April to November. With championship-level competitions running here every year, this spot also provides some of the best top-to-bottom rides in all of California.
Going south for warm waters throughout much of the year, La Jolla makes for a great spot for beginners looking to get away from crowds into glassy waves in a beautiful setting. Known as one of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches because of its rocky cliffs and clear blue waters, La Jolla offers great conditions from both sides: Its exposed east side gets hit with long left walls while beginners will enjoy their first ride on its west side thanks to gentle A Frame peaks.
For advanced riders looking for an all-experience wave pool that they can enjoy without fear of potential predators nearby, Mavericks is one spot not to miss! Located just north of Half Moon Bay this world famousis an expert level wave break serving up steep drops, barrels and challenging rides with formidable frequency.
Hawaii
Hawaii is an idyllic surfing destination in North America that boasts some of the best waves and surf spots. The Islands of Hawaii are mostly shark-free and are full of beautiful scenery, warm waters and good vibes. If you’re looking for a place to get away and enjoy a day or two surfing, then the Big Island, Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Lanai should be at the top of your list.
The islands have numerous beaches offering different world-class waves for different levels of surfers. Waikiki Beach on Oahu is one of the most popular routes for novice surfers – with its gentle waves along its protected shores. Wainanapâmoa Beach Park on Lanai offers beautiful coral gardens and excellent bird watching among the reef breaks – perfect for intermediate level surfers. If you’re looking to tackle more powerful, advanced wave rides then a visit to Jaws (also known as Peahi) on Maui or Makaha Beach Park on Oahu might be just what you need; however, think twice before taking on these giant swells without supervision or a local guide!
No matter which beach you choose to visit, there are no shark reports in any ocean lineups around Hawaii’s coasts, so it’s easy to just relax while catching those incredible rides!
Florida
Surfers looking for a place to hone their skills without worrying about coming across a fin won’t have far to go in the Sunshine State. With its almost 1,200 mile-long coastline and enough beaches to keep everyone in the family occupied with their own hobby, Florida is a perfect state for sharks vacations.
From Fort Lauderdale and Miami southward along the east coast, there are numerous sheltered coves that offer excellent waves without so much as a worry about meeting with predators. Sebastian Inlet south of Melbourne is one great spot often favored by surfers looking for consistent breaks along Florida’s east coast. Near that locale is Ponce de Leon Inlet and Jetty Park – excellent choices with plenty of reefs to provide onlookers with an impressive show on their afternoon walks.
Continuing southward down the coast of Florida, New Smyrna Beach provides a choice between ocean and inlet surfing at nearby Ponce de Leon Inlet Beach or Flagler Avenue Beach. Another popular spot for surfers is Vero Beach on the central Atlantic Coastline near South Carolina border which offers some peeling lefts and rights breaks that works like clockwork when conditions are favorable. There is less development along this stretch from Daytona Beach down through St John’s county which keeps more party animals away from your precious waves during peak times of day.
Continuing westward, Pensacola has long been favored by those fortunate ones able to get overthere due its easy access from nearby tourist centers such as Panama City or Destin; both popular West Florida destinations where world class surfing spots abound without any worries related with marine predators. Further up North you may also find nearby beaches like Orange beach in Alabama or Santa Rosa island offering plenty of surf time all summer long while keeping you safe away from sharks’ presence at all times – afterall it’s not called “The Redneck Riviera” by coincidence!
Europe
Europe is a great continent to explore if you’re looking for a surfing destination without any concern of sharks. From the huge swells of Portugal, to the unspoiled beaches of Northern France, Europe has something for every type of surfer. Whether you prefer to explore the different beach cultures, or just want to enjoy an amazing ride, Europe has it all.
Let’s take a look at some of the best spots for surfing without sharks in Europe:
Portugal
Portugal offers some of the best surfing in Europe with its world-class beaches, incredible waves and abundant sunshine. The northwest coast of Portugal is particularly well suited for surfers, offering plenty of variety of waves and conditions. From the small beachbreaks and point breaks around Viana do Castelo to the larger swells that hit the beaches near Peniche on a regular basis, Portugal is an ideal destination for surfers looking to avoid shark encounters. Of course, when travelling to these areas it’s important to check local safety guidelines before entering the water as there may be currents or other risks involved.
If you’re looking for an ultimate surfing experience in Portugal, then heading to Ericeira is a must-do; its uncrowded reef break offers some of the best longboarding in all Europe. This area has gained recognition in recent years due its swell generation but also because it’s become an official UNESCO World Surfing Reserve–one of only 10 existing worldwide. This Portuguese hotspot looks out towards Nazaré where unique topography allows large swells to travel undisturbed before reaching mainland Portugal. In other words, with more swell comes bigger waves – making Ericeira ideal for advanced level surfers who don’t mind shoulder high rides!
Spain
Spain is a beautiful and diverse country located in the southwestern corner of Europe. From Barcelona to Madrid, Cordoba to Granada, it’s no wonder that Spain lures crowds of tourists every year.
The warm, Mediterranean climate makes for pleasant weather and wonderful days spent outdoors – an ideal atmosphere year-round for sightseeing and exploring nearly everything this country has to offer. From vibrant festivals and nightlife throughout the country’s major cities, to hiking trails through the Pyrenees Mountains, Spain offers many cultural and outdoor activities.
Spectacular architecture, beautiful beaches along its coastlines – both Atlantic and Mediterranean – , incredible landscapes throughout its mainland regions, incredible monuments of all types that mark Spanish history along with enticing music celebrations; these are all reasons why Spain remains one of the top places Europeans love to explore.
Tapas are an integral part of Spanish culture, so be sure to sample some dishes such as tortilla española and paella while you’re there! But remember–everything tastes better in Spain! Don’t miss out on any cultural experiences from flamenco dancing performances or enjoying a flavorful glass of sangria during sunset hours. With endless opportunities for adventure scattered throughout its numerous provinces; whether you choose spent time in energetic urban centers or relaxed rural areas–Spain is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime!
France
France is renowned for its pleasant summer days, warm bays and sandy beaches, making it a great destination for surfers looking to enjoy some fun in the sun without worrying about sharks. France’s Atlantic Coastline stretches from the stony beaches of northern Normandy down to dark-sanded beaches in Aquitaine. Surfers will find world-class waves offering year-round surfing on most French coasts.
The Loire Valley, running along the northwestern edge of France, is particularly popular with many professional surfers as it stretches nearly 500 miles and covers several bays and coves where swells can break unchecked and provide epic rides that last minutes. In addition to being shark-free, surfers can take advantage of various reef breaks around Brittany and Normandy that line up perfectly when a south or south westerly wind blows in an off shore direction providing incredibly powerful waves that seem endless. The North coast also offers many perfect consistent lefts points for those who want an all out tubing session. And then let’s not forget the Mediterranean Coast which may be better suited for beginners – due to its unique combination of shallow waters mixed with areas with optimal surf conditions offering easy access for smaller boards.
The best place to start your French surfing experience would probably be La Baule—a stunning beach on the west side of Brittany that sees perfect conditions throughout most of the year—or Lacanau if you’re looking for larger swells closer to Bordeaux at one end or Biarritz at the other end. Either way you should find waves here ranging from three feet on calm days Beaucours right up to 20 feet (given optimum surfing conditions), so whether you’re a beginner or advanced surfer, you’ll have plenty of room and time to catch some saltwater thrill rides during your stay in France!
South America
South America can offer some of the best surfing spots in the world without the fear of running into a shark. From beautiful white sandy beaches to crystal clear waters, the great thing about surfing in South America is the variety and abundance of waves for all levels. From beginner friendly spots to plenty of spots for the experienced surfers, let’s explore the best places for surfing without sharks in South America:
Peru
Peru is a South American country whose landscape is full of breathtaking mountain ranges, vast deserts, and abundant Amazonian rain forests. With a population of more than 32 million, it is the fourth most populous country in South America. The capital and largest city of Peru is Lima, which stands on one of the world’s largest desert oases.
Peru boasts some of the world’s most impressive historical sites and archaeological wonders, such as Macchu Picchu and historic Incan remains. Spanning 3 regions – northern, central and southern – Peru covers an area over 1.2 million square kilometers with some impressive geographical features including the breathtaking Andes Mountains and the Atacama Desert, one of the world’s driest climates.
High up in Peru’s interior lie several mountain chains that stretch from north to south creating valleys that experience a wide range of microclimates along their course. Here you’ll find an array of habitats ranging from tropical forests to snowy peaks offering wonderful opportunities for adventure through its vast array of flora and fauna species like alpacas, llamas, condors, spectacled bears or even tree-climbing lions! Along its coastline there are plenty of picturesque beaches perfect for surfing or simply enjoying a relaxing sunset stroll.
In terms of gastronomy Peru has plenty to offer tourists with its mix between pre-Colombian cuisine (predominantly featuring root vegetables) fused with Spanish influences (themselves incorporating Chinese flavors). Typical dishes include ceviche (a raw seafood dish marinated in acidic lime juice) as well as lomo saltado (a stir fry made with beef sirloin strips). For dessert you could have a sweet empanada dulce filled with guava paste or other local fresh fruits as well as mazamorra con maracuya (a pudding made from purple corn mixed with passion fruit jelly).
Chile
The nation of Chile is located on the western coast of South America, flanked by the Pacific Ocean, Peru, and Bolivia to the north and Argentina to its east. Home to nearly 18 million people, Chile boasts an impressive array of landscapes, from the snow-capped peaks in Patagonia to the vineyards of Casablanca Valley. In addition, Chile boasts a thriving economy and vibrant cultures in its many cities including Santiago, Valparaíso, Concepción and Puente Alto.
Chile is known for its diverse geography that ranges from the dry Atacama Desert in the north to some of world’s best skiing areas in Patagonia. In between there are beautiful rolling hills full of forests and majestic mountain chains that are great for trekking and sightseeing. In addition to adventure activities like surfing in Northern Chile or sand boarding down slopes near Iquique – some of which may be familiar from masterful photos taken by international photographers – visitors can also enjoy Chilean cuisines such as seafood dishes like Curanto along with unique wines produced with indigenous grapes grown across different regions within Chile.
For those interested in culture activities there is no shortage including everything from visiting art galleries and museums located throughout Santiago – such as The National Museum Of Fine Arts which displays several collections ranging from Renaissance art to pre-Colombian pieces – or attending festivals such as Fiestas Patrias on September 18th & 19th where locals celebrate Chile’s Independence Day with a variety of cultural festivities including regional dances showcasing costumes resembling colonial-style clothings.
So whether you’re looking for adventure sports experiences, sampling delicious local dishes or want learn more about Chilean culture; your trip to this diverse corner will not disappoint!
Argentina
Argentina is located in South America, and contains a diverse range of cultures, climates and landscapes. It is the second largest country in South America after Brazil, and has some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Latin America. The country’s capital city is Buenos Aires, home to more than 15 million people who are known for their passion for dancing and nightlife.
The official language spoken in Argentina is Spanish and many areas also have their own local languages. Argentina is a great place to visit whether you’re looking for adventure, culture or gastronomy – as it has something to offer everyone. From its unique wine region to its rugged countryside known as Patagonia, there’s plenty to see and do here.
The landscape in Argentina ranges from tundra in Patagonia to tropical rainforests in the north-east of the country. With such varied terrain available on one small continent, it isn’t difficult for visitors here to find something new and exciting wherever they go – from surf beaches or mountains peaks that offer some serious mountaineering opportunities. Historical sites some date back centuries can be found all over the place – from Jesuit missions to colonial architecture that stands as a testament of times gone by. Make sure you visit some of these during your time in Argentina!
Africa
Africa is a great spot for surfing without sharks, as much of its coastline is untouched and mostly unknown. There are excellent, uncrowded waves, beautiful coasts and amazing wildlife. Stretches of coastline like Namibia, Mozambique, Cabo Verde, Togo, Ghana and Senegal are all popular choices when it comes to surfing without sharks.
In this section, we’ll go into further detail about the top surfing spots in Africa:
South Africa
South Africa is known for its beautiful beaches and captivating coastline. The warm, crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean beckon surfers from all over the world. South Africa is a great place to get started without having to worry about the threat of shark attacks. There are some areas that do have more frequent shark sightings, but generally speaking you can find long stretches with minimal encounters with sharks.
Popular surfing spots in South Africa include:
- Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape: This spot is considered one of the best in Southeast Africa and attracts a number of professional surfers every year. Popular sites here include Supertubes, Magnatubes and J-Bay Corner – all providing an excellent surfing experience.
- Muizenberg Beach, Western Cape: Situated in Cape Town’s False Bay near St James Beach, Muizenberg offers great waves for those new to surfing as the beach break here is quite gentle – perfect for learning and practicing manoeuvres on your board.
- Dungeons Reef, Western Cape: Ideal for advanced surfers, Dungeons Reef offers powerful spring time swells within reach of nearby Hout Bay Harbour – providing shelter from storms at all times . Waves are bigger during winter with perfect barrels on offer when conditions are just right!
Namibia
Namibia, a long, thin slice of land on the Atlantic coast of southern Africa, is known for its stunning white sand beaches and consistent waves. The waters here aren’t as crowded as those in more popular surfing spots like Indonesia and Hawaii, making it a great place to catch some sweet rides without the risk of bumping into another surfer – or worse yet, a shark!
Namibia is home to some of the best breaks in all of Africa. Swakopmund is a well-known spot where expert surfers can tackle huge 20-foot waves. For beginners and intermediate surfers looking for smaller wave sets, Luderitz is ideal – here you can find reliable swells with waves ranging from 3 to 10 feet. The warmer weather found year round in Namibia also provides ample opportunities to soak up the rays between break sessions!
Whether you’re an expert surfer looking for epic adventure or an intermediate rider simply wanting to enjoy some ocean time without worry of sharks, Namibia is sure to provide one-of-a-kind wave riding!
Morocco
Morocco is an African country located on the northwest coast of the continent and provides a gateway to Europe and Africa. Offering endless options for exploration, Morocco is a country of vibrant colors and flavors. From its ancient marketplaces to its stunning landscape Morocco can offer travelers unique cultural treasures that are found nowhere else in the world.
The bustling cities of Fes and Marrakech provide beautiful Moorish architecture mixed with modern cityscapes. Mosques, gardens, palaces and alleyways provide a charming insight into Moroccan culture. For those looking for outdoor adventure, hike in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains or take camel rides across the Sahara Desert. Throughout Morocco, there are plenty of places to sample traditional cuisine like couscous or tajine.
Beaches also play a large role in attracting visitors to Morocco’s landscape; Tangier, Agadir and Al Hoceima are among the most popular destinations for relaxation on the seashore all year round. The historic cities Oujda and Nador provide glimpses into ancient civilization as well as rich cultures that still thrive today.
In short, with its variety of attractions both natural and man-made, Morocco offers something for everyone!
Asia
Surfing in Asia can be an exciting way to experience the culture, scenery, and local beach culture of the region. The waters around Asia are home to some of the best surfing spots in the world, with plenty of great waves and breathtaking seascapes.
Knowing which places in Asia are shark-free can make any surfing trip even more enjoyable. In this section, we will look at the best places in Asia to surf without worrying about sharks:
Indonesia
Indonesia is the largest archipelago in the world and located in Southeast Asia, between the Indian and Pacific oceans. It is home to more than 17,000 islands and about 260 million people. Indonesia is a large country with an array of cultural geography reflecting its various ethnic groups, languages, customs and religions. The capital city is Jakarta.
Indonesia has a tropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout most of the year; however, variations can be found across different regions depending on their altitude. This climate provides the perfect growing conditions for its diverse flora including palm trees, shrubs, ferns and groundcover plants.
Due to its location along several major trade routes, Indonesia has long been a multi-cultural melting pot with a rich history of international exchange since ancient times; it was also an important part of a powerful maritime empire during the 14th-16th centuries. It has had significant influence from China, India and Arabic cultures as well as Dutch colonialism from 1602 onwards which left Indonesia full of cultural artifacts such as buildings, artifacts from warfare and religious sites that are still visible today.
In terms of economy, Indonesia relies heavily on exports such as oil refined products or natural gas through which it earns significant foreign currency income; however it also has many natural resources such as lands for farming or mining operations that provide jobs for its citizens. With numerous industry sectors including agriculture, textiles manufacturing and tourism; Indonesia is considered an emerging market economy with potentially high growth potential over time if managed correctly by its political leaders.
Thailand
Thailand, officially known as the Kingdom of Thailand, is a country located in southeastern Asia. It is bordered to the north by Myanmar and Laos; to the east by Laos and Cambodia; to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia; and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the southern extremity of Myanmar. With an estimated population of around 68.2 million, Thailand is the world’s 20th most populous country. The capital and largest city is Bangkok; other major urban areas include Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Phuket, Buriram and Udon Thani.
Thailand has a rich history that dates back centuries – originally known as Siam it was one of East Asia’s most advanced societies. As a result it has its own unique culture, language and religion that makes it one of world’s most popular travel destinations. Modern-day Thai culture combines strong evidence of Thai tradition with influences from western cultures including dance, music, movies, fashion, etc. making for an interesting mix producing some wonderful creative results in art, literature, cinema, fashion, architecture, sport, cuisine, etc. Consequently, with its strategic location between India, China, Europe and Australasia combined with its low cost but highly qualified labour force, Thailand has become a global production hub for international businesses from numerous industries such as auto parts manufacturing, agriculture, electronics assembly, transport services, hospitality, manufacturing, food products, jewelry, etc. making it one of Asia’s fastest growing economies.
India
India offers some of the best surfing opportunities in Asia, with a vast coastline of 3000 km featuring world-famous beaches. While India’s sea is considered to be relatively shark-free, it does feature potential shark encounters due to its location on a major migratory path for hammerheads and whale sharks. However, there are still tons of great surf spots in India where you can surf in relative safety without worrying about encountering any sharks.
Along the western coast, you’ll find some of the best surf spots near Mumbai and Goa, while Kovalam and Varkala are excellent bets along the south Indian coast. Further south, the Auroville beach provides spectacular views and consistent waves. The east coast also offers some great surfing opportunities near Chennai, Orissa and West Bengal. Whichever spot you choose; expect warm water temperatures with protective reefs lining some of India’s famous beaches for consistent quality surfing year round!
Conclusion
Ultimately, surfing without sharks is possible – however, it takes plenty of research to find the optimal spot. Factors like residential beachfront along with access to surf shops and public safety services have to be taken into consideration. While surfers love to challenge themselves, safety should always come first, especially when you’re in the ocean. That is why researching a beach or surf area thoroughly is advised before going out on the waves.
By taking all these factors into consideration when planning a surfing trip, surfers can ensure that they can enjoy some great waves and waves without worrying about coming face-to-face with one of the ocean’s top predators. Popular places for safe, shark-free surfing include:
- Costa Rica;
- Biarritz and Hossegor in France;
- Croyde Bay in Devon;
- Australia’s east coast beaches (Eaglehawk Neck, Narooma); and
- Galicia area beaches in northwestern Spain.
Other great spots include:
- Kuta Beach in Bali;
- France’s Basque Country;
- Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia; and
- Peru’s Mancora Beach among many more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best place to go surfing without sharks?
A1: The best place to go surfing without sharks is Australia. Australia has some of the best surf spots that are virtually shark-free.
Q2: Are there any good surf spots in the United States?
A2: Yes, there are some great surf spots in the United States. Hawaii and California are two of the most popular surfing destinations in the US.
Q3: Is it possible to go surfing without any risk of encountering a shark?
A3: It is not possible to completely eliminate the risk of encountering a shark while surfing. However, some areas are known to be relatively free of sharks, such as Australia.
