From Bali’s cliffside waves to the beaches of Mexico, these surf spots offer more than just great waves – they also offer stunning backdrops perfect for your next Instagram post. Whether you’re looking for vibrant sunsets, turquoise waters, or unique cultural settings, these destinations will make your surf trip unforgettable – and your photos even more so.
When it comes to surf travel, you’ll be visiting some of the most beautiful locations on earth. Whether you’re snapping photos of world-class surf breaks or stunning beachscapes, some surf destinations around the world offer the ideal chance to capture the journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Here are our top, most Instagrammable surf spots, where you can capture breathtaking moments while riding the waves.
Uluwatu, Bali (Indonesia)
Uluwatu is one of Bali’s most famous surf destinations, offering crystal-clear water, epic waves, and a stunning cliffside view that’s perfect for snapping unforgettable shots.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: The iconic Uluwatu temple sits perched on a cliff overlooking the surf, creating a picturesque contrast with the powerful waves below. Surfers can capture the incredible barrels while surrounded by dramatic cliff views.
- Dreamsea Uluwatu – A stunning cliffside location, right in the heart of the Bukit Peninsula, makes Dreamsea Uluwatu something extra special!
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is a vibrant surf town known for its consistent waves and gorgeous sunsets. With its wide, sandy beaches and lively atmosphere, Tamarindo is the ideal spot for capturing both action shots and serene beach scenes.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: Sunset surf sessions are a highlight here. The warm orange hues of the sun setting behind the waves create an unforgettable image, while the expansive beaches make for perfect photos of surfers carving the waves.
- Rapture Costa Rica – This ultra-cool surf camp provides a haven of idyllic spots to relax, with access to great surf. The laid-back vibe makes it an excellent spot for capturing the essence of Costa Rican surf culture!
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Santa Teresa is a laid-back surf town on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Known for its golden sand beaches, mellow surf, and stunning sunsets, it’s the perfect place to take in the beauty of nature and surf.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: The palm-lined beaches and turquoise waters create the perfect tropical vibe, while the consistent surf breaks offer the chance to snap surfers in action. Add a vibrant sunset, and you’ve got the ideal shot.
- Nantipa – This luxury boutique hotel offers an exceptional experience with luxurious beachfront bungalows and suites, and access to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches!
Ericeira, Portugal
Known for its rugged cliffs and world-class surf breaks, Ericeira is a picturesque surf destination just outside of Lisbon. This UNESCO World Surf Reserve offers incredible natural beauty and an authentic Portuguese surf town vibe.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: Ericeira’s dramatic coastline, filled with rocky outcrops and waves crashing on the shore, creates a striking contrast with the charming whitewashed buildings of the town. The perfect place for capturing both surf action and the unique Portuguese architecture.
- Aethos Ericeira – Located on the clifftop in front of the stunning surf beach of Praia da Calad, Aethos Ericeira is chic and modern and oozes cool!
Siargao, Philippines
Siargao is an emerging surf destination, gaining popularity for its dreamy palm tree-lined beaches and crystal-clear waters. Known for its gentle waves and laid-back vibe, it’s an Instagrammer’s paradise.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: The iconic palm trees, crystal-clear lagoons, and stunning beaches provide the ultimate tropical setting. Siargao also has the perfect combination of surf and relaxation for capturing the essence of island life.
- Harana Surf Resort – Set against a backdrop of swaying coconut palms and just steps away from the island’s most iconic surf spots, Harana Surf Resort offers the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and island culture!
Mentawai Islands, Indonesia
The Mentawai Islands are a world-renowned surf destination, offering some of the best waves on the planet. Known for its pristine tropical surroundings and powerful surf, it’s a true surfer’s paradise.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: The Mentawai Islands boast crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and some of the most consistent waves in the world. The untouched natural beauty of these islands offers amazing backdrops for both surf and landscape shots.
- AWERA Resort & Spa – This exclusive beachfront resort offers access to the world-class surf breaks of the Mentawai Islands – beautifully designed and built with locally sourced materials and finished with bohemian furnishings!
Santa Teresa, Costa Rica
Santa Teresa is a laid-back surf town on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Known for its golden sand beaches, mellow surf, and stunning sunsets, it’s the perfect place to take in the beauty of nature and surf.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: The palm-lined beaches and turquoise waters create the perfect tropical vibe, while the consistent surf breaks offer the chance to snap surfers in action. Add a vibrant sunset, and you’ve got the ideal shot.
- Nantipa – This luxury boutique hotel offers an exceptional experience with luxurious beachfront bungalows and suites, and access to some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches!
Ericeira, Portugal
Known for its rugged cliffs and world-class surf breaks, Ericeira is a picturesque surf destination just outside of Lisbon. This UNESCO World Surf Reserve offers incredible natural beauty and an authentic Portuguese surf town vibe.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: Ericeira’s dramatic coastline, filled with rocky outcrops and waves crashing on the shore, creates a striking contrast with the charming whitewashed buildings of the town. The perfect place for capturing both surf action and the unique Portuguese architecture.
- Aethos Ericeira – Located on the clifftop in front of the stunning surf beach of Praia da Calad, Aethos Ericeira is chic and modern and oozes cool!
Maldives
The Maldives offers crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and a luxurious surf experience. Surfers from around the world come to the Maldives not only for the waves but also for the tropical beauty of the islands.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: The Maldives provides a perfect mix of turquoise lagoons, stunning overwater villas, and perfect waves. From the clear water to the soft sandy beaches, the Maldives offers endless opportunities for Instagram shots.
- Six Senses Laamu – The ultimate in barefoot luxury, built from locally-sourced materials that sit comfortably in their tropical surroundings, and give the island a luxury castaway feeling!
Sayulita, Mexico
Sayulita is a charming surf town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, known for its vibrant culture and beginner-friendly surf. This colorful town offers plenty of Instagram-worthy moments, from the surf to the lively streets.
- Why it’s Instagrammable: The colorful streets of Sayulita, the vibrant markets, and the mellow surf breaks make it a perfect destination for capturing the authentic surf lifestyle.
- Azulpitaya Beach Hotel – With a prime location, right in front of the famous Sayulita Surf break and within walking distance to Sayulita downtown. The resort offers a stunning location with a private beach!
