Word’s 10 Toughest Surfing Beaches
Extreme surfers are always on the hunt for the next large swell they can ride. One of the biggest swells to ever be ridden was by Garret McNamara in 2011. The wave was about 90 feet tall. These extreme athletes inspire others who want to find tough waves to hone their expert skills. However, unless you are an expert surfer, RunRex recommends that you keep off these beaches.
Waimea Bay
Waimea Bay is to be found on the Northern Shore of O’ahu in Haleiwa. Some of the biggest and most consistent waves for surfing are located at this beach. Every winter there is an event dubbed the Quicksilver Big Wave Invitational that is held here. Experts from all over the world pour in for a chance to display their expert surfing skills.
Half Moon Bay
Half Moon Bay is home to Mavericks, a big wave break that is located half a mile off the coast. Since it became known to the world in the 1990s, it has become a major attraction for expert surfers from all over the world. The spot is infamous for its casualties. Thus, the Maverick surfing spot is the preserve of only the finest surfers on earth.
The Soup Bowl, Barbados
The spot is to be found just a short walk from a village called Bathsheba on the eastern coast of Barbados. The reef break known as soup bowl is the preserve of surfing experts. The beach has received a lot of praise from surfing pros such as Kelly slater. Besides having some awesome swells that will get your adrenaline rushing, the water temperature is also great. It stays at 77 degrees Fahrenheit all year. Thus, you can visit this place at any time of the year when you feel you need to hit some mega waves.
La Santa, Lanzarote
The Island of Lanzarote has undergone a major transformation in the recent past. Today, it is one of the few sports havens off the west coast of Africa. Besides swimming, you will get to enjoy attractions such as the first underwater museum in Europe. Despite all the improvements inland, the surf has not changed. The huge swells, which can be accessed for most of the year, have earned the spot the title of ‘Hawaii of the Atlantic.’ This spot is not for beginners. However, if you are a pro looking for some thrill, you should definitely head over there.
J-Bay, South Africa
Jeffreys Bay is to be found in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. The spot is home to one of the most famous waves on earth, J-Bay. To add to the thrill, the waters are infested with sharks. When a shark attacked a top surfer from Australia, he miraculously managed to survive with ease. He just punched the shark. Perhaps that might work for you too.
Chicama, Peru
Most waves usually last for just 10 to 20 seconds. However, that is not so at this great surfing spot. The left-hand break of Chicama, which is halfway between Lima and the border with Ecuador, it is thought to be the world’s longest wave. On this wave, you can surf for over four minutes; leg cramps are a major concern. It is thus only recommended that only expert surfers take on this massive swell. Chicama has become quite famous the world over. As a result, there is no shortage of accommodation options at the site.
The Gold Coast, Australia
It is home to some of the most famous waves in Australia and beyond. For instance, mega swells such as Burleigh Heads, the Gold Coast, and Kirra can be found at the spot. It may be among the reasons why Australia has managed to produce more world champions than any other region on earth. There is even a suburb at the Gold Coast that is known as Surfer’s Paradise. Although it has some of the toughest waves for expert surfers, amateurs can also find spots to surf here.
Priae De Norte (north canyon) in Portugal
The spot is home to the biggest wave to be surfed by a pro surfer in recent memory. If you are looking for real fun, you should visit this spot. It will be an opportunity for you to hit some of the biggest waves in Europe. Waves as high as 90 feet have been recorded here. If you wish to hone you skills, you will have plenty of opportunities to do so.
Mentawai Islands, Indonesia
The island chain, which is located off the west coast of Sumatra, is a surfers’ paradise. However, little was known about it just twenty years ago. For those who want to hit some of the biggest waves, they should go to Pagi, Siberut, and Siparo. The best time for surfing is June to September. Besides the big swells, the natural scenery of the islands is quite breathtaking. However, getting there is only via a charter boat or ferry.
Mullaghmore Head, Ireland
For those who want big, fast, and strong barrels of waves, they can find them off the Irish coast. If you arrive at the beginning of the Viking storm, you could encounter waves that are as high as 50 feet. It is also home to a major big wave surf contest that takes place annually.