11 Best Cheap Surfing Destinations in the World
One of the biggest misconceptions about travel is that it’s entirely unaffordable. The same goes for surf trips. However, travel, and surf trips don’t have to cost a fortune. You just have to visit some of the best cheap surfing destinations to make it happen.
In fact, if you know where to go, you can take a surf trip for under a thousand dollars total. Easy.
But it DOES take some planning, time, and knowledge.
I have a ton of experience planning cheap surf trips- for both myself and others! I wrote this guide to help you plan your next affordable surf trip, and to know where to go. Here are the best cheap surfing destinations in the world:
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11 Best Affordable Surf Destinations in the World
1. El Salvador- Best cheap surfing destination for consistent waves and a friendly local vibe
El Salvador, the smallest country in Central America, boasts consistent waves and a friendly local vibe. El Salvador has a very reputation and a dark past, which has up until now, deterred many travelers. However, the country has recently made huge strides to reduce crime, violence, and the presence of gangs, and many sources say El Salvador is the safest it’s ever been.
In terms of surfing, El Salvador really delivers. The country’s Pacific coastline offers a variety of breaks, suitable for beginners to advanced surfers. From the bustling beach town of El Tunco to the world-class point break at Punta Roca, El Salvador guarantees an exceptional surfing experience. The rich history, delicious pupusas, and welcoming locals really make it one of the best cheap surfing destinations.
Plus, it’s super cheap. I’m taking a surf trip to El Salvador in about a month and I’m still in awe of how affordable everything is. Oceanfront surf resorts steps away from completely empty lineups? Sign me up!
Cost of a surf trip to El Salvador:
$40-$60 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $10-$25 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $3-$6, Mid-range $10-$20
- Drinks: $2-$4 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $10-$15 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $25-$35 per lesson
Best places to surf in El Salvador: El Tunco, Punta Roca, and Las Flores
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $500-$800
- From Europe: $900-$1,200
- From Australia: $1,600-$2,100
Best cheap surf hotel in El Salvador:
If you’re planning a budget surf trip to El Salvador, Punta Roca Surf House is one of best cheap surf hotels in the country. It’s located right by the surf spot Punta Roca, and has a mix of cheap dorm rooms, private rooms, and even an option for you to sleep in a tent if you really want to save money. Plus, their checkout time isn’t until 11 am, which is perfect if you want to sneak a morning surf in before you have to check out of the hotel.
2. Sri Lanka- Best cheap surfing destination for beginners to intermediate surfers
Sri Lanka is an island paradise with warm turquoise waters, palm-fringed beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. The consistent swells cater to beginners and intermediate surfers alike, offering beach breaks, point breaks, and reef breaks. With its lush jungle interiors, ancient temples, and diverse wildlife, Sri Lanka provides ample opportunities for exploration and relaxation when you’re not chasing the waves.
Sri Lanka also has a very low cost of living, and in turn is one of the best cheap surfing destinations.
Cost of a surf trip to Sri Lanka
$30-$50 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $8-$20 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $2-$5, Mid-range $8-$15
- Drinks: $2-$4 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $5-$10 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $20-$30 per lesson
Best places to surf in Sri Lanka
Hikkaduwa, Weligama, and Arugam Bay
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $900-$1,200
- From Europe: $600-$900
- From Australia: $500-$800
Best cheap surf camp in Sri Lanka:
Surf Camp at Star Rest Beach Hotel
With 5 surf lessons, a breathtaking sunset picnic, knowledgeable surf coaches, surf photography, and numerous other features, the Arugam Bay surf camp at Star Rest Beach Hotel is truly an exceptional experience for surfers visiting the best cheap surfing destinations in the world.
3. Morocco- Best cheap surfing destination for consistent swell and vibrant culture
Morocco is a North African gem that boasts a unique blend of Berber, Arabian, and Mediterranean. cultural influences. This cheap surfing destination offers consistent swells throughout the year, perfect for all surfing levels.
From the famous point breaks of Taghazout to the waves of Essaouira, Morocco has a little something special for every surfer. Aside from the waves, the vibrant souks, mouth-watering cuisine, and warm hospitality make it an unforgettable surf trip destination.
Cost of a surf trip to Morocco:
$40-$60 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $10-$25 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $3-$6, Mid-range $10-$20
- Drinks: $2-$4 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $10-$15 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $25-$35 per lesson
Best places to surf in Morocco:
Taghazout, Imsouane, and Essaouira
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $800-$1,200
- From Europe: $200-$400
- From Australia: $1,300-$1,800
Best cheap surf camp in Morocco:
This amazing surf camp includes daily surf guiding, transport to/from the beach, surfboards & wetsuits, wave theory classes, all meals including drinks, and accommodations in either a shared dorm or a private villa.
4. Indonesia- Best cheap surfing destination for world-class waves and tropical vibes
Indonesia, a tropical haven with more than 18,000 islands, offers a wide variety of world-class waves for every skill level. From the legendary waves of Bali to the remote perfection of the Mentawai Islands, Indonesia promises an unforgettable surfing experience.
The warm waters, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes make it a favorite among surfers worldwide. Plus, the country’s affordability ensures you get the most bang for your buck when it comes to taking a budget surf trip.
Cost of a surf trip to Indonesia
$30-$50 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $5-$15 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $1-$3, Mid-range $5-$10
- Drinks: $1-$3 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $5-$10 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $20-$30 per lesson
Best places to surf in Indonesia:
Bali (Canggu and Uluwatu), Sumatra (Mentawai Islands), and Lombok
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $900-$1,200
- From Europe: $800-$1,100
- From Australia: $300-$600
Best cheap surf camp in Indonesia:
Rapture Surf Camps runs this awesome Bali surf camp right at The Green Bowl. The camp includes three surf lessons, daily surf guiding, breakfast and dinners, airport pickup, yoga sessions, and a stay in a typical Balinese bungalow. The camp caters to surfers of all levels.
5. Ecuador- Best cheap surfing destination for consistent swell and diverse breaks
Ecuador’s diverse coastline offers consistent swell and a variety of breaks, from the party town of Montañita to the secluded, picturesque beaches of Ayampe and Mompiche. The country’s equatorial location ensures warm water year-round, and its affordability makes it an attractive option for surfers on a budget.
When you’re not chasing waves, you can explore the Andean highlands, Amazon rainforest, or the iconic Galápagos Islands, making Ecuador a unique and exciting affordable surf destination.
Cost of a surf trip to Ecuador
$30-$50 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $8-$20 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $3-$6, Mid-range $10-$20
- Drinks: $1-$3 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $10-$15 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $25-$35 per lesson
Best places to surf in Ecuador
Montañita, Ayampe, and Mompiche
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $700-$1,000
- From Europe: $900-$1,300
- From Australia: $1,800-$2,300
Best cheap surf camp in Ecuador
Balsa Surf Camp is a really unique surf camp right on the beach in Montañita. They have a restaurant onsite, colorful traditional rooms, delicious breakfasts included, and one of the best surfboard selections in town.
6. Philippines-Best cheap surfing destination for uncrowded surf spots and island-hopping
The Philippines is an archipelago of over 7,000 islands with a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. Siargao, known as the “Surfing Capital of the Philippines,” offers consistent swells and a range of surf breaks. The country’s uncrowded waves, combined with the opportunity to explore pristine beaches and hidden lagoons, make it an ideal cheap surfing destination. Plus, the locals are super friendly and the food is amazing.
Cost of a surf trip to the Philippines
$35-$55 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $8-$20 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $2-$5, Mid-range $7-$15
- Drinks: $1-$3 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $5-$10 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $20-$30 per lesson
It’s pretty cheap to not only take a surf trip to the Philippines, but also to backpack and explore! This excellent guide to backpacking the Philippines covers not only where to go, but also how to get around, how much it costs, and whether or not it’s safe for solo female travel. (Hint: it is!)
Best places to surf in the Philippines:
Siargao, La Union, and Baler
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $800-$1,100
- From Europe: $900-$1,300
- From Australia: $600-$900
Best cheap surf camp in the Philippines:
This amazing surf camp includes a one-on-one surf lesson, breakfast, yoga, a massage, surfing equipment, private accommodations, and easy access to one of the best surf breaks in the Philippines. The camp also includes a full day island exploring excursion, along with a massage.
7. Nicaragua- Best cheap surfing destination for off-the-beaten-path adventures
Everyone says that Nicaragua is like Costa Rica 20 years ago, and after a recent surf trip to Popoyo, it makes a lot of sense. Going to Nicaragua is really like stepping back in time. It’s VERY undeveloped, cheap, and the crowds are pretty minimal.
One of the best things about surfing in Nicaragua is the offshore winds in the south, thanks to Lake Nicaragua. Seriously, it’s almost offshore 360 days of the year. All day!
If you’re looking to take a cheap surf trip, Nicaragua is one of the most affordable surf destinations in the world. If you’re a beginner, I recommend going in the dry season, between late December & March/early April. If you’re intermediate or advanced, I definitely recommend going in the rainy season, from April- November when there is much more swell.
I was recently in Nicaragua on a surf trip late February to early March, and it was fun, but a little on the small side. With that in mind, Nicaragua is a fantastic place to surf in February if you’re a beginner!
While you’re not in the water, you can explore Nicaragua’s lush rainforests, colonial cities, epic lakes, stunning volcanic landscapes, and maybe even take a trip out to Corn Island.
Cost of a surf trip to Nicaragua
$35-$50 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $8-$20 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $3-$6, Mid-range $10-$20
- Drinks: $1-$3 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $10-$15 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $25-$35 per lesson
Best places to surf in Nicaragua
Playa Colorado, Popoyo, and the Playa Maderas surf is fantastic (in the San Juan del Sur surf region)
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $600-$900
- From Europe: $800-$1,200
- From Australia: $1,500-$2,000
Best cheap surf camp in Nicaragua:
Dreamsea Surf Camp is located right next to one of the best surf breaks in Nicaragua- Playa Maderas. This all-inclusive surf camp includes accommodations at a really social surf camp, breakfast & dinner, transport to the surf spot, yoga classes, surfing equipment, a pool, and caters to all levels of surfer.
8. South Africa- Best cheap surfing destination for diverse waves and stunning landscapes
South Africa’s diverse coastline offers a wide range of world-class waves, from the beginner-friendly Muizenberg to the legendary Jeffrey’s Bay. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and abundant wildlife, South Africa provides an unforgettable backdrop for your surf trip.
The country’s affordability, coupled with the opportunity to spot the Big Five on a safari or explore the picturesque Garden Route, make it an unbeatable destination. Just keep an eye out for the man in the gray suit- South Africa is a bit of a haven for great whites. Just ask Mick Fanning.
Cost of a surf trip to South Africa:
$40-$70 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $10-$25 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $4-$8, Mid-range $10-$20
- Drinks: $2-$4 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $10-$15 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $25-$35 per lesson
Best places to surf in South Africa
Muizenberg, Jeffrey’s Bay, and Durban
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $1,000-$1,400
- From Europe: $600-$900
- From Australia: $800-$1,200
Best cheap surf camp in South Africa:
Pumula Surf Camp offers an amazing 8-day surf camp experience for all levels in the picturesque Pumula, Hibberdene. This surf camp not only provides professional surf lessons tailored to your skill level but also includes comfortable accommodation, yoga, delicious meals, and access to some of the most amazing surf spots in South Africa.
9. Mexico
Mexico is a surfing paradise with warm waters, consistent swells, and a variety of breaks along its Pacific coastline. From the famous barrels of Puerto Escondido to the mellow, beginner-friendly waves of Sayulita, Mexico caters to surfers of all levels. The rich cultural heritage, mouth-watering cuisine, and lively atmosphere make Mexico an unforgettable surf trip destination.
I just got back from a surf trip to the Sayulita area, and it was epic. There’s nothing quite like it.
We were able to charter a surf boat to a perfect little reef break that we had to ourselves for almost an hour, before one small boat with a few other surfers showed up. It was about $100 US for the boat trip, which split 4 ways is not too bad.
Cost of a surf trip to Mexico
$40-$60 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $10-$25 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $3-$6, Mid-range $10-$20
- Drinks: $2-$4 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $10-$15 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $25-$35 per lesson
Best places to surf in Mexico
The surf in Puerto Escondido, the surf in Sayulita, and the surf in Baja California is fantastic.
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $300-$600
- From Europe: $800-$1,200
- From Australia: $1,500-$2,000
Best cheap surf camp in Mexico
Mita Surf House is nestled next to the fantastic surf breaks of Punta Mita, Nayarit, offering an incredible all-inclusive surf camp experience. Catering to surfers of all skill levels, the camp includes cozy accommodations at a lively surf house, breakfast & dinner, transportation to surf spots, yoga classes, surf gear, and a refreshing pool to unwind.
10. Vietnam- Best cheap surfing destination for unexplored surf spots and cultural experiences
Vietnam is an up-and-coming surf destination with unexplored surf spots and a rich cultural experience. The country’s long coastline offers a range of breaks, from the bustling beach city of Da Nang to the laid-back vibes of Mui Ne. Plus, the locals are famously friendly, Vietnamese food is so tasty, and while you’re not surfing, you can check out a few of (or a lot of) Vietnam’s 17,000 temples.
Cost of a surf trip to Vietnam
$30-$50 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $5-$15 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $1-$3, Mid-range $5-$10
- Drinks: $1-$3 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $5-$10 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $20-$30 per lesson
Best places to surf in Vietnam
Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Mui Ne
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $800-$1,200
- From Europe: $700-$1,000
- From Australia: $500-$800
11. Peru- Best cheap surfing destination for long left-hand point breaks and rich history
Peru is a surfing paradise known for its long left-hand point breaks and rich history. The country’s Pacific coastline boasts consistent swells and a variety of breaks suitable for beginners and advanced surfers alike.
From the world-famous Chicama (longest left in the world!) to the lively beach town of Punta Hermosa, Peru is a wonderful place for a cheap surfing trip.
The country’s affordability, mouth-watering cuisine, and ancient Inca heritage make it a must-visit destination for surfers planning a budget surf trip. Especially if you’re goofy footed!
Cost of a surf trip to Peru
$35-$55 per day
- Accommodation (dorm/cheap private room): $8-$20 per night
- Restaurants: Local meals $2-$5, Mid-range $7-$15
- Drinks: $1-$3 per drink
- Surfboard rental: $10-$15 per day
- Surfboard lessons: $25-$35 per lesson
Best places to surf in Peru
Punta Hermosa, Chicama, and Máncora
Average airfare prices (round trip):
- From North America: $600-$900
- From Europe: $800-$1,100
- From Australia: $1,500-$2,000
Best cheap surf camp in Peru:
La Maison Surf House is conveniently located next to the stunning surf breaks of Mancora. Welcoming surfers of all skill levels, this retreat features cozy accommodations in a lively eco-house boutique, daily breakfast, transport to the surf spots, revitalizing yoga sessions, access to all necessary surfing gear, and a refreshing pool to relax by.
What to consider when planning a cheap surf trip
Airfare costs–especially surfboard baggage fees
Half the battle of planning a cheap surf trip is actually getting there. Most of the time, the most expensive part of a surf trip to one of the cheapest surf destinations in the world is going to be airfare. To help you plan, I’ve researched and included the average price of airfare to each destination, from North America, Europe, and Australia. I’ve chosen to include these places because that is where about 95% of my readers come from. If I didn’t include where you’re from, I’m sorry! BUT, it is super easy to check for flight prices. I recommend searching for flights directly on skyscanner.net or Orbitz.com, finding the cheapest flights, and then booking your flight directly with the airline. I never recommend booking a flight through a third party platform. Direct with the airline is the only way to go!
Surfboard baggage fees
If airfare is half the cost of planning a cheap surf trip, it kinda feels like surfboard baggage fees are 25% of the cost. But seriously, they hurt! When planning your surf trip, MAKE SURE you check the airline’s surfboard baggage fees before booking your flight.
In some instances, it might be worth it to book the more expensive flight- if it’s with a surfboard friendly airline.
For example, when I’m flying from California to Costa Rica, I always try to fly with Alaska Airlines, even if it’s slightly more expensive, because Alaska only charges me $30 to fly my surfboard down to Costa Rica.
Does the surf season correspond with the high travel season?
The best way to keep costs down when planning any kind of travel, not just a surf trip, is to plan your trip during the low season. However, for surfers, you really want to go when the waves are best, and the best case scenario is when a country’s high surf season does not correspond with the high travel season.
In most cases, the high season for most tourists does not overlap with the high season for surfers. Usually because good conditions for surfing (rain, big storms, etc) are not the same conditions your average beachgoer is looking for. However, in some cases it does overlap, and I’ll make note of that for each cheap surf destination on this list.
Travel Insurance
Another super important factor to budget in when planning your cheap surf trip is travel insurance. Should the worst happen, it’s important to be insured.
Daily costs of a cheap surf trip
Finally, there are the day to day costs of a surf trip, including accommodations, groceries, restaurants, drinks, surfboard rentals, and surfboard lessons, that will add up to your grand total cost for your cheap surf trip.
I’ve included average prices of each of these costs for each of the cheapest surfing destinations in the world- so you can get a really good idea of how much your trip will cost!
Keep in mind, all of this information, and all of these prices are accurate as of May 2023. Also, they’re all averages on the low end. If you head to more touristy restaurants, things will be more expensive. If you stick to more local places, this is the range of prices you will find.
Booking a surf camp- is it cheaper?
Planning a surf trip all by yourself is no easy task! Especially if you’re not a super experienced surfer, or nervous to travel somewhere all alone. If you’re interested in booking a surf trip, I recommend checking out Booksurfcamps.com. They’re the biggest aggregate platform out there for booking surf camps, and all you have to do is search your destination, and they’ll show you all the best surf camps in the area.
While oftentimes it’s cheaper to plan and book everything independently, sometimes it’s actually cheaper to book a surf camp. Especially if you’re planning on booking any surf lessons.
Wrapping up the best cheap surf destinations
That concludes my list of the best cheap surf destinations in the world. Taking a surf trip doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and you can easily visit incredible waves, all over the world, for way less money than you might think.
