World Surfing Reserves: Locations + waves + best places to stay

ByEcoOceanEscapes

The World Surfing Reserves (WSR) program has an important mission: to protect the world’s most iconic surf breaks by garnering international support for wave and coastal preservation.

By creating a global network of designated surfing reserves, WSR is recognising the environmental, social, cultural and economic importance of waves.

This flagship program of the non-profit Save The Waves identifies the most iconic surf zones across the globe and designates them as protected surfing reserves.

Local communities are then empowered to manage and safeguard these surf spots from development. In short, it ensures the waves can continue to be ridden for generations to come.

Today, there are 12 surfing reserves around the world, each of which has been chosen through a careful selection process.

Thanks to the foresight of pioneers like big-wave surfer João de Macedo (a co-founder of the program), these surfing havens have a fighting chance against the threats of human activity.

In this article, discover everything you need to know about our World Surfing Reserves. We’ll highlight where they are, why they were designated and how you can ride their waves with a sustainable stay. 

A surfer rides a wave at one of the World Surfing Reserves

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World Surfing Reserves

Malibu Surfrider Beach, U.S.A.

As the birthplace of modern surfing, Malibu occupies a special place in surf history. It was here that the film “Gidget” introduced the masses to surf culture and pioneering shapers crafted revolutionary board designs.

At the same time, Malibu was where legendary surfers like Miki Dora honed their nose-riding skills.

With its long, peeling right-hand walls, Surfrider Beach offers the quintessential point break.

Beyond the water, Malibu Surfrider Beach is part of a vibrant coastal ecosystem. The waves depend on sand flows from Malibu Creek, home to a rich diversity of wildlife. Dolphins play in the surf while endangered steelhead spawn in the lagoon and wetlands flourish along the coast.

With its world-class waves and dynamic environment, it’s no wonder Malibu was selected as the first World Surfing Reserve.

Best places to stay in Malibu for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Malibu for surfers
Malibu Beach Inn
Mid-range places to stay in Malibu for surfers
The Surfrider Malibu
Budget places to stay in Malibu for surfers
Cambria Hotel Calabasas
A spectacular oceanfront lounge at the Surfrider Malibu in California
A spectacular oceanfront lounge at the Surfrider Malibu in California (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Ericeira, Portugal

Surfers from around the world come to ride Ericeira’s epic breaks and experience the wild beauty of the Portuguese coast.

This eight-kilometre stretch of pristine beaches and rocky cliffs contains a surf zone like no other. It boasts an incredible density of high-quality spots. From the iconic Ribeira d’Ilhas to the renowned Coxos, there’s something for all levels.

The local fishermen who have plied these waters for centuries knew the treasure they had in their backyard. Their respect for the ocean paved the way for early surfing pioneers who were awestruck when they first discovered Ericeira in the 1970s.

Word soon spread about this surfing paradise, transforming the village into the epicentre of Portuguese surf culture.

Amidst its growth as a surf destination, Ericeira has maintained its small-town charm and commitment to protecting its marine ecosystem.

Best places to stay in Ericeira for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Ericeira for surfers
Immerso Hotel
Mid-range places to stay in Ericeira for surfers
Ericeira Soul Guesthouse
Budget places to stay in Ericeira for surfers
Praia FLH Hotels
A stylish lounge at the Immerso - a boutique hotel in Ericeira for surfers
A stylish lounge at the Immerso – a boutique hotel in Ericeira for surfers (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Manly-Freshwater, Australia

From the first recorded surfers in the 1890s to world champions like Layne Beachley, Manly and Freshwater beaches have been at the epicentre of Australian surf culture for decades.

Legendary Hawaiian Olympian Duke Kahanamoku gave surfing demonstrations here in 1914 and 1915, spreading a love of the sport across Australia.

With its abundance of quality waves, strong community spirit and rich history, it’s no wonder this four-kilometre-long stretch of coastline was inaugurated as a World Surfing Reserve in 2012.

On any given day, the beaches bustle with swimmers, surfers and seaside strollers. All are drawn by the area’s natural beauty, welcoming vibe and perfect waves.

For over a century, Manly and Freshwater have embodied the best of Australian beach culture and will continue to do so well into the future. 

Best places to stay in Manly for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Manly for surfers
Peppers Manly Beach
Mid-range places to stay in Manly for surfers
Manly Pacific MGallery Collection
Budget places to stay in Manly for surfers
Manly Stoke House
World Surfing Reserves: A bird's eye view of two surfers walking along a beach
World Surfing Reserves: A bird’s eye view of two surfers walking along a beach

Santa Cruz, U.S.A.

Inaugurated in 2012 as a World Surfing Reserve, this stretch of Central California coastline offers over 20 consistent breaks. It extends for 11 kilometres from Natural Bridges State Park to Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point, encompassing waves for all levels.

With favourable winds blowing steadily throughout the year, it’s understandable why Santa Cruz has developed such a vibrant surf culture. 

The protected waters of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary not only draw surfers from around the world. They also host frequent local contests, with the community deeply connected to the waves.

With its diverse mix of reefs, points and beach breaks, coupled with easy access from state beaches and parks, Santa Cruz has earned its reputation as a quintessential surf destination.

Best places to stay in Santa Cruz for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Santa Cruz for surfers
Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Mid-range places to stay in Santa Cruz for surfers
West Cliff Inn
Budget places to stay in Santa Cruz for surfers
Santa Cruz Hostel
A colourful dining area at the Dream Inn Santa Cruz
A colourful dining area at the Dream Inn Santa Cruz (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Huanchaco Beach, Trujillo, Peru

This seafaring town near Trujillo, Peru has long been a surfing mecca, offering clean, consistent lefts that peel year-round.

The classic point break in the town’s centre is a regional treasure, working best from April to October on 1-3 metre swells. While normally a high-performance wave, Huanchaco turns critical when strong south swells barrel through the point.

Beyond the surf, Huanchaco boasts ancient roots as the birthplace of “caballitos de totora” – reed boats used by early Peruvian wave riders. The enduring ocean culture still shapes Huanchaco today.

As surfing legend Felipe Pomar explained, Huanchaco’s recognition as a World Surfing Reserve honours the community’s wave-riding heritage stretching back thousands of years.

Best places to stay in Huanchaco for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Huanchaco for surfers
Tierra Viva Trujillo
Mid-range places to stay in Huanchaco for surfers
Hotel Bracamonte
Budget places to stay in Huanchaco for surfers
Punta Huanchaco Hotel
The sign for Punta Huanchaco - a budget-friendly hostel for surfers in Huanchaco
The sign for Punta Huanchaco – a budget-friendly hostel for surfers in Huanchaco

Bahía de Todos Santos, Mexico

From the point breaks of San Miguel to the big waves barrelling on the other side of the bay, the Bahía de Todos Santos is a paradise for surfers visiting Mexico.

Surfing has deep roots in Ensenada dating back over 50 years, with pioneering surfers arriving here in the 1960s. Today, the area attracts everyone from beginners to big-wave heroes, drawn to Ensenada’s vibrant surf culture.

In addition to its cultural significance, the area is ecologically important. The beaches, intertidal zones and coastal habitats are home to plant and animal species that the World Surfing Reserve will help to maintain.

Not only that, but surfing is an irreplaceable recreational and economic resource for Baja California. Families spend Sundays on the beach, tourists flock to the waves, and for many, surfing is more than a hobby – it’s a way of life.

Best places to stay in Ensenada for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Ensenada for surfers
Cúpulas Del Valle by Villa De La Rosa
Mid-range places to stay in Ensenada for surfers
Casa Asturias
Budget places to stay in Ensenada for surfers
Beach House by ULIV
Two surfers riding a wave in one of the World Surfing Reserves
Two surfers riding a wave in one of the World Surfing Reserves

Gold Coast, Australia

Stretching 16 glorious kilometres from Burleigh Point to Snapper Rocks, this iconic stretch of surf encompasses world-famous breaks like the legendary Superbank.

Generations of Australian surf champions hail from the Gold Coast and the area’s surfing culture is second-to-none. It’s been described as a “nirvana” for surfers, with few other stretches of coastline comparable. 

Now designated as a World Surfing Reserve, the Gold Coast community is dedicated to preserving these world-class waves for future generations.

Following the announcement, a staggering 4,000 local surfers gathered at Kirra Beach to show their support. The city even approved the world’s first Surf Management Plan to protect the area’s surfing assets.

Best places to stay on the Gold Coast for surfers

Luxury places to stay on the Gold Coast for surfers
Vue Broadbeach
Mid-range places to stay on the Gold Coast for surfers
La Costa Beachside Motel
Budget places to stay on the Gold Coast for surfers
Capsuleaccom Hostel
Views across the Gold Coast from one of the rooms at the Vue Broadbeach
Views across the Gold Coast from one of the rooms at the Vue Broadbeach (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Guarda do Embaú, Brazil

What makes Guarda do Embaú so special? For starters, it boasts a world-class wave that works year-round – a rarity in the surf world – with powerful rights and lefts peeling along this stretch of Santa Catarina shoreline.

Additionally, it lies adjacent to Serra do Tabuleiro State Park. It’s the largest protected area in Santa Catarina, encompassing estuaries, rainforest and towering dunes. 

For decades, Guarda do Embaú has nurtured a tight-knit, environmentally-minded surf tribe. The late Brazilian surf legend Ricardo Dos Santos called this place “home”.

Earning WSR status will help Guarda do Embaú preserve its precious waves and coastal environment for generations to come and support Brazil’s booming surf industry. 

Best places to stay in Guarda do Embaú for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Guarda do Embaú for surfers
Pousada Xaxa
Mid-range places to stay in Guarda do Embaú for surfers
Refugio Na Praia Hospedagem
Budget places to stay in Guarda do Embaú for surfers
Pousada Madre Guarda
World Surfing Reserves: A silhouette of a surfer walking along a beach at sunset
World Surfing Reserves: A silhouette of a surfer walking along a beach at sunset

Punta de Lobos, Chile

The waves of Punta de Lobos have long drawn surfers from around the globe to Chile’s rocky shores. But in 2015, this iconic surfing mecca was under threat when the 4.5-acre Mirador Property at the tip of Punta de Lobos went up for sale.

Determined to protect this treasured landmark, Save The Waves and Patagonia launched the “Lobos Por Siempre” campaign. 

Their goal was to raise enough money to purchase the property and preserve it for generations to come. On November 16, 2017, the land was officially dedicated as a protected part of the World Surfing Reserve in an intimate ceremony bearing witness to conservation in action.

The story of Lobos Por Siempre shows what happens when a community comes together to protect the places they love. 

Best places to stay in Punta de Lobos for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Punta de Lobos for surfers
Lodge del Mar
Mid-range places to stay in Punta de Lobos for surfers
Surf Lodge Punta de Lobos
Budget places to stay in Punta de Lobos for surfers
Surf House Pichilemu
A swimming pool backed by the rooms of Lodge del Mar in Punta de Lobos, Chile
A swimming pool backed by the rooms of Lodge del Mar in Punta de Lobos, Chile (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Noosa Beach, Australia

With its world-renowned point breaks and pristine beaches, Noosa is a surfer’s paradise with waves for all levels. From the beginner-friendly peelers of First Point to the barreling low tide waves of Johnsons, Noosa caters to everyone.

Its location on the Sunshine Coast means quality waves year-round. Tropical swells pound the points during cyclone season and southerly swells sneak through in the offseason. 

While the fickle weather can bring the occasional “swell drought”, it’s rare for Noosa to go more than a few days without rideable waves.

Considering its stunning natural setting (and over 280 surfable days per year), it’s no wonder Noosa has been recognised as a World Surfing Reserve. The designation will ensure this slice of coastal paradise can remain accessible to boardriders for many years to come. 

Best places to stay in Noosa for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Noosa for surfers
71 Hastings Street
Mid-range places to stay in Noosa for surfers
Essence Boutique Hotel
Budget places to stay in Noosa for surfers
Noosa Tiny Home
One of the stylish apartments at Essence Boutique Hotel in Noosa, Australia
One of the stylish apartments at Essence Boutique Hotel in Noosa, Australia (photo courtesy of Expedia)

Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica

Dedicated in 2022, Playa Hermosa made history as the first World Surfing Reserve in Central America. Today, it lies at the heart of Costa Rican surf culture.

Every year, surfers flock here from all corners of the globe, drawn by the legendary A-frame waves that break along the sandy beach. This stunning stretch of Pacific coastline offers both lefts and rights fuelled by plenty of power. 

Following its designation, the Local Stewardship Council has a bold vision for Playa Hermosa’s future. Their goal is to preserve the area’s ecological richness while promoting sustainable surf tourism.

Beyond its epic breaks and environmental beauty, there are compelling economic incentives to protect Playa Hermosa’s surf ecosystems. A national study found surf tourism pumps approximately USD 5 million annually into the local economy.

Best places to stay in Playa Hermosa for surfers

Luxury places to stay in Playa Hermosa for surfers
Casa Ilan Ilan
Mid-range places to stay in Playa Hermosa for surfers
Hotel Bosque del Mar
Budget places to stay in Playa Hermosa for surfers
Hotel Villa Del Sol

Planning a surf trip to Playa Hermosa? Check out our list of the best sustainable surf resorts in Costa Rica.

A swimming pool and dining deck at Hotel Bosque del Mar in Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica
A swimming pool and dining deck at Hotel Bosque del Mar in Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica (photo courtesy of Expedia)

North Devon, United Kingdom

Encompassing 30 kilometres of gorgeous beaches and waves is the world’s newest Surfing Reserve, North Devon. Croyde, Saunton and Woolacombe are just a few of the breaks that have made their mark.

Through its designation, the goal is to preserve the fragile coastal ecology of North Devon while maintaining access to swells that shape local surf culture. 

In 2008, surfing brought over £50 million in revenue to the area and supported 1,500 local jobs. Yet for residents, surfing means far more than money.

Surf reports dictate daily rhythms while friendships grow strong sharing waves. Raw coastal beauty woven with world-class waves makes this stretch of shoreline a true treasure. 

Best places to stay in North Devon for surfers

Luxury places to stay in North Devon for surfers
Croyde Secret Garden
Mid-range places to stay in North Devon for surfers
Paramount Apartments Ilfracombe
Budget places to stay in North Devon for surfers
Ocean Backpackers
Waves roll into a beach in Noosa - one of the World Surfing Reserves
Waves roll into a beach in Noosa – one of the World Surfing Reserves

Preserving the world’s most beloved surf environments

The World Surfing Reserves (WSR) program is playing a critical role in safeguarding some of the world’s most beloved surf spots. At its core, the WSR’s mission is to champion the preservation of these iconic waves and the coastal environments that nurture them, garnering international recognition and support for these efforts.

By establishing a global network of officially designated surfing reserves, the WSR is shining a spotlight on the multifaceted significance of waves. Not just as physical features that captivate surfers, but as integral components of diverse ecosystems, cultural identities and economic activities.

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About the authors

We are a team of passionate divers and surfers with decades of combined experience in the water and travelling to all corners of the globe. After years of chasing waves and descending into the deep blue, we’ve created this resource to highlight sustainably run surf camps, eco-friendly dive resorts and conservation-focused ocean trips to help inspire your next adventure.

Eco Ocean Escapes was born out of a love of the ocean, an obsession with travel and a concern about the impacts of our adventures on the environments we explore. Despite the benefits that surf and dive tourism can bring to local communities, we recognised that ocean-based adventures are not always managed in a sustainable manner.  

Through our articles, we hope to inspire those seeking a responsible surf or dive trip that is all about supporting local communities, preserving our coastal environments and the incredible marine species that inhabit our oceans. 

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