November is an excellent month for surfing, with many places around the world offering ideal conditions for beginners and experienced surfers alike. If you’re looking for the perfect place to catch some waves this November, you’re in luck. From Hawaii to Portugal to Sri Lanka, there are plenty of top surfing destinations to choose from.
Why November is the Perfect Month for Surfing November is an ideal time for surfing because it’s the start of the winter season, which means that the waves are bigger and more consistent than during the summer months. Additionally, the water is still warm in many places, making it more comfortable to surf for longer periods. With fewer crowds and lower prices than during the peak summer season, November is the perfect time to plan your surfing trip.
Top Surfing Destinations in November If you’re looking for the best places to surf in November, you have plenty of options. Hawaii is always a popular destination, with its epic winter swells providing ideal conditions for intermediate and advanced surfers. Portugal’s Vicentina Coast is a great spot for beginners, with sheltered beach breaks and consistent waves. For those looking for a more affordable option, El Salvador’s La Libertad offers world-class right-hand point breaks and plenty of uncrowded waves.
Key Takeaways
- November is an excellent time for surfing, with bigger and more consistent waves than during the summer months.
- There are many top surfing destinations to choose from in November, including Hawaii, Portugal, and El Salvador.
- Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there’s a perfect surf break for you this November.
Why November is the Perfect Month for Surfing
If you’re a surfing enthusiast, November is the perfect month to catch some waves. Here’s why:
Shoulder Season
November is considered the shoulder season for surfing, which means that it’s not quite peak season yet, but it’s also not low season. This means that you can avoid the crowds that come with peak season while still enjoying good surfing conditions.
Swell
November is the start of the winter swell season in the North Atlantic, which means that there are plenty of waves to catch. The winter swell season typically lasts from November to March, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to surf.
North Carolina
North Carolina is one of the best places to surf in November. The state’s coastline is exposed to the North Atlantic, which means that it gets plenty of swell during the winter months. Plus, November is the tail end of hurricane season, which can bring some great waves to the area.
Storms
November is also a great month for surfing because it’s a time when storms are more likely to occur. Storms can create ideal surfing conditions, so be sure to keep an eye on the weather forecast and be ready to hit the waves when a storm is on the horizon.
In summary, November is a great month for surfing because it’s the start of the winter swell season, it’s the shoulder season, and there’s a higher chance of storms. So grab your board and hit the waves!
Top Surfing Destinations in November
If you’re looking for the best surfing destinations in November, you have plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are many places around the world where you can catch some waves. Here are some of the top surfing destinations to consider:
Hawaii
Hawaii is known for its epic winter swells, and November is no exception. Maui and Oahu are two of the best islands to visit for surfing. The water temperatures are warm, and the waves are consistent. You’ll find a variety of breaks suitable for all levels of surfers.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is another popular destination for surfers in November. The country has a tropical climate, warm water temperatures, and consistent waves. The Pacific coast is the best place to surf, and there are plenty of breaks for all levels of surfers. Some of the top spots include Tamarindo, Nosara, and Jaco.
Indonesia
Indonesia is a surfer’s paradise, and November is a great time to visit. The water is warm, and the waves are consistent. Bali is the most popular island for surfing, but there are plenty of other spots to explore. Some of the best breaks include Uluwatu, Padang Padang, and Canggu.
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands, specifically Fuerteventura and Tenerife, are great choices for surfing in November. The islands have a warm climate, blue skies, and consistent waves. The water temperatures are also mild, making it a comfortable place to surf. Some of the top spots include El Hierro, Punta Blanca, and El Confital.
Brazil
Brazil is a popular surf spot for wave riders around the world. Florianopolis is a great place to surf in November, with a variety of breaks suitable for all levels of surfers. The water is warm, and the waves are consistent. Other top spots in Brazil include Rio de Janeiro, Ubatuba, and Itacare.
No matter where you choose to go, make sure to check the surf forecast before you head out. Surfing conditions can change quickly, so it’s important to stay informed. Pack your board, sunscreen, and sense of adventure, and get ready to catch some waves!
Choosing the Right Surf Break
When it comes to surfing in November, choosing the right surf break is crucial to ensure you have a great time out on the water. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a surf break:
Your Skill Level
First and foremost, consider your skill level. If you’re an advanced surfer, you may be looking for a challenging surf break with big barrels and powerful rips. On the other hand, if you’re an intermediate surfer, you may want to look for a more forgiving surf break with consistent waves and a gradual slope.
Type of Surf Break
There are three main types of surf breaks: beach breaks, reef breaks, and point breaks. Beach breaks are best for beginners and intermediate surfers, as they have a sandy bottom and produce consistent waves. Reef breaks, on the other hand, are more suitable for advanced surfers, as they have a rocky bottom and produce powerful waves with barrels. Point breaks are ideal for experienced surfers, as they produce long, consistent waves that break along a rocky point.
Surf Conditions
Surf conditions can vary greatly from one surf break to another, so it’s important to check the forecast before you head out. Look for a surf break with consistent swells and good wind conditions. In November, some of the best surf breaks can be found in places like Taghazout, Morocco, where you can find consistent waves and good surf conditions.
Other Considerations
Finally, consider other factors such as the location of the surf break, the accessibility of the beach, and the presence of cliffs or other hazards. Some popular surf breaks in November include Rincon in California, Palm Beach in Florida, and the Central and Southern Atolls in the Maldives.
By taking these factors into account, you can choose the right surf break for your skill level and preferences, and make the most of your November surfing adventure.
Practical Information for Your Surf Trip
When planning your surf trip in November, there are a few practical things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Choosing Your Destination
Consider your skill level when choosing a destination. Some surf towns cater more towards beginners, while others have more challenging waves for experienced surfers. Research the water temperature and dry season of your chosen destination to ensure optimal surfing conditions.
Budgeting
Flights and accommodation can be a significant expense, so be sure to budget accordingly. Look for affordable hotels or hostels near the surf breaks, or consider renting a house or apartment if traveling with a group. Research local food options to avoid overspending on meals.
Packing
Pack appropriate surf gear for the water temperature and waves of your destination. If you’re a beginner, consider renting gear instead of purchasing it. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
Planning Your Stay
Research the surf breaks in your destination and plan your stay accordingly. If you’re a beginner, look for breaks with smaller waves and less crowded lineups. If you’re more experienced, consider visiting anchor points or other challenging breaks.
Dealing with Winds
Be aware of the wind patterns of your destination. Some surf spots are more affected by wind than others. Research the local wind patterns and plan your surfing accordingly.
Traveling with a Group
If traveling with a group, consider booking accommodation in advance to ensure availability. Look for accommodation with communal areas to socialize and meet other surfers.
Overall, planning a surf trip in November can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Keep these practical tips in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Hidden Surfing Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in November. Here are a few spots you might want to check out:
- Ericeira, Portugal: This small fishing village just north of Lisbon is home to some of the best waves in Europe. With a mix of reef and beach breaks, there’s something for everyone. Check out spots like Coxos, Ribeira d’Ilhas, and Pedra Branca.
- San Sebastian, Spain: This picturesque city on the northern coast of Spain is known for its food and culture, but it also has some great waves. Zurriola Beach is the most popular spot, but there are other options like Gros and Ondarreta.
- Sayulita, Mexico: This bohemian town on the Pacific coast of Mexico has a laid-back vibe and some fun waves. Check out spots like La Lancha, El Faro, and Sayulita Beach.
- Siargao Island, Philippines: This remote island in the Pacific has become a popular destination for surfers in recent years. With spots like Cloud 9, Jacking Horse, and Stimpy’s, there’s plenty of waves to be had.
- Killer Point, Morocco: This point break near Taghazout is one of the best waves in Morocco. It’s a long, fast right-hand wave that can hold some serious size. Just be prepared for the crowds.
No matter where you decide to go, make sure to do your research and check the conditions before you paddle out. And don’t be afraid to explore – some of the best waves are often found in the most unexpected places.
