North America has shaped modern surfing more than almost any other continent, with Hawaii in particular considered the sport's spiritual home.
Oahu's North Shore hosts some of the most famous waves in the world, including Pipeline and Waimea Bay, drawing the sport's best big wave riders every winter for major competitions. California carries its own weight too, from the powerful, dangerous swells at Mavericks near Half Moon Bay to the more forgiving, highly competitive break at Trestles further south. Mexico's Pacific coast adds Puerto Escondido, nicknamed the Mexican Pipeline for its heavy, fast breaking beach break that draws experienced surfers from around the world. Canada offers a much colder alternative in Tofino, British Columbia, where a small but dedicated surf community has grown despite water temperatures that call for a thick wetsuit year round.
Skill level varies a lot between these spots, so it is worth being honest about experience before paddling out at the more demanding ones.
