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Best surfing destinations in Africa

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Taghazout
Coastal charm where surf meets tradition
7.9
This fishing village is about 12 miles north of Agadir on the Atlantic coast. Right-hand breaks such as Killer Point and Panorama lie along the nearby coast. Winter swells from November to March bring the biggest waves. Water stays near 65 degrees Fahrenheit in winter.
Highlights:
  • 🍲 Taste authentic tagine in a local riad kitchen
  • 🧗‍♀️ Hike up Kasbah of Agadir Oufella for sunset views
  • 🏄‍♂️ Surf the legendary waves at Taghazout Beach
Cape Town
Mountains, Beaches and a Vibrant Culture
7.6
Muizenberg Beach on False Bay has slow rolling waves for beginners with surf schools along the sand. Colourful bathing huts stand beside it at St James. Dungeons, off Hout Bay, is a big wave break that can top 10 metres. Water on the Atlantic side is cold at about 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Highlights:
  • 🍽️ Explore the V&A Waterfront and dine by the sea
  • 🚡 Ride the cable car for breathtaking city views
  • 🥾 Hike to the top of Table Mountain
South Africa
Where wildlife meets diverse landscapes
7.6
Cold Atlantic spray stings on the west coast. Indian Ocean water off Durban feels as warm as a bath. Cape Agulhas, the southern tip of Africa, marks where the two oceans meet. Breaks range from the long point wave at Jeffreys Bay to beginner beach breaks at Muizenberg.
Highlights:
  • 🌄 Explore the scenic Blyde River Canyon
  • 🥾 Hike to Maclear’s Beacon on Table Mountain
  • 🐘 Go on safari in Kruger National Park
Réunion
An Island of Adventure and Beauty
8.3
A series of shark attacks since 2011 led officials to limit where people can surf. Saint-Leu has a well known left-hand wave but sharks have been seen there. Some beaches have nets or supervised zones. Check current local rules before paddling out. The volcanic island rises to about 3,070 metres.
Highlights:
  • 🚁 Explore the Cirque de Mafate by air or on foot
  • 🏖️ Swim in turquoise waters at L’Ermitage Beach lagoon
  • 🌋 Hike the active Piton de la Fournaise volcano crater
Durban
Sunny beaches and rich culture
7.1
Warm Indian Ocean water and sea breezes greet surfers along Durban's Golden Mile. The beachfront runs about 6 kilometres and has piers that shape the waves. Winter water stays near 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so short wetsuits are enough. Surf schools rent boards at beaches such as Bay of Plenty.
Highlights:
  • 🚶‍♀️ Stroll the Durban promenade and enjoy the ocean views
  • 🐠 Explore uShaka Marine World and its giant aquarium
  • 🏖️ Swim and surf along Durban’s famous Golden Mile beaches
Jeffreys Bay
Surf‑swept sands and lively coastal vibes
8.2
Winter swells arrive from June to September. The World Surf League holds its event here each July. Supertubes is a fast right-hand point break that can run 300 metres or more. Whales breach off the coast in season. Shells wash up on the beaches in large numbers.
Highlights:
  • 🛍️ Stroll through vibrant local markets and shop for handmade crafts
  • 🏄‍♂️ Catch world‑class waves while surfing at Jeffreys Bay beach
  • 🦞 Savor fresh seafood at the iconic Jeffreys Bay fish market
Mozambique
Pristine beaches meet vibrant culture
5.7
The coast runs about 1,500 miles, longer than the US West Coast. Tofo has beach breaks with warm water and surf schools. Manta rays and whale sharks swim offshore so many surfers add a snorkel day. Ponta do Ouro in the far south has a point break near the South African border.
Highlights:
  • ⛵ Sail on a traditional dhow along Mozambique Island
  • 🏖️ Relax on the pristine white sands of Tofo Beach
  • 🐠 Dive among vibrant coral reefs in the Bazaruto Archipelago
Dakar
Vibrant markets and historic waterfront charm
7.6
The 1960s film The Endless Summer started its surf trip in Dakar. Mike Hynson and Robert August rode Ngor Right, a point break off Ngor Island. Swells from both north and south bring waves all year. Yoff and Virage have sandy beach breaks for beginners.
Highlights:
  • 🏝️ Visit Gorée Island's historic slave trade museum
  • 🚶‍♂️ Stroll along the bustling Boulevard de l'Indépendance
  • 🛍️ Explore Dakar's vibrant Sandaga market for local crafts
Liberia
Untouched rainforests and sandy coastlines
5.2
Surfing is a young local tradition that began when American visitors taught Robert Lomax after 2003. He then taught others in the town. The African national surfing titles have been held in Robertsport. Left-hand point breaks like Cassava Point curve along the shore. The town is about 50 miles northwest of Monrovia.
Highlights:
  • 🏛️ Discover Liberian culture at the National Museum in Monrovia
  • 🏖️ Relax on the golden beaches of Robertsport
  • 🌿 Explore Sapo National Park’s lush rainforest trails
Ghana
Gateway to vibrant African culture
6.9
The Gulf of Guinea sends swells onto a coast of palm lined beaches and fishing villages. Busua in the west has beach and point breaks for beginners and intermediates. Kokrobite is about 30 kilometres from Accra and has uncrowded lineups. Miemia Bay has a long point break with peeling waves.
Highlights:
  • 🛍️ Explore the vibrant markets of Accra for local crafts
  • 🏰 Tour the historic Cape Coast Castle museum
  • 🌳 Walk the canopy walkway at Kakum National Park
Namibia
Desert wilderness meets wildlife wonders
6.9
Skeleton Bay is a left-hand wave that peels along the Pelican Point sand spit near Walvis Bay. Rides can run longer than a kilometre in good conditions. Winter from June to September is the main season. Water is cool at 57 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Seals and dunes line the nearby coast.
Highlights:
  • ⚓ Visit the eerie shipwrecks along Namibia’s Skeleton Coast
  • 🐘 Spot wildlife on a safari through Etosha National Park
  • 🏜️ Climb the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei at sunrise
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