Surf's Up! 5 Beginner-Friendly Surf Spots in the Philippines

Surf’s Up! 5 Beginner-Friendly Surf Spots in the Philippines

Conquer the waves!
by Kyzia Maramara | January 16, 2020

via Unsplash

The awesome thing about living in a tropical country surrounded on all sides by bodies of water is that it’s always a great time to go to the beach and surf. Year-round there are waves that will match any person’s level of surfing skill, all they need to do is pack their bags and hit the beach. If you’re looking to start surfing this year, there’s no better place to be than these beaches we’ve listed below. Read on!

Little Pony, Siargao Island

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A post shared by SIARGAO ISLAND (@thesiargaoisland) on Jan 13, 2020 at 12:04am PST

Jericho Rosales can tell you that this is one of the best islands to catch waves that have also caught the attention of international surfers. Yes, they’re pros at surfing but don’t worry, Siargao Island also has spots perfect for surfing newbies. You can find beginner surf camps at the General Luna area with instructors that are patient enough to coax you out of your nervousness. Beginner waves can be enjoyed at Little Pony beach which has enough shallow water and sand to comfortably break your fall. Steer clear of Cloud 9 if you’re a newbie, although it does have the best waves but only if you’re an experienced surfer.

Once you’ve learned the ropes of surfing, you might want to explore other spots in Siargao: Jacking Horse, Daku, Stimpy’s Tuason, Quicksilver, and finally, Cloud 9.

San Juan, La Union

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A post shared by San Juan Surf Resort (@sanjuansurfresort) on May 21, 2020 at 11:52pm PDT

In recent years, La Union has turned into a millennial weekend destination of sorts. You can watch cars pulling up on hostels, tourists dotted along the beach, and groups of yuppies drinking their weekday worries away at Flotsam and Jetsam. Who can blame them? The peaceful town is simply the best place to refresh.

Beginner surfers need not fear as there are hundreds of licensed instructors hanging out at the beach. You can book an instructor for as low as Php 350 and he/she will teach you the ropes in the gentle waves of La Union beach. San Juan actually has three known breaks: Beach Break, The Bowl and The Point. It’s best to visit from October to March although the waves are pretty consistent year-round.

Baler, Aurora

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A post shared by Baler, Aurora 🇵🇭 (@balerph) on May 13, 2020 at 10:13pm PDT

Baler is the OG surf spot for Filipinos and even for foreigners all over the world visiting the Philippines. It’s a few hours drive from Metro Manila, easily accessible for a weekend getaway. The beaches in Baler are now lined with hip hostels, cafes, and the likes but one thing hasn’t changed – the quality of waves for all levels of surfers. The most popular ones are Charlie’s Point and Cemento Beach, both famous for great beach breaks for intermediate to expert surfers. Beginners should start at Sabang Beach where the waves are gentler and the swells are manageable.

San Antonio and San Felipe, Zambales

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A post shared by Crystal Beach Resort (@crystalbeachresort) on Nov 19, 2019 at 8:49pm PST

A mere 3-hour drive from Metro Manila, Zambales is one of the most popular weekend destinations for Manilenos. The town provides quiet beaches and a laid-back atmosphere anyone will love. The best time to go surfing is from April to September where the south swell creates great waves for intermediate surfers. For beginners, you can check out Crystal Beach Break and get in touch with their instructors which are trained to teach surfing for all levels.

For intermediate level waves, the High 5 Lahar surf spot can satiate your thirst for surfing adventures.

Bagasbas Beach, Camarines Norte

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A post shared by Angelica Gapit ✨ (@angelicawanders) on May 28, 2018 at 9:02pm PDT

The Philippines, although mostly sunny, also has its fair share of typhoons which come mid-year. Typhoons have never stopped surfers before (unless it’s really dangerous), in fact, it could prompt great waves for expert surfers. From July to November, the swells at Bagasbas Beach in the Bicol Region are pushed by typhoons passing through the region. Intermediate and pro surfers will enjoy this season if they’re looking for a thrill. However, beginners need not avid these months as great but gentle waves are available at Bagasbas Beach year-round.

What did we say? The Philippines is the best place to go surfing indeed!

Where’s the best surfing spot in the Philippines for you?