4 days ago
Surf's up: here's where to go for your next surfing holiday in Asia—no matter your skill level
2. Maldives: Male, Central and Southern Atolls
Far from just a honeymoon destination, this Indian Ocean paradise offers crystal-clear barrels and luxury surf experiences where you might find yourself alone on a perfect wave.
The surf scene is divided into three distinct regions, each with its own character and season. The Male Atolls, closest to the capital and international airport, serve as the most accessible surf hub with famous breaks like Cokes, Chickens and Jailbreaks peaking March through October.
The Central Atolls, which include Thaa and Laamu, are perfect for travellers seeking uncrowded waves and unique surf travel experiences from May to August.
For more experienced surfers, the Southern or Outer Atolls bring powerful waves from February to April, and then again in August through October.
Read more: Underwater villas, private islands and more: Discover the Maldives' most luxurious resorts 3. Philippines: Siargao, La Union and Baler
Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, the island of Siargao in Mindanao offers diverse breaks across its coastline facing the Pacific Ocean. Cloud 9 can swell from chest-high to triple overhead and beyond, particularly from September to October. For gentler alternatives, Jacking Horse is a few meters from Cloud 9, while Guiwan or Secret Beach requires a quick scooter ride and eagle eyes to spot the tiny roadside sign.
Up in the northern part of Luzon island facing the West Philippine Sea, La Union draws a mix of beginners and experienced surfers. The towns of Urbiztondo, Taboc and Bacnotan offer inside sections ideal for learning, while intermediate surfers line up at Monaliza Point and Carille, with the northeast swells arriving October through February.
On the eastern shores of Luzon lies Baler, said to be the birthplace of Philippine surfing, after locals picked up surfboards left behind by the film crew of Francis Ford Coppola's Apocalypse Now . Sabang Beach provides fairly consistent waves for beginners, while Cemento or Cobra Reef rewards a sharp reef walk-out with powerful, glassy walls, peaking September through January.
Also read: 5 things we miss about La Union: Surfing in Urbiztondo, Cliff Diving, and more 4. Japan: Chiba, Chigasaki and Okinawa
Japan's surf scene is defined by seasonal shifts and a coastline stretching from snowy shores to subtropical reefs. Just east of Tokyo, Chiba offers beach and reef breaks suited for all levels. It's home to Tsurigasaki Beach, the 2020 Olympic surf venue. Summer months (June to August) bring solid waves, while winter (December to February) offers consistent swells and fewer crowds—just pack or rent a good wetsuit.
On clear days, you can surf with a view of Mt. Fuji in Chigasaki, southwest of Tokyo. The beach and jetty break works best during spring (March to May) and in the monsoon month of September, but beginner-friendly waves can be found year-round.
Three hours from Tokyo by plane, Okinawa offers warm-water reef breaks, thanks to its subtropical location. The waves, best enjoyed August through March, tend to suit intermediate and advanced surfers, but calmer days and surf schools make it accessible for beginners.
Also read: Exploring Okinawa: Where food, wellness, and culture meet 5. Sri Lanka: Arugam Bay, Hikkaduwa and Weligama
On Sri Lanka's east coast, Arugam Bay is the crown jewel for surfers. Main Point's long, right-hand breaks serve up waves from May to August, while Baby Point offers soft, sandy-bottom rides for learners.
When Arugam winds down, the southwest coast—where you can find Hikkaduwa and Weligama—ramps up from November to April. Hikkaduwa suits surfers of all levels, while Weligama is considered the best beach in the country for first-timers. 6. Malaysia: Cherating and Desaru Coast
The monsoon season is the best time to enjoy Malaysia's growing surf scene. On the Malay Peninsula's east coast, Cherating offers waves up to over four feet, with long rides up to 500 meters from the break point. The northeast monsoon season (October to March) provides the most consistent swells, with gentler inside sections perfect for learners.
Along the southern tip of Malaysia, Desaru Coast has grown into a local surf favourite. Accessible beach breaks at Desaru Public Beach, Tanjung Balau and Wild Boar Beach welcome all levels. 7. Thailand: Phuket and Ko Phayam
The Land of Smiles offers a laid-back, beginner-friendly introduction to surfing, with the monsoon season (April to September) bringing swells to its Andaman Sea coastline.
On the country's largest island, Phuket serves as the established surf hub with over 25 beaches. Kata Beach, where Phuket surfing began, offers sandbank-enhanced swells, while Kalim Beach is a pure reef break capable of channeling overhead waves. Several surfboard shops and schools are scattered around the island, so it's easy to get kitted out or book a last-minute lesson.
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For those seeking a more remote surfing experience, Ko Phayam offers a fantastic surf scene that some consider at par with Phuket on its best days. Beginners will be stoked by the mellow waves at the less crowded Aow Yai Beach.
