Top Destinations for Surfing in India

Surfing in India is growing in popularity, and there are some great spots along the country’s vast coastline where you can catch a wave and also learn to surf. Mesmerizing waves, salty air and sunlight kissing your lips – that’s not all the sea side and beaches are about.

There is another aspect to the coasts which has yet to be explored in India – surfing. Although the sport is yet to reach its full potential in India, the prospect of riding the waves is gradually catching the fancy of Indian adventure-seekers.

We bring you India’s top 10 surfing destinations. Take a look:

1. Shivas:

This is a popular Hindu holy place situated on a small peninsula on the Arabian Sea at Murdeshwara. Large sheltered bays on either side of the peninsula make for ideal surfing conditions.

2. Ten Thousand Peaks:

The beach stretches for about six kilometers creating all sorts of wave possibilities and has got to be one of the most unique surf spots on the west coast of South India at Maravanthe.

3. KanyaKumari:

The southernmost tip of India, this is probably one of the windiest places on Earth. An occasional offshore wind comes along from time to time and then you get some good waves making surfing an exciting sport here.

4. Kovalam Beach, Kerala

Kovalam Beach is probably the best known surf spot in India. More so, because, apart from it being a great spot for surfing, it also has some cheap hotels and places to hang out if you are on vacation. It is sometimes possible to rent a board but better play it safe and bring your own.

5. Alwars:

This is potentially the best surfing spot in India. It is far off the beaten track and not so easy to find. The point is beautifully formed by a millions of years old lava flow that extends into the water. When the waves are at its best, you can expect up to a 400 meter ride, so be prepared for some long walks back to the point!

6. Varkala, Kerala:

It is not far from Kovalam Beach. The surfing ride here isn’t that long but it is pretty fast! The area is alive with tourism and people coming to India to recuperate their health at the local nature cure clinics and mineral water springs.

7. Auroville, Tamil Nadu:

More famously known as Pondicherry, this is a very unique place with a mix of Indian and French. The spot is your typical beach break ideal for surfing. There are a few local surfers in Pondicherry and a few European surfers who also live there permanently.

8. Vizag (Visakapatanam):

If you are traveling or staying on the east coast of India then you should definitely check out Vizag. This is a place with big beaches, good hotels, a commercial harbor and some really nice spots for surfing.

9. Dwarka:

At Dwarka you will find some of the clearest water along the India coastline. This is the quintessential experience of the Arabian Sea.The town is very ancient and is said to have existed for the past 5,000 years. Parts of the old city are now submerged below sea level and can be seen while scuba diving adventure in sea.

10. Gokarna, Goa:

Situated just north of Goa, this is India’s latest hang out spot for back packers and surf wanderers. The place is beautifully situated with a foreground of coconut trees and a backdrop of the Shyadri Mountains. Cheap hotel and camping are available. Waves get good here several times a year but watch out for the shore break or we will have to come out at low tide and dig you out of the sand.

Pack your bags and go travelling to satiate the surfer in you!