World’s Best Surfers Decimate Middles for Day 1 Rip Curl Pro Search Puerto Rico

• Paige Hareb won her Round 1 heat against Sofia Mulanovich and Nikita Robb. She will face Melanie Bartels in Round 3. Photo: Kirstin/ASP

Event No. 9 of 10 on the 2011 ASP World Tour, the Rip Curl Pro Search Puerto Rico has hyper-focused the attention of the international sporting world, with a history-in-the-making ASP World Title Race.

Kelly Slater (USA), 38, former nine-time ASP World Champion and current ASP World No. 1, could potentially clinch an unprecedented 10th ASP World Title in Puerto Rico, and moved one step closer to that goal today with an emphatic Round 1 victory.

"I actually felt a little jittery out there at the start," Slater said. "I kind of found my feet towards the end and I feel a lot better now that I'm straight into Round 3. I have a really good support crew here. My girlfriend Kalani, my manager Terry and publicist Shelby are flying in. I flew Mark Cunningham over from Hawaii because he's never seen me at a contest and I told him he had to come. I've seen a bunch of old friends from here and Florida and I have friends coming in from Barbados. I'm really thankful for all the support."

Slater took out the round's top honors for a combined heat total of a 16.27 out of a possible 20, with some impressive tube-riding and high-risk surfing.

"The board's glassed pretty light but it feels good," Slater said. "I've had it at about four events this year so it's been working well for me. My first wave out there, I just kind of rode it to the end to see where the sections were breaking. After that, I felt like I had it pretty well sussed."

• Kelly Slater (USA), 38, former nine-time ASP World Champion and current ASP World No. 1, threading his way one step closer to an unprecedented 10th ASP World Title at the Rip Curl Pro Search Puerto Rico. Credit:© ASP / SCHOLTZ

Jordy Smith (ZAF), 22, current ASP World No. 2, survived a hard-fought battle against wildcard and Trials Winner Dylan Graves (PRI), 24, and Brett Simpson (USA), 25.

Smith's win this morning propels the 2010 ASP World Title race into the coming days, although the big South African is humble to admit the monumental task ahead.

"You get big local support everywhere you go," Smith said. "Whether it's J-Bay or Huntington Beach or Puerto Rico, I think it's great that you get that everywhere you go and it's awesome to be on both sides of it."

"At this point for me, it's all about surfing for me," Smith said. "He has to lose pretty bad for anything to change at this point so I'm just enjoying things at the moment. It's an honor to be in the race still and I'm really enjoying Puerto Rico."

Tiago Pires (PRT), 30, current ASP World No. 4, caused a big upset this morning, eliminating current ASP World No. 4 Taj Burrow (AUS), 32, in the opening round of competition. The win included the day's high single wave score of an 8.87 out of a possible 20 for an incredibly deep forehand barrel.

"Luckily, the wave is so fast and perfect so I don't have to think much. My back heel is pretty painful right now, but hopefully the urchins bring me luck. The wave is really fun. It's a really high-performance wave with good barrels. The last two contests have been bad for me. I'm very happy to get through my heat and I'll be able to get some rest now and better familiarize myself with the area."

Adriano de Souza (BRA), 23, current ASP World No. 9, flew the South American flag today, besting goofy-footers Kai Otton (AUS), 30, and Bobby Martinez (USA), 28, in their Round 1 bout.

"I had a couple weeks to prepare for this event since the last one, I have been training really hard and working on my heat strategy. So to come out today and apply it and move through feels really good."

A perennial threat at the majority of stops on the ASP World Tour, De Souza has suffered early exits in the last three events and will look to remedy the situation in the remaining two events.

"My goal for the rest of the year is just to regain my confidence and to surf every heat well," De Souza said. "I've had a difficult middle of the year so I just want to put a strong performance in for every heat. I have a really good board at the moment and I hope I can keep going."

Mick Fanning (AUS), 29, reigning ASP World Champion and current ASP World No. 3, saw a return to form today after an uncharacteristic early exit in the previous event in Portugal, posting a convincing opening round victory over Americans Gabe Kling (USA), 30, and Patrick Gudauskas (USA), 24. A past two-time winner of the Rip Curl Pro Search , Fanning secured the win on borrowed equipment after his surfboards failed to arrive in time.

"This is actually a board that I sold to Shaun Ward a while back," Fanning said. "He had it here and was kind enough to offer it to me to use so thanks for him. I was going to use one of Steph Gilmore's backup boards, but I'm lucky Shaun had this one as it has a bit more foam. The waves out there are really fun. They're a lot punchier than they look from the beach and offer some really good sections."

When men's competition resumes, up first will be Taj Burrow (AUS), 32, up against Dillon Perillo (USA), 20, in the opening heat of Round 2.

Following the completion of the men's competition, the Rip Curl Women's Pro Search Rip Curl hit the water for Rounds 1 and 2 as the ASP Top 17 tore apart the chunky Caribbean conditions.

Claire Bevilacqua (AUS), 28, current ASP Women's World No. 11, completely demolished this afternoon's chunky conditions, posting the highest heat total of the event, a 15.67 out of a possible 10, to advance directly to Round 3.

"I just want to surf and have fun," Bevilacqua said. "I love taking down the top girls like Sally (Fitzgibbons). I just want to be a role model."
Sally Fitzgibbons (AUS), 19, current ASP World No. 2, advanced in second behind Bevilacqua in the highest-scoring heat of the afternoon keeping the ASP Women's World Title Race very much alive.

Stephanie Gilmore (AUS), 22, reigning three-time ASP Women's World Champion, survived a hard-fought opening round heat today, edging out lethal wildcard Pauline Ado (FRA), 19, in the dying moments.

"I kept falling off on all my finishing turns," Gilmore said. "I think it was a mixture of nerves and a few wobbles out there. I'll probably draw Pauline (Ado) again in Round 3 and she was ripping so it will be interesting. I love it here in Puerto Rico. I have a good support crew here, it's beautiful and I'm looking forward to the rest of the event."

Davey Cathels Takes Out Quiksilver Jetty Surf Pro Junior

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Cathels was in sensational form on this final day, scoring four excellent-to-outstanding 8 and 9-point rides on his way to demolishing his opponents through the Quarters, Semis and Final.
Final scores in the Final saw 18-year-old Cathels on a combined two-wave tally of 13.60 to Queensland's Mitch Crews (Currumbin) on 9:00.
"I came down simply hoping to win through a few heats and fine-tune myself for the ASP World Junior Titles and to win and score big today feels fantastic - I'll go into the World Titles fully ready to give it my best," Cathels said. "I have set an aim to win the ASP Australasian Pro Junior Series this year so this is the perfect start, it's also the first Pro Junior win of my career which sort of gets the "monkey off my back" as I have had a number of Final and Semifinal results, but to win today feels good."
Mitch Crews' performance at this event brought high praise from friends and fellow competitors including Cathels.
The 19-year-old has battled a serious arthritis condition over the past six months and today's return to form for Crews was an emotional triumph in his battle to beat the condition.
"My surfing late last year on the Pro Junior Circuit really suffered and over the summer I've worked with a lot of doctors to remedy my condition and I'm just really pleased to get a result like this today," Crews said. "I won a Pro Junior two years ago and since then have not had great results, but today's result is fantastic for me and sets up my season to try and finish in the Top 5 on the season ratings."
Cathels strategy in the final was to surf the longer-peeling left breaking waves and it paid off superbly when he scored an excellent 8-point ride early to set up his maiden ASP victory.
Some feared Cathels might have peaked early when he scored an impressive 17.90 (out of a possible 20) which included a 9.40 ride in his massive Semifinal win over Jack Freestone (Gold Coast).
Crews survived a much closer Semifinal, defeating Coffs Harbour surfer Billy Keane in the final minute when he came from behind scoring a 5.9 ride to advance to the Final on his last ride.
Cathels now heads to his home in Sydney at North Narrabeen, ready to take on the world's best ASP Pro Junior surfers at the Billabong ASP World Junior Championships which on Saturday.
Held at his home break at North Narrabeen Cathels is confident he can do well.
"It will be a big challenge," Cathels said. "There're some amazing surfers like Owen Wright and Brazil's Jadson Andre and some great Hawaiians but at my home break I'll take them on for sure. I'm looking forward to it!"

World’s Best Juniors Descend on Sydney for Billabong ASP World Juniors

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Contesting in their respective regional ASP Pro Junior Series throughout the 2009 season, qualifiers for the prestigious Billabong ASP World Junior Championships include 48 men and 18 women from the seven ASP regions: Africa, Australasia, Europe, Hawaii, Japan, North America and South America.
While the event has been held at North Narrabeen's famed peaks for over a decade now, the ASP Australasia region hasn't seen a men's champion since Joel Parkinson (AUS), 28, in 2001. Owen Wright (Lennox Head, NSW), 19, ASP Australasia's No. 1 seed and qualifier onto the 2010 ASP Dream Tour, will look to cap off an incredible junior career with a big result at North Narrabeen.
"Last year (in the Billabong ASP World Junior Championships), a lot of things went the wrong way for me," Wright said. "It will be tough since the field has a lot of the same faces from last year, but I'm looking forward to it. Narrabeen is an awesome location the Alley rights are so puntable and the lefts are long and sometimes barreling so I hope we get it pumping this year!"
ASP South America has been dominant at the Billabong ASP World Junior Championships, with Brazilians taking our four of the 10 men's titles in the event's history. Jadson Andre (Natal City, BRA), 19, 2010 ASP Dream Tour rookie and last year's ASP World Junior Runner-Up, will lead the latest ASP South America squad into this season's event.
"I think I put in a good performance last year, but during the final I didn't catch the best waves, Kai (Barger) was surfing very well during the event and deserved the victory," Andre said. "This year, I know and believe all the guys competing at Narrabeen are strong and have a chance to win. All the heats are like a final, so because of this I will give 100% attention in all the heats. I have been working on my psychological, physical aspect and my surfboards. I'm going to surf well and find the best results."
ASP North America has not ventured as well at Narrabeen. Despite producing formidable teams, the North Americans have yet to claim an ASP World Junior Title - a fact that Nat Young (Santa Cruz, CA), 18, hopes to rectify in his second appearance at the prestigious event.
"The standard of competition in this contest is crazy, every first round heat could be a Final in a normal junior contest," Young said. "Personally, I would definitely like to do better this year. Last year was my first year in the contest and I made a couple heats so I was stoked, but this contest is so important to all the juniors because it is the biggest junior contest of the year. I think the other US guys are all great surfers and they have all had contests this year where they have shown that they are worthy of being in the World Juniors. I think this year could be a good year for the U.S."
Kai Barger (HAW), 20, reigning ASP World Junior Champion, has graduated beyond the ASP Pro Junior Series, but remains enthusiastic about his fellow Hawaiians in Narrabeen.
"Looking at the Hawaii team, I think it would be sick to see Clay Marzo win, Barger said. "If he surfs anything like he has been surfing at home then he's easily capable."
Barger more than understands the importance of the event, and the effect a victory there can have on someone's career.
"If there's one contest to do well in, then trust me this is the one to win," Barger said. "This contest changed my life and sometimes I still can't believe I won there. There were a lot of nuts guys last year the surfing standard was so high. It seemed like everybody was pulling out their best."
Mick Fanning (AUS), 28, recently crowned two-time ASP World Champion, knows a thing or two about winning and offered his own thoughts on the Billabong ASP World Juniors.
"I never got one...it's a tough title to win," Fanning said. "Back in the day it was really a battle between the Americans, Hawaiians and Aussies, but these days, there are contenders from each of the ASP regions and I think the list of recent past winners is a reflection of that."
Despite the heavily loaded field in this year's Billabong ASP World Junior Championships, Fanning's pick for the title stays close to home.
"Owen (Wright) is World Champ material if you ask me," Fanning said. "I've watched him evolve over the years and he'll be the man to beat at the World Juniors for sure, provided he's recovered from some heavy injuries suffered during the Portugal World Tour event."
The Billabong ASP World Junior Championships mirrors the competition format of the ASP World Tour and is considered the sport's "crystal ball" for aspiring champions. In addition, a Final's placing in the tournament affords the successful surfers an unrivalled seeding on the ASP World Qualifying Series (WQS) that serves as a springboard to the ASP World Tour

No. 1 Seed Tyler Wright Eliminated on Day 2 Quiksilver Jetty Surf Pro Junior

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The diminutive, former-Kiwi surfer, who has now been based in Australia for five years, took an exciting Round 2 heat win in the ASP Pro Junior Women's division, defeating and eliminating the event's No. 1 seed Tyler Wright (Lennox Head).
Sixteen-year-old Wright probably has the greatest junior surfing record in Australian surfing, which includes multiple Australian and World Titles along with an ASP World Tour victory at the sport's highest level, but she struggled in today's conditions while Mason capitalised by finding better waves to secure a close heat win.

"I never think about who I'm surfing against in my heats, I simply go out and surf my best and try and win," said Mason after her win today. "Tyler's a great surfer and now I've won the heat it gives me confidence to go a lot further and aim high at this event."

West Australian surfer Laura Macaulay placed second behind Mason to advance today with Wright close behind in third place but unfortunately eliminated.
Sarah Mason's older sister Arini also impressively won her Round 2 heat along with Philippa Anderson (Newle) and Ellie-Jean Coffey (North Narrabeen/CrescentHead) who both took strong heat wins.
Ellie- ean Coffey, just 15 years of age, highlighted the depth of young talent coming through the ASP Australasian Pro Junior ranks.
"I have just returned from a High Performance training camp with Surfing Australia and I'm feeling really good about my surfing - even though there's a lot of girls older than me in the Pro Juniors I now have the confidence to really surf against them and know that I can beat them." said Coffey who has spent a lot of time over the past two years transient along the northern NSW coastline developing her surfing talents.
Chris Salisbury (Newport/Nth Sydney) and Jerome Forrest (WA/Margaret River) were the outstanding performers as Round 1 of the ASP Pro Junior Men's was also finalised today.
Salisbury utilized his smooth and powerful backhand surfing to post the days highest wave score of 8.75 out of a possible 10 on his way to a comfortable heat win.
"I'm taking the ASP Australasian Pro Junior circuit very seriously this season - It's my last year on the circuit and I definitely want to finish the year in the top five on the ratings and qualify for the ASP World Junior Championships" said Salisbury.
Jerome Forrest scored two excellent waves of an 8.45 and an 8 to register the highest heat tally of the day of 16.45.
Victorian surfers had mixed results on day two - Caiden Fowler (Mornington Peninsula) and Tom Allan (Bells Beach) both progressed to round two while Georgia Fish (Flinders) and Nikki Van Dijk (Phillip Island) were surprise eliminations in closely contested round two heats in the Pro Junior women's.
Tomorrow will most likely see the top seeds including Dean Bowen (Gerroa/South Coast NSW), Garrett Parkes (Byron Bay), Davey Cathels (Nth Narrabeen) and Chris Friend (Sunshine Coast) surfing in round two and surf conditions are expected to remain very similar to today's good conditions.

Talent Shines Through Challenging Conditions at Billabong ASP World Juniors

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Wiggolly Dantas (BRA), 20, was nearly flawless on his backhand this afternoon the stylish Brazilian dissecting the running Alley righthanders to net several impressive scoring rides en route to acquiring the day's high heat total of 14.66 out of a possible 20.
"The waves are tough out there but the righthanders are lining up much better than the lefts," Dantas said. "I have a really good board under my feet and felt really good today."
Brazilians have claimed four of the past 10 ASP World Junior Titles, and Dantas now leads one of the strongest ASP South American teams in history in North Narrabeen.

"Of course it would be a great honor to win the ASP World Junior Title," Dantas said. "Pablo (Paulino) and Adriano (de Souza) are great inspirations in Brazil and it is everyone's goal to follow them. There are so many good surfers here. It will be a big challenge to win the title."

Garrett Parkes (AUS), 18, was another standout this afternoon, leading the Australian contingent in Round 1 this afternoon, uting a futuristic backhand shove-it aerial in the dying moments to take the heat win, and the day's highest single wave score of an 8.00 out of a possible 10.
"I'm pretty stoked," Parkes said. "I was struggling to get the score the whole heat, and I didn't get a good ramp until the last minute. It always feels good to come from behind on the last wave. I think everyone in town wants to see an Aussie win so we'll see what happens."
When men's competition resumes, up first will be the highly-anticipated Round 1 bout between Owen Wright (AUS), 19, Clay Marzo (HAW), 20, and Ryan Callinan (AUS)
Prior to the men's action this afternoon, the world's best junior females tore into the morning conditions at North Narrabeen, completing their respective Round 1 of the Billabong ASP World Junior Championships fueled by Monster Energy.
Malia Manuel (HAW), 16, former U.S. Open winner (in 2008 at age 14), dominated the women's action in the opening heat of the event, posting an impressive 14.83 out of a possible 20 for her progressive forehand and backhand attacks.
"First heat of the event and it glassed off so great call waiting for the high tide to ," Manuel said. "It was a wonderful format with half and hour and I knew that the waves would come. I'm thrilled to be here and get my campaign off to a good start."
Although a relative newcomer to the Billabong ASP World Junior Championships, Manuel recognizes the importance of the event.
"I'd be honored (to win the ASP World Junior Title)," Manuel said. "It's the biggest junior event in our careers. To make a few rounds, and even just to qualify here, is a massive honor."
Laura Enever (AUS), 18, local Narrabeen surfer, is a major crowd favorite at the world-renowned break and despite a slow start in her Round 1 heat, the affable natural-footer rebounded to take the win and advance through to Round 3.
"I was really nervous in that heat," Enever said. "I was freaking out. All my friends and family are here and I want to do well for them. I was nervous in the ning but got a few waves at the end and had fun."
The surprise upset in today's Billabong ASP World Junior Championships came in the form of reigning ASP World Junior Champion, Pauline Ado (FRA), 18, as the young natural-footer was relegated to the elimination Round 2.
"It was pretty messy and very hard to catch the good waves," Ado said. "Obviously I didn't catch the same ones. I hope I surf better than this and now I have to make it through Round 2. I'm just going to be patient and take things heat by heat."
When women's competition resumes, Ado will face Sarah Baum (ZAF), 15, and Susa Leal (BRA) in the elimination Round 2.
Event organizers will reconvene tomorrow morning at 7am to assess conditions for a possible 8am start.

Billabong Grom Series Lines Up East Coast Swell

• Dune Kennings. Image by PhotoCPL

The Billabong Grom Series presented by Oceanbridge is now into it's sixth year and is entrenched in the development pathways of young New Zealand surfers as they try their hand at competing, many of whom start careers at these very events.
The honours board for the three event series reflects a whose who of New Zealand surfers with the likes of Association of Surfing Professionals (ASP) World Tour surfer Paige Hareb (Tara) starting out at these very events. Paige Hareb won the Under 16 Girls Division in 2006 before going on to compete internationally and qualify for the World Tour only two years later.
2009 National Open Men's Champion and winner of the first ASP Australasia Pro Junior Series event for 2011, Matt Hewitt (Mnt), is another to sharpen his teeth in these events winning the Under 16 Boys Division in 2007, two years later going on to win the most prestigious title in New Zealand surfing.

• Ella Williams. Image by PhotoCPL

This years crop of surfers will be aiming high and will use those surfers who have gone before them as motivation to push on in the sport of surfing. Billabong and Pacific Blue will give the series winners of five divisions a helping hand with free trips to Australia and entry into the Billabong Occy Grom Comp to be held on the Gold Coast later this year.
Crazy Sony prizes will also be awarded for the highest heat scores and highest wave scores for both the boys and the girls as well as best manoeuvre of the event.
With a New Zealand Junior Surfing Team set to be named in six weeks time, eight of the entrants this weekend will be out to impress ahead of team selection as well as take home the first grom event of the year.
At the other end of the spectrum will be a large number of budding surfers who will be entering one of their first national surfing events. For these young boys and girls the weekend is also about having fun, learning new surfing skills and meeting other young surfers from around the country.
For all entrants, the fun will be loaded into the two days with each competitor walking away with a goody bag filled with sponsors gear.

Matt Hewitt Progresses at the ASP World Pro Junior

• Image by ASP.

Over the weekend Matt disposed of South African surfer Berick de Vries in a high scoring match up 13.43 vs 13.03.

Hewitt stayed patient in his heat and carefully selected the set-waves and finished his two scoring rides with authority to secure a berth into Round 4.

"It was a super close heat and I had watched the heat before and knew the guys were getting there scores on the bigger set waves," Hewitt said. "I knew I just needed to be patient and wait for those bigger ones and finish my waves."
"Hewitt also enjoyed the change in venue from the left-hander of Arpoador to Praia Do Diabo and tore apart the tricky conditions on his forehand.
"I don't really mind too much," Hewitt said. "It's just normal going left or right, but you can't really complain when you get a right-hand point break and it's kind of just reeling down the point."

Hewitt will face Marco Fernandez (BRA) in Round 4. Fernandez surfed the best wave of round 3 posting 9.33 out of ten on one wave.

Hewitt is one of five surfers at the event representing the ASP Australasia region

Grommets Impress Quinn on Home Soil

With the day dawning to clear blue skies and light winds, the solid 1.0m swell provided the perfect playground for the grommets to impress the event's namesake. And they did not disappoint going for broke in a bid to win the event which comes with a trip for two to France to compete in the international Quiksilver King of the Groms final later in the year.

• Patxi Scott-Arrieta. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine

Northland surfer Patxi Scott - Arrieta (Sandy Bay) was a standout from the first heat completing big power turns with flare. His performances saw him move through to the semifinals with ease.
"I haven't been doing anything different" commented Scott - Arrieta when asked about his excellent display of form. "The waves in ‘Gissy' are always fun and a bit bigger so I like competing here. Comps don't always have good waves so it is good to surf in conditions like today".
"One more heat until the finals and then I can challenge for the trip to France, I would be stoked if I won that" added Scott Arrieta on what lies ahead on the final day of the event.

• Josh Kettle. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine

Josh Kettle (Tara) by his own admission caused somewhat of an upset to move through to the semifinals when he defeated current ratings leader Adam Grimson (Gis) and previous event finalist Korbin Hutchings (Gis) progressing alongside Jules Craft (Gis).
Kettle, the older of three brothers competing at the event was "really happy" with his performance and gaining a personal best result. He is one of few surfers his age to continually ‘bust airs' in his heats a strategy he often opts for "I use the airs to get through ‘cos all the other guys are so good. You have to do something real good to beat them so it is all or nothing for me" said Kettle.

• Dune Kennings. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine

Other surfers to move through to the semifinals in first place included Dune Kennings (WGM) and Elliot Paerata - Reid (Piha).
Elliot Paerata - Reid (Piha) also dominated the early round of the Under 14 Boys throwing everything into his surfing. Posting a 14.0 point heat total, it was glaringly obvious that Paerata - Reid was hunting a big result a point he noted post heat today. "I haven't had a good result for a while so I changed my game plan and went a bit bigger today" commented Paerata - Reid.
"I am stoked with my heat scores, I have had two good heats so far and I am just going to try and get two good waves in my 16s quarters and then go for broke and hope I make it through". Paerata Reid did just that beating defending event champion Ben Poulter (Rag) in his quarterfinal.
Not to be outdone in the Under 14 Boys was young 12 year old Korbin Hutchings (Gis) posting the highest heat score of the round - 14.3 out of a possible 20. Hutchings' power and stability in the punchy beach break conditions was beyond his age as he went on to win his heat and move through to the semifinals.
Other heat winners in the Under 14 Boys Division included Dune Kennings (WGM) and Jordan Griffin (Mnt) the winners of the first two events of the Surfing New Zealand Grommet Series.

• Ella Williams. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine

Ella Williams (WGM) attacked the Makorori waves in her Under 16 Girls Division heat posting a 12.75 point heat total. Williams looked unstoppable completing several big backhand re-entries on the way to her heat win. Likewise Jayda Martin - Fitzharris (Gis) was also in top form in the second semifinal winning with the same heat total as Williams.

<&rt;1/5 Photos

• Jayda Martin-Fitzharris. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine
• Adam Grimson. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine
• Fintan Cram. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine
• Manu Scott. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine
• Waretini Wano. Image by Cory / NZ Surfing Magazine

Martin - Fitzharris used her local knowledge to link several big turns into one wave for an 8.25 point ride. The two will face off in the final along with Gabriela Sansom (Auck) and Hannah Kohn (Gis) to see who will win the trip to Australia to witness the 2011 Roxy Pro

Matt Hewitt Charges into Rd4 at the Arnette ASP World Junior

• Keanu Asing (HAW) topped Thomas Woods (AUS) in Round 3 of the Arnette ASP World Junior today. Credit: ASP / ROWLAND

Marco Fernandez (BRA) unleashed a series of committed turns to take the day's highest single-wave score of a 9.33 (out of 10) and hopes he can carry the momentum from his Round 3 success into the latter rounds of competition.
"I caught a pretty good wave in that heat and made three turns with my first turn being a big vertical turn," Fernandez said. "I'm so happy that I made it to the next round and I hope I can continue to do the same."
Matt-Lewis Hewitt (NZL) stayed patient in his heat and carefully selected the set-waves and finished his two scoring rides with authority to secure a berth into Round 4.

"It was a super close heat and I had watched the heat before and knew the guys were getting there scores on the bigger set waves," Hewitt said. "I knew I just needed to be patient and wait for those bigger ones and finish my waves."

"Hewitt also enjoyed the change in venue from the left-hander of Arpoador to Praia Do Diabo and tore apart the tricky conditions on his forehand.
"I don't really mind too much," Hewitt said. "It's just normal going left or right, but you can't really complain when you get a right-hand pointbreak and it's kind of just reeling down the point."
Keanu Asing (HAW) has stayed patient and focused throughout the entirety of the Arnette ASP World Junior waiting period and is hoping to maintain his form from the ASP 6-Star Quiksilver Brasil Open of Surfing last week through the remainder of the ASP World Junior event.
"The waves are not ideal, but it's rideable, it's contestable and the contest directors are trying to do their best to put us in the best conditions available," Asing said. "We waited awhile to surf the third round and I'm just staying patient, staying focused and not just wasting energy. The waves are similar to my home in Ewa Beach and it's all repetition to me. Everything comes from repetition and it becomes comfortable. I surfed the 6-Star before this and I feel like I'm carrying momentum from that."

Miguel Pupo Wins ASP PRIME O'Neill Cold Water Classic California

• Miguel Pupo (BRA), 19, topped Tiago Pires (PRT), 31, to win his second major ASP PRIME event of the season. Credit: ASP/SHADLEY

With limited swell and unfavorable tides on several days of the O'Neill Cold Water Classic California waiting period, surfers at this year's event had to perform at both the iconic pointbreak of Steamer Lane as well as the beachbreak of Waddell Creek in order to earn a top result.
Pupo dominated the final against the Portuguese veteran and relied on his patented aerial game on the lefthand ramps of Waddell Creek to solidify his victory with two near-perfect scores of 9.33 and 9.60, the highest single-wave score of the event, after an amazing showing throughout the contest's entirety.
"I feel unbelievable right now," Pupo said. "I was feeling comfortable out there and I was just trying to surf my best and I won. I've been surfing a beachbreak my whole life and I'm used to these waves. I was really lucky that we moved to here (Waddell Creek). It could have been a different story if we ran at The Lane."
In addition to Pupo's dominant effort in the Final, the high-flying Brazilian rampaged to a near-perfect heat of 19.14 (out of 20), the event's highest, to kick off his run on the final day. Pupo topped local favorite Nat Young (Santa Cruz, CA), 20, and fellow countrymen Willian Cardoso (BRA), 25, before defeating fellow ASP World Tour campaigner Pires in the Final.

"I was really nervous to surf against Nat (Young) and I knew it was going to be a hard heat," Pupo said. "He's one of the best juniors in the world and a local out here. Luckily I caught a couple of waves and eventually got those two 9's."
Pupo, who joined the elite ASP Top 34 after the midyear rotation, climbs the standings compliments of the ASP PRIME victory, substantially increasing his chances of requalification for the start of the 2012 season.
"Those points are going to help me a lot and this is a really important result for me going in to the rest of the year," Pupo said. "To get the points and win $90,000 today, I'm so happy"
Pires relied on impeccable wave selection as well as classic rail-to-rail power-surfing en route to his equal 3rd place finish, topping ASP World No. 6 Jordy Smith (ZAF), 22, in his Semifinals bout, but was unable to surpass Pupo for the win.
"I'm stoked, with these kinds of conditions I didn't see myself in the final today and I was just really happy to be out there," Pires said. "Miguel (Pupo) put on a show and I have to take my hat off to him. He's one of the best surfers in the world in these conditions and he deserves it. I'm stoked I got second and this result is going to help my result on the World Rankings so I'm really happy."
Jordy Smith also displayed his impressive aerial game on the final day of O'Neill Cold Water Classic competition at the backup venue of Waddell Creek, overtaking fellow aerial mastermind Josh Kerr (AUS), 27, in the Quarterfinals, but was unable to find a rhythm against Pires in their Semifinals match-up, finishing equal 3rd overall.

"It's tough to lose when you're right there, especially since it's my sponsor's event and I wanted to do well for them,"

Smith said. "It was really hard out there with the waves only being half-a-foot, but what are you going to do."
Smith, who suffered a rib Injury at the elite ASP World Title event at Teahupoo, is on his way to a full recovery and the O'Neill Cold Water Classic California was a perfect momentum builder for the upcoming ASP World Title event in San Francisco.
"My injury has been taking its time," Smith said. "One week I feel good and the next I feel bad, so I've had my ups and downs. I went to go see the doctor and he said it's not too bad. Every time I surfed on it, any more than one or two heats it'd hurt really bad, it's not hurting at all so it's good."
Willian Cardoso (BRA) who was ranked No. 43 on the men's ASP World Ranking entering the event, relied on a similar strategy to Pires on the final day competition and displayed seamless power-surfing on his backhand en route to an equal 3rd place result.
"It's big points for me, it would have been nice to make one more heat, but it's small conditions and I feel like I surfed well," Cardoso said. "I'm happy because I wanted to make a result before I went to Hawaii. Now I have a chance to qualify at the end of the year."

Waking up everyday to surf perfect conditions. This is reality in Peniche.

Widely recognized as the best and most consistent surf spot in Portugal, the peninsular of Peniche offers both north and south-facing coastlines. The result is the finest surfing conditions everyday regardless of the swell and wind direction.

The Peninsular of Peniche always offers you a beach where the wind is off shore, creating perfect waves. Along the 15 Km of coast line you can find more than 20 surf spots for all level of surfer, from beginner to advanced.

Our surf camp is within walking distance of all the waves in the peninsular of Peniche.

TOP PRO SURFING RETURNS TO LES LANDES BEACHES

The beautiful surf beaches of Hossegor and Seignosse , (Les Landes, Aquitaine in south-western France ) will again host the Swatch Girls Pro France last year. Boasting the highest possible rating on the star-series circuit, the 6-star event is now a key leg in the ASP (Association of Surfing Professionals) women’s world championship tour.

Following its inauguration year, the event is already recognised as one of the standout stops on the international women’s surf circuit. This years event promises to be a thrilling tightly fought contest for the French bank-holiday weekend in early June, as well as plenty of evening activities. Running from 1st to 5th June, this year’s competition will set the stage for the world’s best female surfers along the shores of some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

More than 100 world-class athletes are expected to turn out for the event, with high-performance radical surfing at the top of the agenda for a 100% female extravaganza. The most talented female surfers go head-to-head in Hossegor’s world-class beach-breaks. Among the world’s elite invited this year is four times world champion , Australia’s Stephanie Gilmore. Other serious contenders will include Coco Ho, Alana Blanchard, Bethany Hamilton, Pauline Ado, Sofia Mulanovich. The is the only 6-star meet in the surfing calendar to take place in France.

Best Surfing Beaches in Bali

If there is one thing Bali is known for, it is surfing. The reason for that no doubt is the fact that Bali sports some of the best surfing beaches in the world. Surfers, pro and novice, come from all over the world to ride the seemingly endless waves on the beaches of Bali. While there are plenty of places to surf in Bali, we have complied a list of some of the best surfing beaches in Bali. Make note though, that not all of these beaches are beginner friendly.

Kuta Beach

One of the world’s most famous surfing beaches is Kuta beach, southwestern Bali, not too far from the Ngurah Rai International Airport. Long expanses of white sandy Bali beaches, budget accommodations, value-for-money eateries, and a more than thrilling night life are just a few of the attractions Kuta holds for people from the West. The main lure, however, is the world famous surf break in the waters of the Indian Ocean.
With great quality surfing waves, especially for beginners. Kuta is easily accessible, as it is located right in the heart of the city, where you can simply walk out of your hotel and onto the beach. With a sandy sea bottom, the average length of the wave could be as short as 50m, while on a great day it could go up to thrice as much. With a southwesterly swell direction, and a south easterly wind direction, the swell begins to work at less than 1m and is known to hold up easily till 2m. Though huge crowds and a considerable level of pollution loom large, Kuta is still the numero uno choice for surfers and vacationers alike. So much so that, even if one is putting up in another area of Bali, not making a trip to Kuta would be a bad miss.

Padang Padang Beach

For that picture perfect beach for surfing to your heart’s content, Padang-Padang beach is the ultimate destination. With not too many people for distraction, you can camp at Padang-Padang to hone in on your surfing skills in peace. Easily accessible by a half-hour car ride from the airport, the Bukit Peninsula surf camp has all the elements for a surfing beginner’s learning paradise. With unfailing surf and comfortably warm weather conditions it is easy to see why this place is so popular.
There are also a ton of local guides who can either teach you the best moves for the local waters or show you the greatest stretches according to your already acquired abilities. Many of the instructors here know these waters like the back of their hands and are of immense help in advising you about the right time and spot to surf.
With a sloping hill taking you directly to the Indian Ocean’s long rolling waves, this beach is a surfer’s dream. The white sands of Padang Padang are also minutes away from other great surf spots like Uluwatu, Bingin, and the Impossibles. The best swell direction being south-south westerly, the swell size can go from 50m long on an average day to up to 300m on a great surf day.

Balangan Beach

A veritable jewel in Bali’s crown, Balangan beach, is located on the western side of the peninsula of Bukit. Not only does it have an amazing beach with a panoramic view, but its great surfing waves are easily the best spots to converge for an out-of-the-world water rendezvous.
Located between Kuta and Uluwatu, Balangan used to be difficult to find. But, now with a new road you can go all the way through, right up to where the reef meets the beach. With the best swell direction being south and winds being the Southeast Trades, on an usual day the surf will be about 15m high. While on a great day, it might be just double in height.
While this area is a classic beach for surfers of all experience levels, but beware of the random rock gardens and coral out cropings. One of the last main left hand Bukit reef breaks, Balangan is best on a mid to low tide day. This is when the different water peaks can get together to form a lengthy, speedy wall of water. One of the greatest attractions of this hidden wonder, is the fact that it remains more or less secluded on week days, and hence a terrific opportunity to enjoy the surf, sea, and sun.

Uluwatu Beach

Nestled in the beautiful scenic village of Pecatu near Kuta, Uluwatu’s captivating coral reef beach with its big waves is really a fantasy come true for any surfer. The swell of the Uluwatu surf is often described as hollow and fast. It starts working at less than 1m and holds up generally to about 4m. Walking down from the top of the reef hill to reach the beach itself is a great experience. You can expect to encounter epic waves on top of a rocky bottom, best mainly for the experienced surfer. On normal days the breaking surf can be between 5m and 15m high, and on a better day the same can range between 15m and 30m high.
Great accommodations at Uluwatu are located near the famous surfing cave, from where it is a mere paddle-out on to some of the most incredible waves for surfing. In the right times of the year, you can also catch the magnificent sights of whales, manatees, and various kinds of marine life. And, of course, there is the famous Uluwatu temple, known by tourists for its free-running Macaque Monkeys.

Beaches in Wollongong

Wollongong has 17 patrolled surfing beaches.

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Wollongong, sometimes called simply the Gong, in the Australian state of New South Wales has a string of beaches on the Pacific Ocean. Lifeguards patrol 17 surf beaches during the summer months from September to April, and patrol one -- North Wollongong beach -- throughout the year. Nine beaches have quieter oceanside rock pools that offer swimmers an alternative to the surf.

1. North Wollongong

   • Situated between Wollongong's Stuart Park and Flagstaff Hill Park, North Beach receives the most visitors of any beach in the area. While waves approaching 7 feet attract surfers, there are also rock pools that provide more sheltered bathing. Amenities including shops, cafes, picnic and barbecue areas and a kids' playground draw wide variety of people. In addition to a shuttle bus service from the city center, ample parking and bike paths make the beach easy to access.

   Stanwell Park

   • Stanwell Park Beach, the furthest north of Wollongong's beaches and backed by bushland, is suitable not only for surfing but also for beach fishing, sailing and bush walking. Conditions also attract windsurfers. With a large designated area on the beach, it is also a popular place for picnics and barbecues. The beach has public toilets and car parking facilities. Situated 16 miles north of Wollongong, Stanwell Park is a popular seaside destination for Sydney residents.

   Thirroul

   • Thirroul's long golden beach, accessed from Wollongong via The Esplanade, has a wealth of attractions. Sandon Point has waves for surfers. Picnickers might try the Thirroul Beach Reserve. Out of the water, beachgoers can enjoy ocean views along the coastal track and Wollongong Cycleway. This town of 5,600 people also has shopping and refreshment opportunities. As the summer season comes to a close, the Thirroul Seaside and Arts Festival in April is another attraction for visitors.

   Windang

   • About 10 miles south of Wollongong lies Windang Beach, in a scenic location close to the entrance to Lake Illawarra and with views of the Five Islands. Popular with family visitors, Windang also has lifeguard cover for surfers from September through April, though the beach is accessible year round. Accommodation is available at the nearby caravan park. You leave Wollongong via Fern Street to reach Windang.

The Five Best Surfing Beaches in the World

Some of the best surfing beaches in the world include the Gold Coast in Australia, the Mentawai Islands in Indonesia, Jeffreys Bay in South Africa and El Salvador.

Many surfers spend their days travelling from one country to the next in search for the perfect wave.  If you are lucky enough to have this luxury there are certain beaches that you should not miss out on.  Leave behind your water skis because you definitely won’t need a boat to tow you along, you will be getting momentum enough from these outstanding waves.
Gold Coast, Australia
The Gold Coast is located in the south east of Queensland and is the perfect location for surfing.  With a subtropical climate and gorgeous beaches it is a great place for a holiday as well as surfing.  There is seventy kilometres of beach stretching along the coast and with it comes four fantastic surfing point breaks, part of the reason the area is known as Surfers Paradise.  Take your pick from great surfing locations including Main Beach, Narrowneck, The Spit, Mermaid Beach and Palm Beach.
Mentawai Islands, Indonesia
Off the west coast of Sumatra are a chain of seventy islands that make up the Mentawai Islands.  It has the most consistent surf in the world and is hugely popular with surfers.  There are four main islands that block the ocean swell from reaching the coast of Sumatra, and it is to these islands that surfers head to find the perfect wave.  The biggest waves are found between June and September and as the winds vary the waves can face almost every direction.  For the best surf head to Bankvaults, Lance’s Left and Lance’s Right, as well as the Macaronis.  It can get quite expensive if you plan on staying a while, as some surfers pay up to $125 a day, especially due to the fact that the only way to reach the islands is by ferry or boat.
Jeffreys Bay, South Africa
In the eastern cape province of South Africa is Jeffreys Bay, one of the most famous surfing locations in the world.  It is particularly good during winter in June, July and August.  It hosts the annual Billabong Pro WCT surfing event at a beach called Supertubes.  Other great beaches include Boneyards, Kitchen Windows, Magna Tubes, Point and Albatross.
Fuerteventura, Spain
Located in the Atlantic Ocean this is part of the Canary Islands and found off the coast of Africa.  It is a popular surfing spot with an even temperature that rarely dips below eighteen degrees or gets any hotter than twenty four.  The most popular waves are found at Rocky Point, Cotillo, Esquinzo, German Rights, The Bubble, Harbour Wall, Generosa, Shooting Gallery and Mejillonas.
El Salvador
El Salvador borders the Pacific Ocean, located between Guatemala and Honduras.  It is gradually becoming more popular but at the moment surfers are enjoying it for its great swells and the fact it is a lot less crowded.  Great beaches include El Zonte, La Libertad and Sunzal.  Head there during March to October when the main swell appears, along with the rainy season.  Swells at these beaches can sometimes reach up to ten feet in height.
Sunshine offers one of the best sources of vitamin D which protects the body from a number of diseases. That is a good reason to check out On The Beach Bargain Holidays.

10 of the World’s Best Surf Spots

It wouldn’t be hard to give the definition of surfing if you were to consider the desire to be out in the water, the freedom to conquer a great force of nature that can push you where you have never been before. It’s a whole new world, it’s like a drug that you start taking. Addictive. But surfing without great waves is like hot beer (totally not cool), therefore we decided to see what are some of the best places for surfers. Here are our 10 picks.

1. Gold Coast, Australia

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There’s no doubt that Australia has some of the best beaches and best waves, which are perfect ingredients for a surfer. The sixth most populous city in the country, Gold Coast City is located in the southeast corner of Queensland and is renowned for its sunny subtropical climate, popular surfing beaches and the canal systems. Though expensive, it’s a great tourist attraction.
It’s the 70km of beaches and four epic point breaks (The Spit, Main Beach, Narrowneck, Palm Beach and Mermaid beach) that made people call it, the surfers’ paradise. Other great places to check out are Snapper Rocks Superbank, Burleigh Heads, Kirra and South Stradbroke Island (Straddie).
2. Mentawai Islands, Indonesia

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The Mentawai Islands are a wave-rich chain of about seventy islands and islets off the western coast of Sumatra in Indonesia, one of the most consistent surf destinations in the world. There are four main islands (Siberut, Sipora, North Pagi, and South Pagi) that block most swells from reaching the mainland on Sumatra, which became noted destinations for wave-hunters that are looking for some of the most perfect surfing experiences in the world. Access is by sea only with ferries and charter boats.
Go there from March to October, but keep in mind that the biggest swells are likely to occur in June – September. Waves are facing almost every direction mainly because the winds are variable, so it’s easy to find a break with offshore conditions. Top Mentawai waves include Bankvaults, Lance’s Left and Lance’s Right, Macaronis, and for the less experienced there is Gilligan’s. Most of the surfers spend at least $125 a day so you should expect to pay for such an experience.
3. Jeffreys Bay, South Africa

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In the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, about an hour’s drive southwest of Port Elizabeth, Jeffreys Bay is one of the most famous surfing destinations in the world. Especially great during the winter months of June, July, and August, surfers come here for a great ride on beaches like Super Tubes, Boneyards, Kitchen Windows, Magna Tubes, Point and Albatross.
Apart from being a popular surfing destination, Jeffreys Bay is also renowned for its blue flag beaches and for hosting the annual Billabong Pro WCT surfing event at Supertubes during July.
4. Fuerteventura, Spain

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Part of the Canary Islands, and the second biggest of them all and located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Africa, Fuerteventura is also known as the Mecca of surfers. Aligned with Florida and Mexico on the same latitude, the temperatures here rarely fall below 18 °C or rise above 24 °C. Surfers visiting the island should be extremely happy with the weather conditions, no matter what time of the year they do it. October to March should be top season for them.
The most popular waves are Rocky Point, Harbour Wall, Shooting Gallery, Generosa, Suicides, Mejillonas, Majanicho, El Hierro, The Bubble, German Rights, Cotillo and Esquinzo.
5. El Salvador

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After being baptized by Spanish conquistadors as “Provincia De Nuestro Señor Jesucristo El Salvador Del Mundo”, it’s now known as the Republic of El Salvador. Bordering the Pacific Ocean between Guatemala and Honduras, the country is a natural tourist attraction that is gaining more and more popularity with surfers visiting places like El Zonte, Sunzal, and La Libertad. Why? Because they are not very crowded.
The main swell season, is from March to October and coincides with the rainy season. Experienced surfers should expect the south swells during this time, to get up to 10ft. Don’t forget to take your booties for getting in and out at the rocky points and try to discover more and more new spots in the area.
6. Costa Rica

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In Central America, bordered by Nicaragua to the north, Panama to the east-southeast, the Pacific Ocean to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east, the Republic of Costa Rica is a legendary surfing location. Mostly ‘hardcore’ surfers come here mainly because of the consistent waves year round and also to the many great surf spots. Both coastlines produces great waves with the major swell season starting from April and ending in October.
This could be the trip of your life so better prepare yourself for the “country’s best waves” in Playa Naranjo and the quality right river mouth point break at Potrero Grande (Ollies Point). Too bad the road systems are not very good.
7. California, North America

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If for some reason you want to surf in North America, the best choice is California. The happiest with what California has to offer, are the big wave hunters that go to places like the mountains of Maverick’s during the huge winter swells. If you just want to enjoy a good wave but you’re not into big waves then why not choose a spot between Santa Cruz and Half Moon Bay, it’s great. Some other great places include Steamer Lane, Malibu and Rincon so don’t miss them.
Keep in mind that the water is cold almost all year round (only hits 24 °C in July and August) and that the surfing spots are most likely going to be crowded with very good surfers.
8. Bali, Indonesia

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There aren’t many people who haven’t heard of Bali by now. In the western most of the Lesser Sunda Islands, lying between Java to the west and Lombok to the east, the Island of Bali is “an enchanted land of aesthetes at peace with themselves and nature” (Colin McPhee). It’s Indonesia’s largest tourist destination.
However, little knew that it’s a great place for surfers, too. A few of the best spots include the area around Bukit Peninsular – directly south from Dempasar, Kuta (Beach), Dreamland, Uluwatu or Padang Padang. With the swells coming from the Southern Ocean, Bali sees consistent waves up to 12 ft high, from April to November. Main drawback is that it’s pretty crowded and you may get hassled (a lot).
9. Santa Catarina, Brazil

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In southern Brazil, the island of Santa Catarina is colloquially referred to as ‘Florianopolis’ (the capital) and is one of the country’s most visited places because it has a great number of beach resorts. The island is generally considered to be blessed with the best Brazil has to offer to a surfer, including a great consistency and a huge variety of waves, such as Santinho and Mocambique.
Joaquina Beach is one of the best places for your surfing vacation, that won fame as of the 1970s, when surfers from around the world discovered its waves. Other world class surf spots in Floripa (from Florianopolis) are Praia Mole, Campeche and Lagoinha do Leste.
10. Samoa

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The Independent State of Samoa is part of the Samoan Islands archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean just north east of Fiji. It’s one of the best surfing destinations offering a rich Polynesian culture, warm waters, a tropical island paradise, and most importantly consistent quality waves. One of the best things, is that the South Pacific ensures that there is plenty of swell from pretty much every direction, all year round. The best time to roll is from April to October, when waves are created by the big lows down near Antarctica.
Some of the renowned surf spots in Samoa, are the A’ufaga Village, Salani, Boulders, Coconuts (compared to Hollow Tree’s in the Mentawai Islands), Salamumu and Tiavea, Laulii, Falea’puna, Fagaloa Bay or Solosolo.
We’re pretty sure these are great places to be if you’re a wave hunter, so please stop by and let us know how your trip was, “Great” may not be enough.

The five best surfing beaches in Spain

Spain has long been known for its fantastic beaches and unbeatable climate. For those looking for that perfect beach holiday you couldn’t hope for a better choice of location.
Spain is also being increasingly mentioned as a destination for some of the World’s most renowned surfers.
With over 4,000kms of Atlantic and Mediterranean coastline, it is of little surprise that Spain offers some World class surfing. So where to go?

Mundaka, Pais Vasco

The village of Mundaka, situated some 40kms from Bilboa is a mecca for surfers. Something of a cult destination from the late 60s, the village is now firmly on the map with the “Billabong Pro Mundaka” taking place yearly, bringing surfers and tourists from all the World.
It is reputed to have Europe’s longest and best left-breaking wave.

Disaster struck in 2003 when a local shipyard company dredged an important sandbar right at the edge of the Okra River, causing the famous wave to disappear completely.
The results were catastrophe for the tourist industry. The regional government was even offering €100,000 for a viable way to bring the wave back.
As predicted by the geological institute at the nearby University of the Basque Country, it came back naturally……some three years later.

Zarautz and San Sebastian, Pais Vasco

Less than one hour’s drive away is another one of Spain’s most popular surfing beaches, Zarautz.
The 2.5km of wide sandy beach is a beginners and intermediate surfer’s paradise.

The entire town of Zarautz is dedicated to surfing and all that comes with it. It is also known as a serious party destination in the summer months.
20 minutes drive from Zarautz is San Sebastian. One of Spain’s most beautiful cities and home to some its best restaurants. It is often called the gastro-capital of Spain.
It is also home to a great beach with steady consistent waves known as La Zurriola.

Conil de la Frontera, Cadiz

Going much further South to Spain’s light coast – the Costa de la Luz, in the Province of Cadiz.
This entire stretch of coast offers some fantastic surfing beaches and with over 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, you are almost guaranteed a sunny day to go with it.

Probably the most renowned is situated just next to the beautiful village of Conil de la Frontera, Playa el Palmar.
The surfing is ideally suited to beginners as the break rarely passes 3feet.

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

The last destination is further south still – right down to the beautiful Canary Islands. Known by many as the “Hawaii of the Atlantic,” you couldn’t hope for better surfing conditions.
And they don’t come much better than Fuerteventura.

The second largest of the Canary Islands and on the same latitude as Florida and Mexico, temperatures rarely fall below 20C.
Fuerteventura is one big beach and all of them offer plenty of surfing of possibilities.
Many of the hardened surfers follow the wind around the island, wherever the best surf is that day! with easy access to the beaches on Fuerteventura’s East, West & North coasts.

7 Best Surfing Beaches in Australia

If you’re looking for some of the top surfing beaches in the world, look no further than the gorgeous land down under. Australia sports an endless number of beaches for surfers of all levels to test out their skills. If a surfing expedition is what you’ve got in mind, you’ll find an abundance of beach-side accommodations to make your stay a comfortable one.

Bells Beach

Bells Beach

Source – hydroflex-surfboards
Bells Beach in Torquay is a popular surfing destination if you’ll be traveling through Australia’s Victoria region. Home to the world-famous surfing event “Rip Curl Pro,” its incredible waves definitely appeal to experienced surfers. There are many cottages and guest homes available for rent near the beach in Torquay, but travelers will also find many hotels and holiday parks along Great Ocean Road as well.

North Narrabeen Beach

North Narrabeen Beach

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North Narrabeen Beach is one of the more popular surfing beaches in Sydney, New South Wales. Located the furthest north on the Narrabeen Peninsula, this beach hosts the Coke Classic surfing event that surfers flock to each year. Several nearby hotels and hostels offer comfortable lodging, and for longer stays, travelers to this area may want to consider renting a beachside apartment.

Tamarama Beach

Tamarama Beach

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Another hot beach with extraordinary waves in New South Wales is Tamarama Beach. Also located in Sydney, this beach is sometimes referred to by surfers as “Glamour-ama” beach because it draws a number of scantily-clad sunbathers! Accommodations are plenty in this area – from beach houses and hostels to hotels and five-star resorts, there’s a place right here in Sydney for everyone.

Kirra Beach

Kirra Beach

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The preferred beach of the professionals, this Queensland surfing beach in Coolangatta isn’t for the faint of heart. Although this Gold Coast surfing beach does tend to draw a crowd, there are more than enough accommodations in the area including a large selection of cozy beach apartments and cottages and numerous luxury hotels.

Snapper Rocks

Snapper Rocks

Source – kervco
A short distance from Kirra Beach is another stunning Gold Coast beach known as Snapper Rocks. Situated in Rainbow Bay, this beach hosts several surfing events known the world over such as Quicksilver, Rip Curl Masters, Roxy Pro, and MP Classic. This Coolangatta beach is a favorite among celebrity Aussie surfers, and it’s only a short distance from several resorts, beach apartments, and motels that are priced to fit into any budget.

Esperance Beach

Esperance Beach

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Located in Australia’s Golden Outback along the western coast of Australia, this beach is known for having the whitest sand on the planet. Its other claim to fame is a wave referred to as Cyclops. Few people have attempted this wave, but almost every experienced surfer knows about it! Accommodations for surfers in this area are plenty – there are several beach houses available for rent, as well as some highly-rated resorts and hotels that are only a stone’s throw away.

Prevelly Park

Prevelly Park

Source – wynnie
Prevelly Park in Margaret River is a surfing beach you must see to believe. The swells at this beach can reach enormous heights making this a prime surfing spot for experienced boarders. Don’t sweat it if you are just beginning, though – board rental and instruction are both readily available to those who want to learn the tricks of the trade. Accommodations near Prevelly Park include several beach homes for rent, budget hotels, deluxe resorts, and more.
Although several beaches have been mentioned here, the overall list of Australian beaches to choose from is truly endless, and each one affords surfers many convenient accommodations to choose from during their stay. Novice surfers and seasoned professionals can both agree that the beaches here are prime spots to practice their sport, so if a surfing vacation is what you’re looking for – you’ll know where to go.
This guest post was provided by freelance writer for Expedia, Erica Gustafson. She has traveled the world and writes about her experiences, she is not that good of a surfer but when she stayed on the Gold Coast hotel line she ventured onto the beach and tried her luck with surfing