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Surfing

Best surfing in the world – get stoked for the Philippines

Does hanging ten on a double-up get you absolutely stoked? Then you need to visit the spot pros call “the best surfing in the world” – the Philippines! Everyone already knows the Philippines are famous for its lush and vibrant forests and monumental cliffs, but amongst the starry-white Philippines beaches lie a secret treasure trove of gorgeous shores and righteous waves. The tropical coves of the Philippines are where many casual travellers find relaxation and tranquility – but it’s amongst the off-the-hook waves of the Philippines beaches where adrenaline junkies find the best surfing in the world.

The Philippines is made up of over 7,641 islands and boasts 115 surfing spots, so finding the best place to hang ten might seem overwhelming at first. But fret not – we’ve put together this great guide to get you stoked and frothing for your next surfing circuit. Check out the list below for the best Philippines beaches where the pros love riding the waves. Whether you’re hanging ten or wiping out you’ll never find better than the best surfing in the world

Cloud 9, Siargao

That’s because in 1992, famous surf photographer John Callahan snapped a shot of a perfectly hollow right-hand wave. After the photo’s publication, Cloud 9 became the go-to destination for surfing enthusiasts around the world. Many surfers from Australia, America, and even Europe now reside in the Philippine beaches of Siargao, so they can ride the perfect dawny daily. And luckily for Canucks looking for some waves, the surf season begins in October – the perfect excuse to escape the fall and foreboding winter. This incredibly accessible surfing spot is also home to the Siargao Cup, a global competition sponsored by Surigao del Norte’s provincial government, one of the many reasons Siargao is known commonly as “The Surfing Capital of the Philippines”

Baler, Aurora

Are you looking for the surfing spots that celebrities like Lady Gaga, Sean Penn, or Anthony Keidis adore most? Or maybe you’re a film buff and want to see where Francis Ford Coppola shot the famous war movie Apocalypse Now? Then you’ll love Baler, Aurora, which offers some of the best surfing in the world. When a crew member left their surfboard on set after filming wrapped, local children took up the aquatic sport. Now, the area is a prime destination for beginner surfers because it boasts award-winning surfing schools and soft white sands, so you won’t be wiping out on hard jagged reefs. It’s also an easy trip from the capital city of Manila. The surf season in Baler runs from October to March – perfect for those looking to extend their March Break.

San Juan, La Union

If you missed the sign-up date for a surfing school in Baler, fret not because the Philippines beaches of San Juan has you covered. If you want the most bang for your buck, San Juan has fantastic waves all year long and has the most affordable rates for surfing lessons and board rentals. Canadians looking for a Christmas getaway, or just a break from the bitter middle of winter are in luck because the best visiting months are December and January. If you have non-surfers in your travelling crew, don’t worry because there’s something for everywhere in San Juan. In recent years tourists and travellers have fallen in love with La Union’s chill vibes and mellow atmosphere. This has given rise to some of the trendiest (yet not overcrowded) hotel and bar hangouts, which are also steps away from some of the most popular surf spots.

Puraran, Catanduanes

Want to ride the waves and get your line up on one of the longest coastlines in all of Asia? Then make sure the Philippines beaches of Puranan are on your surf itinerary. You’ll want to book your summer vacation early because the famous “Majestic Waves” of the Pacific Ocean begin in July and go until December. This treasure trove of tides was popularised by Australian surfer enthusiasts in 1979 and has since become a legendary local surf spot. Not only does it boast some of the fastest and most hollow right-handed barrels in the world, but it also has some of the most gargantuan rock formations in the country.

Real, Quezon

Those looking to meet other travellers and like-minded surf enthusiasts should take a few days to explore Real in Quezon. Home to the famous PaRK surf camp, Real is a popular spot amongst beginners and expert surfers alike (and is not far away from Manila). In fact, if you like surfing and meeting people who share that passion, then Real is the place you need to be. The waves don’t get nearly as high as other parts of the country, so it’s great for those getting their feet wet, as well as seasoned vets looking to hone in on specific skills. Accommodation and equipment rental are also budget-friendly, adding to the reasons why the best surfing in the world happens here.

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