Destinations: Los Angeles, Honolulu, Australia, Santa Cruz, Costa Rica, Bali
Themes: Beach Vacations, Outdoor Adventures
There are two major types of surfing: longboarding and shortboarding. Longboards are the classic surfboard and are better for beginners, since they can be used on smaller waves. Shortboards are more maneuverable, but require larger waves. Shortboarding has spawned similar sports like kitesurfing and windsurfing.
Surfing was first described by explorer Captain Cook’s successor, James King. King explained how Hawaiian natives paddled oval planks out in front of incoming waves, and at the “biggest swell,” stood up. Surfing hasn’t changed all that much since King’s account.
Nowadays, surfers continue the Hawaiian tradition on all the islands (especially Oahu) but also all around the world. California has some of the country’s best surfing, and Florida also offers some primo breaks at places like Sebastian Inlet and Cocoa Beach. Internationally, the coasts of Portugal, Australia, Brazil, South Africa, and Peru are among some of the best surf destinations.
Navigate your way through great beaches on Hawaii’s Big Island for quality sand, snorkeling, swimming, scuba and surfing.
Surf, swim and sail the alluring Caribbean waters off the British Virgin Islands’ tranquil Tortola.
Hang ten on Grand Cayman’s man-made waves or skate to your heart’s content on your family island vacation.
Costa Rica offers an exciting yet safe entrée into exotic ecotourism and soft adventure vacations, from coast to coast.
Amigo, catch some totally tubular waves in one of Costa Rica’s top surfing destinations, Playa Guiones.
Our expert surf bum selects six sweet surfari destinations around the world—from San Diego to Bali—to check out for fitness and fun on your next family vacation.
Sophistication, culture and a beautiful coastline make this a favorite Southern California vacation destination.
Show your kids that mom still has some adventure in her at surfing school in Maui.
Whether you go to the beach for fun, surf, sun or solitude, there’s a perfect one waiting for you on Oahu.
Follow our experts’ guide to the best sites and activities for planning your vacation to this popular Hawaiian island.
Surf’s up at O.C. beaches and seaside resorts at Huntington Beach, Laguna Beach and Dana Point.
Thanks to imaginative pet-tailored programs, four-legged friends can now join the family vacation fun.
From climbing Harbour Bridge to riding the waves at Bondi Beach, don’t miss these top family attractions if exploring Sydney with kids.
Explore the Big Island and Maui with two guidebooks that highlight outdoor adventure in the Hawaiian Islands.
