For surfers, January is perfect for catching waves at Gunacaste Peninsula, Costa Rica. And February is an ideal time to hit the “Superbank”––a mile-long wave that rolls perfectly––on Australia’s shimmering Gold Coast. Now you can plot an entire year’s worth of surf moments (or fantasies) with a calendar [1] published in yesterday’s New York Times travel section.
Many surfers find a spiritual element in the sport that becomes just as important as the physical element (remember Bodhi in “Point Break [2]?”). So it's no coincidence that some surfers also practice yoga [3]. Whether you're in it for the sun and the waves or for a different type of experience, the highlights of the calendar, below, will make you want to be on the beach in no time flat.
March: Bali, Indonesia
Uncrowded and unintimidating, there are wave options for advanced and slightly experienced surfers. Check out the Indo Surf guidebook [4] before you go.
April: Mentawai Islands, Indonesia
“Waves of a lifetime” that will be less crowded in spring. For more info on the area look here [5].
May: Tahiti
“The world’s largest wave machine” post-monsoon season gives you great waves and a chance to watch The World Championship Tour. Here’s a Tahitian surf map [6] to get you dreaming.
June: Jeffrey’s Bay, South Africa
Seven killer waves, no crowds, and dolphins––need we say more? Look at this surf blog [7] for pics and info on J-Bay.
July: Tavarua, Fiji
For luxury-seeking expert surfers and fans of Kelly Slater. Wavehunters [8] will tell you how best to handle it.
August: Los Cabos, Mexico
Party town, famous waves. Check out this eco-friendly surf camp [9].
September: San Onofre State Beach, California
The only continental U.S-based spot on the list. A two-mile stretch between San Diego and Orange counties + possibility of eight-foot swells = domestic bliss. You can watch this live surf-cam [10] now.
October: Donegal Bay, Ireland
Like an alien Desperate Housewife: cold, beautiful, and green. This surf school [11] will get you appropriately wet-suited.
November: Northwest Puerto Rico
Potent, consistent, warm, crowded swells. But a lot of Thanksgiving gratitude. You can also visit a school in quieter nearby Rincon [12].
December: The North Shore, Oahu, Hawaii For expert and armchair surfers alike. Watch hot, famous swell-riders descend for two championships and monster waves. If you’re feeling brave visit Sunset Suzy’s surf school [13].