Surfing is not just a sport; it’s a lifestyle that attracts people from all walks of life and from all over the world. While it may be outside some travelers’ comfort zone, surfing is a great way to become one with the ocean and challenge yourself in new ways.
Digital nomads and adventurous travelers have the unique opportunity to live and work from anywhere in the world. However, as a Black explorer, finding a surfing destination that is both welcoming and safe can be a challenge. Here are the five best places for Black travelers to surf based on safety, diversity and community.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a popular destination for surfers because of its warm waters, consistent waves and stunning beaches. The country has a strong surfing culture. Travelers will find surf schools and camps all along the coast.
Black travelers will feel welcomed and safe in Costa Rica. The country has a friendly and open-minded community. Costa Rica also is home to a growing Black population. The growing Black community can be found in the Limón province on the Caribbean coast.
South Africa
South Africa has world-class waves, a diverse surf culture and a vibrant Black community. The country has a rich surfing history with iconic spots, such as Jeffreys Bay and Muizenberg, attracting surfers worldwide. Black travelers will feel welcomed in South Africa’s surfing community. The country also is home to multiple Black-owned surf schools and organizations, such as Waves for Change and Surf Emporium.
Hawaii
Hawaii is the birthplace of modern surfing. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the best places in the world to catch a wave. The islands are home to iconic surf spots, such as Waikiki, Pipeline and Sunset Beach. Hawaii’s surfing community is diverse and welcoming with a strong tradition of respect for the ocean and its cultural significance. Black travelers will find several Black-owned surf schools and organizations, such as Black Girls Surf and Brown Girl Surf.
Barbados
Barbados is a small Caribbean island that is perfect for surfing. The island is home to several surf spots, such as Soup Bowl and Bathsheba. It also has a strong surf culture that welcomes surfers of all levels.
Black travelers will feel accepted in Barbados, which has a majority Black population and a strong tradition of Afro-Caribbean culture. The island is home to a number of Black-owned surf schools and organizations, such as the Barbados Surfing Association.
Senegal
Senegal may not be the first place that comes to mind when people think of surfing; however, it’s gaining recognition as a top surfing destination. The country has several world-class surf spots, such as N’Gor Island and Ouakam. It also has a growing surfing culture that welcomes surfers of all levels.
Travelers will feel embraced in Senegal, which has a majority Black population and a strong tradition of West African culture. The country is home to a number of Black-owned surf schools and organizations, such as the Black Surfing Association Senegal.
Finding a surfing destination that is both welcoming and safe can indeed be a challenge for a Black traveler. However, these five destinations offer a vibrant and diverse surf culture and a strong community of Black surfers and organizations. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, these destinations will surely provide you with a memorable surfing experience.