12 Best Places to Surf in April

Are you dreaming of sun-kissed waves and balmy breezes? April beckons surfers worldwide with an array of exciting possibilities. From the legendary breaks of Indonesia to the hidden gems of the Indian Ocean, this guide unveils the best surf destinations in April.

Whether you crave the mighty swells of Hawaii or the mellow consistency of Portugal, discover twelve paradises where consistent waves and ideal weather collide, making them the best places to surf in April. So, pack your board, grab your sunscreen, and prepare to ride the perfect wave this April.

1. Maui, Hawaii

Surfing Hawaii in April presents a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of the north shore’s powerful winter swells and the calmer south shore’s gentler waves. Maui, nicknamed “The Valley Isle,” offers diverse surf spots catering to various skill levels, making it one of the ideal April surf destinations for surfers seeking an unforgettable April adventure.

• Type of Water: Expect crystal-clear, turquoise waters with excellent visibility.
• Swell & Wind: April falls in the transition period between winter and summer swells. North shores receive smaller swells, while south shores still see decent south swells with trade winds providing offshore breezes.
• Water Temperature: Enjoy comfortable warmth with an average water temperature of around 77°F (25°C).
• Skill: Surfing Maui april offers options for all levels. Beginners can find gentle waves at protected spots like Lahaina Harbor and Kihei, while intermediates can progress at Ulua Beach. Experienced surfers can challenge themselves at Honolua Bay, known for its powerful reef breaks.
• Famous Spots:
  • The Cove: Located on the North Shore, this world-renowned spot offers challenging waves best suited for experienced surfers during winter swells.
  • Kaanapali Beach: On the South Shore, this beginner-friendly beach boasts gentle waves and stunning scenery, perfect for honing your skills in April’s calmer conditions.

2. Punta Hermosa, Peru

Punta Hermosa, south of Lima, beckons surfers with its consistent swells and diverse breaks. This Peruvian gem boasts warm waters, a vibrant atmosphere, and waves suitable for all skill levels. It is an ideal destination for surfing Peru in April adventure.

• Type of Water: The Pacific Ocean offers powerful waves, ideal for experienced surfers. Beginners can find gentler breaks in sheltered bays.
• Swell & Wind: April falls within the peak season, with consistent southern swells ranging from 2-6 feet. Offshore winds ensure clean wave faces most days.
• Water Temp: Expect comfortable water temperatures around 70°F (21°C), perfect for wearing a spring wetsuit or boardshorts.
• Skill Level: Punta Hermosa caters to all levels. Beginners can find mellow waves at Playa Norte, while experienced surfers can challenge themselves at Señoritas and Caballeros.
• Famous Spots:
  • Señoritas: This iconic left-hand point break offers powerful barrels for advanced surfers.
  • Caballeros: A rare right-hander producing long, rolling waves suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers.

3. Ericeira, Portugal

Ericeira is nestled on Portugal’s western coast and offers a vibrant surf scene and diverse breaks. It is a haven for wave riders of all levels, renowned as one of the best places to surf in April. Surfing Portugal in April promises pleasant weather, moderate swells, and consistent waves, perfect for honing your skills or trying surfing for the first time.

• Type of Water: The Atlantic Ocean provides cool, refreshing water, averaging 17°C (62°F) in April.
• Swell & Wind: Expect moderate southwesterly swells with occasional larger sets rolling in. Offshore winds keep the waves clean and consistent.
• Skill Level: Ericeira caters to all skill levels. Beginner-friendly beach breaks like Foz do Lizandro offer gentle waves. At the same time, intermediate surfers can progress at Ribeira d’Ilhas or São Julião. Advanced surfers can test their mettle at powerful reef breaks like Coxos or Ribeira d’Ilhas on bigger swells.
• Famous Spots for Portugal Surf April:
  • Foz do Lizandro: This sheltered beach break boasts gentle, rolling waves ideal for beginners and longboarders.
  • Limipicos: This world-renowned reef break offers challenging waves for experienced surfers, especially during winter swells.

4. Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s south coast beckons surfers with consistent swells and offshore winds in April, making it the peak season for surf Sri Lanka April. Among the vibrant beach towns, Hikkaduwa stands out with its diverse breaks catering to all skill levels. Let’s dive into the island’s surf haven.

• Type of Water: Clear, warm Indian Ocean waters with temperatures averaging 27-29°C (81-84°F) in April.
• Swell & Wind: April offers consistent head-high waves with occasional double overheads due to southerly swells. Offshore winds prevail, creating clean and organized waves.
• Skill Level: Hikkaduwa caters to all levels, from gentle beginner breaks to challenging reef breaks for experienced surfers.
• Famous Spots:
  • Main Beach: Sandy bottom breaks with gentle waves, perfect for beginners and learning.
  • Right & Left at the Reef: Two reef breaks offering more challenging rights and lefts, ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers.
  • Benny’s: Renowned high-performance left-hander, suited for experienced surfers seeking adrenaline-pumping rides.

Hikkaduwa is a sure bet for your best surf in April adventure with its vibrant atmosphere, diverse breaks, and ideal weather conditions.

5. Santa Teresa, Costa Rica

For seasoned surfers seeking consistent barrels and a vibrant atmosphere, surfing Costa Rica in April offers an ideal escape. Santa Teresa, nestled on the Nicoya Peninsula, boasts a variety of breaks catering to different skill levels and preferences. This guide highlights the key aspects to consider when planning your Costa Rica surf April adventure.

• Type of Water: The Pacific Ocean provides warm, tropical waters, averaging around 82°F (28°C) in April.
• Swell & Wind: Expect consistent southwest swells, ideal for long rides and powerful maneuvers. Offshore winds prevail in the mornings, providing glassy conditions.
• Skill Level: Breaks range from gentle beach breaks suitable for beginners (Playa Hermosa) to advanced reef breaks demanding experience (Suck Rock).
• Famous Spots:
  • Suck Rock: Notorious for its powerful right-hand point break, attracting experienced surfers seeking challenging barrels. Low tide offers the best conditions.
  • Playa Hermosa: A gentler beach break north of Santa Teresa, perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers with smaller waves and gradual incline.

6. Kauai, Hawaii

Kauai, Hawaii’s “Garden Isle,” beckons surfers year-round with its diverse breaks and stunning scenery. It is among the best places to surf in April. But surfing in Kauai in April holds a unique charm, offering a transitional season between winter’s powerful swells and summer’s calmer conditions. Let’s explore some key aspects to consider:

• Type of Water: Crystal-clear, turquoise waters with consistent visibility.
• Swell & Wind: April sees North Shore swells diminish, offering gentler waves on the East and South Shores. Expect variable winds impacting specific spots.
• Water Temperature: Warm and comfortable, averaging around 77°F (25°C), making wetsuits optional for most.
• Skill Level: April caters to a broader range, with options for beginners and experienced surfers depending on location.
• Famous Spots:
  • Kahili Beach: Located on the North Shore, it is known for its long, gentle waves, perfect for beginners and longboarders. Surfing Kauai in April here offers smaller waves than in winter months.
  • Kalapaki Beach: Situated on the South Shore, this sheltered bay provides calmer conditions for learning and practicing. Expect smaller, rolling waves suitable for beginners.

7. San Diego, California

California’s coastline offers diverse surfing experiences, and San Diego stands out for its year-round accessibility. However, surfing in San Diego in April presents unique characteristics compared to other seasons. Let’s explore the key factors to consider before hitting the waves.

• Type of Water: Pacific Ocean, clear and refreshing.
• Water Temperature: Water temperature averages 60-64°F (15-18°C) in April, requiring a wetsuit for warmth.
• Swell & Wind: Expect inconsistent swells, transitioning from winter’s northwesterlies to summer’s southwesterlies. Offshore winds are expected, creating smoother waves.
• Skill Level: April offers a mixed bag. Smaller waves suit beginners, while experienced surfers might find inconsistent conditions challenging.
• Famous Spots for Surfing California April:
  • Trestles: Home to the annual World Surf League Championship Tour event, Trestles offers hollow, high-performance waves for advanced surfers.
  • Oceanside Pier: A lively spot with consistent waves suitable for all levels, perfect for honing skills or enjoying a relaxed session.

8. Barbados, South Coast

While surfing Barbados in April offers Caribbean charm and powerful swells, San Diego’s consistent surf and vibrant beach culture make it an equally captivating option. This guide delves into San Diego’s diverse surf spots, catering to all skill levels and maximizing your surf city weather April experience.

• Type of Water & Swell: The Pacific Ocean is characterized by year-round swells and consistent southwest winds.
• Wind: Northerly winds in summer (April-September) offer smaller waves, ideal for beginners. Southerly winds in winter (October-March) bring larger swells, attracting experienced surfers.
• Water Temperature: April boasts pleasant water temperatures averaging 82°F (28°C), making wetsuits optional.
• Skill Level: San Diego caters to all levels, from gentle beach breaks like La Jolla Shores for beginners to powerful reef breaks like Blacks Beach for experts.
• Famous Spots:
  • South Point: Renowned for its long, peeling waves and consistent conditions, perfect for intermediate to advanced surfers.
  • Soup Bowl: A legendary reef break-producing hollow barrels, ideal for experienced surfers seeking adrenaline-pumping rides.

9. Taghazout, Morocco

When searching for “where to surf in April,” Taghazout is the place to go. Taghazout, nestled on Morocco’s southwest coast, is a surfer’s paradise. But with varying conditions throughout the year, knowing where to paddle out in April is crucial. So, grab your board and let’s explore the ideal spots for surfing Morocco April.

• Type of Water: Atlantic Ocean, offering powerful swells and consistent waves.
• Swell and Wind: April transitions from winter’s impressive swells to calmer, more predictable spring waves. Offshore winds dominate, creating smooth rides.
• Water Temperature: Expect warm temperatures around 18-20°C (64-68°F), allowing for comfortable surfs without thick wetsuits.
• Skill Level: April caters to all levels! Beginners can enjoy gentle rollers while intermediates find their groove on manageable peaks. Experienced surfers can still catch some leftover winter swells.
• Famous Spots:
  • Anchor Point: This legendary spot offers long, peeling lefts ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers. In April, expect smaller yet consistent waves perfect for honing skills.
  • Panorama: A beach break suitable for all levels, Panorama boasts consistent waves and a relaxed atmosphere. April brings smaller swells perfect for learning and enjoying the scenery.

10. Tofino, Canada

Tofino, Canada, boasts a reputation as a surfer’s paradise, attracting year-round wave riders of all levels. But understanding the specific conditions is crucial for those planning a trip in April. This guide breaks down the key factors to consider when surfing Tofino April, including the best april surf destinations for your skill level.

• Type of Water: The Pacific Ocean here is cold, averaging around 9°C (48°F) in April. A thick wetsuit is essential.
• Swell & Wind: April typically see residual winter swells from the northwest, offering consistent waves but decreasing in size compared to peak season. Expect southwesterly winds, which can affect wave quality depending on the spot.
• Water Temperature: As mentioned, April is cold; dress warmly and pack a good wetsuit (5mm or thicker).
• Skill Level: April can be a good time for intermediate and advanced surfers seeking challenging waves before the summer crowds arrive. Beginners might find the conditions could be better.
• Famous Spots:
  • Chesterman Beach: Great for longboarders with gentle waves and stunning scenery.
  • Cox Bay: Offers a variety of breaks for all skill levels, including the renowned “Inside Lefts” for experienced surfers.
  • Long Beach: Best for intermediate to advanced surfers with powerful waves and strong rip currents.

11. Puerto Escondido, Mexico

Nestled on the Pacific Coast of Oaxaca, Mexico, Puerto Escondido is more than just a beach town; it’s a haven for surfers of all levels seeking surfing in Mexico in April at its finest. April falls within its prime season, offering consistent swells and balmy temperatures, making it a prime contender for best surf destinations April.

• Water Type: Expect powerful, long-period swells ideal for experienced surfers.
• Swell & Wind: April offers consistent southerly swells with offshore winds in the mornings, transitioning to onshore winds later in the day.
• Water Temperature: Warm, averaging 26°C (79°F), allowing for comfortable swims and minimal wetsuit needs.
• Skill Levels: Playa Zicatela and La Punta offer challenges for advanced surfers, while beginner-friendly options exist near La Punta.
• Famous Spots:
  • Playa Zicatela: Nicknamed “Mex Pipe,” this legendary beach break produces massive barrels for experienced surfers.
  • La Punta: Offering a right-hand point break and a left-hand beach break, La Punta caters to various skill levels, including beginners.

12. Leon Province, Nicaragua

Nicaragua, a land of vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, also boasts a surfer’s paradise, one of the best places to surf in April. Among its gems lies the Leon Province, offering various breaks for all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or a curious first-timer, surfing Nicaragua in April guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

• Type of Water: Embrace the warmth of the Pacific Ocean, with average water temperatures hovering around 29°C (84°F).
• Swell & Wind: April experiences consistent southwesterly swells, averaging 2-4 meters (6-13ft), paired with offshore winds for clean, glassy waves.
• Skill Levels: From mellow beach breaks like Las Penitas to challenging tubes at La Jaimacana, the Leon Province caters to beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers alike.
• Famous spots:
  • La Jaimacana (The Pipes): Renowned for its powerful barrels, attracting experienced surfers seeking a thrill.
  • Corinto: A long, sandy beach break with consistent waves, perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Maybe you’ll interested in: 13 Best Places to Surf in May

How to Catch More Waves?

The thrill of riding a wave is undeniable, but for beginners and even seasoned surfers, catching waves consistently can be a challenge, even in the best places to surf in April. Fear not, for with the right approach, you can transform from wave-watcher to wave-rider! Here are some key strategies to maximize your wave count.

Sharpen Your Surfing IQ:

• Wave Reading: Understand the ocean’s rhythm. Learn how waves form, break, and travel. Identify your ideal wave size and type based on your skill level.
• Positioning Prowess: Don’t just sit and wait. Paddle actively, utilizing different angles and depths to anticipate incoming waves. Observe experienced surfers for strategic positioning cues.
• Patience is a Virtue: Don’t get discouraged! Surfing requires time and practice. Be patient, persistent, and focused on enjoying the process.

Upgrade Your Technique:

• Paddle Power: Master efficient surfing paddling techniques for faster take-offs and better wave selection. Practice pop-ups to transition seamlessly from paddling to riding.
• Footwork Finesse: Learn proper stance and weight distribution for balance and maneuverability. Practice turns and other basic maneuvers on smaller waves to build confidence.
• Board Choice: Using the right board for your skill level, body type, and wave conditions is crucial. Consider seeking guidance from experienced surfers or surf shops.

The Secret Weapon: Boost Fin’s Electric Fin

Beyond the fundamentals, consider innovative technology to enhance your wave-catching prowess. The Boost Fin by Boost Surfing is an electric fin that supercharges your paddling, giving you an edge in catching waves and navigating challenging conditions. This revolutionary technology can be particularly beneficial for beginners or in crowded surf spots. Responsible and considerate use is key to respecting other surfers and the environment.

Surfing in April with Boost Fin

April ushers in balmy breezes and consistent swells across the globe, making it a prime month to chase waves in the best places to surf in April above. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or a weekend warrior, choosing the perfect fin for your board is crucial for maximizing performance. This is where Boost Fins are meticulously designed to enhance your ride in various conditions.

But before you grab the first Boost Fin you see online, be mindful of where you purchase. Stick to authorized retailers to ensure you’re getting the genuine product and benefitting from Boost’s superior quality and warranty. While Boost Fins are available in a select few major surfing distributors, their official online store remains the sole direct source, guaranteeing authenticity and the best deals.

So, as you map out your ideal April surf escape – be it the legendary breaks of Hawaii, the pristine shores of Sri Lanka, or the hidden gems of surfing Costa Rica April – remember to pack the perfect fin for the adventure. Visit the Boost Surfing online store or seek out trusted distributors to equip yourself with genuine Boost Fins and carve your way through the best waves of April.