Sustainable Surf Travel and Tourism

Surfers are known to travel all over the world in search of the perfect wave. The surfer mentality is all about respect for the ocean and for locals—which is why there’s a natural link between surf travel and sustainable travel. Sustainable tourism businesses (e.g., hotels, lodges, campsites, and surf schools) are those that have made a commitment to protecting the environment and supporting local communities. Choose a sustainable tourism business on your next surf trip and hit the waves knowing you’re helping to preserve the beautiful beach you’re enjoying and support the local community whose home you’re visiting.

There are excellent surf destinations scattered all across Latin America and the Caribbean. Costa Rica’s legendary Pacific coast boasts some of the best and most popular surf destinations in the world, including Tamarindo and Nosara in the northern province of Guanacaste and Playa Hermosa, Jaco, and Bahía Ballena in the southern province of Puntarenas. There are many other up-and-coming surf spots in Latin America that are definitely worth the journey for surfers of all levels—including several in Nicaragua, Mexico, Ecuador and Guatemala. The Caribbean has some outstanding surf spots to offer as well, especially in Aruba and Barbados.

Whether you’re looking to focus solely on surfing during your trip, or perhaps throw some nightlife, sightseeing, or rainforest hikes into the mix, there’s a sustainable surf destination waiting for you to come out and tame its waves.

Your Sustainable Surf Vacation

There are tons of sustainable accommodations available at surf destinations, from luxury resorts to simple budget hotels. Sustainable local tour operators can guide you to the most breathtaking areas of their home, while local surf schools offer lessons for beginners.

Find your next surf trip on SustainableTrip.org