Seven of the Best Longboard Surf Breaks in the World

Although it is possible to ride a longboard at most surf breaks, some are more suited for longboarding while others are better for shortboarding. Longboard breaks typically break more slowly, offer longer rides, and are smaller in size, whereas as shortboard breaks tend to consist of faster, shorter, and bigger waves. In order to set yourself up for success, you’ll want to pick a break that’s tailored to whatever type of surfing you’re doing. The world is full of epic longboarding waves and although it’s difficult to choose, here are seven of our favorites.

1) First Point Malibu, Malibu, California

First Point Malibu is one of the most iconic longboarding surf breaks in the world. Located just north of the Malibu pier are First, Second, and Third Point. Although all are amazing waves, First Point is undisputedly the best for longboarding. The right-hand point break is a long, even breaking wave that makes it perfect for hanging ten. Home to the WSL World Longboard Championships, First Point is a consistent wave that is perfect for beginner and experienced surfers alike.

2) Queens, Oahu, Hawaii

On any given day, you will find a hoard of longboarders gathered at Queens in Waikiki. Most days, Queens is an A-frame, offering a short left and a long right. On bigger days, Queens turns into a short right and a long left, one of the best waves in the world. If it’s big enough, it can barrel, but most days Queens offers rip-able faces over a deep reef. The wave works best on a medium tide and a south to southwest swell and is best to visit during the summertime if you’re looking for consistent waves. Contests are regularly held at Queens, with local and pro surfers gathering to compete.

3) La Saladita, Guerrero, Mexico

Located off the beaten path, La Saladita takes a little extra leg work to get to, but it’s well worth the effort. An oasis for longboard surfers, La Salidita is a gentle left-hand point and reef break, offering long rides and consistent waves. Due to its prime longboarding conditions, La Salidita has hosted the Mexi Log Fest as well as the Vans Duct Tape Invitational. La Salidita works on all tides and breaks year-round, so you can visit anytime you please.

4) San Onofre San Diego, California

Located just outside of San Clemente, San Onofre is a laid- back surf beach with vibes reminiscent of the 1950s. San Onofre, or San O as it’s referred to by the locals, is home to three main breaks: The Point, Old Mans, and Dog Patch. Longboards dominate at San O and the spot is known for its gentle waves—it is often referred to as the Waikiki of California. Although San O breaks year-round, it’s best during south/southwest swell in the summer during a mid-tide.

5) Lazy Left, Southwest Sri Lanka

A favorite among goofy footers, Lazy Left is a gentle, left-hand point break. Because the wave is mellow and breaks over a deep and forgiving reef, Lazy Left is perfect for beginner and intermediate surfers. Lazy Left works best at low tide and if you’re lucky, you can score rides up to 500 meters long. If you prefer rights, you’re in luck—Lazy Right is just a short paddle from Lazy Left. Set against a backdrop of white sand beach and fringing palms, Lazy Left truly is a longboarder’s paradise.

6) Noosa Heads Queensland, Australia

When it comes to waves, Australia is in no short supply. Home to some seriously long right-handers, Noosa Heads is one of the best longboarding spots in the country, and the world. Noosa is home to countless breaks, but First Point and Little Cove are the best spots to paddle out on a log. Both offer small, mellow waves and tend to break most consistently during east/northeast swells with a southerly wind. For the past 32 years, Noosa Heads has hosted the Noosa Festival of Surfing 

7) Grand Plage Biarritz, France

Although France may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of surfing, Biarritz is home to some fun waves. Grand Plage in La Cote Basque offers consistent surf, that works any time of year. The exposed beach break has both left- and right-hand waves that deliver the best conditions during a west swell combined with an offshore wind coming from the east. During the wintertime, the wave can be a bit heavier, but during the summer months, waves are small and fun, perfect for longboarding.