Surfing in South Africa: our 5 favorite surf beaches along the Garden Route

South Africa attracts adventurers from all over the world for its unspoiled nature, safaris, and famous cities. But did you know that the country is also perfect for surfing? You'll find many legendary surf spots along the coast of the Garden Route: from Muizenberg to Jeffreys Bay. We've compiled a list of our favorite spots for you!

If you've never stood on a surfboard before, start here. Muizenberg is the most famous beginner surfing spot in South Africa, less than an hour's drive from Cape Town. The colorful beach huts, laid-back vibe, and gentle, long waves make it the perfect place for your first surf session. But even if you have more experience, you can surf well here too!

Fun fact: there's a pair of killer whales in the bay at Muizenberg that keeps all the sharks away from the bay.

This small, hidden bay between Wilderness and George is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. The right point break often runs super clean and is suitable for both longboarders and shortboarders. The bay itself is small and cozy, with a few surf shops and a little restaurant, and it has a relaxed vibe.

From the water, you have a stunning view of the cliffs and tropical greenery, as if you've stepped into a surf paradise from a movie.

Jeffreys Bay – also known as J-Bay – is a must-visit for anyone serious about surfing. The spot Supertubes is globally recognized as one of the longest and fastest right-hand point breaks. With the right conditions, you can ride a wave here for 300 meters (!).

But J-Bay has something to offer for every skill level: spots like Kitchen Windows and The Point are more accessible and perfect for practicing your technique. Every July, the WSL competition takes place here, a true surfing celebration! This spot is perhaps the most famous place to surf in South Africa, attracting many visitors from all over the world.

Mossel Bay is located between Plettenberg Bay and Cape Town and offers both relaxed waves for beginners (Inner Pool) and stronger sections (Outer Pool) for those looking for a bit more challenge. There's a good chance you'll share the waves with some curious dolphins. The town itself isn't very special, but it does have a nice bay with plenty of seafood restaurants. You can surf here and then enjoy fresh fish at a small local spot by the harbor.

Plettenberg Bay, or just "Plett" as the locals call it, is a great spot along the Garden Route where you can easily mix surfing with relaxing. Central Beach is perfect for beginners to practice, and for those with a bit more experience, Lookout Beach and the waves at Robberg are more fun and challenging. In the waters around Plettenberg, there are plenty of seals, so they'll probably keep their distance from you!

• Rent locally: At almost every spot, you can easily rent a board and wetsuit, so you don’t need to bring anything yourself.

• Time it right: Swell and wind can vary by location. Check an online surf forecast or ask local instructors for tips.

• Respect the locals: Surf etiquette applies in South Africa as well – be friendly and wait your turn.

• With or without lessons: If you're a beginner, taking surf lessons is highly recommended. At South Africa Nomads, we work with reliable partners for surf lessons.

Are you getting excited to ride the waves yourself? During our South Africa Nomads trip , you'll not only surf at the most beautiful spots in the country but also experience many more unique adventures, like safaris, wine tastings, and hikes during the ultimate road trip.

Want to experience it for yourself? Check out our South Africa trip and discover the adventure of a lifetime!