While the waves are nothing like the giants in South Africa or the islands of Hawaii, It so happens that surfing is very much a thing in India and has resulted in its coastlines being heavily influenced by unique traits that mimic the surf culture.
The best time to surf in India is between May and September when you will also be accompanied by the seasonal rains. That is also when the waves reach over eight feet to really challenge a surf enthusiast such as yourself but if you don’t feel up to it there is always the gentler waves between three and five feet available along the country’s vast shoreline during most parts of the year.
01. Covelong/Kovalam Village, Tamil Nadu
In Kovalam, surfing facilitates positive change and is considered to be a means of turning around the local community. For that reason, the traditional fishing village that has now adapted itself to the increasing demand for water sports has a remarkable social surfing community inclusive of the best home-grown surfers that share the drive to master the big swells.
Blessed with Both the beach and reef breaks, Kovalam is known to have the most dependable right-hand breakpoints than anywhere else on the mainland. Every August the Covelong point surf and yoga festival reaches out to the surf buffs from around the world offering not only comradery and fellowship but the opportunity to indulge in a sport that connects one deeply with the ocean. It also allows them to try their hand at kayaking and windsurfing, curtesy of the Kovalam’s exclusive surfing academy. That is not all, the festival’s unique music line-up and the free surf lessons are reasons good enough for you to make it here next August.
02. Pondicherry
In Pondicherry’s Serenity Beach, the surf breaks are created by two long piers that have been built to protect the beach following the catastrophic tsunami in 2004. It is said that the waves in Pondicherry reach over 12 feet from June to January. If you are a first-timer trying to get out of the box, you will really love the enthusiasm in which knowledge, tips, and lessons are shared with you by the residents of the area who are no stranger to the water. As beautiful and breathtaking Pondicherry may be. It is not just surfing alone that makes it a great place. It is its people that make it a home away from home encouraging you to try out new things and literally dip your toes into the waters.
03. Kovalam Beach, Kerala
Although it doesn’t have the best surf, Kovalam Beach, Kerala has the best hotels, outdoor activities, and party venues that make it the next best thing! Though it might not pose much of a challenge to an ardent surfer what is interesting about Kovalam beach is that there is much to learn and experience with the waves that break both left and right. It is a great place to vacation in if your partner doesn’t share your passion for the waves, they have got plenty of ways here that they can indulge in while you ride the waves to your heart’s content.
04. Goa
Goa is India’s ultimate party destination. While the waves are not the heaviest, they are great for beginners who can learn their way around with the 2 and 3-foot waves that the Goa cost line receives. Most often just once in a week though! For a rookie, Goa is a great place of learning. Nevertheless, I have a hunch that you won’t be complaining even on a slow week as there is plenty and more to do in Goa when the waves are out!
05. Little Andaman, Andaman Islands
The best waves on the island are found around Butler Bay and most of them are accessible only by boat. The biggest of its waves which an advanced surfer is sure to enjoy occur due to distant storms that happen from the end of March to early May. Many opt to come here to get away from it all, for an experience that would be just you, the waves and the sea.
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