Are you looking for a new place to ride the waves and have an exciting adventure? Look no further than Washington State! With its rocky coastlines and year-round swells, this Pacific Northwest destination is a hidden gem for surfing enthusiasts.
This guide will take you through the best spots, the perfect time to surf, and why Washington State should be your next surfing destination. We will also provide information on indoor surfing and beginner-friendly spots. So grab your board, and let’s get started!
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Is there surfing in Washington state
Absolutely! Despite what you may have heard, Washington State is a fantastic location for surfing. A region blessed with scenic beauty and a rugged coastline, Washington offers a variety of surf spots that cater to both novices and experienced surfers alike.
The Pacific Northwest may be renowned for its emerald forests and snow-capped mountains, but its coastal beaches hide an exciting surfing scene. Washington’s beaches are different from your typical sandy Hawaiian beaches.
They are predominantly rocky, lined with pine trees, and are often misty, creating a unique, almost mystical surfing experience. The waves, resulting from the consistent swells that roll in from the Pacific Ocean, vary in size and can be challenging.
But that’s what makes surfing in Washington an exhilarating adventure. The state’s surf scene is centered around a few key areas, each with unique characteristics.
Westport, located on the south side of the entrance to Grays Harbor, is Washington’s surfing hub. It’s home to several surf schools and shops, making it a great starting point, especially for beginners.
The chill, friendly surf community here is always ready to help out, so don’t hesitate to ask for some tips. For the experienced surfers looking for a challenge, La Push, a beach near Forks, offers some of the most epic swells in the state.
This remote beach is also famous for its dramatic landscape and killer sunset views that add an extra touch to the surfing experience. Additionally, river surfing is an exciting alternative for those who want to try something different.
Yes, you read that right. In Washington State, you can ride a wave without being anywhere near the ocean. The standing waves in some of the rivers provide a unique surfing opportunity.
So, if you thought Washington was all about hiking and exploring the wilderness, think again. This stunning state offers much more, especially for those who love the surf.
The cold water may be challenging, and you might need to invest in a good wetsuit, but once you’re out there riding the waves, you’ll find it’s all worth it.
The best surfing in Washington state
Regarding the best spots for surfing in Washington State, the options are as varied as the waves. Let’s start with the surfing mecca of the state – Westport.
Known for its consistent waves, Westport offers a host of excellent surf spots, including Westhaven State Park, famously known as The Jetty, and Half Moon Bay. The Jetty, located at the southern tip of the town, is one of the most reliable surf spots in the state, with waves suitable for all levels of experience.
On the other hand, Half Moon Bay is an ideal spot for longboarders and beginners. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, then the Second Beach in La Push should be on your list.
The waves here are legendary, with some of the most powerful swells in the state. However, the beach is not recommended for beginners due to its rocky shoreline and strong currents.
The nearby Third Beach is a more relaxed alternative, offering softer waves and breathtaking sunset views. Heading north, you’ll find the hidden surf haven of Neah Bay.
Situated on the Makah Indian Reservation, this spot is somewhat off the beaten path but is worth the trek. The region is famous for its excellent point breaks, and Hobuck Beach is a must-surf.
With waves that break both left and right, it’s a spot loved by shortboarders and longboarders alike. Another hidden gem is Long Beach Peninsula.
Known for being the longest beach in the United States, this surf spot is a sandy-bottom beach break with consistent waves throughout the year. Though it may provide little significant waves, its vast stretch offers plenty of room to find your perfect break without battling crowds.
And if you’re up for a bit of river surfing, you can take advantage of the Bend Whitewater Park in Bend. While it’s technically not in Washington State, it’s a quick trip across the border in Oregon and is home to a surfable river wave that’s a thrilling change of pace from ocean surfing.
The stunning vistas, the thrill of the waves, and the camaraderie among the local surf community make it all worthwhile. So pack your surfboard, hit the road, and experience the best of Washington State’s surf scene. Surf’s up!
Surfing at an indoor waterpark in Washington State
Who says you need the open sea to catch some waves? Not in Washington State! Even when the weather doesn’t cooperate, or you want to escape the chilly Pacific waters, you can keep the stoke alive at an indoor waterpark.
Perfect for days when the surf’s not up or during the colder winter months, indoor surfing provides a fun and exciting alternative. Great Wolf Lodge, located in Grand Mound, is one such place that offers this unique experience.
Its 84-degree indoor water park is a major attraction, but the show’s star for surf enthusiasts is the “Wolf Rider Wipeout.” This surf simulator allows you to test your balance and hone your skills in a controlled environment, with waves just challenging enough to keep things interesting.
Surfing the “Wolf Rider Wipeout” doesn’t require any previous experience, making it perfect for beginners looking to get their feet wet, so to speak, without the unpredictability of ocean waves. This controlled environment also provides a safe space for kids to try surfing, making it an excellent family-friendly activity.
Another fantastic indoor surfing location is the Silver Mountain Resort’s Silver Rapids Indoor Waterpark in Idaho, just a short drive from Washington. While primarily known for its ski slopes, this resort offers a year-round surfing experience in its indoor waterpark.
The FlowRider, a sheet wave attraction, produces a thin sheet of water that mimics the ocean’s waves. Whether an amateur or a seasoned surfer, it’s a perfect way to practice carving and cutbacks.
But rest assured, it’s just as fun and exciting! Remember, indoor surfing isn’t just for the days when Mother Nature isn’t cooperating, or the ocean’s chill is too much to bear.
It’s also a great way to cross-train, sharpen your skills, and keep in surf shape during the off-season. So next time you’re in Washington State and itching for a surf, why not try an indoor waterpark? Hang loose and ride on, even indoors!
Beginner surfing location Washington state
Venturing into the world of surfing can be intimidating. Lucky for you, Washington State is dotted with beginner-friendly surf spots that are perfect for easing into this thrilling sport.
So, if you’re a newbie surfer looking for your first wave, Washington has you covered! First on our list is the town of Westport.
Known as the surfing capital of Washington, it boasts a wide array of spots that cater to all surfing levels, including beginners. One of the most popular spots here is Half Moon Bay.
With its sandy bottom and gentler waves, it offers a more forgiving environment for those who are just getting their sea legs. For a longboarding paradise, head to Long Beach Peninsula.
This spot is famous for its long, consistent waves, giving beginners ample time to stand up and get the hang of the ride. As a bonus, its vast length means plenty of space to spread out, avoiding the pressure of crowded lineups.
Next is the beginner-friendly surf at Westhaven State Park, commonly known as The Jetty. The south side of the Jetty, known as “the cove,” is particularly suitable for beginners.
Here, the waves tend to be smaller and slower, providing an excellent playground for beginners to practice and develop their surfing skills. If you prefer a surf spot with excellent beginner waves and stunning natural beauty, check out Third Beach near La Push.
The waves here are soft and easy to catch, making it a perfect spot for first-timers. Just remember, while the views may be distractingly beautiful, always keep an eye on the waves!
Last but not least, if you’re looking for a completely different surfing experience perfect for beginners, why not try river surfing? The Bend Whitewater Park, just across the border in Oregon, offers a surfable river wave.
While it may not mimic the whole ocean experience, it’s an exciting alternative and provides a controlled environment to learn the basics.
Remember your wetsuit – Washington’s waters are known for their chill, but that’s just part of the fun! So grab your board and sense of adventure, and discover the joys of surfing in Washington State.
With so many spots, you will indeed find the perfect wave to ride on your surfing journey. Hang ten and have fun!
Does Washington state have good beaches for surfing
Most certainly! Washington State has many fantastic beaches perfect for surfing, each with unique appeal. In contrast to the tropical, sandy beaches of popular surfing destinations like California or Hawaii, Washington’s coastal regions offer a rugged, raw, and uniquely Pacific Northwest surfing experience that’s hard to match.
With vast shorelines, consistent swells, and various wave patterns, Washington State has surf spots suitable for every surfer type. The undisputed heart of Washington’s surf scene is the charming town of Westport.
Its beaches, notably at Westhaven State Park and Half Moon Bay, offer consistent waves that cater to beginners and seasoned surfers—often called The Jetty.
Westhaven State Park is known for its reliability and versatility in wave conditions. The local surf community is welcoming and helpful, so don’t be shy about asking for tips or advice! Up north, you’ll find Neah Bay.
Off the beaten path, this remote destination offers excellent point breaks and is loved by shortboarders and longboarders alike. It may take a trek, but the uncrowded lineups and perfect wave conditions make it well worth the journey.
Are you on the hunt for a real thrill? Then, make your way to La Push’s Second Beach. The waves here are powerful, and the swells epic, offering an adrenaline-filled ride for experienced surfers.
But don’t let that intimidate you because the nearby Third Beach provides softer waves and awe-inspiring sunset views, offering a more relaxed alternative for those new to surfing or simply seeking a laid-back surf session. Long Beach Peninsula is another must-visit for surf enthusiasts.
Boasting the title of the longest beach in the United States, it provides ample space to find your perfect break without battling the crowds. Its sandy bottom and consistent waves make it a fantastic spot for beginners to practice surfing.
For those wanting to try something a little different, Washington also offers the unique opportunity of river surfing. While it’s technically not on a beach, the standing waves in some of the state’s rivers, such as in Bend, Oregon, just across the border, provide a novel and exciting surfing experience.
The cold water temperatures in Washington State require an excellent wetsuit, but don’t let that deter you. The scenic beauty, the variety of surf spots, the thrill of the ride, and the friendly local surf community make surfing in Washington State a unique and unforgettable experience.
So whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for your next challenge or a beginner keen to catch your first wave, you will find a beach that fits the bill in Washington State. Ready to hit the waves? Let Washington’s coast surprise and delight you!
