Picture this: You, in a gorgeous coastal region, putting real life on pause for a moment and learning how to surf. Idyllic, no? If this sort of “skillcation” getaway has been on your bucket list, the abundance of surf-friendly destinations—from New Zealand to Sri Lanka—should be on your radar. There’s never been a better time to dip your toe into surf tourism. As for where to stay, finding the right kind of beach-adjacent accommodation can be a bit of a quest when you’re searching in the most remote regions of the world, but the best Airbnbs for surfing put you right where the action is. They’re also great for longer, goal-focused trips when you want to feel cozy after several days of perfecting your pop-ups (and perhaps enduring a wipeout or two).
Vogue’s Guide to the Best Airbnbs for Surfing:
- For an Untouched Coastline: Luxury Private Villa in Indonesia, from $336 per night
- For Treehouse Ambience: Sola Vista in Costa Rica, from $194 per night
- For Rustic Charm: Spacious Home in Portugal, from $388 per night
- For Quintessential California Vibes: Mid-Century Studio in Malibu, from $464 per night
- For the Infinity Pool: Araliya Cabana in Sri Lanka, from $279 per night
- For Elegant Design: Sister s Sanctuary in New Zealand, from $414 per night
Ahead, discover our wishlist of seaside boltholes for planning a surf-themed trip. If you’re more experienced on a surfboard, take note of the eco lodge in Puerto Rico that’s close to iconic surf spots like Punta Borinquen in Aguadilla. Or maybe you’ve got your heart set on waking up to the sound of waves crashing and monkey calls—there’s a rainforest treehouse in Costa Rica with your name on it. No matter the destination (or your skill level on the waves), all 10 destinations below will leave you thoroughly inspired.
Sister’s Sanctuary (Raglan, New Zealand)
Raglan is a charming surf town on the west coast of New Zealand’s North Island where the vibes are laidback and friendly. This stylish retreat on the Rangitahi Peninsula is just a 15-minute stroll from the town center and is surrounded by walking tracks that take you from bush to sea in moments. The interiors are calm and full of natural textures like walnut and travertine, and include ultra-cozy touches like a wood fireplace and a large veranda for outdoor entertaining.
Room: 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer/dryer, wood-burning fireplace, outdoor furniture, BBQ.
Surf Tip: If you’re new to surfing, start at Ngarunui Beach. Otherwise, Manu Bay is legendary for its long, left-hand breaks.
Spacious Home (Ericeira, Portugal)
Known as the surf capital of Europe, Ericeira is a sandy enclave less than an hour from Lisbon. After a day at the beach, retreat to this lovely country house that’s ideal for groups and families. The design leans rustic Mediterranean with a few Scandinavian influences peppered throughout, bringing together handcrafted pieces with contemporary furniture.
Rooms: 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer, indoor fireplace, outdoor furniture, BBQ.
Surf Tip: Surf here is at its peak from May to October, with breaks suitable for surfers of all levels.
Dassang Villa (Sumba, Indonesia)
Though Bali remains the most popular Indonesian destination for surfing, for those in search of somewhere off the beaten path (that’s still only a one-hour flight from Bali), the ethereal island of Sumba awaits. This private villa is perched on the foothills of the Dassang coastline and looks out at rice fields and endless stretches of ocean. When you’re ready to hit the beach, the home offers for-hire modern scooters fitted with surfboard racks.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Amenities: Outdoor shower, washer/dryer, mosquito net, AC.
Surf Tip: Occy’s Left is one of Asia’s most iconic breaks and offers a chance to catch the perfect left.
Design Bungalow (Todos Santos, Mexico)
Even though the word has gotten out about this incredible region in Mexico’s Baja California Sur, Todos Santos remains one of the most magical travel destinations in the entire country. Station yourself at this unique casita that shares a large outdoor space with other bungalows—including a grill, a dining area, a pool, and gardens.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Outdoor shower, AC, outdoor furniture, fire pit, BBQ, beach essentials, pool.
Surf Tip: Rent a car so you can explore the surf breaks at your own speed. Playa Cerritos offers both a gentle beach break for beginners and a more adventurous rocky point break for experts.
Stylish Home (Biarritz, France)
Plan your escape to the French Basque seaside town of Biarritz, where a flurry of boutique hotels and buzzy restaurants make for an ideal vacation. This charming home in the city center is close to the beach and features custom-made furniture for a design-forward stay—and there’s even a sunny terrace for morning coffees.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer, outdoor dining area, elevator.
Surf Tip: Beginner? Head for beaches like Côte des Basques or La Grande Plage. If you’re more skilled on the surfboard, Le Miramar is a favorite among more advanced surfers.
Saltwood (Ucluelet, Canada)
Tofino is Vancouver Island’s main surf hub (and equally worthy of a visit), but if you’re looking for somewhere close by that’s a tad quieter, the coastal town of Ucluelet 30 minutes south is just the ticket. This beautiful home is surrounded by trees and looks directly out at the Pacific Ocean. Keep an eye out for orca whales from the outdoor deck.
Rooms: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Washer/dryer, fireplace, fire pit, outdoor furniture, BBQ, hot tub, EV charger.
Surf Tip: Whether you’re surfing in Tofino or Ucluelet, the water is cold year-round and a thick wetsuit is required.
Sola Vista (Punta Banco, Costa Rica)
Located on the southwestern tip of Costa Rica in the Puntarenas province, Pavones is a remote coastal village that’s highly celebrated for its surf. This breathtaking eco lodge—positioned right in the rainforest—lets you wake up to the sounds of howler monkeys and waves crashing. The property is just a three-minute walk away from the beach and is made up of two identical treehouses, each including outdoor waterfall showers and bamboo beds.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Outdoor shower, mosquito net, beach access, hammock, outdoor kitchen,.
Surf Tip: If you plan to take surf lessons, the owners of this eco lodge suggest bringing cash.
Mid-Century Modern Villa (Malibu, California)
With a name like Surfrider it’s little surprise Malibu’s famous beach is so closely linked with the sport. Channel your inner Gidget and spend a few nights at this mid-century modern rental, which offers ocean views from above the treetops. The home’s floor-to-ceiling windows allow guests to soak in the natural surroundings of the Santa Monica Mountains, but if you prefer a bit of fresh air, the shaded patio outside is the perfect spot for an apéritif.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Central AC and heating.
Surf Tip: Locals are known to be somewhat territorial at Surfrider Beach, so be sure to follow surf etiquette and go when the water is less busy.
Casa Kula (Aguadilla, Puerto Rico)
Puerto Rico is one of the best Caribbean destinations for surfing, from the iconic breaks in Rincón to the World Surfing Reserve of Punta Borinquen. This eco-friendly bamboo house—close to both of the surf spots mentioned above—is just minutes from the beaches of Aguadilla’s west coast. The interiors are inspired by the owner’s travels and include textural highlights like macrame fringing and woven light fixtures.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Backyard, hammock.
Surf Tip: Many Aguadilla surf spots have rocky or reefy bottoms, so consider wearing booties.
Araliya Cabana (Matara, Sri Lanka)
Aspiring surfers have been flocking to Sri Lanka’s southern coastline for its beginner-friendly waves and laidback scene. This jungle home sits high on a hill and overlooks the Indian Ocean and coconut trees. After a day of perfecting your pop-ups, take a soothing dip in the property’s infinity pool, set amidst lush greens for a truly relaxing scene.
Rooms: 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom
Amenities: Central AC, balcony, free parking, pool.
Surf Tip: The best time to surf in this region is typically from November to March.
