Surf Trip Inspo: December Travel
Hidden Gems and Popular Locations For Your Next December Surf Trip
If you’re looking for the best places to surf, December offers the perfect time and opportunity for a surf getaway. The global holiday season in December makes it such a convenient time for so many of us to travel and get away from it all. Depending on your surfing goals, you can either chase bigger swells at peak-season destinations or enjoy mellower waves at off-season spots. Choosing where to go during your December break all comes down to the type of surfing experience you’re after.
Experienced surfers often prefer peak season locations to score heavy, consistent swells, with spots like Samoa, Papua New Guinea (PNG), and Pohnpei offering prime conditions. Meanwhile, those seeking a more relaxed vibe or less crowded line-ups can explore off-season gems like Indonesia’s Mentawai Islands or Simeulue, where the surf scene winds down after the charter season, leading to better deals and fewer crowds.
Whether you’re after well-known hotspots or hidden surf havens, this guide will help you discover where to surf in December.
Peak Season Surf Destinations
Go-To Peak Season Surf Trip Spots in December
Here are some of our recommendations for the best surf spots in December for you to check out.
Samoa
Known for its crystal-clear waters and powerful reef breaks, Samoa is a December favourite for advanced surfers. Expect heavy waves and consistent swells, making it ideal for surfers looking for challenging conditions. Check out our go-to Samoa surf camp, perfect for your next peak season trip, from rustic setups like Samoan Surfaris to premium options like Salani Surf Resort.
Papua New Guinea (PNG)
PNG offers diverse surf conditions, from mellow peelers to hollow reef breaks, perfect for surfers of all skill levels. December’s peak season brings consistent swells, pleasant weather and incredible fishing.
Pohnpei
With its famous surf spot, Palikir Pass, Pohnpei delivers some of the world’s most perfect barrels during December. Expect powerful reef breaks and warm tropical waters.
South Sumatra, Indonesia
This area is less crowded than Bali but still boasts quality waves during December’s peak season, catering to more advanced surfers.
Vanuatu
The uncrowded surf spots in Vanuatu provide mellow waves suitable for intermediate-level surfers looking for a less touristy destination in December.
Advanced Remote and rustic in nature, Samoan Surfaris is ideal for surfers chasing that classic surf, eat, sleep, repeat experience, off-grid and away from the crowds.
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The Ujung Bocur Bungalows in Krui is a prime spot for surfers looking for easy-access to all that South Sumatra has to offer.
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Salani Surf Resort, located on the South Coast of Upolu Island in Samoa, delivers unparallelled surfing, cultural immersion, and relaxation for surfers and non-surfers alike….
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A minimalistic beachfront guesthouse perfectly positioned in front of Tupira Right, an idyllic spot to surf, relax, and unwind on repeat.
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Eratap Beach Resort in Vanuatu offers luxurious beachfront villas with stunning ocean and lagoon views.
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Pohnpei Surf Club in Micronesia offers adventurous surfers access to some of the most powerful and pristine waves in the Pacific, including the world-renowned reef…
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Hidden Off Season Gems in December
Mentawai Islands, Indonesia
Although it’s technically off-season in December, the Mentawai Islands still provide consistent waves and fewer crowds, given most charter boats have finished up for the season. It’s a great time to score discounted rates at the finest Mentawai Island surf resorts and camps, plus enjoy far less crowds at popular spots like HTs, Lances Left, Macaronis and Rifles.
Simeulue, Indonesia
Another hidden gem during the off-season, Simeulue offers mellow waves perfect for intermediate surfers, making it an ideal spot to hone your skills without the pressure of a bustling line-up.
Fiji
In December, Fiji offers more manageable surf conditions with smaller, cleaner waves suitable for most skill levels. The relaxed atmosphere, perfect for couples and families, adds to the allure, providing a serene Fiji surf experience away from the hustle and bustle.
The all-inclusive Macaronis Surf Resort offers unparalleled access to one of the funnest waves in the Mentawai Islands.
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A eco-conscious surf and wellness haven nestled on Simeulue Island, with a wave directly out the front.
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Kandui Villas is a standout eco-friendly surf resort located in the Mentawai Islands, a renowned surf region known for its density of diverse, quality waves….
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Nestled between a white sandy beach and lush rainforest, the eco-friendly Matanivusi Resort is set in a stunning beachfront location where guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Fiji.
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Key Considerations
Weather and Wave Conditions
Peak Season Spots: Places like Samoa, PNG, and Pohnpei experience more challenging conditions, with larger swells perfect for advanced surfers.
Off-Season Spots: Destinations such as the Mentawai Islands or Simeulue boast calmer winds and mellow waves, creating friendlier conditions for advanced-beginners or those looking for a laid-back surf trip.
Crowd Levels
Peak Season Hotspots: During peak season, you can typically expect more crowds. It’s important to choose a camp or resort that has a crowd management plan or surfer limit. For example, Salani Surf Resort only allows a maximum of 8 surfers at a time, and Samoan Surfaris just 5.
Quiet Retreats: For solitude, choose off-season gems such as the Mentawai Islands or Simeulue, where fewer tourists venture in December.
Travel Tips
To make your December surf trip stress-free, consider booking with World Surfaris. With the holiday travel rush, letting World Surfaris handle the planning and logistics can save you from dealing with the chaos yourself.
Plan Your Perfect December Surf Trip
With World Surfaris
Customising Your Surf Experience
Whether you’re chasing heavy waves at peak-season spots or seeking a quieter retreat, World Surfaris can tailor a trip that fits your skill level and surfing preferences. You can explore hidden gems or well-known hotspots, all with personalised recommendations.
Expert Guidance
With years of expertise in surf travel, World Surfaris provides valuable insights and personalised itineraries to help you find the best waves in December. Trust our expert advice to ensure a hand-picked surf adventure that meets your expectations.
Discover December Surf Destinations
Whether you’re a seasoned surfer chasing challenging conditions or an intermediate surfer seeking less crowded, off-season waves, there’s a perfect December surf destination waiting for you.
Still asking, “where is the best place to go surfing?”, let World Surfaris handle the details and guide you to the best December surf spots. We know, because we go, so start planning your unforgettable surf trip with our expert crew today!
Ready to surf perfect waves? Let World Surfaris guide you to the best surf spots in December, whether you’re looking for a challenge or laid-back vibe. Start planning your ultimate surf adventure now!
