Surf Vacations for Families

BinkyBro’s motto is more of a call to action: SURF, SNOW, SKATE. You can do all the things now, even while your little dudes are in diapers. And trust me, you really can, because we have been doing that with our own kids—traveling near and far to instill a love for sun, sand, and surf (in no particular order) in our four kids.

Surf vacations provide activities for the young and old(er) in some of the world’s most beautiful locales. Rachel and I would love to share with you our five favorite surf vacation spots for the family. When taking kids, conditions matter. For example, you probably want sand over reef, warmer water temps, good visibility, easy access, food nearby, and the removal of any sketchy potential situations. So take it from us...here are a few great locations.

Playa Grande, Costa Rica

Playa Grande is on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica just north of Tamarindo and just over an hour from the Liberia airport. If you’re looking for that surf bum vibe—you’ll find it in Playa Grande. Playa Grande is a quiet beach community that’s renowned for its surfing because of the different areas for varying levels of surfers. 

Because Playa Grande is smaller and quieter than other beach towns in Costa Rica, it can be perfect for families to stretch out and explore without the stress of more crowded destinations. And its affordability is also a huge plus for families big and small.

Waikiki Oahu, Hawaii

There may not be a more iconic paradise than Waikiki Beach on the island of Oahu. But it’s not just a surfing mecca for pros—it’s also one of the best places to learn because of its long stretch of beach and gentle waves ideal for beginners.

The accessibility of Waikiki is part of what makes it a great surfing destination for families with young kids—it’s often ranked as the most family friendly Hawaiian island. There’s resorts galore that offer programs for kids and surf lessons for beginners. And the cultural activities all over Oahu will keep your kids endlessly entertained.

La Jolla, California

Just north of San Diego, La Jolla, California is known for its rocky coastline and world-famous golfing at Torrey Pines Golf Course. But it’s also a fantastic surf vacation for the whole family because of the easy access to beaches with breach breaks for all levels of surfers.

Part of what makes La Jolla a great surfing vacation for families is how much there is to do in La Jolla and the surrounding San Diego area like Legoland and the San Diego Zoo. And because of Southern California’s famous surfing, there are surf camps and surf schools more than readily available.

If you check out La Jolla be sure to eat at the Taco Stand and Puesto Tacos. Both are our family favorites!

Hanalei Pier, Kauai

The Hanalei Pier is a perfect spot for teaching the little kids to surf. The location itself is stunning as the bay sits in between large mountains. The break right off the pier is in shallow water with calm waves as the bay is relatively protected by the outside reefs despite being on the North Shore. 

And the best part...Hanalei Bay offers a great reef break outside for Mom/Dad--if they get a moment of freedom from the kids. Truly a perfect spot for a family day at the beach.  

Waco Surf, Texas

Waco, Texas? Not exactly what you were expecting in a list of top surf vacations, but here’s your official BinkyBro rec, folks. Waco Surf park is just 90 minutes south of Dallas or 90 minutes north of Austin and it attracts surfers from all over the world because of its state of the art waves.

There’s private session waves and public session waves, along with lessons for every level of surfing ability. The park also has water slides, a lazy river, and its own accommodations so you can stay and surf on site. Waco Surf is the perfect spot for you and your kids to hone your skills and check the SURF off of SURF, SNOW, SKATE.

Before you hit the waves, check out our toddler swimmies, rash guards, and sun hats to keep your BinkyBros stylish and sun protected.