Best Places To Surf In March: Must Visit In 2026

Looking for the best places to surf in March? Well, look no further because I’ll be covering the most consistent swells for both beginners and intermediates during March. 

If you’re planning a surf trip, then March is one of the best months for many surf destinations.

Morocco is experiencing the last winter swells, while Sri Lanka is in the middle of its high-wave season in the south.  

Many surf camps open their doors in March as it’s the beginning of Spring (in the northern hemisphere, at least). 

This guide breaks down the best surf spots in March, why the conditions fire this month, and how to match your skill level to the right spot.

Ready to plan your next surf trip? Let’s dive in!

Best Places to Surf in March for Beginners

Honestly, as a beginner, you are lucky enough to be able to surf practically anywhere there’s white water. 

That is if you can do it safely. Don’t be a hero! 

But of course, some places are perfect for learning while others are just OK. 

Bali, Indonesia

Bali is known as one of the best surf destinations in the world. 

Unfortunately, I’ve never been (long story), but I know from good friends and Uncle YouTube that it’s well worth the hype. 

So, March is shoulder season in Indo, meaning waist to shoulder high waves (sometimes smaller) are common. This is great for beginners, as it’s easier to learn and improve when the waves aren’t trying to k*ll you. 

Spots around Canggu and the main surf beaches near Kuta offer soft, peaky waves over sand. Easy paddles. Forgiving takeoffs. Perfect for learning to surf or just getting comfortable in the lineup.

Lombok (Indonesia)

If you’re looking for a more laid-back scene, definitely check out Lombok.

Areas like Kuta Lombok have sandy beach breaks and mellow reef setups that work well for beginners and longboarders. The waves are playful, the crowds are lighter, and the vibe is relaxed. 

Great place to get started and improve your surfing. 

Sri Lanka (South Coast)

The South Coast in Sri Lanka is on FIRE in March. 

If you’re looking to get your very first surf lesson, Weligama is your go-to. You’ll find plenty of surf schools along the beach that offer both surf lessons and board rentals. 

Add a tropical climate to that, and you’ve got the best combo for any beginner surfer.

Perfect for backpackers and surfers looking for easy progression.

Best Places to Surf in March for Intermediates

If you feel more comfortable with your surfing and want to improve, you’ll want to go to a place that slightly challenges you. 

Luckily, during this time of the year, you can still score some pretty good swells. 

Taghazout, Morocco

March is still a strong month across Morocco, especially in places like Taghacout and Agadir. 

The big winter swells are fading, but spots like Anchor Point still deliver long right-hand waves. Fewer crowds. More rhythm. Plenty of room to work on turns.

Legendary surf without peak-season madness.

Ericeira, Portugal

Ericeira is the 2nd Surfing Reserve after Malibu Surfrider Beach. And btw, it was my first solo surfing trip. 

It’s a quiet fishing village that hosts plenty of wave breaks for all levels. 

March brings consistent north Atlantic energy, with options for every level. Reefs like Ribeira d’Ilhas offer long rides, while nearby beach breaks keep things fun.

Cold water, but some of the best conditions of the year.

Costa Rica (Pacific Coast)

March is an excellent month for Intermediates to be in Costa Rica. While the main surfing season runs from May to November, the rest of the year is still consistent with shoulder-high waves or less. 

Meaning you’ll have fewer surfers and more time to practice the craft. 

Places like Santa Teresa offer offshore mornings, peaky waves, and consistent swell. Plenty of lefts and rights. 

Great for intermediates looking to push their surfing.

Best Places to Surf in March for Advanced Surfers

For all the real adrenaline chasers out there, March is still a solid month to be looking for barrels.

Peinche, Portugal

If you’re after fast, barrelling waves, then Supertubes is the place to be. 

It’s a peaky beach break that breaks on a very shallow sandbar, then creates what many have called the Pipeline of Europe. 

March is less chaotic than mid-winter, but you can still score the wave of your life when the conditions align. 

Pipeline, Hawaii

Pipeline is not for the faint-hearted, and you definitely should NOT paddle out if you’re not ready for it. 

For me, I’d rather watch it from with sandy feet, thank you very much. 

But if you know you’re ready, then March is a great time to be there. As it’s the tail end of winter, there’s plenty of energy still in the ocean and usually fewer crowds by this time of the year. 

Siragao, Philippines

Staying in the theme of fast, hollow, and challenging waves, Siragao is Asia’s answer to Pipeline. 

Cloud 9 isn’t at full power yet, but you can still score clean sessions with fewer crowds. Warm water. Reef breaks. Real surf vibes.

Keep in mind the monsoon season is at its tail end, so it’s best to keep an eye on the forecast. 

Budget-Friendly Surf Trips in March

Any destination that’s considered budget-friendly will usually be more expensive during its high season. 

Don’t worry though, you can find my budget travel guide to get tips and tricks and how to travel on a budget.

For now, let me show you a couple of options. 

Sri Lanka

While March is still peak season Sri Lanka is budget friendly year-round. Stay in hostels for cheaper stays, look for local food vendors for affordable eats, and spend more time in the water than behind a bar.

You’ll save some money and stay happier. A win win deal.

Morocco

Low daily costs and world-class surf access.

Tips for Planning a Surf Trip in March

Follow the Swell

March is all about timing. Watch charts and stay flexible.

Choose the Right Break

Mix sandy beaches with mellow reefs, depending on your level.

Avoid Peak Expectations

March rewards surfers who adapt. Not every day will be perfect, but many will be very good.

Conclusion

March is one of the most underrated surf months out there.

Beginner-friendly waves in Bali and Sri Lanka. Progression waves in Morocco and Costa Rica. Power in Portugal. Fewer crowds everywhere.

If you want consistent surf, relaxed vibes, and real options for every level, March is a solid call.

Pack light. Stay flexible.

And go chase it.