Nags Head, North Carolina

The best time to surf this North Carolina beach gem is around both high and low tide. The northernmost area of the beach is reported to be the best surfing spot as waves generally do not reach over five feet unless a storm is at sea. When the seas are up, there are sure to be much more crowded conditions as many surfers look to capitalize on this prime surfing opportunity.

Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina

Shell Island, and a rising tide during the early part of a fall or spring day, seem to be the key combination to surfing excellence at Wrightsville Beach. This popular area is literally jumping with tourists and surfers during the Surf, Sun, and Sand Festival held every year in May.

Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous surfing spots in the United States and with good reason. This two mile stretch of sand is located on Oahu. Waikiki is home to some of the best waves ever seen and is considered one of the birth places of surfing. The legendary Duke Kahanamoku popularized surfing in the area, enjoyed a successful political and acting career, and has become immortalized as a surfing king on the beaches of Waikiki. Hula shows and marine life abound in this tropical paradise that remains a haven for serious surfers.

Maui, Hawaii

The Island of Maui is another great surfing location in Hawaii. What is important and nice about this location is that Maui’s waves can be fun for all skill levels. Novice surfers, however, should ease into the mix by heading over to Lahaina Breakwall, Launiopoko Park, or Kihei's Cove Park before tackling the tougher waves found at Lahaina, Launiopoko, along the Pali highway, and Maalaea, Cove Park in Kihei. For a great place to unwind away from the waves, the Maui Ocean Center can be a fun retreat as the aquarium offers relatively cheap admission of $19 per person.

Gilgo Beach, Long Island

Although this location offers great waves that are free, the parking will cost and the crowds may be a turn off to those surfers who like their own private wave.