Surfing in Jamaica: 7 Places for the Top Caribbean Waves!

Jamaica is a well-known tourist destination because of its vibrant culture, exciting gastronomy, vibrant nightlife, and gorgeous islands. You can now add surfing to that list!

Did you know, there's more to Jamaica than just surfing! You can spend days at a beachfront bar sipping on your favorite cocktails or dancing to live reggae music at night. If you're into leisure swimming, you can also choose from plenty of beaches. There are plenty of things to do in Jamaica for all travelers! 

For those with a sense of adventure, you can catch the waves at the world-class breaks as surfing in Jamaica quickly becomes a popular attraction. You’ll find endless opportunities with the breathtaking Jamaica surf spots for an unforgettable adventure!

Before you pack your bags, ensure you know which airport to fly to in Jamaica for a seamless travel experience. 

Is There Surfing In Jamaica?

Yes, there are many great spots for surfing in Jamaica. It’s a surfer’s dream destination!

There are miles of stunning coastlines, and you can expect warm water temperatures year-round. The consistent waves draw surfing enthusiasts to come to Jamaica. 

The best part about coming to Jamaica to surf is that you’ll have various experiences to try depending on the area you’re staying in. 

You can also enjoy other thrilling activities in Jamaica, such as snorkeling and river rafting. 

When to Go Surfing in Jamaica?

Sure, Jamaica surf spots offer warm water temperatures any time of the year. That’s why it’s a popular surfing destination year-round. 

You must consider a few things when planning your surfing trip to Jamaica. First, the ideal time to surf in Jamaica is in the winter, from November to April. During this time of year, the North Atlantic swells are strongest, so you can experience the refreshing waves.

Surfing in Jamaica in the summer is still good, but the waves are slightly more inconsistent. Summer also means hot and humid weather in Jamaica, so be prepared to deal with sweltering heat when you surf during these months. 

Where to Stay When Surfing in Jamaica

You’ve got plenty of options on where to stay in Jamaica if you want to enjoy a surfing holiday. The right destination gives you access to some of the most incredible Jamaican surfing spots. It's ideal if you can wake up and grab your board to hit the waves.

• Jamnesia – It's one of Jamaica's finest and first fully-fledged surf camps. Locals run it and they offer affordable packages. They even provide surf gear rentals! It’s located on the southeastern coast of Jamaica.
• Scarlett Guest House – It’s located right smack in the middle of two breaks in Bull Bay. Staying here gives you access to the ideal surfing conditions in Jamaica. The accommodation also offers stunning views of the Caribbean. 
• Geejam Surf Retreat – It’s one of the most insanely beautiful places to stay in Jamaica if you’re into a luxurious surfing experience. You’ll stay in private villas and access exclusive surf spots in Jamaica. 
  

7 Best Surfing Places in Jamaica

Grab your surfboard and pack on reef-friendly sunscreen! Get ready to ride the waves in these spots that offer the ideal surfing conditions in Jamaica.

7. Lighthouse

If you're flying to the Northern Manley International Airport, you can catch a glimpse of one of the best surfing places in Jamaica. It's an exciting preview of the fantastic surfing conditions, even before you set foot on the island.

The waves in Lighthouse are consistent but can be unruly. It's a site that’s better left to the most seasoned surfers as they can be challenging to navigate, especially with the left-to-right reef breaks. The presence of reef sharks is also something to think about.

6. Boston Bay

No list of Jamaican surfing is complete without Boston Bay. It’s clear why because the surf conditions in this spot are impeccable. 

Unlike Lighthouse, this surfing spot in Jamaica is suited for experts and beginners alike. The waves are easily manageable and can be long. This inconsistency might be a  turn off for some expert surfers, but it's still friendly for those practicing their surf skills.

You can also find lots of companies offering surfing classes nearby. It's a great introduction to the world of Jamaican surfing.

5. Bull Bay

This location is known as the OG in Jamaica surf spots. Bull Bay is the stomping ground for well-known surf pioneers on the island. 

It’s mostly known for its northern wind swells, bringing high-quality breaks for surfing enthusiasts. Some portions offer hard breaks that you need experience and skill to navigate.

Bull Bay also offers one of Jamaica's amazing surf camps, Jamnesia.

4. Outback

Outback is one of the primary beaches in the Portland area. At Outback, you can enjoy a whole coastline of surfing spots, making it a dream destination for surfers.

This Jamaican surfing spot offers robust and beefy waves. Some areas also provide rippable walls that require intermediate surfing skills. Another reason to come to this surf spot is that it's rarely busy. You can easily enjoy the waves by yourself.

3. Runaway Bay

Here’s another one that you can add to the list of surfing spots in Jamaica that’s suited for experts and beginners alike. But, of course, it's a surfer's dream because of the perfect wave conditions. Yet, Runaway Bay is only an hour away from Ocho Rios!

You’ll find a variety of surf breaks in Runaway Bay, which makes it suited for all surfing levels. 

2. Makka

Makka Beach is another excellent spot to hit the waves in Jamaica. It hosts the annual surfing competition, The Makka Pro. 

Expect significant swells on this surfing beach. The good part are the consistent waves! It can compete with the other surfing spots featured here. 

You must be careful because some parts are shallow, and this beach has many urchins. 

1.Toad

Toad rounds up this list of the best surfing in Jamaica. It’s a hidden gem on the north coast of this Caribbean Island. 

But beware! This surf spot isn’t for the weak of heart. It’s the only surfing spot in Jamaica known for  massive breaks that you shouldn’t mess with. The surfing conditions here are better left to the experts. 

Hit The Waves In Jamaica With Pilot!

Now that you know Jamaica is becoming a favorite destination for avid surfers, you can start to craft your ideal travel experience for you, your family, and your friends.