Like baking a cake, there are plenty of ingredients that make up the perfect climate for a good wave. These include a good swell, time of day, tide, direction of the wind, and fetch of the ocean's floor.
According to meteorologists, the most important factor in the forming of a wave is the aforementioned wind, with the speed and duration of the wind determining the size and frequency of the waves.
The Southern Hemisphere is known for its wind-producing storms, making it the perfect playground for huge swells and massive waves.
For surfers looking for the next big wave, here’s our guide to the top destinations where the surf is well and truly up.
SEE ALSO: 13 brilliant pictures of dogs that can surf better than you
Peru
For the elite breed of surfer, Peru, complete with 1,600 miles of untamed coastline, is a must-do destination. The most famous break is Chicama, a left-hand point break that is renowned as forming some of the longest waves in the world, running for lengths of approximately one mile. If you’re keen to ride on the back of this beast, you should prepare your body with some serious squats, as this wave is sure to give your thigh muscles the wobbles. If you don’t have the stamina to withhold this long break, some other Peruvian beaches worth checking out include Pacasmayo, Punta Rocas, and Mancora.
Where to Stay: Country Club Lima Hotel
The historic Country Club Lima Hotel blends classic elegance with modern comfort. This 83-room property feels upscale with classic decor, wood accents, and up-to-date amenities such as iPod docks and flat-screen TVs.
Brazil
The centre of South American surfing, with some world-class waves, Brazil is also a no-brainer. With a popular surf culture that was made hip in the early 70s, Brazil allows surfers to sample the best waves, and once the day's out, continue the ride with an indulgence of what Brazil does best: food, dancing, and music, especially during the Carnival in Rio … what’s not to love? The swell’s best between April and October, with Brazil’s southern side offering the best surfing conditions around the Island of Santa Catarina, with top beach picks including Joaquina, Praia Mole, Mocambique, and Santinho. On the downside, good swell in Brazil is no secret, so be prepared to go on a mission if you’re in search of the country’s less-crowded surf spots.
Where to Stay: Hotel Unique
The 95-room Hotel Unique is a trendy pick near Sao Paulo's equivalent of Central Park. The rooftop bar, restaurant, and pool all overlook the park and have beautiful skyline views.
South Africa
The cream of the crop and Eiffel Tower of the surf world, Jeffreys Bay (more commonly known as J-Bay), is on the bucket list of most Australian surfers. Located on South Africa’s Eastern Cape, J-Bay hosts an annual pro-surfing event at Supertubes, which brings together the world’s leading surfers of the season. Watch out though: these are treacherous waters, where uninvited company may drop by; at the 2015, J-Bay Open competition in July, Australian surfer Mick Fanning was attacked by a shark and miraculously fought his way out of the jaws of death. Other top beaches include Boneyards, Kitchen Windows, and Albetros, with the best swell taking place during the winter months, from June to August.
Where to Stay: Cape Royale Luxury Hotel
A hotel designed to look like a Parisian landmark, the Cape Royale has all the hallmarks of a luxury experience. The beautiful, contemporary rooms are all suites designed like apartments.
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