The global surfing tourism market is primarily driven by the growing popularity of surfing as an adventurous water sport and recreational activity undertaken by both professional surfers as well as casual enthusiasts. Surfing involves riding waves of the sea or ocean using a surfboard and is widely enjoyed as a challenging adventure sport. The surfing tourism industry witnesses a surge in adventure tourists traveling to surfing destinations and facilities on beaches where large waves suitable for surfing are available. Key destinations popular among surfing tourists include Hawaii, Australia, Indonesia, California, and parts of South America and Africa.

The Global surfing tourism market is estimated to be valued at US$ 16.19 Bn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.1% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the Global Surfing Tourism Market Growth are Driftwood Mentawai, 360° Travel - Sports Travel Agency, Perfect Wave, ZOCOTRAVEL, Wavehunters, Global Surf, Waterways Surf Adventures., Nomad Surfers, Atoll Travel, The Ocean Spell Surf Travel Agency, LUEX, Surf The Earth, World Surfaris, True Blue Travel, and CR Surf Travel Co. The industry is witnessing growing demand from adventure travelers and surfing enthusiasts who seek surf destinations and organized surfing trips and tours. Technological advancements in surfboards, wetsuits and other surfing gear have made the water sport more comfortable and accessible for casual surfers as well.

Market Trends

The popularity of eco-friendly surfing retreats and glamping destinations near surf beaches is on the rise. Several surf resorts and camps now offer accommodation options integrated with the natural environment to provide immersive cultural and environmental experiences. Meanwhile, all-inclusive surf travel packages covering transportation, accommodation, meals, gear rental and local guides are gaining traction as they provide hassle-free surfing holidays.

Market Opportunities

The growing demand for surf camps and lessons catering to beginners and intermediate levels is opening new opportunities for market players. Many destinations are also focusing on developing infrastructure like protected surf zones, emergency response systems and trained guides to attract more family surf travelers and first-timers.

Impact of COVID-19 on Global Surfing Tourism Market
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the global surfing tourism market. In the initial months of the pandemic in early 2020, lockdowns and travel restrictions brought the industry to a near standstill. Closed borders caused a huge dip in international tourist arrivals and domestic tourism also took a major hit due to fears of infection. This led to cancellations of surfing trips and bookings, negatively impacting revenues of surf camps, tour operators and other stakeholders.

However, as lockdowns eased in late 2020 and vaccination drives picked up pace worldwide in 2021, the market began witnessing signs of recovery. Domestic surfing tourism within countries witnessed a faster recovery compared to international surfing travels. As travel restrictions lifted gradually, vaccinated individuals became more comfortable traveling within their home countries for surf trips and getaways. This benefited local surf spots and operators. The market is projected to recover fully by 2023-24 as more countries open up completely for tourism.

Going forward, the industry will need to focus on health and safety protocols to regain consumer confidence. Digitalization of operations will also help the market bounce back swiftly. Surf camps and tour operators are launching new packages focused on local regions to tap into renewed demand for domestic surf experiences. The industry remains optimistic about long term growth prospects supported by rising enthusiasts for the water sport globally.

Geographical Regions with Highest Value Concentration in Global Surfing Tourism Market
Australia and USA account for the largest value share in the global surfing tourism market. Popular surf destinations like Bondi Beach in Australia and various spots in California, Hawaii attract millions of surf enthusiasts annually, both domestic and international. Several Australian regions namely Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Byron Bay in New South Wales are world renowned hotspots that generate significant revenues.

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