Surfing was booming and the secret was revealed. Want to know where to go on your next vacation? Just ask any surfer. Surfers, who are always chasing the next big wave in destinations other travelers might miss, will soon put some of the hottest trending destinations on the map for the first time as major travel hotspots. I was.
This is especially true for overseas destinations that were once hidden. Recent research results 90% of intermediate surfers are willing to travel abroad to find their next big wave. With the surfing industry continuing its boom and expected to double in value over the next decade, he’s not just for adventurous surf buddies.
From big waves to big business
Surfing is a niche interest, and while it may seem like an even smaller sector in the travel market, it has created a massive industry that tourism and travel giants take notice of.
With an estimated $9.5 billion industry, its value is Expected to nearly double in value In the next ten years alone, the sport will have a record number of fans.
Diving can be an expensive hobby for those who want to get started quickly. Everything from surf lessons to boards and accessories, and travel costs for surfers who live far from the swells can be a huge expense. It’s the kind of trend that could instantly bring surfing retreats, lodging, cafes, and lots of jobs to new hotspots, with significant economic implications for affected communities.
Surfing in Baja California Sur
Some of the top surfing destinations for U.S. travelers have long benefited from the first wave of surfers to travel in the region. It’s a short drive south of popular surfing destinations in the US, such as San Diego, Mexico. Baja California Sur It has historically been a central travel hub for surfers and has provided significant economic benefits to the entire region.
“Surfing, like other types of responsible tourism, contributes to the economy of the town,” says Sandra Felix, commercial director of Visit Baja California Sur. Many small coastal towns in the region, especially small towns like San Juanico, rely primarily on fishing and surfing communities.
It may have started with a few intrepid surfers, but Baja California Sur’s tourism boom didn’t end there. Tourists in this Mexican state have seen a sharp boom in recent years, well above pre-pandemic figures.
Tourist visits from the United States only 28.9 year-on-year increase compared to 2019. With the region’s generally affordable prices, delicious food, pristine beaches, and natural beauty, it’s clear that surfers were looking for something special.
From waves to wellness
First scouted by surfers, Mexico is just the beginning of new trending destinations and travel experiences that are starting to become popular with non-surfers as well.
Founded in 2009, Rise Up Surf Retreat has taken travelers to unexpected places in search of more than the next big wave. Offering all-inclusive surf and yoga retreats in surprising, yet unexpected destinations, the offering has had a profound impact on local communities and guests exploring this culturally rich and naturally beautiful destination for the first time. I’m here.
From the beaches of Guatemala and Nicaragua Costa Rican beach town and Caribbean islands Like Barbados, Rise Up is transforming the surf retreat experience.
When you think of a surf retreat, you might think of rattling surf bros sleeping on the beach, but Rise Up isn’t far from that image. No grunge here. Travelers want luxury, Eco-friendly accommodationpersonalized attention and one-on-one support from talented surf coaches.
It’s an experience that even non-surfers can enjoy. A recent California-based traveler said: Considering how easy it was for us as guests, a lot of effort must have gone into making it this comfortable, enjoyable, relaxing, central and memorable . ”
next travel trend
The surf element of Rise Up Retreat is just the beginning. The company was ahead of the curve in its focus on wellness programs and has long been an integral part of its mission. That’s one of the reasons why it’s popular with surf beginners.
Wellness-focused travel has become one of the big travel trends for 2023. American Express Global Travel Trends Report By 2023, 57% of U.S. travelers were found to be planning to take an extended wellness-focused vacation this year alone, whether it’s a yoga retreat, new wellness activity, or something in between.
If you haven’t traveled like a surfer yet, now might be the time to start.
Whether travelers are actively trying to incorporate surfing into their itineraries or simply relying on surfers for informed recommendations on cool new spots, this trend shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon.
This article was created by explorers are away Syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
Carly Rojas Avila is an avid traveler, writer and creator. Headquartered in Havana. Having traveled to 25 countries and lived abroad for years, she makes travelers and digital nomads feel at home when traveling off the beaten track, whether in Havana or elsewhere. We share destination guides, travel tips, hacks and so on.
