Surfing is more than just a sport; it’s a lifestyle, a connection with nature, and an exhilarating adventure. The United States offers some of the best surfing destinations in the world, each with its unique charm and wave quality. From the warm waters of Hawaii to the chilly surf of the East Coast, there's a perfect wave waiting for every surfer.
However, while chasing the perfect wave, it's crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Wearing a UPF 50+ solar shirt is essential for surfers, as it provides vital protection against the sun’s rays, which are even more potent when reflected off the water. Below, check out our list of the Best Places to Surf in the U.S. and our array of UPF 50+ shirts for each destination!
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Why Surf Here: Folly Beach, known as the “Edge of America,” offers a laid-back surf vibe with consistent waves. The Washout is the most popular surf spot, known for its fast, hollow waves. It’s a great destination for surfers looking for a fun and friendly atmosphere. Folly is one of our favorite hometown beaches, so we had to add it to this list! From surf contests to weekend dawn patrol with the fam (and incredible places to eat after a beach day), we think Folly Beach is one of the best places to surf in the U.S.
Protect Your Skin: The reflective properties of the Atlantic Ocean's waters amplify UV exposure. Wearing a UPF 50+ solar shirt ensures your skin is protected from the sun, allowing you to focus on catching waves rather than worrying about sun damage.
Get our Folly Beach Coastal Classics shirts, Vintage Compass Shirts, and Can Coolers for your surf trip. We have Men's, Women's, and Kids' styles, so check them all out! SHOP THEM ALL NOW!
Oahu, Hawaii
Why Surf Here: Oahu, particularly the North Shore, is often referred to as the surfing capital of the world. With iconic breaks like Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach, Oahu offers waves for every level of surfer. Winter months bring massive swells, making it a playground for professional surfers and adrenaline seekers. It's easy to see why this is one of the best places to surf in the U.S.
Protect Your Skin: The Hawaiian sun is intense, and the UV rays are even more dangerous due to their reflection off the water. Wearing a UPF 50+ solar shirt helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage, allowing you to enjoy your surf sessions without worrying about your skin's health.
Get our Coastal Classics Oahu UPF 50+ Shirt for your whole crew! We have it in Men's, Women's and Kids' styles. SHOP ALL STYLES NOW!
Maui, Hawaii
Why Surf Here: Maui's diverse surf spots cater to beginners and experts alike. Honolua Bay offers some of the best right-hand point breaks, while Ho'okipa Beach is a windsurfing haven. The island’s consistent waves and beautiful scenery make it a must-visit for any surfer.
Protect Your Skin: Maui’s tropical climate means long hours in the sun. A UPF 50+ solar shirt provides continuous protection from UV rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer and ensuring you can surf longer without the discomfort of sunburn.
Get our Coastal Classics MAUI UPF 50+ Shirt for your whole crew! We have it in Men's, Women's and Kids' styles. SHOP ALL STYLES NOW!
San Diego, California
Why Surf Here: San Diego is renowned for its consistent waves, warm water, and vibrant surf culture. Spots like La Jolla Shores, Black’s Beach, and Swami’s offer a variety of waves, from gentle rollers perfect for beginners to powerful swells for seasoned surfers.
Protect Your Skin: The sun in Southern California can be relentless, and spending hours in the water increases your exposure to harmful UV rays. A UPF 50+ solar shirt shields your skin, allowing you to surf safely and comfortably.
Get our Coastal Classics SAN DIEGO UPF 50+ Shirt for your whole crew! We have it in Men's, Women's and Kids' styles. SHOP ALL STYLES NOW!
Santa Cruz, California
Why Surf Here: Santa Cruz, often called the birthplace of mainland surfing, offers legendary surf spots like Steamer Lane and Pleasure Point. The town’s surf culture is deeply rooted, with waves that cater to all skill levels.
Protect Your Skin: Northern California’s coastal sun can be deceptively strong, especially with the cool breeze masking its intensity. A UPF 50+ solar shirt provides essential protection against UV rays, keeping your skin safe while you enjoy the legendary waves.
Get our Coastal Classics SANTA CRUZ UPF 50+ Shirt for your whole crew! We have it in Men's, Women's and Kids' styles. SHOP ALL STYLES NOW!
Montauk, Long Island, New York
Why Surf Here: Montauk is the premier surf destination on the East Coast, offering powerful Atlantic swells and a vibrant surf community. Ditch Plains is a favorite spot, known for its long, peeling waves.
Protect Your Skin: The sun’s rays can be particularly harsh during the summer months. A UPF 50+ solar shirt is crucial for protecting your skin from UV damage, allowing you to enjoy long sessions in the water without the risk of sunburn.
Get our Coastal Classics MONTAUK UPF 50+ Shirt for your whole crew! We have it in Men's, Women's and Kids' styles. SHOP ALL STYLES NOW!
Cocoa Beach, Florida
Why Surf Here: Cocoa Beach is famous for being the hometown of surfing legend Kelly Slater and offers consistent waves year-round. The gentle beach breaks are perfect for beginners, while experienced surfers can find more challenging waves.
Protect Your Skin: Florida’s sunshine is intense, and the UV rays reflecting off the water add to the exposure. Wearing a UPF 50+ solar shirt provides critical protection, ensuring your skin stays safe and healthy while you surf.
Get our Coastal Classics COCOA BEACH UPF 50+ Shirt for your whole crew! We have it in Men's, Women's and Kids' styles. SHOP ALL STYLES NOW!
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Why Surf Here: The Outer Banks is a surfer’s paradise, with miles of unspoiled coastline and a variety of breaks. Spots like Cape Hatteras and Nags Head offer powerful, hollow waves that attract surfers from all over the country.
Protect Your Skin: The sun and wind combination in the Outer Banks can quickly lead to sunburn. A UPF 50+ solar shirt acts as a barrier against harmful UV rays, allowing you to surf the powerful Atlantic swells without damaging your skin.
Get our Coastal Classics OUTER BANKS UPF 50+ Shirt for your whole crew! We have it in Men's, Women's and Kids' styles. SHOP ALL STYLES NOW!
Surf & Après Surf
Surfing these incredible U.S. destinations offers unforgettable experiences and world-class waves. However, it’s essential to prioritize your skin’s health by wearing a UPF 50+ solar shirt. The sun’s rays, especially when reflected off the water, can cause significant harm. By protecting your skin with Altered Latitudes' UPF 50+ shirts, you can fully enjoy the thrill of surfing while ensuring your health and well-being.
Our Destination and Surfing-Themed Lifestyle Graphics and Trucker Hats are a great way to rep surfer vibes wherever you go! Check out all of our Surfing-Themed Graphics Now! Then get ready to grab your board, slip on that solar shirt, and hit the waves with confidence!
Check out all our Surfing-Themed Graphics
Check out all our Destination Graphics
Check out all our Lifestyle Graphics
