Discover the most underrated surf season and plan your ultimate fall surf road trip with FARO gear.
For surfers, fall is the magical middle ground between summer’s playful beach breaks and winter’s powerful north swells. The water is still warm enough to leave the 5mm wetsuit at home, the weather is crisp and refreshing, and—best of all—the crowds thin out as tourists return home and kids head back to school.
Autumn also marks the arrival of early-season swells from both hemispheres, making it one of the best times of the year to hit the road in search of waves. Whether you’re looking for iconic highways lined with surf towns or rugged coastal wilderness with empty lineups, there’s a fall surf road trip for you.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best surf road trips for fall, plus pro tips for packing, camping, and protecting your boards with FARO surf travel gear.
Big Surf to San Francisco: The Ultimate Highway 1 Surf Road Trip
There’s no better way to embrace fall surf travel than cruising California’s legendary Highway 1. This road trip winds along dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and golden beaches, with world-class surf spots sprinkled throughout.
Start in Big Sur, where towering redwoods meet rugged coastline. If you’re lucky enough to catch a swell while camping here, it’s the kind of session you’ll remember forever. Head north to Santa Cruz, home to a vibrant surf culture and iconic waves like Steamer Lane.
As you approach San Francisco, explore lesser-known spots along the way. While Ocean Beach is renowned for heavy beach break barrels, fall is also the perfect time to find sheltered peaks outside the city.
FARO Pro Tip: Travel with your boards on the roof and save space inside for a minimalist surf-camping setup. Use FARO Board Bags for maximum protection and understated style on the road.
Northern Oregon to the Olympic Peninsula: Wild and Rugged
If you’re looking for adventure and solitude, the Pacific Northwest delivers. Northern Oregon offers a mix of sheltered coves and long sandy beach breaks that light up in fall. As you head north, Southern Washington’s coastline has reliable sandbars that come alive with early-season swells.
Cross into the Olympic Peninsula for true wilderness. Some surf spots require miles of hiking through old-growth forests, but the reward is empty lineups and surreal views.
Be prepared for rain, fog, and wildlife encounters. In these conditions, high-quality gear isn’t optional—it’s essential.
FARO Pro Tip: Keep your essentials dry and organized in the FARO Dry Bag—perfect for ferry rides, beach hikes, and unpredictable weather.
Vancouver Island: Cold-Water Paradise
Vancouver Island is as raw as it gets. Stretching for hundreds of miles, it’s filled with misty forests, pristine beaches, and some of Canada’s best surf. Beach camping here means sharing space with grizzly bears, wolves, and eagles, so be prepared for an off-the-grid experience.
Tofino is the heart of the surf scene, offering waves for all levels and a welcoming community. But those willing to explore can find remote peaks and near-empty lineups further afield.
FARO Pro Tip: Pack your wax, fins, and bear spray in a FARO Fin Wallet to keep everything organized and protected during your adventure.
Cape Cod to Nova Scotia: East Coast Autumn Magic
Fall is when the East Coast shines. Hurricane season sends powerful swells to New England’s beaches, while winter storms from Canada begin to stir. Start your journey on Massachusetts’ Cape Cod, working your way up through New Hampshire and Maine.
Feast on lobster rolls between sessions, and explore Maine’s rocky points before heading across the border to Nova Scotia. There, world-class waves peel along windswept coasts in near solitude.
FARO Pro Tip: Waves come and go fast here. On flat days, explore quaint fishing towns with your FARO Canvas Tote to keep essentials at hand.
Kitty Hawk to Cape Hatteras: Outer Banks Bliss
The Outer Banks are a surfer’s dream. Stretching far into the Atlantic, these barrier islands intercept swells that would otherwise miss much of the East Coast. In fall, hurricane swells and early winter storms turn this stretch of coastline into a playground for barrel hunters.
Drive along Highway 12 from Kitty Hawk to Cape Hatteras, stopping at secluded beach breaks along the way. A 4x4 and beach permit will let you access peaks others can’t reach.
FARO Pro Tip: Protect your quiver on bumpy beach drives with FARO Surfboard Socks—lightweight yet durable for rugged surf travel.
Why Fall Surf Travel Rocks
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Less Crowded: Summer tourists are gone, leaving you with open roads and quiet lineups.
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Best of Both Worlds: Early-season north swells combine with lingering summer warmth.
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Scenic Drives: Fall colors make road trips even more breathtaking.
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Surf-Camping Ready: Crisp evenings are perfect for campfires and stargazing.
With FARO surf travel gear, you’re equipped for the journey—whether it’s a quick weekend trip or a month-long coastal mission.
