“Freedom and Happiness”: Surfing’s Core Spirit Finds a Special Place in China’s Heart

Surfing is an international sport, not to mention a favorite pastime for people. There are popular surfing destinations in each and every corner of the world. Be it the United States of America, Hawaii, Brazil, Portugal, or Australia, the entire world has spots dedicated to surfing. Even cold places like Scotland have not been a deterrent for those who want to surf. But China’s name has never been in the mix. Until now.

China had to catch the surfing bug one day or the other. Turns out, that day has finally come. China is in the throes of a major surfing boom, and we are here to point out exactly how and why it happened. And of course, what are some of the places one can visit in China if one wants to catch good waves?

China climbs aboard the surf bus

According to ABC17 news, A long time ago, almost a decade back, then 19 years old Zhang Chao decided to quit school and take a break year. During his gap year, he volunteered at a surf shop in China’s Hainan province. Cut to the present, Chao is the proud owner of three Chinese surf brands — Shaka Surf Club, Goofydog Surf Shop, and Tempo Restaurant and Bar. Chao says, “I really liked surfing and I never went back to school.”

Zhang Chao captured the essence of surfing beautifully, saying, “Surfing is about freedom and happiness — and that is what younger generations nowadays are looking for as well. That’s why surfing has become a more and more popular activity for these younger generations.” Tina Tang, who is a photographer and a yoga practitioner, also agrees with this notion. She adds, “Surfing gives you a sense of freedom because we are always looking at our smartphones and always sitting in the office so our mind is always occupied. So you just bring your surfboard and go to the ocean and you can forget about anything.”

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Zhang Chao is not the only one who got bit by the surf bug. More and more Chinese are pivoting to surfing. According to the surfer, “Surfing has been a rising trend in China over the last two years. It’s partly because of the efforts surfers and surf clubs like us have been putting into the scene for the last decade. But it’s also because of the pandemic.” As outdoor activities were preferred during the COVID time, people started turning to catch some waves in the oceans instead of being cooped up in their homes. But where do these people go surfing?

Popular surfing destinations in China

The most popular surfing spot in China would probably be Riyue Bay, which translates to Sun and Moon Bay. It is located 80 kilometers from the tourist hotspot of Sanya, and is popular amongst local as well as foreign surfers. One of the unique selling points of Riyue Bay is that the water is warm throughout the year, in addition to having good waves consistently.

Huizhou’s Shuangyue Bay has also become a popular spot. Tang revealed, “People always come here for nice seafood or marine culture, also surfing now — it’s pretty new.” Shuangyue Bay is crescent-shaped and spans over eight kilometers. Not only is it a good spot to catch some waves, but it also has water sports and other adventures to indulge in. Nanyan Bay, which is about 30 minutes north of Riyue Bay, is also a favorite spot for Zhang Chao when it comes to longboard surfing. Liu’ao, Fujian, or the L.A. of China, is also a great place if one is looking for a quaint spot surrounded by nature.

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