5 Great Destinations for Surfers to Teach English Abroad
One of the big attractions of teaching English abroad is the fact that you can choose your destination from dozens of great countries all over the world. Some people choose to go where the salaries are high or where the climate is warm year-round. However, if riding the waves is your big passion, you will not be disappointed as there are plenty of worldwide locations where you will find teaching opportunities and great surfing. Here are our top 5 places for surfers to teach English abroad.
1. Brazil
Brazil is our number 1 pick as it is famous around the world for its countless stunning beaches, year-round surfing options, and relaxed beach culture. As the largest country in Latin America with one of the world’s fastest growing economies, Brazil also has one of the healthiest markets for English language teachers in the region. Jobs can be found in all major towns and cities across the country, including many that are within easy reach of Brazil’s huge Atlantic coastline. One particularly popular destination among the surfing community is the city of Florianópolis, in the far south of the country, where you can enjoy year-round, consistent waves. In fact, there are around 60 beaches to choose from in this true surfers paradise!
Peak surfing season: May to September
Peak hiring seasons for teachers: February-March or July-August
Take a look at our 4-week in-class TEFL course in Brazil
2. Peru
Another great option for surfers who want to teach English in South America is Peru. Although much smaller and less developed than Brazil, Peru still has a rapidly developing economy that has fuelled a sharp rise in demand for ESL teachers in recent years. The majority of teaching positions can be found in Lima, the country’s bustling capital city. The up market district of Miraflores is where the main waves are located and crucially this area is only a 10 minute cab or 20 minute bus ride from the city center. There aren’t many other capital cities in the world where you can realistically catch a few waves during your lunch break! The surf is consistent year-round, but you will probably need a wetsuit for the majority of the time.
Peak surfing season: April to September
Peak hiring seasons for teachers: February-March or July-August
Take a look at our 4-week in-class TEFL course in Peru
3. Costa Rica
We head north into Central America for our number 3 pick – Costa Rica. This tropical paradise has been a firm favorite with ESL teachers for many years as there is a strong demand for their services, driven by an ever-growing tourism industry. The big bonus for surf loving teachers is the country’s duel coastline that offers quality waves on both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. On the Caribbean side you will find plenty of beach resorts offering a lively nightlife and stunning beaches, although the surf season is much shorter than that on the Pacific side of the country. On the west coast you will find a quieter way of life; however, there are still a good number of job opportunities to be found.
Peak surfing season: April to September
Peak hiring seasons for teachers: February-March or July-August
Take a look at our 4-week in-class TEFL course in Costa Rica
4. Thailand
Away from Latin America, Asia also offers some good options for surfing teachers. Thailand may not be world-famous for its waves, but it is well-known as a major destination for teaching English abroad. Jobs are widespread throughout the country, with several destinations on or close to the Andaman Sea or the Gulf of Thailand. In recent years, the holiday island of Phuket has become the main center of Thai surf culture due in part to its large expat community and a surge in popularity among local people. The island's stunning white sand beaches and warm clear waters also add to its wide appeal. Generally, the waves are on the smaller side, but conditions are perfect for beginners and those looking for year-round warm weather and plenty of nightlife.
Peak surfing season: April to September
Peak hiring seasons for teachers: All Year Round
Take a look at our 4-week in-class TEFL courses in Thailand
5. China
Our final pick might come as a surprise to some as China is not renowned for its beaches or surf culture. However, the subtropical island of Hainan in the far south of the country is a clear exception. You will find some teaching opportunities on the island itself, although it is most popular as a weekend escape for thousands of foreign teachers who live and work on China’s mainland. China has an insatiable demand for TEFL certified teachers who can earn very competitive salaries that allow them to work in any one of the dozens of major cities around the country and then comfortably enjoy their free time away from the classroom. Inexpensive flights and affordable accommodation make regular visits to this stunning oasis a must for many surf loving teachers in China.
Peak surfing season: August to March
Peak hiring seasons for teachers: All Year Round
Take a look at our 4-week in-class TEFL courses in China
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Are you ready to teach and surf across the world?
The above countries are just some of the many great options for TEFL certified teachers who can’t imagine being away from the waves for too long. Other great destinations that offer teaching jobs and great surfing include Chile, Indonesia, Mexico, Nicaragua, Portugal, and Vietnam.
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