Sabang Beach is where Philippine surfing began, and it remains the best wave in the country for consistent, learnable surf. The break works from October to March, when the northeast monsoon (amihan) pushes long swells onto the coast from the open Pacific. The waves are powerful enough for experienced surfers but not so heavy that beginners cannot take lessons in the white water.
The beach itself is a long dark-sand crescent backed by coconut palms and a strip of guesthouses, surf shops, and small restaurants. It is not the prettiest beach in the Philippines — the sand is volcanic dark grey — but the atmosphere is relaxed and the water clear. Board hire, wetsuits (the water is cool in the amihan season), and lessons are available from several operators along the beach road.