Ever since the mesmerizing walls of Jeffreys Bay were spotted at a distance by South African surfing godfather John Whitmore, the spot has stirred fantasy and wanderlust like few other places on Earth had ever done. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

It’s difficult to imagine that a little more than 15 years ago this wave didn’t even exist. Before it became the perfect sandbar we see today, this was nothing but a deeply eroded inlet. No one knows how long this current cycle will last, but as long as waves like this churn out and over the hallowed sand at Skeleton Bay, surfers will put their belief in the unbelievable. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

With more setups than most countries on Earth and an enviable Old World lifestyle, Portugal is a must-visit for any traveling surfer. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

There aren’t many destinations that rattle a surfer’s heart like Indonesia. The mere mention of the archipelago has beginners and pros and every surfer between picturing themselves riding the perfect surf or reminiscing on unforgettable video parts or surreal photography, then making plans of going there for the first time, or returning very soon. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

If there is one continent that is synonymous with exotic surf travel, it’s Africa. With more undiscovered waves than any other region on Earth, and more adventure than you could ever handle, places like this West African wavescape pictured here promise an experience like no other. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

Since waves like Cloud 9 was made famous in the late 1990’s and early 2000’s, the Philippines have been relatively out of view for quite some time. Although the islands need typhoon swells for their waves to really get going, there are just as many setups as Indonesia strewn along the Philippines’ 22,549 miles of coastline. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

Offering one of the most consistent swell seasons in the world, how could any surfer not have Mexico on their surf travel wish lists? Add intense sunshine and good food and drink, and Mexico is a no-brainer. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

If you’re after some seriously fun waves in warm, tropical-blue water with good island vibes, Mozambique is the place for you. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

Famous for its spices, Bollywood and head bobble, India offers a diversity of experiences like nowhere else, not to mention waves of every shape, size and color, both on the mainland and around the outlying islands. Photo: Alan Van Gysen

With the second most endemic species of any country on the planet, the giant island nation of Madagascar is a strange and wonderful place that is sure to fascinate the most intrepid of travelers. Oh, and there are lot of waves that work year-round. Photo: Alan Van Gysen