Surfing in Liberia

Liberia is a country located in West Africa and it’s known for being a nation formed by African American slaves that returned to Africa in the early 19h century. The country has a big concentration of high quality left hander point breaks, some of them still virgin. The reason why Liberia remained out of the radar for so long is due to a long and brutal civil war that ravaged the nation for 14 years until it ended in 2003. Nowadays, Liberia is in peace and since the scotish humanitarian, Scotsman Magnus Wolfe Murray, reached the legendary waves of Robertspot, the country's status among the international surf community changed from warzone to surfing paradise. Even though surfing in Liberia is not a secret, just a few boldy surfers venture themselves on the miles of unspoiled sandy beaches and crystal clear water that produces perfect barrels along the liberian coast. The civil war is over but the side effects still left a scar in the west african state. But with a vast number of surf spots, warm water and friendly locals is just a matter of time until Liberia becomes one of the top surf destinations in Africa. 

Climate in Liberia

The climate in Liberia is tropical with hot and humid weather throughout the year. The country has a rainy season from May to October due to the African monsoon, but still experiences constant rains in the other months, except in the dry season that goes from December to February. During this time of the year the weather is hot and the Harmattan wind, which blows in from the Sahara Desert can cause some sandstorms in the country. The best time to surf in Liberia is between May to October. The most consistent  months are from April to August. This is when perfect barreling left-handers receive long-range southern hemisphere south swells creating epic surf conditions.

Best surf spots in Liberia

The best waves in Liberia are located on a short stretch of southwest-facing coast. The best surf spots are Bernard Beach, Cassava, Coopers Beach, Cotton Trees, Dorothy’s, Fishermans Point, Homco Beach, Mamba Beach and Tropicana.

Budget Planning

Meal price range

Simple meals start at $4 USD. Mid-range meals start at $8 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $80-100 USD

Equipment rental

There are a couple places where you can rent gear from. Boards start at $10 USD. 

Prepaid SIM cards

Lonestar is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from Lonestar stores and the airport. 

Prepaid packages start at $30 USD. 

Public transport

Public transportation in Liberia is limited.

Bush taxis go daily from Monrovia.

You can travel by private taxi in Monrovia for $5-7 USD. 

Motorbike taxis known as pen-pens are all over the streets of Monrovia and other cities.

There is no train service in Liberia.

Gas prices  

$0.75 USD a liter.  

Types of risks

Inconsistent in the summer. Very wet during the surf season. 

How to prepare

Visa

Citizens from very few countries are visa exempt. Most must obtain a visa in advance. Note: Yellow fever vaccination is required.

Vaccines

Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, yellow fever, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella. You’ll be asked to show proof of your yellow fever vaccination if you come from a country with a risk of yellow fever.

Things to know

Language & Currency

English is the official language.

Liberty dollar (L$), the US Dollar is also widely used/accepted. 

Best time to go

The best time to surf in Liberia is between May to October.

Checking Surf forecast 

Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here.

Do I need pack a pharmacy kit

You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.

Travel/Surf Insurance

World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.

Emergency

Dial 911.

Check surf pictures of Liberia at #surfliberia.