Picture this: your surfboard perched atop your car, the smell of salt in the air, and the rhythmic hum of the ocean calling you. Your vehicle is more than just a ride; it’s a faithful companion on your quest for the perfect wave. It’s where you stash your gear, change into your wetsuit, and maybe even catch a few Z’s after a long day on the water. Finding that perfect surf-mobile isn’t just about wheels and engines—it’s about capturing the spirit of freedom and adventure. Join us as we unveil the top best cars for surfers in 2024, each one uniquely suited to enhance your surfing lifestyle, making every trip to the beach a seamless blend of utility and joy. Dive in and discover which ride will become your ultimate surf partner.
#1 Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is the quintessential choice for surfers who need a versatile, reliable vehicle that can handle both the beach and everyday life. Its rugged build and spacious interior make it perfect for transporting surfboards and other gear. The standard roof racks are a lifesaver, allowing you to effortlessly secure your boards on top. Additionally, the Outback’s all-wheel-drive system ensures that you can navigate sandy paths and rough terrains without a hitch. With features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and ample cargo space, it’s designed to cater to both your adventurous and practical needs.
But what really sets the Subaru Outback apart is its clever design. The not-too-tall dimensions make accessing the roof rack easy, which is a big plus when you’re dealing with heavy surfboards. Inside, the car offers a comfortable and roomy cabin with high-tech features that make every trip enjoyable. Whether you’re heading out for a dawn patrol or a weekend getaway, the Outback is more than capable of keeping up with your lifestyle. Its combination of practicality and adventure makes it a top contender for surfers looking for a reliable ride.
#2 Ford Flex
The Ford Flex might not be the first vehicle that comes to mind for surfers, but its unique design and functionality make it a surprisingly great choice. Its boxy shape and flat-folding seats provide plenty of room for surfboards and other large items. The long roof is perfect for attaching roof racks, making it easy to transport your boards to and from the beach. Inside, the Flex boasts a spacious cabin area, complete with a great audio system, allowing you to chill and unwind after a long day on the waves.
One of the standout features of the Ford Flex is its combination of style and practicality. Although it looks like a minivan, it behaves more like a wagon, offering the best of both worlds. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient option, its powerful V6 engine ensures that you have all the power you need for your beach adventures. The Ford Flex truly embraces the surfer lifestyle, providing a roomy and comfortable ride that can handle all your gear with ease.
#3 Subaru Crosstrek
For surfers seeking a rugged yet reliable vehicle, the Subaru Crosstrek is a top contender among the best cars for surfers. This car is renowned for its off-road capabilities, making it perfect for those remote surf spots that are hard to reach. The Crosstrek comes with standard roof racks, which are essential for transporting your surfboards. Its all-wheel-drive system and elevated ground clearance mean that sandy or dirt tracks are no match for this versatile vehicle. The interior is spacious enough to accommodate all your gear, ensuring that nothing holds you back from catching the perfect wave.
What makes the Subaru Crosstrek particularly appealing is its affordability combined with a wealth of features. From its eco-friendly nature to its hi-tech comforts like a Wi-Fi hotspot, the Crosstrek offers a balanced mix of utility and convenience. It’s a reliable ride that won’t break the bank, making it a favored choice among wave chasers. The Crosstrek’s reputation for reliability and its practical design make it a smart pick for surfers who need a vehicle that can keep up with their adventurous lifestyle.
#4 Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is a versatile and reliable option for surfers who need a vehicle that can handle both urban commutes and beach trips. This compact SUV is renowned for its reliability, ensuring that you won’t be left stranded on your way to the perfect wave. The RAV4’s rack-ready roof is a major plus, making it easy to transport surfboards. Its economical nature is another advantage, with a fuel-efficient engine that makes long trips to surf spots more affordable. The RAV4 is also equipped with multi-terrain drive modes, allowing you to tackle different types of terrain with ease.
Inside, the Toyota RAV4 offers a comfortable and modern cabin with all the necessary features to keep you connected and entertained. The navigation system, while sometimes a bit confusing, provides valuable assistance for finding the best surf spots. The RAV4’s blend of versatility, convenience, and power makes it a great choice for surfers looking for a reliable and efficient vehicle that can handle all their surfing needs.
#5 Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is an iconic choice for surfers who crave off-road adventures. Known for its rugged capabilities, the Wrangler can tackle sandy beaches and rocky paths with ease. Its rooftop storage options are perfect for surfboards, and the vehicle’s overall durability ensures that it can withstand the elements. The Wrangler is available in a plug-in hybrid version, which is great for eco-conscious surfers who want to reduce their environmental impact while still enjoying powerful performance.
The interior of the Jeep Wrangler is designed with adventure in mind, offering practical features and a comfortable ride. The high ground clearance and robust build make it ideal for reaching those hard-to-access surf spots. Whether you’re navigating through dunes or cruising along the coastline, the Wrangler provides a dependable and thrilling driving experience. Its blend of ruggedness and modern technology makes it a standout choice for surfers who need a vehicle that can keep up with their adventurous spirit.
#6 Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas stands out as one of the best cars for surfers, offering an impressive amount of space and comfort. VW’s largest SUV boasts a massive interior that can easily accommodate surfboards, and the flat-style crossbars on the roof provide a secure solution for transporting larger boards. The Atlas’s versatile design ensures that you have plenty of room for all your surfing gear, making it an excellent choice for those long trips to the beach.
What sets the Volkswagen Atlas apart is its combination of space and convenience. The back seats can be flipped down to create a cavernous cargo area, perfect for stowing your surfboards and other equipment. Inside, the Atlas offers a comfortable and modern environment, with plenty of tech features to keep you connected on the go. Its surf-friendly features and commitment to adventure make the Atlas a top choice for surfers who need a spacious and reliable vehicle.
#7 Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna redefines the concept of a minivan, blending practicality with adventure. This vehicle is perfect for surfers who also have family commitments, offering ample space for both passengers and surfboards. The Sienna’s versatile design allows you to drop the kids off at school and head straight to the beach with your board. Shortboards can fit inside with the seats dropped, while longboards can be secured on the roof crossbars.
The Toyota Sienna also comes with available all-wheel drive and a hybrid powertrain, making it an eco-friendly option for surf-loving families. Its spacious interior and practical features ensure that you have everything you need for a day at the beach. The Sienna proves that you don’t have to compromise on adventure just because you have a family. It’s a versatile and reliable choice for surfers who need a vehicle that can handle both their family and their passion for surfing.
#8 Honda Pilot
The Honda Pilot might not be the first car that comes to mind for surfers, but its spacious interior and reliable performance make it a hidden gem. With three rows of seats, the Pilot offers plenty of room for surfboards, whether stowed inside with the back rows folded down or mounted securely on the roof rack. Its V6 engine provides ample power for venturing off the beaten path, and the intelligent all-wheel-drive system ensures you have the traction needed for sandy or slippery terrains.
Inside, the Honda Pilot is equipped with modern tech features that enhance both comfort and convenience. Its spacious cabin is perfect for stretching out after a long day of surfing, and the Pilot’s reputation for reliability means you can trust it to get you to the beach and back without any issues. It’s a practical and dependable choice for surfers who need a vehicle that can handle their gear and provide a comfortable ride.
