Surfing in Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) is a beloved community mode that’s been around since the days of CS 1.6. In 2025, it’s more popular than ever, thanks to Workshop maps and custom servers. If you want to relax, master movement mechanics, or challenge your reflexes, surf maps offer a unique way to enjoy CS2 beyond competitive matches.
Highlights
- The most popular maps for surfing in CS2 in 2025
- How to play on community servers in 2025
- The Best Maps from the Workshop for Surf
Contents
- 1 Top CS2 Surf Maps in 2025: From Beginner to Expert
- 2 surf_beginner
- 3 surf_utopia_njv
- 4 surf_kitsune
- 5 surf_mesa
- 6 surf_ace
- 7 surf_boreas
- 8 How to Join CS2 Surf Servers (Step-by-Step)
- 9 Using CS2 Servers and Workshop Maps
- 10 Xplay.gg Surf Servers Review
- 11 How to Surf in CS2 (Beginner Controls & Tips)
- 12 Basic Controls for Surfing
- 13 Beginner Tips for Learning to Surf
- 14 1. Start with Beginner Maps
- 15 2. Use Workshop or Private Servers
- 16 3. Focus on Control, Not Speed
- 17 4. Watch Surf Streamers or YouTubers
- 18 CS2 Surf FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
- 19 What is Surfing in CS2?
- 20 How do I Surf in CS2?
- 21 How do I Get Started Surfing in CS2?
Top CS2 Surf Maps in 2025: From Beginner to Expert
The Blix team has created for you a selection of the best maps that vary in difficulty level – read the description carefully before you start playing the map:
| Name | Difficulty |
|---|---|
| surf_beginner | Easy |
| surf_utopia_njv | Easy / Medium |
| surf_kitsune | Medium |
| surf_mesa | Medium |
| surf_ace | Hard |
| surf_boreas | Expert |
We also have helpful articles on CS2, such as “How to Play 1v1 in CS2,” to help you set up a private server.
surf_beginner
- Map: surf_beginner
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: Map for mastering basic skills with an uncomplicated trail
- Popularity: Highly popular, often mentioned in the top best surf maps
Download link.
Surf_Beginner is the best surf map in CS2 for beginner surfers. Here, you can learn the basic mechanics of movement and overcoming obstacles. The map’s color is neutral, so the player will not be distracted from learning the basics of surfing. If you are starting to learn surfing and do not know where to start, we recommend you look at our CS2 Surfing Guide: Tips and Tricks.
surf_utopia_njv
- Map: surf_utopia_njv
- Difficulty: Easy/ Medium
- Features: A mix of easy and difficult elements
- Popularity: Highly popular, often mentioned in the top best surf maps
Download link.
Surf_Utopia_NJV is a top surf map in the CS2 community. It is well-balanced and caters to both beginner and experienced surfers. The map features a mix of smooth and challenging sections, allowing players to practice various surfing techniques.
Surf_Utopia_NJV is known for its diverse surf paths, which make each run an exciting and dynamic experience. Whether you’re just starting or are a seasoned surfer, this map offers something for everyone.
surf_kitsune
- Map: surf_kitsune
- Difficulty: Medium level
- Features: Japanese theme, abstract and neon
- Popularity: Highly popular, often mentioned in the top best surf maps
Download link
Surf_Kitsune—This map is interesting and challenging in terms of surfing and pleases players with its unique style. The map is made with a Japanese theme, unique architecture, and the main symbol of Japan, the sakura.
Surf_Kitsune is captivating with its unique style, complex tracks, and steep turns, so the player must make a lot of effort to pass it.
In surf_kitsune, you’ll face nine levels connected by portals that take you to more difficult sections. Most maps are relatively easy, but the final stage is tricky for beginners, so the map is of medium difficulty.
Let’s reveal a secret: to pass the final stage, you must know the layout perfectly and perform all the actions flawlessly.
surf_mesa
- Map: surf_mesa
- Difficulty: Medium level
- Features: Neon lights and flashes, beautiful map design, dungeon theme
- Popularity: Highly popular, often mentioned in the top best surf maps
Download link
surf_mesa is an underground mine-themed surf map where players glide across glowing tiles in a cavernous mine, illuminated by glowing crystals and lightning flashes.
The difficulty of surf_mesa lies in the lack of stages. Unlike other maps where progress is saved at checkpoints, failing at any point on this map means you’ll start all over again. This can be frustrating, but it also excites those looking for a more challenging test of their surfing skills.
surf_ace
- Map: surf_ace
- Difficulty: Hard level
- Features: A dungeon with bulbs that glow with warm light and many challenging obstacles
- Popularity: The map is very often mentioned in recommendations among players, so it is very popular
Download link
Surf_Ace is a highly popular and challenging surf map in CS2. It is renowned for its intricate and demanding surf paths that require exceptional precision and control.
The map emphasizes advanced movement techniques such as strafing, bunny hopping, and air strafing. Surf_Ace is designed to push experienced surfers to their limits and offers a satisfying and thrilling experience for those seeking the ultimate surfing challenge.
surf_boreas
- Map: surf_boreas
- Difficulty: Expert
- Features: Winter design, cold, ice and icicles, complex ramps
- Popularity: Highly popular, often mentioned in the top best surf maps
Download link
This map is suitable for surfing experts because it is more challenging than other maps, with difficult ramps and steep turns. It also has a marvelous winter atmosphere. Beginners should not go here – on this map, it is better to improve your skills than to start getting them. Other cool maps we’ve covered in our Best CS2 Workshop Maps article.
How to Join CS2 Surf Servers (Step-by-Step)
Using CS2 Servers and Workshop Maps
Locating and joining the surfing community servers in CS2 is simple. Below is a step-by-step guide.
Step-by-Step:
- Launch Counter-Strike 2.
- Click the “Play” button in the main menu.
- Select the globe icon for community servers.
- Wait for the list to populate, then filter using “surf” in the search bar.
- Choose a server, double-click to join, and start surfing!
You can use the maps we’ve listed above. To do so, go to Steam Workshop and search for maps by search or add the CS2 filter and type surf in the search bar.
Subscribe to the maps you like best, then launch CS2 and select “Workshop Maps” from the drop-down menu.
Before attempting a level, paste the commands in the source section to ensure they are implemented.
If you want to learn how to play CS2 or improve your skills, we recommend some worth considering. Read the article “What Are The Best CS2 Streamers For Learning?“
Xplay.gg Surf Servers Review
The xplay.gg platform have servers set up expressly for surfing.
- Choose the server that is geographically closest to you to get smoother gameplay. You need a lower ping.
- You will have a better experience if you are not alone on the server, so choose servers with more players. However, you can look for a less crowded server if you want privacy.
- Many surfing servers offer unique features that enhance gameplay, such as leaderboards, stats, a timer, and more. Please take advantage of them to structure your experience.
You can choose any map you want from the list in the Surf section and start learning or just having fun for fun. At xplay.gg, you can search for an IP address to copy and paste directly into your game console.
You can find other tips regarding this mode in CS2 on Reddit:
How to Surf in CS2 (Beginner Controls & Tips)
To surf properly, you’ll need to unlearn some of the usual FPS habits:
Surfing in Counter-Strike 2 is one of the most unique and rewarding mechanics the game has to offer. Instead of shooting or planting bombs, you’ll glide along angled ramps to test your movement precision, speed, and reflexes. Here’s everything you need to know to get started:
Basic Controls for Surfing
To surf properly, you’ll need to unlearn some of the usual FPS habits:
| Action | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Jump onto the ramp | Start by jumping from a platform onto the slanted surface. |
| Don’t press W | Avoid pressing the forward key. It will slow you down or push you off the ramp. |
| Hold A or D | If you’re on the right side of the ramp, hold A. If you’re on the left, hold D. |
| Move your mouse | Steer by moving your mouse in the direction you want to go. Look ahead and stay smooth. |
| Strafe smoothly | Your goal is to glide—not jerk—so keep movements fluid and consistent. |
TL;DR: Jump → Don’t press W → Hold A or D (depending on side) → Steer with mouse.
Beginner Tips for Learning to Surf
1. Start with Beginner Maps
Maps like surf_beginner or surf_utopia_njv are made specifically for newcomers. They feature wide ramps, forgiving paths, and clear layouts to help you learn the flow of surfing.
2. Use Workshop or Private Servers
Practicing on a private server with no pressure is ideal. Use commands like:sv_cheats, god, noclip.
These allow you to fly, reset quickly, or bypass frustrating sections.
3. Focus on Control, Not Speed
Don’t worry about finishing fast—just concentrate on staying on the ramp and reaching the next platform.
4. Watch Surf Streamers or YouTubers
Seeing how experienced surfers approach difficult turns and transitions will help you improve much faster.
CS2 Surf FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
What is Surfing in CS2?
Surfing in Counter-Strike 2 is a unique game mode that differs from traditional first-person shooter mechanics. Instead of focusing on combat, players navigate custom maps by sliding on inclined surfaces (ramps). In doing so, they control their movement and speed to reach specific objectives or areas of the map.
How do I Surf in CS2?
Leap onto the ramp and hit the jump button, then gaze toward the direction you wish to surf. Press A or D based on which side of the ramp you’re on, and continue moving forward.
How do I Get Started Surfing in CS2?
To surf in CS2, you must find the correct servers or maps. Normal matchmaking will not work for this.
