For those lucky enough to live near the coast, surfing is just part of the lifestyle. But for a lot of us, the learning to surf requires traveling to new locations.
If you’re a complete beginner, a surf camp could be the best intro to the surfing world. In this article, we’ll guide you through the many reasons why attending a surf camp is one of the best ways to start your surfing journey.
1. You’ll be taught to master the basics:
Have you ever watched a pro surfer at work and despaired that you could never move with such style? It’s easy to forget that even the most skilled surfers started exactly where you are now – as beginners. No one ever picked up a board and caught a barrel on their first go. One of the greatest advantages of learning at a surf camp is that you’ll receive expert coaching from instructors who specialise in teaching beginners. It doesn’t matter whether you’ve never touched a board before, they’ll be able to teach you the techniques that you need to get started. A huge benefit of learning to surf at a surf camp is that the instructors will pick up on any bad habits before they become part of your routine.
Photo: Chicks On Waves
2. You’ll get tons of practice time:
When you are at a surf camp you’ll be in the water every day, working on your skills with long, rewarding sessions. For beginners, catching as many waves as possible is key, it’s the only way that you will progress. You’ll find that by the end of your surf camp experience, your wave count will have skyrocketed – and believe me, there is nothing more satisfying than when it starts to click. You’ll leave the camp feeling more confident about your ability to surf independently, with a deeper understanding of wave dynamics, and knowledge that will help you continue progressing when you return home or motivate you to book your next surf trip.
3. All of the details are taken care of:
By booking through a surf camp, you’ve guaranteed yourself a holiday where the planning is done for you. From airport pick-ups and transfers to accommodation, surfboard rentals, daily coaching, and even meals in some cases, everything is included. This means you can relax and enjoy the experience, without having to worry about finding the best surf spots or figuring out how to get around. Most surf camps will sort every detail, so all you need to think about is meeting fellow surfers and having an amazing time!
Photo: Surf Spirit
4. It’s cost effective:
If you’ve ever tried to travel with all of your surf gear, you’ll know that it can sometimes be a challenge, not to mention expensive! For some people this is the best option, but for beginners dealing with all of the equipment logistics can be an expense that you don’t need. When you book everything separately there is a lot to consider – accommodation, surfboard and wetsuit hire, travel to the surf spots, surf lessons, meals – so the costs quickly add up. With a surf camp, all these elements are rolled into a package, so there are no hidden fees to worry about. And the best part? Whether you’re looking for a luxurious villa to unwind in after a long day of surfing, or a more budget-friendly hostel to meet new friends, there’s a surf camp for every kind of traveller.
Photo: Amayour Surf & Yoga
5. You will meet amazing people!
Surf camps welcome people from all over the world, so you’ll find yourself surrounded by fellow surfers who are all there for the same reason: to improve their skills and enjoy the waves, meaning there is already an amazing bond! Most surf camps also offer cultural activities, excursions, and social events. Whether you’re exploring the local area, experiencing new cultures, or having a meal after a surf session, you’ll build lasting friendships with people who share your passion for the ocean. By the end of the trip, we bet you will come away with friends for life – maybe even planning your next surf adventure together!
How do you know which surf camp to choose?
With surf camps scattered across the globe, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re booking your first surf holiday.
So, how do you know which surf camp is the best for you? We’ve made it easier by curating a guide of top surf camps and locations that offer unforgettable surf adventures. To help you get started, check out our 2025 Surf Travel Hot List – a handpicked selection of surf destinations that the SurfGirl team is currently loving. Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, expert coaching, or an exciting social scene, these destinations have it all.
