The beautiful Lofoten Islands with its dramatic landscapes, soaring peaks, uncrowded waves, pristine nature and (if you’re lucky) the mesmerising Northern Lights takes a surfing experience to another level. To surf in Norway is proper bucket list vibes.
So we’re stoked to announce that you can now experience this exciting coldwater adventure too at the world’s most northerly surf camp. Unstad Arctic Surf, has launched a Women’s Surf Camp for 8-15 March 2026.
Norway isn’t a ‘wing-it’ kind of trip – it requires preparation, so to have the opportunity to go surfing at this Arctic surf camp with like-minded women is an opportunity not to be missed. If you’re up for the challenge of it, pack your thickest clothes, a sense of adventure, and prepare for the surf trip of a lifetime.
We asked the team at Ustad Arctic Surf, what to expect;
What’s the most surprising thing people discover about Lofoten once they arrive?
Most people are blown away by the scenery and the raw beauty of nature here. Another surprise is how warm the water actually feels once you’re in it!
What makes Unstad Bay and Lofoten such a special place for cold-water surfing?
Unstad Bay offers consistent, high-quality waves, with a variety of surf spots all in the same area; lefts, rights, and beach breaks. It’s a playground for every level of surfer, surrounded by dramatic Arctic landscapes.
What are the typical land and sea temperatures during the time of the camp?
On land, temperatures are usually between –5°C and 0°C, while the sea stays around 8–10°C. Surprisingly manageable with the right gear.
How do you prepare people for surfing in the cold? Are there any fitness or surfing prerequisites?
It often looks colder than it feels — the snowy mountains can be misleading! With proper gear and a good routine, it’s all about spending as much time in the water as possible and keeping transitions in and out of the water smooth. A dry wetsuit helps ensure a warm start. The camp is designed for beginners to intermediate surfers, so as long as you’re curious and ready to have fun, you’ll fit right in.
Post-surf, what facilities are provided to recover from the cold?
We’ve got everything you need to warm up and relax! Including a jacuzzi and sauna, both at the Beach House and at our camp.
What do you suggest people should pack, beyond surfing gear?
We provide all surf essentials: wetsuits, booties, gloves, and boards. You’ll just need to bring your own swimsuit or bikini for sauna and jacuzzi sessions, plus outdoor winter clothes and thermal base layers. A more detailed packing list is available on our website, unstadarcticsurf.com.
How remote are the islands, and how do people get there?
Even though we’re far up north, getting here is easier than most expect! From Oslo (OSL), you can fly to Bodø (BOO) with SAS, Norwegian, or Widerøe, and then continue from Bodø to Leknes (LKN) with Widerøe. We’re just a 20-minute drive from Leknes Airport, and we offer airport pickup and drop-off within set time windows.
Do most participants find the cold challenging or empowering by the end of the week?
At first, the cold can feel challenging — but by the end, most find it empowering. There’s something special about realizing you can surf no matter the weather or temperature. It gives you a whole new appreciation for surfing in warmer conditions!
What do you hope women take away from the experience?
We hope they leave with a sense of confidence, resilience, and a new perspective. Not just on cold-water surfing, but on surfing and themselves as a whole.
/ Tyra & the UAS Crew
Don’t miss out on the trip of a lifetime, check this link for all the information on the Women’s Surf Camp 8-15 March 2026
