Whether you’re dreaming of lounging in a lush beachfront villa or seeking the connection of a laid-back, female-only surf retreat, we’ve got you covered. Our carefully curated guide invites you to explore the best longhaul wave destinations, showcasing everything from the luxurious charm of California’s coastline to the vibrant surf scene of Mentawai.
Our Top 3 Picks for Luxury Surf Stays
Exclusive island life, chic beach houses and eco-resorts nudging some of the world’s most famous breaks… These luxury surf stays are for surfers who want to combine first-class comfort with world-class waves for all abilities.
Paradis Plage
Morocco
Luxury Surf Stays
Paradis Plage
Morocco
Just three hours’ flight from Europe’s capitals, Paradis Plage is the first independent eco-resort in Morocco to combine surf, yoga, fitness and spa facilities. Ideally located between the legendary surfing village of Taghazout, its emblematic Anchor Point, and a dozen other world-class point breaks such as Killer Point and Boilers, Paradis Plage has created a unique surfing experience, designed to make learning easier and accelerate progress.This unique, progressive experience is thanks to specific coaching programmes, a fitness centre that opens onto the beach, yoga classes in a shala lulled by the sound of the waves, a natural spa and an exclusive partnership with Rip Curl, guaranteeing top-quality coaching and equipment at the surf school. A true invitation to an inner journey and well-being for body and mind, it’s an authentic and rare place, with its local culture, activities and excursions for the whole family. Indulge in healthy, local cuisine, warm and friendly service, and suites equipped with kitchens and terraces with views.
The Surfrider Malibu
California
Luxury Surf Stays
The Surfrider Malibu
California
Located on the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, The Surfrider is a 20-room coastal California beach house, first built in 1953 as a motor lodge. Treasured as a favourite hangout for surfers through the 1960’s and 70’s, the intimate hotel draws inspiration from Malibu’s landscape and surf culture heritage, located just across from the world-famous Surfrider beach. Guests enjoy a home-away-from-home experience at an authentic and bespoke retreat, paired with incredible amenities like a guest-only restaurant, rooftop deck with a bar and fire pit, in-room massages, and an array of beach amenities, including surfboards, paddleboards, umbrellas, picnics, and more. For those seeking the intimacy of a private coastal getaway, the guest-only boutique hotel offers a limited number of buyouts per year. The rooftop decking overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean is an ideal backdrop for brand activations, photoshoots, corporate retreats, and cocktail parties, as well as bespoke dining experiences, including wedding receptions.
Awera Resort
Mentawai
Luxury Surf Stays
Awera Resort
Mentawai
Awera Resort, located on Awera Island in the Mentawai Islands, Indonesia, is a luxurious eco-retreat in one of the world’s most stunning tropical destinations. Known for its natural beauty, the resort offers guests a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. While the Mentawai Islands are famous for world-class surfing, Awera Resort caters to all travellers, providing easy access to surf spots like Pitstops and Beng Bengs, as well as lessons and guided trips for beginners. The resort features elegant beachfront bungalows and villas, designed to blend with the surrounding nature. Each accommodation offers ocean or tropical garden views, creating an idyllic escape for relaxation. Beyond surfing, guests can enjoy snorkelling, diving, or fishing, exploring the rich marine life around the islands. Awera Resort also offers wellness activities such as yoga sessions and massages, along with opportunities to explore the local jungle. The on-site restaurant serves fresh, locally sourced cuisine, with a focus on both Indonesian and international dishes. Whether you’re a surfer seeking great waves or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, Awera Resort provides an exceptional island experience in the heart of the Mentawai Islands.
Travel Tips From The Team
A surf trip on the horizon is often filled with adventure planning, dreams of perfect waves, and an excited out-of-office telling the world there’s no emails out-back so not to expect a response until your return.
All of this excitement can be a little distracting. What about weight limitations, insurance, plug adapters, checking your passport is in date and vaccinations for far away places? Even if you’re a seasoned pro it’s easy to forget things when you’re planning a trip. So here’s some memos from team SurfGirl…
■ Paralysis by analysis
Don’t over forecast, this can change! Pack for all possible conditions and check the water temp; remember those sunrise and sunset sessions may be a little chiller.
■ Pack an ‘all-rounder’
Avoid the need to carry multiple boards, saving on airline fees, baggage space and the ‘too much choice’ deliberation. Take the board you know you’ll have the most fun on. That’s what it’s all about right?
■ Pad it out
Double your board bag as a suitcase. Pack clothes, wetsuits, and towels around the board to provide extra protection. We also like a bit of bubblewrap and some pipe insulation along the rails.
■ Insure everything
Read the small print and make sure you have surf-specific travel insurance. This needs to cover damaged or lost boards, medical emergencies, and even trip cancellations due to weather conditions. You won’t regret this if you see your board bouncing onto the luggage belt.
■ Research your airlines
Research airlines’ surfboard policies before booking flights. Some airlines allow boards for free or for a flat rate, while others charge exorbitant fees.
■ Take care and repair
Carry a portable ding repair kit and waterproof gaffer tape in case your board gets damaged.
■ Get ‘departure surf’ savvy
Leave as much time as possible to dry out your wetsuit, and if that’s not possible just remember that water carries weight.
■ Tag it
Often you’ll see people travelling with the same board bag as you. Tag yours with something that makes it easily identifiable. This is also handy if things ever end up in lost luggage.
■ Sunscreen
Enough said.
