Surf Camp or Surf School? Your Guide to the Perfect Surfing Start

Want to learn how to surf but struggling to figure out where to start? This article dives into the pros and cons of a surf camp, surf school and more.

Dreaming of catching waves and just started researching your very first surf trip? You’ve likely come across terms like surf camp, surf school, surf hostel or surf house. But which option is right for you? As a beginner, navigating these choices can feel overwhelming – and that’s completely normal!

Surfing is a unique sport that not only requires learning new skills but also brings plenty of exciting decisions. In this article, you’ll find all the information you need to make the best choice for your first or next surf trip.

This Article will break down the key differences between surf camps, surf schools, and similar options, highlighting their pros and cons, so you’ll know exactly what suits you and your dream of learning how to surf.

Difference between Surf Camp, Surf School & more

The main difference is in the structure and scope of the services offered.

Surf Camp

A surf camp offers a more comprehensive package compared to a traditional surf school. In addition to surf lessons, accommodation, partial board, and often leisure activities are either included in the price or available as add-ons. This creates a true all-inclusive experience that not only makes learning to surf easier but also provides a much more immersive surf adventure.

Accommodation options in a surf camp are diverse. Whether you prefer shared dormitories, tents, private single or double rooms, or even small apartments, most well-known surf regions offer a variety of choices. The cost of surf camps varies depending on the type of accommodation and included services.

kima surf — **Kima Surf Camp** in Canggu (Bali)

The social aspect plays a major role in a surf camp. Most camps aim to connect guests through shared meals or group activities. This makes it easy to meet like-minded people. Whether in the dorm, over breakfast, during yoga sessions, or on the way to the surf spots, you’ll keep encountering fellow guests. Everyone shares the same goal: to learn to surf and have fun. These shared experiences often lead to strong, lasting friendships that go beyond the camp itself. For me personally, such connections date back to my first surf camp in Bali in 2018. After the camp, we planned additional surf trips together and I’m still in touch with several of them.

Surf camps are typically booked for at least a week. Some have fixed arrival days and minimum stays, while others are more flexible, depending on the organization and structure of the surf lessons.

Pros of Surf Camps:

Easy Socializing:
Even if you’re introverted or shy, meeting new people in a surf camp is effortless. Conversations happen naturally, and shared activities and experiences quickly create a friendly atmosphere.

surf and yoga — Yoga at **Kima Surf Camp** in Canggu (Bali)

All-Inclusive Package
A surf camp covers a wide range of additional services: from airport transfers and meals to organized activities. Even when surf conditions are poor, alternative programs like surf skating or sightseeing are often offered. The focus on guest enjoyment is paramount, with exceptional service ensuring a worry-free experience.

Steep Learning Curve
If you only have 1 to 2 weeks of vacation time per year, a surf camp maximizes your learning potential. Thanks to the all-inclusive setup, you can fully concentrate on surfing. Many camps offer two surf sessions per day, allowing you to progress rapidly.

High Quality of Surf Lessons
Surf camps often ensure better control over the quality of surf guides and lessons. Surf theory is typically included in most camps, and they ensure that the program matches your skill level. Guides are often supervised by the management, and you can address any issues directly with the camp staff.

surfcamp bali — Surf Theory & Video Correction at Kima Surf

Cons of Surf Camps:

Limited Flexibility
The structured schedule can be a downside for some, as activities like surf sessions and set meal times dictate much of the day. For instance, if you wish to take a half-day trip, you may need to skip planned activities like a second surf session or a yoga class.

Advance Planning Required
Booking a surf camp spontaneously is challenging, especially during peak season, as the best camps are often fully booked. Early planning and commitment are essential to secure your spot.

Time-Consuming Selection Process
Finding the right surf camp can take time. Factors like accommodation type, meals, course content, and recreational activities must align with your preferences.

Costs
Surf camps are less suitable for low-budget travelers. While some offer simpler accommodations and fewer services, these are less common than mid-range or high-end camps.

Who is a Surf Camp Suitable For?

All surf levels looking for an intensive surf program.
Travelers who appreciate an all-inclusive experience and a social environment and can allocate an appropriate budget for it.

Surf House

You’ll often come across varying definitions of a surf house. Based on my experience, the most common description is that a surf house is a more luxurious and often smaller-scale version of a surf camp. These accommodations are typically located right by popular surf spots, giving you quick access to great waves.

Surf houses usually offer more comfort and services compared to surf camps, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a more exclusive experience. However, this also means they tend to be more expensive.

Surf School

In a surf school, the focus is solely on surf lessons. Surf schools don’t typically include accommodations or additional services.

You can choose between private lessons, private group sessions, or structured group courses. While it’s common to decide how many sessions to book, some schools offer multi-day programs, such as five-day courses, that build on each lesson.

surfcamp portugal — “Wellenreiter” in St.Giron (France)

No matter whether you are a beginner or an advanced surfer, there are suitable surf schools for every level. Some schools specialize in beginners and provide appropriate equipment. For advanced surfers, private lessons are often the go-to option as they allow for focused work on specific skills, ensuring maximum progress from each session. Good surf schools also offer theoretical lessons – an aspect that, unfortunately, is not always standard. A bonus often found in surf camps but rarely in surf schools is the option of video correction for technique analysis.

Typically, you are responsible for arranging your own accommodation and meet your surf guide at fixed times, either for private or group lessons.

Pros of a Surf School:

Flexibility:
You only have your surf lessons scheduled, allowing you to plan the rest of your day freely for activities like sightseeing or relaxing. Surf schools are ideal if you’re frequently on the move and only staying a few days in one location – you can book lessons flexibly based on your preferences and conditions. Additionally, you decide how many lessons you want to take, making it perfect for simply trying out surfing without committing to a full week. Booking on the spot is often possible.
Choice of Group Size:
Options range from private sessions to group lessons, allowing you to choose based on your budget and preferences.
Independence in Accommodation:
You have complete freedom to choose where and how you want to stay. If you value privacy and need personal space, you can pick accommodation that aligns with your preferences.
Most Affordable Option:
Without the added costs of accommodation, meals, or transfers, surf schools are a budget-friendly choice. This makes them particularly appealing to low-budget travelers. However, quality does come at a price – it’s worth investing a little more to find a good surf school.
Choice of Surf Guide:
You can choose your guide based on their personality or your surf level. If you book a course on-site, you can often get a feel for the guide before committing.

surfcamp marokko — Surf Skating at “West Surf Marokko“

Cons of a Surf School:

Quality of Surf Lessons:
Smaller, less well-known schools may not always provide high-quality instruction. Some schools stick to the same surf spot near their location rather than finding the best waves of the day. Additionally, not all surf schools include theoretical lessons, which are essential for understanding surf conditions better.

Less Focus on Service:
Compared to surf camps, surf schools generally offer less personalized support. Outside of the lessons, there’s usually no one to address issues with except the guide. If you only book one or two lessons, the guide may not pay much attention to your specific goals or satisfaction. It’s also important to clarify in advance whether the guide will take you to the surf spots or if you’ll need to arrange transportation yourself, which can be a hassle in some areas.

Equipment Quality:
Surf schools often double as board rental shops, and their equipment can quickly become worn out from heavy use. As a result, surf schools sometimes lack high-quality gear – damaged or outdated boards are not uncommon, especially at the intermediate level, which can be frustrating.

Fewer Social Connections:
Since you only meet others during the lessons, it can be harder to connect with like-minded people.

Who Is a Surf School Suitable For?

All Surf Levels: However, beginners may find them most useful for casual introductions to surfing without aiming for significant progress.
Low-Budget Travelers: Those who want to remain flexible and independent.
Travelers on the Move: Ideal for people who spend only a short time in one location.

Surf Hostel

A surf hostel is a simple accommodation option with a focus on surfing, known for its relaxed and communal atmosphere. Most surf hostels are located near popular surf spots. However, the term can be somewhat ambiguous and vary widely: some surf hostels resemble small hotels with private rooms, while others provide the classic hostel experience with dormitories and shared spaces. Some even go by the name “surf house,” a variation similar to surf camps.

In general, surf hostels focus on providing accommodation, often complemented by options like booking surf lessons through partner surf schools or renting surfboards.

Many hostels encourage social interaction through common areas like lounges, shared kitchens, or outdoor spaces. For instance, in Australia, some surf hostels include an integrated bar that’s also open to outside visitors. Additionally, many organize activities like group BBQs or excursions to help guests connect and create a welcoming atmosphere.

That said, not all surf hostels are the same. I’ve also stayed at a surf hostel that offered none of the above-mentioned amenities. Some hostels merely advertise proximity to a surf spot and use the term “surf hostel” as a marketing strategy without providing actual value for surfers. It’s worth looking into what a surf hostel truly offers before booking.

Who Is a Surf Hostel Suitable For?

Surf hostels are particularly suited to solo travelers who want to surf independently but also seek social interaction.
They are perfect for flexible travelers who don’t want a fixed schedule and prefer the option of spontaneously booking services like surf lessons.
Additionally, they are a budget-friendly choice since many hostels offer dormitories, making them cheaper than surf camps or hotels.

Overall, surf hostels are ideal for those seeking freedom and community while staying in a surf-focused environment.

Summary

Surfing is undeniably one of the most challenging sports due to external factors like wave conditions, other surfers and the limited practice time per session. While early progress is visible, it can take days to truly stand up on a board. Deciding which option suits you best depends largely on your personal goals for your surf trip and the type of experience you’re looking for.