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What Is A Surf Camp? Everything You Need To Know
If you are planning a surf trip, you might be asking yourself, what is a surf camp and is it right for you. I asked the same question before my first one.
Since then, I have stayed at many surf camps across Portugal, Morocco, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and other surf destinations.
This guide explains what is a surf camp, how it works, who it is for, and what life inside one really feels like. It is based on real stays, real people, and real days spent surfing, eating, learning, and relaxing with travelers from all over the world.
In This Guide
What Is A Surf Camp In Simple Terms
So first, what is a surf camp. A surf camp is like a social surf focused hotel where everyone is there for the same reason, to surf, learn, improve, meet new people, and enjoy life by the ocean.
You stay in shared or private rooms, take surf lessons, eat together, and often join yoga, trips, or group dinners. It removes the stress of planning and replaces it with a simple routine built around waves and good company.
In simple words, what is a surf camp is a place where surfing is the center of the experience, not just something you do on the side.
My First Surf Camp Experience
My first surf camp was in Sri Lanka. I chose it because the country felt unfamiliar and I wanted an easy way to travel, meet people, and try something new. I also wanted to try yoga, so I booked a surf and yoga camp.
At that time I was an early intermediate surfer. I could stand up and ride waves, but I wanted to improve faster and understand surfing better.
What surprised me most was how organized everything was. Breakfast was ready, boards were waiting, instructors were prepared, and transport to surf spots was sorted. I did not need to think about logistics at all.
The second surprise was how easy it was to meet people. Within one day, I had surf buddies, lunch friends, and people to explore with. That is when I truly understood what is a surf camp beyond a website description.
What Surf Camps Usually Include
Most surf camps include:
- Accommodation in shared or private rooms
- Daily surf lessons or coaching
- Surfboard and wetsuit use
- Breakfast, sometimes all meals
- Group dinners or social nights
- Yoga at surf and yoga camps
- Trips to different surf spots
Some camps also include video analysis, photos of your surfing, or theory lessons about waves and technique.
One thing surf camps usually do not include is free airport pickup, unless it is a higher end or all-inclusive package. This is important to check before booking so you know what you are paying for.
How Surf Camps Are Different From Hotels
A hotel is a place to sleep. A surf camp is a place to belong. That is the main difference.
When you book a hotel and separate surf lessons, you still need to find people, plan transport, book boards, and organize your days. At a surf camp, all of that is done for you.
That is why what is a surf camp is not just about accommodation, it is about structure, people, and experience.
The People You Meet At Surf Camps
Most people at surf camps are solo travelers or couples. Sometimes there are small groups of friends too. The usual age range is around 18 to 35, but there are always exceptions.
Everyone shares the same interest in surfing, travel, and learning. That makes conversations easy and connections natural.
Surf camps are social, but not overwhelming. You can join group dinners, movie nights, or beach walks, or you can take quiet time alone. Both are respected.
I have made long term friends from surf camps, including friends from England, Italy and Germany that I still speak to today.
Surf Camps And Solo Travel
Surf camps are great for solo travelers. It feels similar to a hostel, but calmer and more purpose driven. Instead of party energy, the focus is surf, food, rest, and connection.
People arrive nervous, unsure, and sometimes shy. Within days they feel confident, relaxed, and part of a group. That shift is one of the most powerful parts of what is a surf camp.
Learning To Surf At A Surf Camp
Surf camps helped me improve faster than surfing alone. Why? Because instructors watch you, correct you, and explain what is happening in the water.
This includes, in water coaching, video analysis, and theory lessons about waves and positioning I have seen complete beginners go from zero to confidently riding waves within a week.
The main downside is that some camps have fixed schedules, so you cannot always surf completely freely. Most allow free surfing too, but it is always good to check.
A Normal Day At A Surf Camp
A normal day looks like this:
- Wake up
- Breakfast
- Morning surf session or lesson
- Lunch and rest
- Afternoon free surf or yoga
- Sunset, shower, and relax
- Dinner together or out in town
It is simple, but deeply satisfying. The days flow easily. There is enough structure to feel supported, and enough freedom to feel relaxed. That balance is a big part of what is a surf camp.
Cost And Value
Surf camps are good value for money. Boards and wetsuits are expensive and hard to travel with. Camps provide them. Lessons are included. Transport is included.
Budget camps are basic but friendly. Mid range camps feel comfortable and relaxed. Luxury camps feel like boutique hotels with surf on the side.
There is a surf camp for almost every budget and travel style.
Who Surf Camps Are Not For
Surf camps are not ideal for full party travelers who want loud nights, heavy drinking, and party hostel energy.
Surf camps are about early mornings, waves, rest, and community. That does not mean there is no fun, but the fun is balanced.
Common Myths About Surf Camps
One big myth is that surf camps are unsafe. In reality, they are often safer than normal travel because you are inside a community, with staff, structure, and people looking out for each other.
Another myth is that you need to be a good surfer. Many guests are beginners. Another myth is that surf camps are strict. Most are relaxed and flexible.
Essential Travel Resources
Practical Tips For Choosing A Surf Camp
When choosing your first surf camp, think about:
- Do you want a social or quiet place
- Do you want day trips or just surfing
- Do you want yoga or only surf
- Do you want to eat in or go out at night
Stay at least five days if you can. Three days feels rushed.
Pack a light towel, hat, sunscreen, reef safe products, and ear plugs if you are going to Morocco.
So, What Is A Surf Camp Really
So, what is a surf camp really.
It is not just a place to sleep. It is a shared experience. A learning space. A social bubble. A surf focused lifestyle.
It is where people arrive as strangers and leave as friends. It is where nervous beginners become confident surfers. It is where days feel full and simple at the same time.
If you are curious, I always say give it a try. Even for five days. It might change how you travel, surf, and connect with people forever.
That is what is a surf camp to me.
Frequently Asked Questions
A surf camp is a place where surfing is the main focus. Guests stay in shared or private rooms, take lessons, meet other surfers, and enjoy a social, ocean-focused lifestyle.
Solo travelers at surf camps often feel welcomed quickly. With shared activities, group meals, and surf lessons, people connect easily, making surfing, socializing, and exploring much more fun.
Most surf camps include accommodation, surf lessons, boards and wetsuits, breakfast or full meals, and sometimes yoga or trips. Airport transfers or all meals may require extra fees.
A typical surf camp day includes breakfast, morning surf, lunch and rest, afternoon surf or yoga, and group dinners. This structure balances learning, fun, and relaxation for all levels.
Surf camps are not ideal for full party travelers seeking nightlife energy. They are better for people focused on surfing, learning, community, and a relaxed, structured day by the ocean.
