Thinking about packing the boards, telling the boss “Adios” and heading to a far-flung surf destination for epic waves and good times? Join the club.
There are few things more enjoyable and pleasing to the soul than a surf trip, and with surf travel booming, there are no shortage of places to choose from. Besides the location of your trip, however, the biggest question you’ll face is which type of surf trip experience to book.
Do you want a no-frills surf camp experience? Does the idea of pampering in paradise at a surf resort tickle your fancy? How about chartering a boat and hitting the open sea in search of perfect waves?
Each option has its pros and cons, and what appeals to one person might not work for another. Ultimately, it comes down to your budget and what you want out of your surf trip.
To help you choose whats right for you, break down the pros and cons of surf camps, surf resorts, and surf charters to help you decide the best fit…
Surf Camps – Affordable surf experiences and choose-your-own-adventures
Surf camps are the perfect entry into the surf experience world.
For the most part, you’re paying a relatively reasonable rate for everything you need to hit the waves and have a great time: accommodation, coaching, some meals and access to the best waves. You’ll also have a chance to connect with other surfers from around the globe, which is great for those travelling alone or looking to broaden their surfing network.
For beginner surfers, camps are the perfect place to learn how to stand up on your first wave, but there are also camos which cater for those looking to progress further too.
Surf camp packages can cost anywhere from a few hundred and upwards for a week of surfing. These packages generally include lessons, where you can learn from experienced surf instructors who know the ins and outs of the local breaks. They also include equipment rental and transport to and from the beach, eliminating the need to bring your own gear or hire a car.
However, keep in mind that accommodations at surf camps tend to be more basic – think dorm-style rooms and shared bathrooms. This may not be appealing for those looking for a more luxurious vacation experience or couples who want more privacy.
That being said though, there are now also a range of higher-end, more boutique-style surf camps like Ticket To Ride Surf House in Sri Lanka or Dreamsea in Nicaragua which offer all the social vibes and great coaching, but with a more luxurious twist.
Additionally, group lessons can make it challenging to receive individualised coaching and attention from instructors, so choosing an option with smaller coach to student ratios will certainly make progression that much easier.
Pros
- Typically the most affordable surf travel experience for beginners and early intermediates
- Great for mingling with other people from around the world
- Often offer packages that include accommodations, meals, equipment and lessons
Cons
- Dorm-style accommodation and shared bathrooms may not be everyone’s idea of a relaxing vacation
- Large group sizes can make it difficult to receive individualised coaching and attention
- Surf camps are often located in popular surfing hotspots, which means you’ll be dealing with crowds in and out of the water
Surf Resorts – Luxury in surfing paradise with everything looked after
Surf resorts are the epitome of luxury for surfers.
These idyllic getaways often offer top-of-the-line accommodation, gourmet dining options and even spa treatments.
Think pampering in paradise with all the bells and whistles.
Naturally, this makes for an excellent option for those looking to splurge on their surf trip, but they’re also suited to surfers who are travelling with family or non-surfing partners too.
Resorts offer a range of activities and excursions, such as snorkelling, scuba diving, spas and yoga.
They’re also located in less crowded surf spots, providing a more exclusive and tranquil experience – think spots like Pasta Point or Niyama in the Maldives and you’ve got the idea!
However, with luxury comes a higher price tag.
Surf resorts are typically hundreds of dollars per night, making them less accessible for budget-conscious surfers.
Additionally, while resorts offer a full-service experience, they may not offer as much flexibility in terms of surfing locations and break transport schedules. This could be an issue for surfers who want more freedom around where and when they surf.
One thing to note is that most surf resorts cater to intermediate surfers and above, or at least surfers who can reach the lineup independently and have a basic understanding of wave etiquette. If you’re just starting out in your surfing journey, a resort may not be the best choice for you unless they specifically offer beginner surfing packages.
Pros
- Luxury accommodation options and amenities catering to competent surfers
- Often located in less crowded, more exclusive surf spots
- Plenty of activities, which is great if you’re travelling with a non-surfing partner or young kids
Cons
- Generally comes with a higher price tag than surf camps
- May not offer as much flexibility in terms of surfing locations and schedules
- Don’t have the same communal vibe as surf camps, which can make it more challenging to meet new people
Surf Charters – Unique experience with total wave-chasing freedom
If you want to channel your inner surf pirate and experience one of the most coveted surf trips types in the world, surf charter boats are unmatched.
Not only do you have the freedom to chase waves based on the forecast, but you can also dodge the crowds simply by pulling anchor and motoring to a new spot.
Another cool aspect of surf charters is that you’ll be with close friends or at least with a small group of other surfers, which can make for an unforgettable trip. Nothing compares to swapping perfect rides with your mates, killing time with card or board games and recapping the day with a few libations, only to wake up the next day and do it all again.
That said, living on a boat for a couple of weeks or longer might not be for everyone. You’ll also have to deal with the unpredictable nature of the ocean, which can sometimes make things challenging and uncomfortable.
A lot of surf charters cater to private groups rather than solo travellers, so if you’re flying solo on your surf trip, you might have trouble finding a spot on a charter boat to fit in with your plans.
Price-wise, surf charters can vary quite a bit too, with options like Horizon 2 offer some great value charters in the Maldives right through to the likes of Maki Boat in the Mentawais or luxury private charters on Carpe Vita but it’s definitely a more expensive option compared to surf camps and more on par with a resort stay.
Boat trips aren’t really the domain of beginners either, so you’ll need to be competent in the water if you want to join one.
Pros
- Chase the conditions and find the best waves with the flexibility to change locations based on the forecast
- More intimate experience with a smaller group of friends
- Surf charter boats are an exceptional experience, and one that many surfers dream of
Cons
- Boat life might not be for everyone, and the fact you’re at the whims of the ocean can sometimes be testing
- Caters to more to private groups of surfers with fewer options for solo travellers
- Surf charters aren’t exactly beginner friendly due to the fact that they’re located in surf regions with more challenging waves