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The best surfer out there is the one having the most fun.
- Duke Kahanamoku
The word 'camp', when associated with a word like 'vacation' doesn't really sound enticing enough, does it? It reminds us of summer camps, boot camps, and all other such 'camps' that translate to sheer boredom. But it's only when surfing comes into the picture that things get a little edgier. After all, this particular sport comes with adventure and excitement written all over it.
You'd be wrong to assume that these surf camps, like all other
camps you've been to, are only meant for beginners. In fact, several experienced surfers choose these destinations for the supreme quality of the waves, along with using this as an opportunity to meet other surfing enthusiasts as well.
So, what are you waiting for? Take your pick from the top 10 surf camps around the world, and make sure that you get there in no time.
10 Amazing Surf Camps from Around the World
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Itacaré, Brazil
The water of the Atlantic is deliciously warm here in Itacaré, mirroring the weather and the people who reside at this sleepy coastal town. Surfers from the world over are of the opinion that the waves here are consistent, strong, and forceful enough to make for a fantastic surfing experience.
EasyDrop is an internationally-recognized surf school, right here in Itacaré. The school is open all yearlong, and welcomes every surfer, be it aspiring or experienced.
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Surfer's Point, Barbados
The Caribbean islands are a haven for all things related to sun, sea, and sand. So, when you come to Barbados, things are not too different. Beginners, in particular, are sure to find comfort in the smooth and warm waves that make their way to the shore.
Zed's Surfing Adventures has something for every kind of surfer, from private tutoring, to training packages that last an entire week.
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Hossegor, France
There's nothing to complain about when you're in the south of France. Come to Soorts-Hossegor, a seaside resort that consistently ranks among the best surfing spots in the world.
The Koala Surf Camp has a lot to offer―lodging, surf instructions, a
surfari, and unlimited use of surfboards and skateboards for six days, all at a price tag of under USD 700 per person.
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Montauk, New York
This famed fishing hamlet sits pretty at the fag end of Long Island, and is a perfect getaway for most New Yorkers. You'll find this otherwise quite town teeming with surfers every summer, and with good reason.
The water here in the North Atlantic is chilly, but the staff at
Corey's Wave is warm and enthusiastic enough to make your trip a memorable one.
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Santa Cruz, California
The azure waters of the Pacific ocean line the Californian coast, reason enough for all surfing aficionados to flock here. Santa Cruz is home to the
Richard Schmidt Surf School, which is perfect for beginners and amateurs.
A five night stay costs around USD 1000 per person, and includes accommodation, all meals, boards, rash guards, wetsuits, booties, surf instruction, yoga sessions, sports massage, and much more.
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Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Surfing is what brings people to this tiny town of Tamarindo, located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.
Here, on a secluded strip of sand is the
Surf Diva School, a surf camp that accepts only women, which makes it perfect for an all-girls trip. The surfboards used here are designed specifically for women as well.
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Byron Bay, New South Wales, Australia
Byron Bay is synonymous with Rusty Miller, the champion American surfer. He runs
Rusty Miller Surf along with his daughter, Taylor, a renowned surfer herself.
Every lesson taught here is tailor-made for the individual, and is entirely one-on-one. Plus, it is also accompanied by Miller's quaint surfing wisdom, gathered from his valuable time spent in the ocean.
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Cabarete, Dominican Republic
Besides regular surfing, you'll find a lot of people indulging in kitesurfing and windsurfing, here in Cabarete. It just goes to prove how serious the folks are about their surfing.
The
Swell Surf Camp has courses designed specifically for beginners, which last up to a week, and include meals as well.
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Peniche, Portugal
Peniche is a famed surfing spot in Europe, boasting of a wide variety of waves―sand, reef, left, right, hollow, and mellow. Its location on the peninsula ensures Atlantic swells from all sides.
The
Baleal Surf Camp is one of the oldest in Europe, and predictably, runs courses for all levels. The plus point is that it is also quite affordable.
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Oahu, Hawaii
No one needs a reason to come to Hawaii, of course. But if you happen to be a surfer, you'll find yourself taking a trip too many to Paradise state.
The
Nancy Emerson School of Surfing in Oahu offers customized surfing lessons, and takes great pleasure in creating one that is specifically suited to you. These are day lessons that lasts for a few hours, depending on your skills, and are quite flexible. The trainers here are experienced and helpful in equal measure.
So, what's holding you back? Choose from any of these superb surf schools, and start planning your next holiday.
