We’ve tweaked the algorithm and plugged in the all-important variables of wave quality, surfer-to-instructor ratio, mattress firmness, crowd factor, cocktail menu and pure froth levels to find the continent’s best surf camps. Here are five locations guaranteed to take your surfing and stoke to the next level.
The team at La Pointe Surf Camps are known for their excellent surf destinations. Their USP though is adding fresh twists to iconic surf spots. Their Fuerteventura surf camp in the small town of Lajares is no different. It feels far away from the
island's trashy tourist traps, yet close enough to the great waves on the west, north and east coasts to offer a unique surf experience.
The accommodation has a vibe of rural luxury and is solar powered which given the 350 days of sun Fuerteventura cops, makes sense. Yet while the sun is a big attraction, the chance to really up your surfing game is the biggest drawcard.
Level 1, 2 and 3 courses are available depending on your ability, each with a maximum of six students per qualified, experienced instructor. With this many quality reefs and beachbreaks and such a high calibre of instruction, your surfing is guaranteed to go to the next level.
The Salty Pelican Yoga & Surf Retreats have been alchemising the benefits of yoga and surfing for years in destinations like Ericeira and Sri Lanka. Their newest venture in Peniche is a beachfront, multi-story boho-themed lodge with a rooftop garden come bar that opened in 2022. Their website says, “This whitewashed old fishing town with its intertwining streets, fisherman houses, surf shops and restaurants right on the sand, will steal your heart.”
That might be pushing it a little - Peniche in no architectural, cultural, or natural hotspot. But it does have waves; for every surfer, in every wind, in every type of conditions, every day. When you add the peninsula’s mindblowing variety and
consistency to The Salty Pelican’s mix of unlimited yoga classes, meditation courses and surf lessons, you have a formula for rapid surf improvement and an enormous sense of well-being.
One of the biggest obstacles to beginner and intermediate surfers’ improvement is crowds. That’s why the Latas Surf House in Spanish Cantabria is such a great option. While Cantabria doesn’t boast the perfection of Hossegor or the warmer waters of the Algarve, the beaches of Somo and Loredo offer consistent, user-friendly waves uncluttered by loads of surf schools or travelling swarms.
The Latas Surf House is a local surf institution and the perfect way to slowly immerse yourself in the rich culture and gentle pace of life in Cantabria. While the nearby Basque Country, with its iconic waves of Mundaka, are better known, the uncrowded beachbreaks, and Loredo’s cafes and tapas bars, add a slow-paced and authentic feel that makes for a different surf trip.
Add local, experienced instructors that are all ISA Level 1 or 2 qualified, great surf video analysis and a fun, communal (and sometimes party) vibe in the house, you’ll be having the time of your life and ripping in no time.
As mentioned, the La Pointe camps offer high-grade levels accommodation, surf instruction and
service in all their locations. The surf camp in Hoddevik, Norway, is no different. And while the waves aren’t up to the standard of Sri Lanka or Ericeira, the secluded beauty of the Western coast of the Stadlandet Peninsula, and the close-knit surf community provide more than ample makeweights.
The camp is especially suited to beginners wanting to take their surfing to the next level. The waves are just 15 minutes from the camp and provide gentle, user-friendly lefts and rights. There are level 1 and 2 groups, each with a maximum of six students per instructor. The quality cold water wetsuits and gear keep you toasty, and there is well-maintained and modern rental equipment for every style of surfing. Add stunning Nordic nature, mountain vistas and crystal-clear water, and this is less about being a better surfer (although that will happen) and more about having an adventure of a lifetime.
Being relaxed is always good for your surfing and the Star Surf Camp in Moliets-Plage on France’s Atlantic Coast does relax better than most. The accommodation is a luxury bohemian bell or tipi tents and with an expert surf team and a daily yoga schedule with yogi masters, it's a back-to-nature package that can only improve your surfing.
And while the extracurricular wine and cheese nights, evenings of live music, or shared beers from the open-air bar add a real sense of camaraderie and fun, this is an experience dedicated to making you a better surfer.
The s full-on surf lessons, one breath and balance workshops and a 90-minute theory session to start things off means the combination of great preparation, endless beachbreaks, well-being and fun, make for an unforgettable surf and self-improvement trip.
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