Stay Well Informed

Read Our Blogs

Get expert tips on choosing the best surf camp for your next wave-filled adventure.

Find your perfect surf camp with this easy guide.

Compare locations, coaches, and vibes to choose the ideal camp that matches your skill and style.

August 13, 2025

DHM Surf Camp

This author has not added a bio.


More articles by DHM Surf Camp

Share with your community!

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Surf Camp

Surfing is one of the most exciting water sports in the world. A surf camp can help you improve your skills and have an amazing experience, no matter how experienced you are. In addition to instruction, it provides training, leisure, adventure, and cultural discovery. We’ll cover all you need to know in this DHM guide to help you pick the best camp for your requirements, financial situation, and objectives.

What is a surf camp?

Its a school or retreats where people can learn to surf or be better in a particular place. These camps are usually installed in luxurious sites for surfing and offers of classes, equipment and a place to stay. There may also be meals, yoga classes, cultural trips, and social events at some camps.

The main goal is to give you a full surfing experience by teaching you how to ride waves and also by helping you meet other surfers, learn about the culture of the area, and enjoy life by the water.

Why choose a surfcamp?

You can learn to surf on your own, but there are many benefits to going to a camp. You can talk to professional teachers who can help you with step by step and make sure you are safe while learning. A lot of the time, camps include film analysis of your performance, advice on how to choose waves, and ways to improve your timing and balance.

You can also meet people around the world, who are social places where you can get help. You want to talk about your experiences, inspire each other and often make friends for life.

Best surfcamp location around the world?

Some places are famous for their camps because waves are always good and the view is beautiful. Among the best people:

  • Bali, Indonesia: It is known for its warm water, stable waves and vibrant surf culture.
  • Costa Rica has beaches that are good for beginners in addition to referring brakes that are more difficult.
  • Portugal is cheap and has a wide range of surf spots for all skill levels.
  • Australia has famous surfing places like Bay and Gold Coast.
  • Hawaii has famous surfing places with a long history of surfing.

The best place to go will depend on your skill level, your income and how you like to travel.

Surf camps for Beginners

If you’ve never been surfing before, it’s the best place to go for a beginners. Most of the time, how these camps are on basic swimming skills, safety and board. You will learn the basics of small waves that are easy to handle before going to the terms that are difficult.

Theories about water currents, wave patterns, and proper surfing behavior are often taught in beginner camps. These are important things to know in addition to being able to do the sport.

For Beginners and Experienced

For Beginners and Experienced

Windsurfers who can already catch waves, but who want to get better, should look for a camp that learns advanced tricks, how to choose waves and how to improve their skills. Advanced surfers may prefer camps that focus on strong stone or point brakes and provide coaching from professionals.

A lot of advanced camps also take you on trips to different breaks in the area so you can practice in a range of situations.

Budget: How must does it cost?

How much does it cost varies on where it is, what facilities it has, and how long you stay. A broad idea is this:

  • Surf amps for less than $500 a week.
  • Middle price range cost between $600 and $1,000 per week.
  • High-end surf retreats cost $1,500 or more per week.

Don’t forget to add up the cost of travel, meals (if they’re not included), insurance, and any extra things you might want to do.

Camp Essential Products

If you pack the right things, your time at surf camp will be much more enjoyable.  Important things include:

  • shorts or swimwear
  • Rash guard (based on how warm the water is)
  • Sunscreen and zinc to protect yourself from the sun obviously
  • Sandals or flip-flops for the beach
  • Towel that is light
  • Reusable bottle of water
  • A waterproof bag for your things

Check with the surf trip before you bring your own stuff to make sure they provide boards and leashes.

Things to ask before going to a surf trip

Things to ask before going to a surf trip

Before you book, it’s a good idea to ask the camp a few important things:

  • How big of a group do most lessons have?
  • Are the lessons geared toward my level of skill?
  • What’s being done to keep people safe?
  • Is it possible to change the date if the weather isn’t good?
  • What other things are there?

How to Get the Most Out of Your Time?

The best way to participate in the camp is to participate. Participate in all lessons, practice and not ashamed of asking your teachers for help. Be prepared to meet new people, try new foods and see what the area has to offer.

Like all other games, surfing is about having fun in the way of the right wave.

FAQs

Q1: Can I go to a surf camp by myself?

Yes!  I go to camps alone all the time, and this is a great way to create new friends.

Q2: Do I need to be able to swim to go to surf?

You don’t have to be a good swimmer to stay safe, but you need to know how to swim the basics.

Q3: How long is the best time to stay at a camp?

In order for beginners to see real growth, a week is ideal. However, longer stays will help them improve their skills even more.

Q4: Is it dangerous to surf?

Surfing is a fun and safe game as long as you follow the right instructions and do it in a safe place.

In conclusion

A surf camp is an excellent way to learn, have fun and see another culture. You can find a camp that gives you the proper mix of schooling and fun with the aid of thinking about your private goals, finances, ability level and selected area. The proper camp will help you grow to be a higher surfer and create experiences on the way to entire life, whether or not you’re searching out your first wave or important demanding situations.

More Blog of Our Surf Camp

Surf, sun, and endless excitement await! Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, explore the world of surfing through tips, destinations, and breathtaking moments.

Surfcamp Costa Rica or Lombok? Why More Surfers Are Choosing Lombok
Surfcamp Costa Rica or Lombok? Why More Surfers Are Choosing Lombok
When planning a tropical surf holiday, Costa Rica is likely to appear in your search....
Lombok Surf Spots: How to Plan a Surf Trip Around Your Skill Level
Lombok Surf Spots: How to Plan a Surf Trip Around Your Skill Level
A surf trip becomes easier when the waves match your capability. Choosing a break simply...
Lombok Surf School Guide: Lessons, Prices & What to Expect
Lombok Surf School Guide: Lessons, Prices & What to Expect
You’re standing on the sand in Kuta Lombok, holding a board that looks much bigger...
Looking for a Surf Camp in Lombok? Read This Before Booking
Looking for a Surf Camp in Lombok? Read This Before Booking
It’s late, and you have eleven tabs open. One camp has gorgeous rooms. Another promises...
Bali to Lombok: Why Kuta Should Be Your Next Stop
Bali to Lombok: Why Kuta Should Be Your Next Stop
Bali has earned its place on the Indonesian travel map. It has famous beaches and...
Surf Camp Bali vs Lombok: What Lombok Offers That Bali Cannot
Surf Camp Bali vs Lombok: What Lombok Offers That Bali Cannot
When people plan a surf holiday in Indonesia, Bali usually comes first. The island has...
Posted on Google Google
Anthony Gird profile picture
Anthony Gird
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Amazing team, so warm and welcoming. Food was so good and so fresh. Rooms were lovely. Surf coaches were super. Also really great to be situated just beyond the craziness of the main strip in town.
Posted on Google Google
Nöldi Bachmann profile picture
Nöldi Bachmann
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Just amazing and chill🤙🏻
Posted on Google Google
Hailey Martin profile picture
Hailey Martin
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
What an incredible experience at DHM surf camp. The accommodation and home base in its entirety is stunning (looks so much better in person than the photos), nestled in a quiet part of Kuta but close enough to still have access to all of the best parts of the city too. The people who work there are incredible - nothing is too much to ask, they are all so friendly and more than happy to help in any way they can. The food is delicious, and the two meals a day are a great way to stay fueled for the two surfs a day. The surf coaches are incredible - not only highly skilled, but also just lovely and engaging people who are really focused on ensuring you both enjoy and improve with your surfing. They’re often the loudest and most encouraging coaches out in the waves, and create such a great atmosphere for everyone. You’ll get to know Lola (resident cat) and enjoy the yoga in an incredible location. I can’t wait to return to Kuta and will definitely be staying at DHM again 🏄
Posted on Google Google
Wojtek Cichocki profile picture
Wojtek Cichocki
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We spent 2 weeks at the DHM Surf Camp. The accommodation was top‑notch — we loved the clean and comfortable rooms with AC and appliances like a TV, fridge, and kettle. Every day we received fresh towels, refilled water bottles, and a thoroughly cleaned room and bathroom. And I mean really clean. There was also a swimming pool and several common areas for relaxing or eating, equipped with a pool table, books, refreshments, and music. There is also a working restaurant service with breakfast, dinner and snacks. The staff — both the accommodation team and the trainers — were VERY helpful, communicative, and genuinely caring about whether everything was okay during our stay. If you need anything they will magically make it happen. A big shout‑out to Javi, Pian and most of all Kai, our instructor, who had a constantly positive attitude, more patience than all of us combined, and always believed in us. He gave us great advice throughout the whole course. Surf students get an individual approach, photo analysis sessions, may participate in gym classes and yoga classes, which we highly recommend. DHM can make a surfer even from someone as hot-headed and wooden as me. All in all, we had an unforgettable time with DHM. We hope to come back there one day 😉
Posted on Google Google
Céline Delheye profile picture
Céline Delheye
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Een surfkamp waar je je echt thuis voelt en warm ontvangen wordt! Iedereen was super vriendelijk en vrolijk. Extra dank aan Afvila voor haar gastvrijheid & snelle communicatie via whatsapp! We werden hier verwend met lekkere verse maaltijden en drankjes, waarbij we zelf konden kiezen of we dit voor/na het surfen wilden. De surf training en yoga les waren leuk als aanvulling en goed geregeld via hun transport. De surflessen waren op verschillende spots, wat een goede variatie gaf in golven. Het is ook ideaal dat we dezelfde coaches hadden doorheen de week zodat je progressie goed opgevolgd kan worden. Ze waren geduldig en probeerden ons zoveel mogelijk goeie golven te geven. Bedankt aan Bruno en Gus hiervoor 😉 De foto’s werden telkens ook snel geüpload en waren zowel leuk als leerrijk om te zien!! Ardi is een echte topper! Als laatste waren wij ook superblij met het comfort in de kamers en de heerlijke ligbedden aan het zwembad, ideaal voor een dutje na het surfen!
Posted on Google Google
Felipe van Braak profile picture
Felipe van Braak
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Great staff, looking to go to less crowded places
Posted on Google Google
Marsel profile picture
Marsel
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Spend one week in DHM. Had a lot of surfing sessions and really increased my level. service personnel is polite and responsive. I had good time there.
Posted on Google Google
Sam Robinson profile picture
Sam Robinson
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
This place is unbelievable. I came here as a Aussie on my own for a seven day stay and it really did exceed expectations on every level. All of the staff are great, always A great vibe and so happy to help. Afvila Is amazing and very friendly she helped me learn some Indonesian and took care of everything for me from day one. My surf Coach was Khay, He helped me improve so much over the trip. He takes his job very seriously and make sure to get you on plenty of waves with some form of instruction after every wave. super happy with his coaching and my progression over the course of my stay. Special mention to Pian He’s just the greatest vibe. He put me onto a few really good waves as well And never failed to have a smile on his face, absolute superstar. You’d be doing very well to get either of these guys as your coach. They are super knowledgeable and passionate about helping you to improve. My room was cleaned immaculately every single day. There’s always someone around Should you need anything and The food is exceptional. they really do cater to anything that you need. This is no ordinary hotel I will definitely be Back and recommend to all of my friends and family. Thank you very much to the whole team at DHM. I already can’t wait for my next trip.
Verified by Trustindex
Trustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more