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July 25, 2025

Ita Permatasari (Sari)

Ita, aka Sari. DHM Surf Camp co-founder and director. Sari is a leader and environmental and hospitality enthusiast.


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Why Surf Camps Are the Best Way to Learn and Travel

Surfing is a way of life, a link to the ocean, and a means of achieving independence. It’s more than simply a sport. For individuals aspiring to study surfing or enhance their abilities, enrolling in a surf camp is an optimal method to commence. It transcends mere wave riding; it involves engaging with surf culture, cultivating self-assurance in aquatic environments, and feeling the inherent cadence of coastal existence. At DHM, we assert that the path to becoming a surfer commences with an optimal environment, encouraging instructors, and an ideal location.

 

What is a surf camp?

A surf camp is a special place where people can learn to surf, to get better with it and go with other passengers sharing their interests. Usually, these camps are somewhere near the coast of the world. They offer full package including extra artists such as surf hours, housing, food, equipment and sometimes yoga, tours or cultural tourism.

It differs from conventional classes by immersing participants in experiential learning, encompassing surf theory, ocean safety, paddling techniques, and a systematic, supporting approach. It will assist you in honing your abilities and achieving your objectives, regardless of whether you are a novice or seeking to advance your proficiency.

 

Why choose a Surf Camp?

There are many reasons why going to a surf camp is better than going alone:

  • Structured teaching: If you work with certified teachers who emphasize safe practice and the right ways, you will be better.
  • All-social facilities: Most camps cover equipment, housing, food and transport, so you don’t have to worry about planning.
  • Community Vibes: These are good places to meet new people because they are full of people traveling alone, with groups and with the families.
  • Local Knowledge: The coach staff knows the region well and can take you to the best break for your level and season.
  • A well-round method of life: with surfing gives many clay yoga, meditation and healthy food.

We work closely with the best camps around the world at DHM to ensure that our guests have the best time both on the board and outside.

 

Can I who has never surfed before can go to the camp?

One great thing about surfcamps is that anyone can go, you don’t need to know how to surf before. Most of the time, camps are grouped by skill level:

  • Early camps learn the basics, such as how to paddle, stand, be safe in water and surf on the small waves.
  • These camps are great for those who can cycle green waves and be better at beating, retaining or choosing which waves to cycle.
  • Advanced Surf teaching is for experienced surfers who want performance-based teaching and access to breaks that are harder.

In your 20s, you can travel alone, with a partner, or as a family on vacation. There’s a surf camp out there for everyone.

 

What to Expect?

On a normal day in a camp you can expect the following:

  • Surf hours in the morning, when the waves are the best.
  • For a healthy breakfast, eat tropical fruits, drinks and food from your area.
  • Extreme time: Make it easy, strive around the city, or do something you want to do.
  • If you want to take a new surfing or surf theory in class style (wave reading, etiquette, etc.), this is possible in the afternoon.
  • Things to do in the evening: yoga, beach bonfire or tourism of museums.

There are many camps with flexible schemes, so how busy or calm you want to be during your stay.

 

Popular Places to Go to Surf Camp

Lombok, Bali, East Java:

Bali is known as one of the best places for surf. Canggu and Seminyak are good places for beginners to surf, while Uluwatu has referred breaks for more experienced surfers. Surfers love Bali because it is in a warm area, prices are low, and the culture is rich.

Nicaragua:

The “pura vida” vibe in Costa Rica is matched by warm water, steady waves, and a strong ecotourism community. Tamarindo and Santa Teresa are great places that mix nature, health, and adventure.

Portugal:

Portugal is known as Europe’s new surf capital. It has waves and beautiful cities by the sea throughout the year. People prefer to go to Arisira and Penich, as they have good waves and surf schools.

 

Tamil Nadu:

The southern coast of Sri Lanka has quickly become a favorite place. Hot water and many cultural programs can be seen in Veligama and Ahangama. The waves are soft and rolling, making them good for beginners.

Africa:

Morocco is the place to go for something and unusual. Tagzout becomes more popular for the camps because it has a mixture of large right -handed point brake and surf and barbaric culture.

 

How to Pick the Best Camp for surfing?

The right surf camp for you will rely on travel style, budget and goals. Here are some things to think about:

  • Skill Level: Make sure the camp is perfect for your surfing level.
  • Place: Choose a place on the basis of weather, regularity of waves and the mood you want to make (party, welfare or distant).
  • Instructor: Look for qualified teachers who have good reviews and they know the field well.
  • Places to live: camps ranging from basic hostels to advanced villas with cot.
  • Extra: Don’t forget to do yoga. Do you take pictures? Cultural tour? For further fun, some camps offer a type of extra.

At DHM, we help surf the right camp for their goals and value, and ensure that any experience is unique and memorable.

 

What to Bring to the Camp?

Even though most camps give you surfboards and wetsuits, you should still bring things like:

  • Rash guards or clothing
  • Safe sunscreen for reefs
  • Water shoes or flip-flops
  • Clothes that are light
  • Bag that doesn’t leak
  • Insurance for travel (that covers surfers)

Don’t forget to bring an open mind, because surfing is hard but so worth it!

 

DHM: Your Surf Adventure Partner

We at DHM think that travel is more meaningful when it leads to personal growth and new adventures.  So, we’ve teamed up with some of the best camps for surfing in the world to put together packages for people who want more than just a beach vacation. DHM helps you find the right surf camp for your goals, level, and way of life, from cheap camps for beginners in Bali to private teaching retreats in Portugal.

There are different lengths of surf trips available, from one week to one month. DHM can help you catch your first wave or your best one yet.

 

FAQs

Q1.  Do I need to know how to surf before I go?

Not at all! Most camps have organized lessons to help you learn in a safe and comfortable way.

Q2: Are these camps safe for families and kids?

Yes.  They are good for families and have activities for both kids and adults.

Q3: What does a surf camp package usually come with?

Usually, surf classes, renting gear, a place to stay, some meals, and sometimes yoga, transfers, or trips to see other cultures.

Q4: How long should I stay at a surf camp?

Most guests live for 5 to 10 days, but for a long time, people help improve their skills.

Q5: Do I need to bring my own surfboard?

Not all the time.  You can bring your own board to most camps if you’d like, but most will have boards that are right for your level.

 

Conclusion

If you want to learn to surf or improve the skills that already exist, a surf camp is one of the best ways to do it. This is more than just learning to ride waves. It’s also about meeting new people, finding new places and keeping in touch with Sea. With DHM you can find the camp that fits your style and personality. Start the journey.

Are you ready to surf? DHM can help you get the right wave.

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.

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Anthony Gird
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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.
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Nöldi Bachmann
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Just amazing and chill🤙🏻
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Hailey Martin profile picture
Hailey Martin
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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 🏄
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Wojtek Cichocki profile picture
Wojtek Cichocki
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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 😉
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Céline Delheye profile picture
Céline Delheye
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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!
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Felipe van Braak
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Great staff, looking to go to less crowded places
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Marsel profile picture
Marsel
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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.
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Sam Robinson
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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.
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