Beach in Lombok, Indonesia

Best Surf Camps In The World For Solo Travellers

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Looking to ride your first wave or take your surfing to the next level while connecting with other solo travellers?

Surf camps are a fantastic way to build your skills, explore new coastlines, and meet people who share your love for the ocean.

I’ve been to a few myself and each one brought something different to the experience.

Personally, I love the ones in warm countries where I can skip the wetsuit, but some of the most exciting waves are worth pulling one on.

In this post, I’m sharing the best surf camps for solo travellers around the world. Some are ideal for beginners, others are great for building confidence or refining technique.

You’ll find options across Asia, Europe, Central America, and more, with a mix of warm-water beaches and cooler spots that are worth the wetsuit.

Are you ready?

Let’s go!

Why Go to A Surf Camp Alone?

A group of women practices surf stances on foam boards laid out on the sand during a beachside surf lesson. The beach is crowded with people in the background, and a sign near the boards reads, "RESERVATION SURF RENT SURF LESSONS.

Going to a surf camp alone is an incredible experience for solo travellers, offering the perfect mix of adventure, personal growth, and social interaction.

This is what I love the most about surf camps and have found to be true:

πŸ„β€β™€οΈ You will REALLY make progress! Instructors will push you as much as possible so you will improve your skills in no time. Yes, even if you are a beginner

🌴 Freedom! When you join a surf camp alone you are more open to new adventures and meeting other people.

You’ll be free to set your own pace, enjoy moments of solitude, and reflect on your journey. At the same time, surf camps would offer the chance to foster community, so you’ll naturally meet fellow travellers who share your passion for surfing.

It’s an ideal environment to bond over shared experiences, make new friends from around the world, and gain the confidence that comes from mastering a new skill independently.

🫢 Your tribe will support you! Many solo travellers at surf camps are in the same boat as you, creating a welcoming and supportive atmosphere for beginners and experienced surfers.

You will have good and bad days surfing but your new friends will be on your side for the ride, this is what I love the most about surf camps!

Right, let’s get to the juice!

Best Surf Camps For Solo Travellers in South America

#1 Lapoint Costa Rica


Lapoint is one of the best surf camps for solo travellers! Located in the stunning beach town of Santa Teresa, this camp offers world-class waves and a lively community vibe.

This company is very well-known worldwide and they’ve been around for a long time. You can trust them with your eyes closed!

  • Accommodation: Shared rooms or private bungalows.
  • What’s Included: Surf lessons, equipment, and accommodation.
  • Prices: Packages start at $800 for one week.

#2 Costa Rica Surf Camp


Another excellent surf destination in Costa Rica, this camp is located in Dominical and offers affordable packages for all budgets. Known for its laid-back vibe, it attracts solo travellers from all over the world.

  • Accommodation: Shared dorms and private bungalows.
  • What’s Included: Daily surf lessons, equipment rental, and accommodation.
  • Prices: From $500 for a week.

#3 Kalon Surf


Costa Rica is one of the best destinations for surf camps, and Kalon Surf offers an unforgettable luxury surf experience. Known for its pristine beaches, Costa Rica provides great waves for all skill levels.

Kalun Surf offers a boutique, all-inclusive experience that includes daily surf lessons, yoga sessions, and top-notch accommodation. This option is more expensive if you compare it to other options but definitely worth looking into if you can afford it!

  • Accommodation: Luxury villas with private rooms.
  • What’s Included: Surf lessons, surfboard rental, daily yoga, and gourmet meals.
  • Prices: Starting from $2,500 for a one-week stay.

#4 Swirl Surf Camp, Ecuador


For a female-only surf camp, Swirl Surf Camp in Ecuador is perfect for solo female travellers. This camp offers surfing and skateboarding for adventurous women, with lessons for beginners and intermediate surfers.

  • Accommodation: Shared and private rooms in a beachfront setting.
  • What’s Included: Surf lessons, equipment rental, yoga, and meals.
  • Prices: Starting from $1,200 for a week-long stay.

Are you looking for specific dates for your surf camp in the Americas and the Caribbean? πŸ‘‰ I use booksurfcamps.com to search for surf camp availabilities straight away!

Best Surf Camps for Female Solo Travellers in Europe

#1 Morocco – Bluewaves Surfhouse

Two people in wetsuits pose with tall yellow surfboards standing upright beside them, smiling in the sun on a stone-tiled patio near the ocean. A blue surfboard lies on the ground behind them near a rustic building and a fence made of wooden reeds.

Bluewaves Surfhouse is the place to be! It’s a very cool surf camp offering surf and yoga, plus different local optional activities.

It will warm you up with a super welcoming atmosphere for solo female travellers looking to experience the surf culture of Morocco.

The camp is ideal for all skill levels, focusing on both surfing and chill-out moments.

  • Accommodation: Comfortable shared rooms in a stylish surf house.
  • What’s Included: Daily surf lessons, equipment rental, yummy breakfast, and yoga classes.
  • Prices: From $450 for a one-week stay.

#2 Morocco – Zen Surf


Zen Surf is a great choice for those seeking a mix of surfing and wellness. The camp has a lovely supportive environment, making it perfect for female solo travellers.

  • Accommodation: Cozy rooms in a peaceful setting.
  • What’s Included: Surf lessons, equipment rental, daily meals, and yoga sessions.
  • Prices: From $500 for a one-week stay.

πŸ‘‰ Do you want to explore more surf camps in Morocco? Check out SurfCamps.com!

#3 Portugal – Soul & Surf

Soul & Surf in Portugal is part of Soul & Surf which is another well-known worldwide surf camps organisation. It’s very trustworthy and the staff is lovely!

This surf camp combines surfing with mindfulness practices in a beautiful coastal setting. This camp is perfect for solo travellers looking to improve their surfing skills and meet lovely people.

The nice thing about this surf camp is also that they are very eco-friendly and they love sharing their passion for the Ocean.

  • Accommodation: Comfortable shared or private rooms.
  • What’s Included: Daily surf lessons, yoga sessions, equipment rental, and meals.
  • Prices: From $700 for a one-week stay.

#4 Portugal – Ericeira Surf Camp


Calima Surf offers both surf camps or just surf classes.

πŸ‘‰ I booked this apartment on Famara Beach and attended their surf classes. This place is super comfortable and has a lovely balcony!

It's a friendly environment for solo travellers looking to improve their surfing skills and the instructors are very professional and supportive!

The camp's position is in the popular surf town (Famara), providing access to various surf spots.

  • Accommodation: Comfortable shared or private accommodations.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, equipment rental, meals, and evening activities.
  • Prices: From $650 for a one-week stay.

πŸ‘‰ Find more surf camps in Spain on SurfCamps.com!

Tool What It Does Link
HeyMondo Travel insurance that covers surf injuries, boards and medical expenses πŸ‘‰ Get Travel Insurance
Ubigi eSIM Get a prepaid eSIM for worldwide travel and stay connected as soon as you land. Use code OBSERVER10 for 10% off πŸ‘‰ Grab Your eSIM
Skyscanner Compare flight prices to top surf destinations around the world πŸ‘‰ Search Flights
Wise Spend like a local and avoid exchange rate fees while travelling πŸ‘‰ Open a Wise Account
Booking.com Find hostels, guesthouses or hotels near surf beaches πŸ‘‰ Check Stays Now

Best Surf Camps For Solo Travellers in Sri Lanka

#1 Soul & Surf Sri Lanka

3 surfboads standing on the side of a van. Behind the van you can see a beautiful sky with white soft clouds.


Sri Lanka, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, is a stunning surf destination with warm waters and great waves. Soul & Surf offers a holistic surf experience with daily surf lessons, meditation, and yoga.

They also organise quite a few social events. It's probably one of the most expensive surf camps in Asia but it comes with a really good service and amazing rooms!

  • Accommodation: Beautiful beachfront boutique stays.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, accommodation, yoga, and meals.
  • Prices: Starting from $1,500 for a week.

#2 Lapoint Sri Lanka


Lapoint also has a popular location in Sri Lanka, based in Ahangama! As always, it offers both surf and cultural experiences, which is always nice when visiting a new country!

With warm water year-round and consistent waves, it's a perfect spot for solo travellers to catch waves and meet new people.

  • Accommodation: Private and shared rooms in a super relaxed setting.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, meals, and accommodation.
  • Prices: From $700 for a week-long stay.

#3 Dreamsea Surf Camp


Dreamsea Surf Camp provides a unique surf experience in Ahangama, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant surf culture.

This surf camp is beautiful and right on the beach! This company is pretty known worldwide, similarly to Lapoint, so it's very trustworthy!

Dreamsea surf camp is perfect for both beginners and seasoned surfers as you will be divided in different groups based on experience levels.

  • Accommodation: Glamping tents or comfortable shared rooms.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, equipment rental, meals, and evening activities.
  • Prices: From $500 for a one-week stay

πŸ‘‰ Check Out SurfCamps.com if you are looking for specific dates or just more options when it comes to surf camps in Sri Lanka!

Best Surf Camps For Solo Travellers in Indonesia

A woman in a long-sleeve rash guard rides a small wave on a blue surfboard while two people watch from the water behind her. Traditional wooden fishing boats float in the background near a distant shoreline.

#1 Padang Padang Surf Camp, Bali


Padang Padang Surf Camp is perfect for solo travellers looking to surf Bali’s iconic breaks. The camp is situated near Uluwatu, one of the best surf destinations in the world, with lessons catering to all levels.

  • Accommodation: Private or shared rooms in a Balinese-style villa.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, equipment rental, and accommodation.
  • Prices: From $700 for a one-week stay.

πŸ‘‰ If you are looking for a super cute place to stay nearby, go for Dara Boutique Hotel! This place is stunning and just a few steps from Padang Padang Surf Camp. If you are looking for affordable stays, this is the list of hostels in Uluwatu!

#2 Kima Surf, Bali


Kima Surf is another excellent option for solo surfers, with multiple locations around Bali, including Canggu and Seminyak. The camp offers daily surf trips to the best spots, so you'll be sure to catch the perfect wave.

  • Accommodation: Shared dorms and private rooms.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, accommodation, and daily surf excursions.
  • Prices: Packages start at $600 for a week.

#3 Nalua Surf Camp, Lombok


Nalua Surf Camp is an excellent choice for solo travellers! Here I actually met a lof of other travellers joining the camp alone.

What I liked the most about this camp is that they organise experiences outside the surf camp as well. This is amazing if you also want to explore Lombok!

You can choose to stay with them or book your own accommodation in Kuta.

πŸ‘‰ I stayed at Sima Hotel, which was just next door to the surf camp and it turned out to be more comfortable and affordable! They also have an amazing pool and breakfast buffet!

  • Accommodation: Comfortable shared or private rooms in a tropical setting.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, equipment rental, daily breakfast.
  • Prices: From $450 for a one-week stay.

#4 Surf Camp Lombok

A row of colorful surfboards, including blue, orange, yellow, white, and patterned ones, are vertically stacked in a wall-mounted rack against a white and peach-colored wall. The surfboard on the far right features red floral graphics and the word β€œSoftops” near the top.


Surf Camp Lombok is one of the most popular surf schools in Lombok!

It offers an all-inclusive experience in a social environment, making it perfect for solo travellers. The camp focuses on delivering quality surf lessons and connecting participants through shared experiences.

Additionally, you can also skate at this surf camp! Cool right?

  • Accommodation: Shared or private rooms with a communal atmosphere.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, yoga sessions, airport transfers, equipment rental.
  • Prices: From $800 for a one-week stay.

πŸ‘‰ Find out more surf camps in Indonesia here. Or, for surf and yoga camps in Bali, check out this blog post

Best Surf Camps For Solo Travellers in Japan

A woman wearing a wetsuit for surfing is smiling with her eyes closed. Behind her there are white tiles. From the wetsuit you can see a necklace made out of shells and the wetsuit reads "xcel"

Happy Surf Okinawa


Happy Surf Okinawa is one of the best surf camps in Japan. Okinawa is only a few hours' flight from Tokyo and it's a pretty warm island all year round!

The camp is suitable for surfers of all levels, it comes with friendly instructors and a welcoming community atmosphere.

  • Accommodation: Comfortable dormitory-style or private rooms.
  • What's Included: Surf lessons, equipment rental, and meals.
  • Prices: From $600 for a one-week stay.

Choosing and Booking the Right Surf Camp

White sand beach in Lombok, Indonesia. There are a fw local people playing on the sand and surfers coming out of the sea. The beach is surrounded by nature and the sky is blue with nearly no clouds at all.
#1 What should I look for in a surf camp as a solo traveller?

Look for camps that mention they are solo traveller friendly or have a social atmosphere. I always check for group activities like yoga classes or communal dinners because they make it easier to meet people.

If reviews mention that the camp is full of couples or large groups, I usually skip it.

#2 How to make sure you are placed in the right skill group

This happened to me once. I got put in an intermediate group and ended up out on a boat far from shore.

It was too intense. Now I always ask before booking how they divide students and whether I can stick with the beginner group for the first few days.

You can also talk to your instructor once you arrive to make sure the placement feels right.

#3 What to pack for a surf camp?

Most surf camps include gear but I always bring a long-sleeved rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.

After a few hours in the ocean you will be starving, so I also pack a banana and something salty like crackers. I never travel without a basic first aid kit either.

You will get bruises and small cuts and it is always better to clean them quickly.

You must have travel insurance that covers surfing and make sure you have it with you or saved on your phone in case you need it.

Last Advice: Don't Forget Your Insurance!

Surf scene in Uluwatu, Bali. There are a few beginners surfers carrying big softboards heading towards the sea. There is a red flag, people sunbathing and a beautiful sky with big clouds.


Surfing is fun and surf camps provide the best instructors ever BUT things can happen!

I've been injured a few times. Most of the time it was just small scars or bruises.

But one time I've had a rough accident where I've been hit by a surfboard and my travel insurance saved me a lot of money!

πŸ‘‰ I highly recommend HeyMondo, it's affordable and perfect for solo travellers because you actually get 24/7 support!

Ciao for now,

Silvia x

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✍️ Solo Travel Planning Guide 🌴

Before you start your unforgettable adventures to a new country, here are the essential tips every solo traveller should know:

πŸ“± Should I get an eSIM?

βœ… Yes. Having data from the moment you land makes your trip so much easier. I recommend Ubigi eSIM, which connects instantly without queuing at the airport for a SIM card and works better than other eSIMs I have tested. πŸ‘‰ Check current plans here

πŸš‘ Should I buy travel insurance when travelling alone?

βœ… 100% YES! β€” My #1 safety tip for all travellers is to buy travel insurance for every trip in case anything happens during their visit. I highly recommend HeyMondo - you get 24/7 support and it's budget-friendly!

🏩 What’s the best way to book my accommodations?

My go-to for hotels or hostels is Booking.com. For hostels, I normally go for Hostelworld (you can also filter by private rooms if you want!). If you love pets you should consider Trusted Housesitters, you would get free accommodation in exchange for looking after amazing pets ❀️

✈️ Where can I book my flight?

Skyscanner is definitely the best one out there! I love their "explore everywhere" function for when I need inspiration on where to go next! If you will embark into a long flight and you love showering in between flights or just using the lounges in airports all over the world, check out Lounge Passes on Klook, GetYourGuide or get a lounge membership on Priority Pass!

πŸš• How can I book my taxi in advance from the airport to my accommodation?

I always recommend reserving your taxi in advance via Klook.com. This is because it will ask you for flight details and the driver will be able to track your flight in real time. I would book my taxi especially when I fly to new places or get there at night time! If you want to rent a car instead, use DiscoverCars, they have cars available to pick up right at the airport!

πŸ’ What’s the best way to book my activities?

Get Your Guide and Viator are the best ones. You can go through the reviews to learn more about each activity and they have amazing customer support!

πŸ„πŸ½ Where can I book surf camps or yoga retreats?

Booksurfcamps.com is the best for surf camps all over the world. Bookyogaretreats.com is my go-to for the best yoga retreats worldwide.

πŸ’° π—–π˜‚π—Ώπ—Ώπ—²π—»π—°π˜†: The best debit card to use when travelling worldwide is Wise! It's easy to apply for and you save lots of money when travelling alone.