Surf Camps in the Philippines: Where to Catch the Best Waves
Surfing is a popular water sport that has gained traction in recent years. The Philippines, with its many beautiful beaches and ideal surf conditions, has become a top destination for surfers from around the world. Surf camps have sprung up across the country, offering beginners and advanced surfers alike the chance to hone their skills and experience the thrill of riding the waves.
- Top Surfing Destinations in the Philippines
- Surf Camps in Siargao Island
- Surf Camps in Baler
- Surf Camps in La Union
- Surf Camp Accommodations
- Surfing Lessons and Packages
- Surfing Etiquette and Safety Tips
The Philippines is home to a variety of surf camps that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone. Many surf camps offer packages that include accommodations, meals, surf lessons, and equipment rentals. Some even offer yoga classes, island tours, and other activities to complement the surfing experience. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time surfer, there is a surf camp in the Philippines that can provide the perfect vacation.
Top Surfing Destinations in the Philippines
The Philippines is a perfect destination for surfers of all levels, with a variety of waves and surf spots scattered throughout the islands. Here are some of the top surfing destinations in the Philippines.
Siargao Island
Siargao Island is one of the most popular surfing destinations in the Philippines and is known as the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines." The island boasts several world-class surf spots, including Cloud 9, which is considered one of the best surf breaks in the world. The surfing season in Siargao runs from September to May, with the best waves typically seen between November and February.
Baler
Baler is a popular surfing destination located in the province of Aurora. The town is known for its long, sandy beaches and consistent waves, making it an ideal location for both beginners and experienced surfers. Sabang Beach is the most popular surf spot in Baler, with waves that can reach up to 10 feet during the peak season from October to February.
La Union
La Union is a province located in the northern part of the Philippines and is a popular destination for surfers. The town of San Juan is known for its consistent waves, making it a great spot for surfers of all levels. The surfing season in La Union runs from October to April, with the best waves typically seen between December and March.
In conclusion, the Philippines offers a variety of surfing destinations that cater to surfers of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, you're sure to find a surf spot that suits your needs.
Surf Camps in Siargao Island
Siargao Island is a well-known destination for surfers from around the world. With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and perfect waves, it's no surprise that Siargao Island has become one of the top surfing destinations in the Philippines. Here are three of the best surfing camps on the island.
Buddha Resort
Buddha Resort Siargao, nestled between Cloud 9 and General Luna town centre, is a boutique surf camp that brings together the serenity of Siargao Island and the thrill of its renowned surfing experience.
Amidst lush coconut trees, the resort is just a two-minute stroll away from the beach, making it an ideal gateway for surf enthusiasts. With an experienced team of surf instructors and surf equipment available for hire, the resort ensures a comprehensive surfing experience suitable for beginners and seasoned surfers alike.
Their signature Surf Packages, spanning 5, 7, or 10 days, include accommodation with breakfasts, surf lessons and transfers to the surf spots on the island. Beyond surfing, the packages offer island hopping tours, allowing guests to experience the full splendor of Siargao.
Harana Surf Resort
Harana Surf Resort, situated in General Luna, is just steps away from the beach and a leisurely 10-minute walk from the renowned Cloud 9 area.
Offering a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs, the resort features private rooms with balconies, family villas, and spacious community youth villas that can accommodate large groups of up to 12 people.
The resort is home to a surf school catering to beginners and intermediate level surfers, providing lessons designed to enhance skills and confidence on the waves.
For those wishing to dive deeper into the surfing lifestyle, Harana Surf Resort also offers immersive surf camps spanning 7, 8, or 11 days. These camps provide a comprehensive surfing experience, making the resort an ideal destination for those keen to embrace the surf culture of Siargao.
Kermit Surf Resort
Located in the heart of General Luna, just minutes away from the world-famous surf spot, Cloud 9, Kermit Surf Resort is one of Siargao Island's popular surf camps.
The resort provides an array of surf-focused services including lessons, surfboard rentals, and guided tours to the island's best surf locations. Accommodations range from clean, modern rooms to charming, native-style bungalows equipped with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and Wi-Fi, ensuring guests a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The resort's restaurant offers a menu of fresh, healthy food to fuel guests for their surfing adventures.
Kermit Surf School provides a variety of offerings, from individual surf lessons and daily guiding packages to the comprehensive Sleep-Eat-Surf Package, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive surfing experience in Siargao.
Surf Camps in Baler
Baler is a popular surfing destination in the Philippines, known for its long and consistent waves. It is home to several surf camps that cater to both beginners and advanced surfers. Here are some of the best surfing camps in Baler:
Nalu Surf Camp
Situated on the scenic shores of Sabang beach, at the epicenter of Baler's prime surfing area, Nalu Surf Camp is recognized as an accommodation offering that harmonizes luxury with the relaxed, laid-back beach lifestyle.
Catering to all levels of surfers, Nalu Surf Camp offers a range of surfing services, from beginner lessons to advanced one-on-one instruction.
Adding to the overall experience, the camp's full-service kitchen and bar, Sandbar, offers an extensive selection of delectable meals served from breakfast to dinner, and even caters to after-hour cravings.
The bar prides itself on its craft cocktails and staple bottles, creating an ambiance of refined relaxation. Guests can occasionally enjoy acoustic live music shows, further enhancing the soothing and enjoyable atmosphere at Nalu Surf Camp.
Aliya Surf Camp
Aliya Surf Camp is a popular surf camp located in Sabang Beach, Baler. It offers a range of surfing packages for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
The surf camp is dedicated to fostering a love for surfing, whether you're a seasoned surfer seeking local knowledge about Baler's breaks or a newbie ready to ride your first wave. Friendly, professional instructors provide lessons that introduce beginners to the basics of surfing in a safe, secure, and enjoyable environment. For those with more experience, the camp offers challenging activities to refine your skills.
In addition to surfing, Aliya Surf Camp also offers yoga classes, massage services, and other outdoor activities.
North Shore Surf Camp
North Shore Surf Camp is a tranquil beachfront resort in Baler’s north shore, providing an idyllic retreat away from the bustling crowds of Sabang Beach. Just a few minutes' drive away from the popular surfing spot, guests can enjoy the sound of waves while staying in an exclusive surf area.
This resort caters to various types of travelers, offering air-conditioned rooms with different capacities suitable for couples or groups of up to 6-8 people. Modern comforts are provided in each room, along with a patio where guests can unwind with their favorite beverage. For those seeking added privacy, the resort also features rooms with private pools.
In addition to the resort's prime surfing opportunities, guests can take advantage of the on-site swimming pool and a restaurant serving delectable local dishes, ensuring a delightful and relaxing experience at North Shore Surf Camp.
Surf Camps in La Union
La Union is a popular surfing destination in the Philippines, known for its consistent waves and laid-back atmosphere. Here are three of the top surf camps in La Union:
Sebay Surf Central
Sebay Surf Central is a household name in La Union, easily accessible from both the highway and the beach. This surf school is ideal for beginners, offering tailored lessons to help novices find their feet.
Beyond surfing, Sebay provides a multitude of services such as a resto-bar, a game room, room massages, a function room, tour packages, and even diving lessons. Its variety of amenities and comprehensive offerings make it a popular destination for both surf enthusiasts and casual visitors.
San Juan Surf Resort
San Juan Surf Resort is one of the top choices for surfers in La Union.
Established by renowned local surfer, Luke Landrigan, San Juan Surf Resort is a prominent surf camp that offers internationally-acclaimed surfing lessons. The resort not only embraces the spirit of surfing but also fosters inclusivity and community engagement. It hosts outreach programs such as Special Education – La Union (SPED), where special needs children are taught to ride the ocean waves. The resort's dedication to surfing excellence and community contribution gives it a unique place in the local surf scene.
The resort offers comfortable accommodations, surf lessons for all levels, and a variety of other activities, including beach volleyball and kayaking. The resort also has a restaurant and bar, as well as a swimming pool and spa. With its prime location on the beach and friendly staff, San Juan Surf Resort is a great option for anyone looking to surf and relax in La Union.
Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa
Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa is a luxurious option for surfers in La Union. The resort offers spacious rooms and villas, as well as a variety of amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center. Kahuna also has a surf school on-site, as well as surfboard rentals and repairs. Guests can enjoy delicious food and drinks at the resort's restaurant and bar,and relax in the beautiful surroundings of the resort's gardens and beachfront.
Kahuna Beach Resort and Spa is home to La Union Surf School, one of the country's premier surf schools. This surf school holds certification from the Academy of Surfing Instructors in Australia (ASI), underscoring its commitment to providing high-quality, professional instruction. Here, guests can learn to ride the La Union waves under the guidance of experienced instructors, making it an ideal spot for those seeking to master the art of surfing in a luxurious, spa-like setting.
Surf Camp Accommodations
When planning a surfing trip to the Philippines, choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference in the quality of your experience. Here are some things to consider when looking for a surfing camp accommodation.
Types of Accommodations
Surf camps in the Philippines offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Here are some common types of accommodations to consider:
- Hostels: Hostels are a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don't mind sharing a room with other surfers. They often provide basic amenities such as bunk beds, shared bathrooms, and communal spaces for socializing.
- Guesthouses: Guesthouses offer more privacy than hostels, with private rooms and bathrooms. They often have shared facilities such as kitchens, lounges, and outdoor spaces.
- Resorts: Resorts offer a more luxurious experience, with amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and restaurants. They often provide private rooms with en-suite bathrooms and balconies.
What to Look for in a Surf Camp Accommodation
When choosing a surf camp accommodation, there are some important factors to consider:
- Location: Look for a surf camp that is close to the waves you want to surf. Some of the most popular surfing destinations in the Philippines include Siargao, Baler, and La Union.
- Surf Packages: Many surfing camps offer packages that include surf lessons, board rentals, and other amenities. Look for a package that fits your skill level and budget.
- Facilities: Check the facilities offered by the surfing camp, such as lockers, storage areas, and equipment rentals.
- Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to get an idea of the quality of the surfing camp's accommodations, staff, and services.
By considering these factors when choosing a surfing camp accommodation in the Philippines, surfers can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience while catching some of the best waves in the world.
Surfing Lessons and Packages
When it comes to surfing lessons and packages in the Philippines, there are a variety of options available to suit different skill levels, budgets, and preferences. Here are some of the types of surfing lessons and packages you can expect to find:
Types of Surfing Lessons
- Private Lessons: These one-on-one lessons are ideal for those who want personalized attention and tailored instruction to improve their skills quickly.
- Group Lessons: These lessons are perfect for beginners who want to learn the basics of surfing in a supportive and fun environment. Group lessons are also a great way to meet other surfers and make new friends.
- Advanced Lessons: For experienced surfers looking to take their skills to the next level, advanced lessons offer specialized instruction and coaching to help them master more challenging waves and maneuvers.
Surf Camp Packages and Inclusions
Surfing packages in the Philippines typically include a range of services and amenities to make your experience as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. Here are some of the most common inclusions you can expect to find:
- Accommodation: Most surfing packages include accommodation at a surf camp or resort near the beach. Accommodations range from basic dorm-style rooms to private villas with ocean views.
- Surfing Equipment: Surfing packages usually include the use of surfboards, wetsuits, and other necessary equipment. Some packages may also include the option to purchase or rent your own equipment.
- Surfing Lessons: Surf lessons are usually offered daily, with the type of instruction—whether group or private one-on-one sessions—varying based on the chosen package.
- Transportation: Many surfing packages include transportation to and from the airport or other designated pickup points. Some packages may also include transportation to nearby surf spots.
- Meals: Some surfing packages include meals, while others offer meal plans or the option to purchase meals separately. It's important to check what is included in your package before booking.
Overall, surfing lessons and packages in the Philippines offer a great way to learn or improve your surfing skills while enjoying the beautiful beaches and warm waters of this tropical paradise.
Surfing Etiquette and Safety Tips
Surfing is a thrilling and exciting sport, but it is important to follow proper surfing etiquette and safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone in the water.
Surfing Etiquette
Surfing etiquette refers to the unwritten rules and customs that govern the behavior of surfers in the water. Here are some basic guidelines to follow:
- Respect the locals: If you are surfing in a new spot, take some time to observe the locals and how they surf. Don't drop in on them or hog the waves.
- Wait your turn: Don't paddle out and immediately take the first wave that comes your way. Wait your turn and take your fair share of waves.
- Communicate: Use hand signals or verbal cues to communicate with other surfers in the water.
- Don't litter: Keep the beach and water clean by properly disposing of trash and other waste.
Safety Tips
Surfing can be dangerous, especially for beginners. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Know your limits: Don't attempt to surf waves that are too big or too powerful for your skill level.
- Wear a leash: A leash connects your ankle to your surfboard, preventing it from getting swept away by waves and potentially hitting other surfers.
- Protect your head: Wear a helmet to protect your head from collisions with other surfers or your own surfboard.
- Check the conditions: Before heading out, check the surf report and weather forecast to ensure safe surfing conditions.
By following proper surfing etiquette and safety tips, surfers can enjoy a fun and safe experience in the water. We invite you to visit the Philippines and enjoy the combination of the best weather, waves and people.
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