You might be searching for an amazing holiday experience with friends or perhaps you're feeling adventurous after finishing a semester of university. Whatever your motivations may be, a surfing holiday is always going to be the perfect getaway.
Upon browsing for different surf holiday experiences though, you're met with countless options for both surf houses and surf camps. What exactly is the difference between these two accommodation types?
In this article, we explain what a surf house is and what a surf camp is. We also highlight the advantages of booking surf houses or surf camps.
Ultimately, we're here to help you pick the right option for your needs and plan the ultimate learn-to-surf holiday.
With that in mind, it's time to learn how surf houses and surf camps differ. Here's what you’ll learn in this article:
The definitions of a surf house and a surf camp
The characteristics of a typical surf house and surf camp
The type of person a surf house/surf camp will be suitable for
The advantages to booking either a surf house or surf camp
The definition of a surf house
Simply put, a surf house is kind of like a bed and breakfast for surfers.
As the name suggests, you stay in a house, sleep in bedrooms, eat around a communal table and have multiple chill areas where you can relax.
There are also amenities such as a kitchen, living room and laundry facilities. Given this level of comfort, surf houses could be seen as a more stylish, convenient and comfortable option for surfers.
The only downside is that not all surf houses have in-house surf coaches, which means you'll need to book lessons at an extra cost.
Characteristics of a typical surf house
They only host small surf groups of between 5 - 20 people (approximately)
They're located in residential areas close to beaches, bars and other services
You can enjoy a more close-knit family vibe in a surf house
There is a greater variety of high-quality food
They offer guests more privacy
There are multiple room options (double/twin/private with ensuite/shared)
The daily routine is more relaxed with fewer pre-arranged activities
The equipment provided will be of good quality
Who is a surf house for?
Given what you now know about a surf house, it's easy to picture the type of people who prefer them over a surf camp.
For example, if creature comforts, an emphasis on healthy food and access to equipment such as bikes and surf gear are a priority, a surf house will be for you. In addition, if you're looking for an experience where you can choose how you spend your day, a surf house is preferable.
5 benefits of booking a surf house
1. You can choose your own experience
The ability to choose your own experience is one of the biggest benefits of a surf house. With no prearranged activities (besides your surf lessons and meals), you're really in control of what you do, when and how.
2. You have the opportunity to really get to know people
Because surf houses host small groups, you can really get to know the people you're holidaying with. This unique atmosphere creates a sense of community and long-lasting friendships that are not easily gained in large camping communities.
3. You'll eat healthy, high-quality, freshly prepared meals daily
Preparing meals for a small number of guests is far easier than catering to tens or even hundreds of people every day. As a result, you can eat freshly prepared, healthy meals with plenty of variety.
4. You can enjoy a high level of comfort
You're staying in an actual 'house', which means you have access to everything that comes with it. This includes couches, coffee machines, clean toilets and of course, comfortable beds. Practically everything you need for a relaxing learn-to-surf experience can be found in a surf house.
5. You have more room options to choose from
With a variety of rooms to pick from, you can select the type of accommodation that suits your needs and your budget. Want to share with a friend? Get a twin room. Staying with a partner? Go the private with ensuite. Surfing with a bunch of mates? Book a bunk room. It's your call!
The definition of a surf camp
Surf camps are exactly as the name suggests.
They're essentially campsites or temporary housing setups for people to come and learn how to surf.
Surf camps are designed to host large groups of between 20 and 50 people (or more) and as such, the amenities are often basic.
The experience itself is also geared towards handling large groups of people in the most efficient manner possible. This means that surf camps have regimented days with less flexibility around meals, surf sessions and activities.
Most importantly though, surf camps have in-camp coaches who run the surf lessons. This means you needn't book classes with an outside surf school in addition to accommodation.
Characteristics of a typical surf camp
Can host groups of people numbering between 20 - 50 (approximately)
Is a more budget-friendly means of learning how to surf over multiple days
There's a greater diversity of people in terms of age and level of ability
The food is generally focused on fueling you for the day/evening ahead
The daily routine is quite regimented
In-house coaches take daily surf lessons (min. 1 session per day)
The accommodation options range from very basic to comfortable
Transport to and from the surf breaks is often included in the price
There's a more communal feeling in a surf camp
Who is a surf camp for?
Anyone on a shoestring budget who still wants an authentic learn-to-surf experience in Europe will enjoy staying at a surf camp. It's also the ideal learn-to-surf option if you're not too fussed about creature comforts or high-end details.
Many people book surf camps for the set-and-forget appeal. That's to say that your days are planned out with allocated periods for lessons, free time, activities, meals etc.
In addition, surf camps are great for large groups. So if you're travelling with a large bunch of friends or you're with a school, a surf camp is a smart option.
5 benefits of booking a surf camp
You needn't worry about planning your day
Booking a surf camp means there's someone in charge of organising your day. This is super helpful if you don't want to worry or stress about planning activities, surf lessons and meals.
Surf lessons are included as part of the package
Surf camps have coaches that stay in-house. This means you can not only save money on booking lessons with an external surf school, but you can also get consistent feedback from the coaches throughout your stay.
It's a great option for people on a budget
Because of the communal nature and all-inclusive packages, surf camps are a fantastic choice for people on tight budgets.
Private transport isn't necessary
Transport to and from the beach or town is often included in the price of a surf camp. This is incredibly helpful for budget travellers as it saves them money on hiring cars, taxis or buses to get around.
You meet a lot of different people
Surf camps generally attract large groups of guests who come from different countries or cultures. This provides a great atmosphere to mingle and make friends with like-minded individuals who share your passion for the sport.
Conclusion
That's all you need to know about the difference between surf houses and surf camps.
One is a private stay for those looking for luxury and comfort, while the other is more of a communal experience geared towards budget travellers.
In any case, both offer great opportunities to learn how to surf and have an enjoyable time in the process. If you're still not sure whether a surf house or surf camp is right for you, get in touch.
Raff and the team at Southwest Surf House are always happy to help guide you in the right direction.
