The 5 Best Surf Camps In Australia [2024]
This is our review of the best surf camps in Australia in 2024.
The best surf camps in Australia package the combination of surf, social and learning together as one.
I’m a surfer that has travelled to 20 countries who researched the best surf camps in Australia to help you find the best for you.
And I found that Mojosurf Camp is the overall the best surf camp in Australia.
All surf camps in Australia are different. So, I've included a review of the best surf camps in Australia for every type of surfer.
Let’s get started.
🙏 Best For Yoga
88% 🙂
Selecting top surf camps in Australia involves considering a variety of factors such as camp accommodation, atmosphere and quality of surf lessons.
After hours of researching and analysing over 1000 reviews we have produced a list of the best surf camps in Australia
The Best Surf Camps In Australia
- Mojosurf Camp - Best Surf Camp In Australia
- Soul Surf School - Second Best Surf Camp In Australia
- Art Factory Lodge - Best Surf Camp With Yoga
- Spot X Surf Camp - Best Surf Camp For Solo Travellers
- Cool Bananas - Best Surf Camp For Backpackers
Looking for other surf camp locations? Check out the surf camps in Nicaragua.
Mojosurf Camp - Best Surf Camp In Australia
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF CAMP IN AUSTRALIA (91%)
Address: 1 Skinners Shoot Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Best For: All Surfers
Why We Recommend:
We recommend this surf camp for its exceptional surf instruction and welcoming community atmosphere, perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. Enjoy the laid-back lifestyle and vibrant culture of the Byron Bay area while honing your surfing skills and making lasting memories.
Pros
Friendly Staff
Clean Accommodation
Great Food
Convenient Location
Cons
Limited Yoga Options
Noise Issues
Crowded Snorkelling
Basic Rooms
Location
What To Expect
Expect three surf lessons with provided equipment, opportunities to meet new friends, and explore the sights of Byron Bay while staying three nights in Australia's iconic surf town.
Contact Mojosurf Camp
- Phone Number: +61266395100
- Email: info@mojosurf.com
- Instagram: @mojo.surf
Soul Surf School - Second Best Surf Camp In Australia
⭐️ Verdict: SECOND BEST CAMP IN AUSTRALIA (89%)
Location: 4/14 Bay St, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Best For: Beginner/Intermediate Surfers
Why We Recommend:
Experience a memorable surf holiday in Australia with continuous instruction from friendly, qualified surf instructors at different stunning locations. Meet new surfing friends, enjoy captivating nature, and immerse yourself in the laid-back lifestyle of Australia's iconic surf town.
Pros
Excellent Accommodation
Great Surf Coaching
Delicious Food
Friendly Staff
Cons
Limited Availability
Remote Location
Basic Surf Levels
Very Social (personal preference)
Location
What To Expect
Enjoy two days of surfing with professional instructors at stunning locations suitable for all levels, along with two nights of accommodation. Expect two-hour beach sessions each day, complete with all necessary equipment provided.
Contact Soul Surf School
- Email: info@soulsurfschool.com.au
- Phone Number: +61 1008 089 699
- Instagram: @soulsurfschool
Art Factory Lodge - Best Surf Camp For Yoga
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF CAMP FOR YOGA (88%)
Address: 1 Skinners Shoot Rd, Byron Bay NSW 2481, Australia
Best For: Surfers That Enjoy Yoga
Why We Recommend:
We recommend this surf camp for its all-inclusive package that combines surfing lessons, yoga sessions, and hassle-free accommodations, ensuring a worry-free experience. With convenient pickups, daily yoga, and the charm of staying in an authentic Tipi village, this is the ultimate blend of thrill and relaxation.
Pros
Excellent Instructors
Beautiful Surf Spots
Comfortable Accommodations
Welcoming Atmosphere
Cons
Long Travel
Remote Location
Limited Boards
Insufficient Lighting
Location
What To Expect
Expect three surf lessons, three yoga sessions, and all necessary equipment provided. Immerse yourself in the bohemian surf lifestyle with three nights' accommodation.
Art Factory Lodge
- Email: info@artsfactory.com.au
- Phone Number: +61 (02) 6685-7709
- Instagram: @artsfactory_nomads
Spot X Surf Camp - Best Surf Camp For Solo Travellers
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF CAMP FOR SOLO TRAVEL (87%)
Address: 46 Arrawarra Beach Rd, Arrawarra NSW 2456, Australia
Best For: Solo Travellers
Why We Recommend:
We recommend this surf camp for its all-inclusive packages tailored for East Coast travellers. Enjoy learning to surf and the beach lifestyle or opt for alternative activities like kangaroo golf, surf rafting, or river kayaking, all while staying at the full board hostel.
Pros
Attentive Staff
Great Facilities
Social Atmosphere
Good Food
Cons
Travel Distance
Location Remote
Lack of ATMs
Limited English Instructors
Location
What To Expect
Expect daily 2-3 hour surf lessons with qualified instructors, a variety of boards and wetsuits, and free time for other activities or relaxation. Enjoy five nights' accommodation in a tipi or dorm, daily meals, and a beachside location with no roads to cross, just a small bridge.
Contact Surf X Surf Camp
- Phone Number: +61266395100
- Instagram: @mojospotx
Cool Bananas - Best Surf Camp For Backpackers
⭐️ Verdict: BEST SURF CAMP FOR BACKPACKERS (86%)
Address: 2 Springs Rd, Agnes Water QLD 4677, Australia
Best For: All Levels of Surfers
Why We Recommend:
We recommend joining Gnarly Tours for a fun, safe, and educational surf lesson in Agnes Water, Queensland, the most northerly surf beach with ideal water temperatures. Enjoy a 3-4 hour progressive lesson with qualified instructors who will guide you at your own pace, leaving you with the skills to continue your surfing journey.
Pros
Great Location
Helpful Staff
Stunning Accommodation
Enjoyable Activities
Cons
High End Camp
Limited lessons
Basic Instruction
Location
What To Expect
Fun surf lessons for beginners on a private beach with new equipment, rash vests, and GoPros provided. Enjoy warm water year-round, small group sessions, one-night accommodation, and free photos.
Contact Cool Bananas Surf Camp
- Phone Number: +61749747660
- Instagram: @Cool_Bananas_Hostel1770
What to Look For in a Surf Camp in Australia
Selecting which surf camp to go for can be challenging with the overwhelming amount of information available today. We have listed the key factors to consider when selecting surf camps in Australia including location, surf lesson quality, accommodation, food and camp atmosphere.
*Another good tip is to review each surf camps social media to see what they have been up to recently!
Surf Camp Location
Camp location is personal preference, as some may want a surf camp located on the beach, whereas others don't mind being inland travelling to the beach every day. Location will also impact which surf spots you will surf. Make sure the swell in your selected location matches your skill level.
Surf Lessons
This will be the bulk of your experience, therefore ensuring the surf lessons are high quality will ensure a successful surf camp. Some lessons can be crowded resulting in a high student/instructor ratio, this can result in you not getting adequate teaching time to develop your surf skills. This can be expected in high season, so if you're looking for a more one to one experience consider the seasonality of your trip.
Accommodation & Facilities
Where you sleep is a number one consideration for many surfers. You will burn a lot of energy during surf camps so ensuring you can get a good amount of shut eye is vital! Surf camps often have extra facilities for you to enjoy such as pools, skate ramps, and even ice baths. These can add to your experience during down time!
Food
Vital! This is your fuel for surfing so it is very important! Most surf camps offer breakfast and dinner, however each camps food quality and variety will differ. Opt for surf camps that offer a wide range of foods for breakfast and dinner so you can have as much energy as possible when surfing.
Camp Atmosphere
Also Important! Many surfers arrive to surf camps in Australia looking to connect with like minded surfers and build new friendships. The camps atmosphere will impact this. Often surf camps will put on evening activities such as a camp fire or some drinks to bring everyone together. Some surf camps are more focused on partying than others so ensure you select the best one for your needs!
Where Are The Best Surf Camps In Australia
Australia offers an abundance of amazing surf camps along its stunning coastlines. From the Gold Coast to Byron Bay, surfers can discover camps tailored to all levels, with seasoned instructors and dreamy waves.
In Byron Bay, Noosa, and Bondi Beach, surf camps abound, offering a mix of laid-back vibes and consistent breaks, perfect for beginners and intermediates alike.
Further south, spots like Bells Beach and Torquay boast world-class waves and a vibrant surf scene, with a variety of camps to choose from, catering to different skill levels and preferences.
Whether you're chasing the thrill of big waves or the serenity of secluded beaches, Australia has something for everyone!
Best Time To Do a Surf Camp In Australia
The optimal time for a surf camp in Australia depends on the region and your surfing goals.
Generally, Australia's surf season varies by region, with the east coast offering great conditions year-round, while the southern and western coasts have their prime seasons.
In destinations like Byron Bay and the Gold Coast, the best conditions align with the warmer months from November to April, bringing consistent swells and ideal surfing conditions, attracting surfers of all levels.
Conversely, the winter months from May to October offer smaller crowds and bigger swells, creating a more relaxed atmosphere for surfers seeking a quieter experience and more challenging waves.
Where To Learn To Surf In Australia
Australia boasts numerous fantastic surf spots and different surf camps perfect for beginners eager to ride their first wave.
In Byron Bay, Noosa, and Bondi Beach, you'll find reputable surf schools offering beginner-friendly lessons against breathtaking backdrops and gentle waves.
Further south, in Torquay and Lorne, beginner surfers can hone their skills with patient instructors and forgiving waves, ideal for mastering the basics.
On the west coast, spots like Scarborough Beach and Margaret River offer a laid-back vibe and beginner-friendly breaks, making them excellent choices for aspiring surfers looking to learn in a relaxed setting.
Surfing In Australia
Surfing in Australia offers an exhilarating experience amidst its stunning coastlines, warm waters, and a myriad of surf breaks catering to surfers of all levels.
History
Australia's surfing history dates back to the early 20th century, gaining popularity in the 1960s with the influx of international surfers discovering its perfect waves.
From the early days of surf exploration at Bondi Beach to the rise of iconic surf spots like Bells Beach and Snapper Rocks, Australia’s surfing evolution reflects its deep connection to the ocean and vibrant surf culture. Now famous Australian surfers have a variety of surf spots to chose from!
Spots
Australia boasts an abundance of incredible surf spots along its coastline.
From the powerful barrels of Bells Beach and Margaret River to the mellow waves of Noosa and Bondi, each spot offers a unique surfing experience set amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Waves
Australia's waves are as diverse as its coastline, catering to surfers of all skill levels and preferences.
From the challenging reef breaks of the Gold Coast to the gentle beach breaks of Byron Bay, the country's waves provide an exciting ride for every surfer.
Seasons
The surfing season in Australia varies depending on the region and prevailing weather patterns.
Generally, the prime surfing season extends from November to April on the east coast, while the southern and western coasts see their best waves from May to October.
The off-season offers smaller crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for surfers seeking a quieter experience.
How We Chose The "Best" Surf Camps
In selecting the best surf camps, I employed a thorough and meticulous process to ensure that each camp met the highest standards of quality and satisfaction.
This process involved reviewing over 1250 reviews from various online platforms and meticulously analysing social media feedback. Additionally, I reached out to individuals who had firsthand experience with the camps to gather insights into their overall experiences.
Each surf camp was evaluated based on a weighted system, considering essential factors such as location, surf lessons, accommodation, food quality, and overall atmosphere.
By assigning specific weights to each criterion and meticulously grading each product against these standards, I was able to objectively assess and compare their merits.
FAQ
What is the best surf break in Australia?
The best surf break in Australia is often considered to be Bells Beach in Victoria, known for its world-class waves and iconic status in the surfing community.
What month is best to surf Australia?
The best months to surf in Australia are from November to April, particularly along the east coast where conditions are ideal.
How do I choose a surf camp?
Choose a surf camp based on your skill level, the quality of instruction, location, and reviews from past participants.
Where can I learn to surf in Australia?
You can learn to surf in Australia at popular beginner-friendly spots like Byron Bay, Noosa, and Bondi Beach.
What is the surf capital of Australia?
The surf capital of Australia is Torquay, home to the famous Bells Beach and the annual Rip Curl Pro surf competition.
Where does Chris Hemsworth surf in Australia?
Chris Hemsworth frequently surfs in Byron Bay, New South Wales, where he resides with his family.
Our Verdict
When looking to book some of the best surf camps in Australia, it’s important to be satisfied you have made the right decision.
Every surf camp has their pros and cons, it's about finding the best one for you. But, Mojosurf Camp is an excellent choice for surfers seeking a true Australian surfing experience.
