How to Choose the Right Surf Retreat

If you’ve read the first article in this series, you already know that surf retreats are about much more than just surfing. They’re about space, connection, confidence, and learning — both in and out of the water.

But once the idea of a surf retreat starts to feel exciting (and maybe a little nerve-wracking), the next big question usually is:

How do I know if it’s right for me?

After doing nine surf retreats over the past few years — across different countries, conditions, and formats — I’ve learned that choosing well has far less to do with the destination itself, and far more to do with clarity.

So before you start scrolling locations, waves, and dreamy photos, start here.

Start with the most important question: why

Before booking anything, ask yourself honestly:

• What do I want to get out of this trip?

• How important is surfing progression to me right now?

• Do I want to surf twice a day, or is one session enough?

• Do I want flexibility, or a structured schedule?

• Do I want time for other activities, or do I want surfing to be the main focus?

Write these questions down. They’re all valid, and your answers will guide every other decision you make.

This step alone can save you from booking a retreat that looks incredible online but doesn’t actually suit what you need.

Don’t fall in love with the destination before the waves

(speaking from experience)

It’s very tempting — and I’m absolutely guilty of this — to fall in love with a destination first. You picture yourself in an exotic place, imagine the culture, the food, the scenery… and only later look at the surf details.

Unfortunately, many surf retreats sell the location first and the surfing second.

If your priority is to improve your surfing, the type of waves and breaks available matters far more than how beautiful the place looks in photos. A stunning destination doesn’t automatically mean beginner-friendly or suitable conditions.

Guilty as charged — I’ve learned this one the hard way.

Be honest about your surf level

(not the one you wish you had)

Beginner. Experienced beginner. Intermediate. Lower intermediate. Advanced. Pro. Level 1, 2, 3… A, B, C… yes — it’s confusing.

On top of that, everyone comes from different home breaks, so we’re not always comparing apples to apples.

Here’s my best advice: don’t book a retreat for the level you hope you’ll be at by the time the trip starts. Book for the level you’re at right now.

Be honest — with yourself and with the organisers. Talk to them. Ask questions. Some retreats will even ask for a short video of you surfing, which, in my opinion, is the best way to do it.

Because let’s be honest — we’ve all had that wave where we felt like Stephanie Gilmore… sadly it wasn’t caught on camera 😉 It felt like the biggest, steepest wave ever — when in reality it probably wasn’t even overhead. I get you, sister. It felt big.

It’s your trip. And trust me, there are plenty of great options these days.

Surf conditions matter more than you think

You can’t control the ocean, and there are never guarantees — that’s part of surfing. But doing your research gives you a much better chance of choosing conditions that support your goals.

Things to consider:

• Season: In-season usually means better, more consistent conditions. Off-season often brings fewer crowds and a relaxed vibe, but also less predictable surf.

• Timing: Sometimes we have to plan trips around work and life — that’s reality. Just be aware of the trade-offs.

If progression is your main goal, choosing a destination closer to its surf season will give you the best opportunity to learn and improve.

Not all waves are created equal

Before booking, understand what kind of breaks the retreat usually focuses on. Organisers can’t guarantee specific spots every day, but you can ask what they surf most often and what worked during previous retreats.

Understanding whether a location mainly offers beach breaks, point breaks, or reef breaks can really help with decision-making. All have their positives and challenges.

It’s great to push yourself and step outside your comfort zone — just maybe not everything at once.

If you’re unsure, ask. A good organiser will be transparent and guide you honestly.

Who is actually coaching you?

This one is especially important for beginners, to make sure you have the right support in the water.

Ask questions like:

• Who are the surf coaches or instructors?

• What’s the coach-to-guest ratio, especially in the water?

• Are the coaches part of the retreat team or external/local surf schools?

• How much water time vs theory is included?

• Is there land training like surf mobility, surfskate, or video analysis — and who runs it?

If you’re checking their Instagram, ignore follower numbers — that’s irrelevant. Look at their content and coaching style instead. Influencer status might help with marketing, but it doesn’t necessarily help your surfing.

I’ve personally had both great and not-so-great experiences with local surf schools, so don’t hesitate to ask organisers about their past experience working with instructors. Clear communication here makes a big difference.

Board rentals: convenient… but sometimes a lottery

Board rentals can be great — or frustrating — depending on the location, season, and how busy it is.

I used to rent boards all the time. These days, I’m often happy to suffer at the airport just to have my own board with me 😄
That said, I hear you — travelling with boards (especially longboards) can feel like you’re about to shut down the airport.

If you’re renting, ask:

• Are boards included? If not, what’s the cost?

• What sizes and shapes are available? (If you want a hardboard, ask specifically.)

• Can boards be swapped easily during the week?

Also check:

• Can you take the board for a surf outside scheduled lessons?

• Is board insurance included? Accidents happen, and you don’t want a surprise repair bill.

Renting can be a great way to try different boards — especially if you’re still figuring out what works best for you. Just don’t swap too often. Getting used to a new board takes time, and consistency matters for progression. It’s all about balance.

Surf camp, surf retreat, or surf holiday?

(they’re not the same)

Let’s come back to the first question again: why are you going on this trip?

Even though many surf trips look similar online and are often in the same locations, they can be very different experiences.

Some surf retreats are very hands-off and premium:

• You book the retreat and flights

• Everything else is organised

• You arrive at a beautiful hotel and receive a weekly schedule

• Your board is waiting at the break, waxed and ready

• Surf sessions are guided, followed by free time or activities

• Your biggest decision is which swimmers to wear tomorrow

Others are more hands-on and independent:

• Less luxury, more flexibility

• You load boards, wax them, check fins, attach your leg rope

• You can surf outside scheduled sessions

• Extra training like surf mobility, surfskate, or stretching is encouraged

• The focus is on maximising time in the water and improving

Then there are surf camps:

• Fixed weekly blocks

• Everyone checks in and out at the same time

• Well-oiled machines with clear routines

• Usually more affordable and open to everyone

None of these are better than the others. What matters is choosing the one that matches what you want right now.

Ask yourself:

• Do I want to push myself and improve quickly?

• Or do I want to surf, relax, explore, and enjoy being away?

There’s no wrong answer — just different seasons of life. And no matter the format, you’ll surf, learn something new, meet great people, and soak up the vibes. It’s a win either way.

You’re not meant to do this alone

Almost everyone arrives at their first retreat feeling nervous — and honestly, even after doing many, I still feel nervous sometimes. It’s the unknown, and that’s completely normal.

Many retreats are used to this and will happily connect you with other guests beforehand if you ask. Often they’ll set up a WhatsApp group, and you might even discover someone booked the same flight as you (this has happened to me at least three times 😄).

Knowing one or two names before you arrive can make a huge difference — especially if you’re travelling solo.

And remember: this is your holiday. You’re meant to enjoy it. If something doesn’t feel right, communicate with the organiser — they’ll usually appreciate it.

The biggest takeaway

The right surf retreat isn’t the most Instagrammable or the most intense.

It’s the one that matches your level, your energy, and what you need right now.

Trust that.

Mags xx