Surf camp, surf resort or surf charter?

02nd Aug 2023

Here’s our unbiased opinion on surf resorts, surf camps and surf charters, and why you should choose one over the other for your next trip.

Surf Charters

It feels a bit like Christmas waking up at a new surf spot while on a charter in the tropics. You go to bed surfed out and before you know it the froth and anticipation starts all over again.

Finding waves requires little to no effort when you’ve got an expert guide and captain (this is essential), and if you’re parked up somewhere with no camp or resort in sight, there’s a solid chance you’ll be the only ones out.

Ultimately, the novelty factor of cruising around palm-fringed islands with your closest mates is what makes surf charters so special. With this in mind, make sure you’ve got a solid crew. Similar surf skill levels and preferences are important when you’re living in close proximity with little opportunity to do your own thing.

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Nomad Surf Charters
Nomad Surf Charters
Mentawai IslandsTelo IslandsIndonesia
Basic
All Levels

The classic Indo surf charter experience, complete with a legendary Aussie skipper, an unbeatable reputation and endless cold beers!

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Maavahi – Outer Atolls
Maavahi – Outer Atolls
Outer AtollsMaldives
Mid-Range
All Levels

Maavahi is a custom-built 85ft vessel, ready to deliver an unforgettable Maldivian surf trip experience in the remote and idyllic Outer Atolls.

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Switchfoot Surf Charters
Switchfoot Surf Charters
Mentawai IslandsIndonesia
Mid-Range
All Levels

Gaining a reputation as one of the best surf charters in the Mentawais, Switchfoot Surf Charters is the ultimate surf adventure for small groups.

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Surf Camps

For surfers who just want to surf, sleep, eat and repeat at their own pace, you really can’t go wrong with a surf camp. Authentic, simple, and affordable, surf camps tick all the essential boxes and offer an experience that is filled with adventure, cultural immersion, and most importantly, a lot of surfing.

If what you’re chasing is wave count, be sure to choose a camp with a break out the front, or at least within walking distance. This will make all the difference to your experience and means less waiting around.

For groups of frothers or even if you’re on a solo mission, a surf camp will not disappoint (or break the bank).

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Ombak Indah Resort
Ombak Indah Resort
South Sumatra
Basic
All Levels

Step back in time and experience the raw beauty of Indonesia’s South Sumatra. Immerse yourself in the laid-back atmosphere of a traditional Indonesian-style surf camp…

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Lakey Peak Haven
FREE NIGHT OFFER
Lakey Peak Haven
SumbawaIndonesia
Basic
Intermediate

The perfect destination for surfers looking for a secluded stay away from the hustle and bustle of Bali, Lakey Peak Haven has 180-degree ocean views and is a short motorbike ride to the world-class wave, Lakey Peak.

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Samoan Surfaris
Samoan Surfaris
SamoaPacific
Basic
Advanced

A stay at Samoan Surfaris is for surfers who appreciate simplicity and the pursuit of the ultimate surf experience. If you enjoy the simple things and are looking to escape the crowds, this budget-friendly destination is for you. 

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Vanimo Surf Lodge
Vanimo Surf Lodge
PNGPacific
Basic
Intermediate

A traditional PNG surf camp with a hint of luxury, Vanimo’s lush surrounds and pristine beaches is what keeps surfers coming back season after season.

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Surf Resorts

Similarly to surf camps, resorts offer surfers the flexibility to curate their own routines while also catering for their non-surfing friends and family.

A resort experience is a level up from a camp experience – things like air-conditioned and en-suite rooms, facilities such as an infinity pool or a yoga studio, and gourmet meals that are generally all-inclusive.

Down time while on a surf trip can be underrated, so trust us when we say you’ll be pretty stoked to relax, unwind and indulge in little hints of luxury.

If you’re traveling with non-surfing friends, family or a partner, a resort is most definitely where everyone will want to be.

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Matanivusi Surf Resort
FREE NIGHT OFFER
Matanivusi Surf Resort
FijiPacific
Mid-Range
Advanced

Nestled between a white sandy beach and lush rainforest, the eco-friendly Matanivusi Resort is set in a stunning beachfront location where guests can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Fiji.

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Macaronis Surf Resort
Macaronis Surf Resort
Mentawai IslandsIndonesia
Mid-Range
All Levels

Welcome to Macaronis Surf Resort, the ultimate destination for surfers looking to experience the thrill of riding the world’s funnest wave! Macaronis is a world-class…

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Awera Resort
Awera Resort
Mentawai Islands
Luxury
All Levels

Welcome to one of the most exclusive destinations in the Mentawai Islands, the beautiful Awera Resort.

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Kingfisher Mentawai Resort
MATES RATES OFFER
Kingfisher Mentawai Resort
Mentawai IslandsIndonesia
Mid-Range
Intermediate

This beachfront resort offers three private bungalows overlooking one of the best left-hand surf breaks in the world, Lances Left. For surfers, families and adventure-seekers alike, Kingfisher Resort will feel like your tropical home away from home.

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Baha Baha Villas
Baha Baha Villas
SumbawaIndonesia
Mid-Range

Only a stone’s throw from the white sandy beach of Yoyo’s surf break, Baha Baha Villas is located where the mountains meet the sea at…

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Kandui Villas
Kandui Villas
Mentawai IslandsIndonesia
Premium
All Levels

Kandui Villas goes beyond the typical resort experience, offering visitors a beautiful cultural immersion. It’s the perfect place to embrace island life and reconnect with…

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