Beginners who join surf camps often underestimate the physical and mental challenges of surfing. Expert instruction, proper structure, and an encouraging environment set the tone for everything necessary to learn the basic skills of surfing, allowing you to progress as you practice. Within your new community of like-minded beginners, be prepared, set goals, and find your positive mindset—that’s how you’ll enjoy the ride.
Congratulations—you have finally decided to enroll in surf camp. It won’t take long for you to recognize that standing on a board and riding waves is more complex than it appears. The athleticism of surfing may often be overlooked until you give it a try for the first time.
Beginners often find themselves overwhelmed by the experience, making it easy to walk away, especially without the proper instruction.
Want some good news? You can learn how to surf, and you don’t have to do it alone. Choosing a surf camp for beginners can provide you with the right equipment, support, structure, and confidence you need to succeed. Here’s how to get the most out of it.
Why You Need a Surf Camp
Take a moment to picture yourself all alone on the shores of Malibu with a board under your arm, staring out across the Pacific. Nobody in sight—just you and the great, wide ocean. Now, imagine fellow surfers and an instructor standing alongside you. Which scenario do you think will help you feel more comfortable? And which one comes with lessons, tips, and tricks to getting the technique to become second nature to you?
Surf camp is a great place to start for those new to the sport. You have an immersive experience in a safe, supported environment. This can calm your fears and ensure that you learn how to surf safely and adequately.
A few benefits of surf camp include:
Expert instruction
Seasoned instructors who know their stuff will teach you all the basics you need to know. This will help you to surf by developing a solid foundation first.
Structure
Diving headfirst into surfing is one way to do it, but building skills progressively is often the most effective approach.
Community
At surf camp, you are surrounded by others with the same interest in the sport. These individuals often have varying skill levels and can offer encouragement, as well as provide a few of their tips.
More practice
You will spend a lot of time in the water at surf camp, so you can expect to have more time to practice what you are learning.
Getting the Most Out of Surf Camp
Now that you understand the value of attending these camps, here are a few things you can do to ensure you are using your time efficiently.
Set Goals For Yourself
The power of setting goals should never be underestimated—even when it comes to learning how to surf. Your goals should be based on your current knowledge and ability, without worrying about proper terminology just yet.
What are you hoping to learn? What is your goal for the camp? What do you plan to do with the tools you gain? Are you looking for a group of people to grow with? Do you just want to know how to stand up on the board? Is ocean safety a big focus for you? Are you looking to boost your confidence?
With concrete goals to work toward, you will bring intentionality to your days at surf camp.
Always Be Prepared
Being prepared for surf camp is essential, as your instructor and other campers will be arriving ready to go—the last thing you want to do is hold anyone back. And, of course, that surely isn’t the way to get the most out of your time. Gather all the necessary gear to bring with you. If you’re unsure about what’s provided, please reach out to the camp in advance so that no time is wasted on your first day.
Utilize your time management skills to ensure you have everything prepared and arrive on time.
A towel, reusable water bottle, and sunscreen are always a plus, but you also need to arrive physically and mentally prepared. Remember, surfing is a sport. You don’t have to be a strong athlete, but engaging in cardio and strengthening your core is always beneficial for performing well. Eating nourishing foods and staying hydrated are also crucial. And don’t overlook the need for adequate sleep.
Remain Optimistic
If surfing were a breeze, everyone would be doing it. It requires a lot of patience and practice. You are going to fall. You will have salt in your eyes. You are going to miss the waves. You will feel defeated by the ocean.
But then you get back on the board.
You can’t walk away or sit out when you are having a rough day. You have to remain optimistic to get the most out of the surf camp. Progress will come.
Follow the Surf Instructors
Instructors are a resource to your future surfing ability. They are experts who have helped many beginners go from shaky to steady, becoming friends with the deep blue sea.
Stay engaged, asking questions if you don’t understand. Listen to their feedback and apply it without taking it personally. They know what works and what doesn’t. If that means doing dry drills without getting your feet wet, then that is what you do.
You will learn how to surf and how to think like a surfer—and that’s the key to becoming a surfer.
Surf Camps at Malibu Makos
Are you ready for your first wave? If you have always wondered what it would be like to surf, but weren’t too sure where to start, dive into a surf camp. It is the perfect place for beginners thanks to expert instructors, the proper support, and a safe, fun environment.
Malibu Makos, located at Zuma Beach, offers surf camps that will help make learning to surf fun, not intimidating. Join this summer and turn your thoughts of surfing into a reality!
Surf camps are perfect for beginners. You get the tools, support, and inspiration you need to ride your first wave. So, gather the courage, set some goals, and get ready to learn the proper skills with some new friends.
