Nervous beginners can turn into confident surfers at the right girls’ surf camp. With an environment that is safe and supportive, campers can learn new skills, build up their strength, and overcome fears with encouragement from their peers and instructors. Surfing also teaches patience, resiliency, and joy. With life lessons that extend far beyond the camp, girls leave stronger and more empowered than when they first started.
Just because you are intrigued with a new sport and want to give it a try doesn’t mean you won’t feel nervous or intimidated. Many surf newbies find the idea of surfing exciting, but actually getting in the water and paddling out to meet the waves is a bit terrifying. After all, the ocean looks huge to anyone, especially young girls.
Aside from the initial nerves, there is actually some good news. Learning how to surf can boost confidence and bring a side dish of joy. Let’s take a look at what happens at girls’ surf camps that leads to growth with each wave.
From Shy on Shore to Brave on the Board
For fears to be conquered, a safe space is needed since being comfortable makes it feel ok to try new things. Every girl stands on the sand overlooking the water, shy and hesitant. Yet, at surf camp, they are surrounded by others just like them—excited to learn how to surf with anxious energy running through their bodies.
At Malibu Makos Surf Camp, located at Zuma Beach, we have witnessed many new surfers transform as they become more at ease with the board, the water, and the waves. Confidence does not just appear—it is built. And a girls’ surf camp is the perfect place to make it happen.
Wipeouts, Giggles, and Zero Pressure
Learning to surf is not supposed to feel forced—it should have a relaxed, fun vibe. While the sport does require a lot of hard work, there is no pressure to be perfect.
The girls are going to paddle out a little farther each time. They are going to struggle to stand up on the board. And they are going to wipe out—probably more than once. There are going to be cheers when you do these things and probably some laughter along the way, too.
It doesn’t matter how good you are; the ocean has a mind of its own, humbling even the most experienced surfer. Once campers learn that being taken down by a wave is not embarrassing, they are often more willing to go back out there. Everyone is supported by this newfound community, leading to a great sense of resilience, which breeds confidence.
Skills That Stick
There is no denying that when you learn something new, you feel good about it—and your confidence increases.
Scared campers who are learning to surf will pick up many new skills along the way, from reading the waves to standing up and riding them. A slow, step-by-step approach begins to propel kids forward. It is amazing what can happen once you start moving in that direction.
Stronger Bodies, Stronger Spirits
Believe it or not, surfing works some major muscle groups in the body. Paddling strengthens the arms and shoulders. Popping up and balancing on the board works the core and the legs. And simply being active boosts endurance.
Throughout surf camp, girls will notice their bodies beginning to feel stronger and more capable. As a result, they often leave camp feeling much better about themselves, including more confidence.
Facing Fears, Together
Fear can look different for everyone, and it can show up during every stage of life, including surf camp. But here is where something beautiful happens. The girls recognize that they aren’t alone—everyone else is feeling scared, too.
They bond over this fear, working together to overcome it. Bit by bit, they break it down. Anxiety turns into laughing, and suddenly, everything feels much lighter and more manageable. With the support of those around them, fear stops being a barrier and starts becoming something they conquer. And, alas—confidence blooms.
Role Models
The role played by the expert surf instructors cannot be overlooked. They, too, were once learning how to surf, and they know how it feels to come face-to-face with the massive ocean. As mentors and role models to the girls, these individuals share their stories, their struggles, and their accomplishments. Female instructors show that girls can succeed in the sport, becoming skilled athletes.
Of course, instructors at surf camp are all about surfing, but they do play a different role, as well. They are there to show what resilience looks like. They promote kindness and encourage campers to cheer for and support one another. As the girls begin possessing these qualities, they will follow them everywhere they go—way after surf camp is over.
Surf Lessons, Life Lessons
Surfing lessons can quickly turn into life lessons. The ocean is unpredictable. Some days it can be calm with perfect waves that can line up just right. Other days, not so much. There will be some days when surfing will come easily and others when just paddling out feels like a struggle.
The idea is to be patient and roll with whatever the ocean brings your way, even when it is tough. The more new surfers do this, the more the things learned on the sand and in the ocean can make their way home, to classrooms, and throughout life.
At Malibu Makos, we have seen many timid girls find their voice and many others walk away ready to handle any challenge—trusting that they can do it.
Confidence Beyond the Shore
If you have a girl in your life who has ever dreamed of surfing or who could use a boost in confidence, then our girls’ surf camps may be the perfect place for her. Supportive instructors, fun lessons, and a new community of friends will all help to build her up as she learns the necessary skills to surf.
At Malibu Makos Surf Camp, we are here to see transformation happen. Girls will begin to stand taller, smile more, and feel stronger than ever before. Crush dreams and build confidence with our surf camp. Contact us today to secure your spot.
