Men have long dominated the surf industry. However, with the addition of women’s surf camps, it is becoming increasingly inclusive. Around the world, women are building skills, confidence, and community as they reshape what it means to be a surfer. By making surfing accessible and empowering for women, it has encouraged diversity, representation, and equality in camps and competitions worldwide.
As a male-dominated sport, women have historically been underrepresented in surfing. This includes both being on a board in the water and being recognized on the podium. For girls and women, the idea of surfing may sound thrilling, but they may easily feel as though there is no place for them.
There was a time when female surfers felt discouraged about pushing harder to pursue their passion. However, the tides are now changing. Thanks to women’s surf camps, there are inclusive places where women can come together to learn about surfing, hone their skills, and connect with others who share the same interest.
Women’s surf camps are changing the sport—here’s how they are doing it.
Making Waves with Women’s Surf Camp
Along the Pacific Coast, surf camps have been a staple for decades. They offer detailed instruction and techniques, as well as equipment and gear, along with comprehensive ocean safety training. Whether you are a newbie just getting your feet wet or someone with a little experience, there is something to be learned by everyone who attends.
Women’s surf camps, however, are part of a new era. Women have a love of the water and the waves as much as men do. These camps offer the ideal setting to connect with others and feel empowered in a safe and supportive environment.
Surf, Sisterhood, and Strength
As a woman in sports, it is undeniable that being outnumbered by men can be intimidating. In surfing, this situation often arises in lineups—the area where you wait patiently, similar to a single-file line, for the perfect set. The feelings that arise during these moments are both physical and emotional, and can be addressed at women’s surf camps.
Representation
When a woman paddles out to the lineup and finds herself surrounded by other women, it is comforting, and it can breed confidence. Not only does it help new surfers realize that they, too, have what it takes to excel at the sport, but it can also foster a sense of camaraderie among those who are skilled.
Support
Surf camps are known for fostering support with campers often encouraging each other in a positive, nonjudgmental way. In women’s surf camps, it is women supporting women. They can come together and grow personally while having fun and creating connections. This reduces the pressure and simply makes it enjoyable.
The bonds created will go far beyond the skills learned while surfing. These camps provide a place where women of all backgrounds can come together over their love of the ocean and riding the waves. Mentorship and lifelong friendships have developed from a trip to surf camp.
Skills Tailored For Women
There is a set of fundamentals that are taught when learning how to surf. While these don’t change, the fact that men and women tend to learn differently cannot be overlooked. Having instructors approach surf lessons in a way that is designed for women can be highly beneficial in developing new skills, especially when there is a focus on balance, technique, and resiliency.
Beyond the Stereotypes
Surfing is for everyone. And as campers attend women’s surf camps, they discover their inner strength and overcome outdated boundaries that try to minimize their athletic ability. With practice and determination, surfing is more than just a sport or a hobby—it becomes a way to show power and personal growth.
Preparing For Surf Lessons is Easy
Women often lead busy lives, with and without kids. Getting everything together that may be needed for surf camp means adding one more thing to a growing to-do list. For some, this could be enough to push it aside for a later date.
You need time for yourself—don’t put your self-care on the back burner.
Women’s surf camps make it easy by providing everything you need. Boards, wetsuits, and other essentials are available to be used for camp. Not only does this require you to worry less about being prepared, but it also helps financially, too.
Changing the Industry
Women’s surf camps are changing and diversifying the industry in many ways. They are popping up all around the globe, from California to Sri Lanka and beyond. This means the sport is becoming diversified throughout the world, not just in the United States.
What’s more, some camps are offering scholarships to encourage women to give it a try. There has even been outreach to individuals who are even more underrepresented, such as women of color, those in the LGBTQ+ community, and the underserved.
Women are becoming instructors, more surf camps are available, and brands are shifting their marketing strategies to include real-life female surfers. Surfwear for women is more widely accessible, and women’s surf competitions are growing a following. Even the prize money is more equal now than it has ever been.
Without a doubt, breaking barriers today will continue to transform the surfing of tomorrow.
Have a Gnarly Time at Malibu Makos Surf Club
Have you been dreaming of riding waves? Do you not know where to start? Feel like you just don’t belong in the lineup? It doesn’t matter whether you are a beginner or looking to hone your skills, Malibu Makos, located at Zuma Beach, is here to help.
Located in Malibu, California, Malibu Makos offers surf camps and lessons designed for all ages and skill levels. And we welcome women who are looking for a supportive community where they can learn and grow.
If you are ready to discover your inner surfer, it is time to book your spot in our surf camp sessions. Contact us today to learn how.
Women’s surf camps are changing history for the sport, building confidence, feeling empowered, and re-shaping the future of the industry. Representation is increasing as the world watches.
