How to succeed in your surf trip? Our tips!

Do you dream of exploring the most beautiful waves in the world, surfboard in hand? But how do you organize a surf trip? Which destinations should you choose when you are a beginner? Where to stay? This article will give you the best tips to make the surf trip of your dreams come true.

Choose the mobile home at the campsite or the van for your surf trip!

This solution is very popular with surfers. Whether with family or friends, camping has the advantage of being extremely flexible and combines comfort with conviviality. The mobile home, for example, offers all the benefits you can expect from camping accommodation while adding the comfort and equipment of a real home. Opt for Homair camping holidays that will allow you to recover in a comfortable bed (and after a day of surfing, you definitely won't say no to that!). Indeed, it will allow you to regain strength and cook your favorite dishes in a fully equipped kitchen. And if you are traveling in a group, it’s an economical solution! Preferably choose a campsite near the beaches where you can surf. Do you have a taste for adventure? Opt for a surf trip in a van! Rent your camper van from a private individual or a specialized company (for more security). Our partner So Van will be happy to help you choose your latest model Volkswagen California camper van. If you are traveling in France, this option is ideal! You can also rent a van at your destination. It is ultimately the most practical option for easily transporting your boards! To know where to park your van, several apps are there to make your task easier. For example, Park4night! It finds the best spots to spend the night while taking permissions into account. What more could you ask for?

Opt for a surf camp

The surf camp is also an ideal solution. Those who are beginners in surfing can opt for an all-inclusive version with surf lessons and equipment rental, and those on a budget will appreciate the reasonable prices of surf camps. If you decide to go on a surf trip alone and want to meet other enthusiasts like you, surf camps are perfect. You can also walk or bike to the nearest surf spot.

Equip well for your surf trip

What to pack in your suitcase for a surf road trip? The choice of surf equipment you bring with you is important. First, take your surfboard (if you have one, otherwise it will certainly be possible to rent one on site) and plan enough wax for your entire stay. To protect yourself from the sun, bring a wetsuit or a lycra t-shirt. At sea, the sun's reflections are unforgiving, so sunscreen is more than essential. Earplugs may also be necessary if you fear ear infections and eardrum perforations. Finally, bring something for small repairs, as it is not certain you will find a repairer available near the spot you have chosen.

Where to go for a surf trip?

A crucial question when planning a surf trip: the destination! To make the most of this stay, you will therefore need to take many factors into account:

• Your surfing level (beginner, intermediate, expert)
• Your desires or frequency at which you want to surf (surf all day or only in short sessions)
• The weather conditions (which can never be predicted too far in advance)
• The type of waves you prefer
• Visits to do nearby (in case surfing doesn't work out...)

This will help you choose the destination for a successful surf trip that truly suits you! Taking these different criteria into account, we have 3 must-visit destinations that come to mind.

Here are 3 destinations for different budgets and levels:

• Biarritz

Biarritz is the number 1 surfing destination in France! Because the coastal city has a strong history with surfing (the emergence of the Tontons Surfeurs, the first surfing competitions, etc.) but also because of its unparalleled charm. Among the best summer destinations for surfing in France there is of course the Landes department with Hossegor, Mimizan, Biscarosse and the Basque Coast with Biarritz, Anglet or even Hendaye. These are the best French surfing spots! These destinations are perfect for those who are beginners and do not want to travel to the other side of the planet but still want to have real surfer memories.    

• Portugal

Portugal is also a safe bet, especially in terms of value for money. Just a few hours from France: guaranteed waves and a change of scenery. There are many surf schools that will delight both beginners and the more experienced. You can choose between the Porto region, Lisbon, and spots in the Algarve (Sagres!). 

• Indonesia

For the more experienced or adventurous, head to Bali! Indonesia is well known for its must-visit spots and exceptional surfing conditions! The best season to enjoy the waves in this area is from June to September. Enjoy the surf spots on Sumatra Island or the great Java, or even the Mentawai Islands!

Prepare several months in advance

Surfing is a demanding sport because it is particularly physical. So 3 months before the trip, it is highly recommended to think about your physical preparation: weight training, endurance, stretching, swimming... To minimize muscle soreness and fatigue, your body must be ready to stay in the water surfing for several hours. Come on, no more excuses, no more putting it off, sign up directly at the gym or do outdoor sports for the luckier ones. Don't lose sight of your goal: to be in great shape to surf as much as possible! However, it is also important to emphasize that swimming or apnea exercises are essential for your safety. Yes, big waves don't forgive... If you aim to tame Nazaré, you might as well know that physical preparation is not optional... You now have all the cards in hand to succeed in your surf trip. We just have to wish you a great vacation and give you an appointment next week for a new blog article!