Checklist for Booking Canggu Surf Camps

Published on
6.3.25

Canggu, Bali, is a top destination for surfers of all levels. To make the most of your surf camp experience, here’s a quick checklist:

  • Proximity to Surf Spots: Choose camps near Batu Bolong, Berawa, or Echo Beach for easy access to waves.
  • Instructor Expertise: Look for ISA-certified instructors and small class sizes for personalized coaching.
  • Accommodation Options: Decide between dorms or private rooms based on your budget and preferences.
  • Safety Measures: Ensure camps provide proper gear, clear emergency protocols, and a good safety record.
  • Extra Perks: Check for yoga classes, video analysis, and social activities included in packages.
  • Costs & Booking Terms: Compare package inclusions, cancellation policies, and flexible booking options.

Quick Comparison Table

Criteria What to Look For
Location Close to surf breaks like Echo Beach and Berawa
Training Certified instructors; private or group lessons
Accommodation Dorms (budget) or private rooms (comfort)
Safety Emergency protocols, proper gear, low student ratio
Extras Yoga, video analysis, cultural tours
Packages Inclusive of lessons, meals, and activities
Booking Policies Flexible cancellations and rescheduling options

Surfing Canggu, Bali - Complete Guide

1. Location Details

When it comes to surfing, where you stay can make or break your experience.

Distance to Surf Spots

Many surf camps in Canggu are just a short stroll from some of the best waves around. Here’s a quick look:

  • Berawa Beach: Perfect for seasoned surfers, only about 1 kilometer from the main Canggu camps.
  • Batu Bolong: Just a quick walk away, offering easy access.
  • Echo Beach: A popular spot, mere minutes from most camps.

For instance, Wave House Surf Camp is just a 3-minute walk to Berawa Beach, while Kima Bali Surf Camp is only 250 meters from the water. Staying this close means you can squeeze in early morning sessions or quickly check the surf conditions whenever you want.

But being close isn’t everything - how you get around matters too.

Getting Around

Good transportation options can make your surf trip smoother. Camps in Canggu typically offer several ways to get around:

Transport Option Benefits Availability
Walking Free and perfect for nearby surf spots Always accessible for close breaks
Scooter Rental Great for reaching multiple beaches Many camps provide rentals, sometimes free
Camp Shuttles Hassle-free rides to various breaks Coordinated with daily surf schedules

Camps in central locations also give you easy access to Canggu’s vibrant scene. Wave House Surf Camp is near popular cafes, shops, and bars, making it easy to unwind after a day of surfing. Similarly, Kima Bali Surfcamp Canggu is in a trendy area, surrounded by excellent semi-beach breaks.

For more adventurous surfers, many camps organize trips to iconic spots like Airport, Balangan, Dreamland, Keramas, Uluwatu, and Padang-Padang.

Choosing the right location and transport options can completely change how much you enjoy your surf camp stay.

2. Surf Training Options

Pick a surf camp that offers lessons designed to improve your skills.

Teachers and Class Size

The teacher-to-student ratio plays a big role in how much attention you'll get. In Canggu, surf camps typically provide a variety of class formats:

Class Type Ratio Duration Average Cost Best For
Private 1:1 90 minutes $60 Personalized coaching
Semi-private 2–3:1 90 minutes $40 Balanced attention & value
Group 4–5:1 90 minutes $30 Social learning experience

Many camps employ ISA-certified instructors. For instance, In Da Surf limits classes to two guests per guide and includes video analysis in its lessons.

"I am a total beginner and I had amazing lessons- I chose to do 1:1 instruction which was totally worth it. I had 3 lesson days with a rest day in between each surf day which I think really helped me make the most out of each lesson (I am also 52 years old). My instructor, Sunny as he liked to be called, was amazing. I really felt like he took his time explaining things and I had a sense of safety under his guidance. It was super fun, and I hope to try pursuing additional lessons in the future." - Isis Laland

Make sure the camp's programs fit your current skill level.

Matching Your Level

The right program should align with your experience:

  • Beginner Programs: Designed to teach you the basics in safe conditions. Most beginners catch their first open-face wave within five lessons.
  • Intermediate Sessions: Focused on helping you pick the best surf spots based on daily conditions.
  • Advanced Coaching: Includes access to hidden surf breaks and fine-tuning your technique.

A good example is StormRider Surf Camp:

"The StormRider Surf Camp Guides are some of the best I've come across in all my travels. They helped get me into the best waves possible for everyday of my stay and showed me the best food and nightlife in the area. I've been to Bali three times prior and owner, Arnd Vehling, and his staff showed me surf spots I had never heard of. Definitely staying here again." - Jake Tellkamp, Editor Surfing Magazine

It's worth asking how camps assess your skill level and adjust lessons as you improve. Finding the right training structure can make all the difference in your Canggu surf camp experience.

3. Rooms and Facilities

Finding the right accommodations and facilities can make your surf camp experience in Canggu unforgettable.

Shared or Private Rooms

Canggu surf camps cater to a wide range of budgets with various room options. Here's what you can expect at Wave House Bali:

Room Type Occupancy Price per Night Features
Camp Room (Dorm) 4 people From 1,040,000 Mixed or female-only options
Standard Private 1–2 people 1,600,000–2,400,000 Private space
Deluxe Private 1–2 people 1,920,000–2,720,000 Option for an extra bed
Studio 1–2 people 2,000,000–2,800,000 Premium amenities

Elsewhere Surf Camps features dorms with privacy curtains, individual power outlets, and lockable storage. For those seeking extra comfort, private rooms on the top floor come with work desks and en-suite bathrooms.

At Mojosurf Camp Canggu, you'll find 4-bed and 8-bed dorms alongside private rooms. All accommodations include en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and secure lockers.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the facilities that make these camps stand out.

Camp Facilities

A surf camp is more than just a place to sleep - facilities play a big role in your overall experience. Wave House Bali offers two swimming pools, a restaurant with a relaxed vibe and a pool table, a fitness and yoga area, and a cozy bonfire spot for social evenings.

Kima Surf Canggu takes it up a notch with a 400 m² functional gym, a 15-meter-high natural climbing wall, co-working spaces, and rooftop areas perfect for both work and leisure.

Lapoint Bali brings a Balinese touch with its lush garden setting, two swimming pools, a volleyball court, and plenty of hangout areas to unwind.

When choosing a camp, think about amenities like reliable Wi-Fi, air conditioning (a must in Bali's heat), and communal spaces that match your vibe - whether you're after a laid-back atmosphere or a lively social scene.

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4. Camp Ratings

Ratings help tie together key factors like location, training, and facilities, offering a clearer picture of a camp's overall quality.

Customer Reviews

Detailed customer reviews can reveal valuable insights about instructor qualifications (like ISA certification) and the overall experience. To get a balanced view, explore reviews on multiple platforms:

Platform What to Look For Red Flags
TripAdvisor Specific experiences with named instructors Generic or overly brief reviews
Google Reviews Recent comments on facilities and teaching Repeated, similar feedback
Trustpilot How they handle customer concerns Ignored negative feedback

For example, Baruna Surf Culture has earned strong social proof with 212 reviews on TripAdvisor. Similarly, camps like In Da Surf highlight verified testimonials directly on their websites. Look for mentions of teaching methods, student progress, safety protocols, and how they adjust to different skill levels.

Don’t overlook the camp’s safety record - this can speak volumes about its dependability.

Safety Standards

Safety measures are a critical factor when choosing a camp. Modern camps often emphasize strong protective practices. Swell Surf Camp, for instance, holds a 4.9/5 rating largely due to its focus on safety, as reflected in client reviews:

"I loved that rash guard shirts and reef booties were provided (without which I would have certainly fell victim to a sea urchin!). And the video analysis was an awesome and modern touch! Eddy provided voice over analysis to many of the waves I caught, and even included outlines and diagrams over the video to show proper form & technique (AWESOME)!" - Jose I., Swell Surf Camp Client

When evaluating safety, prioritize camps that provide:

  • Properly sized boards and protective gear
  • ISA-certified instructors
  • Clear emergency protocols
  • Balanced student-to-instructor ratios
  • Video analysis tools for improving safety and technique

Also, check whether the camp keeps its facilities and equipment in good condition. Video analysis is a bonus - it shows the camp is using modern tools to enhance both safety and learning.

5. Costs and Booking Terms

Understanding costs and booking terms is just as important as choosing the right location and training options for a hassle-free surf camp experience.

What's Included

Canggu surf camps provide a variety of packages with different features and price points. For instance, Wave House Bali offers a "Stay+Surf" package starting at 1,040,000 IDR per person per night. This package includes accommodation, surf lessons, video analysis, daily theory classes, yoga sessions, gym access, breakfast, and a Friday BBQ.

Basic Inclusions Extra Services Lifestyle Add-Ons
Accommodation Surf video analysis Daily breakfast
Surf lessons Daily surf theory classes Friday BBQ dinner
Photos and videos Social activities
Sport insurance Gym access
Daily yoga classes

For those on a tighter budget, Solid Surf Camp Bali offers shared rooms starting at €479 per week. This includes perks like access to Finns Recreation Center, an outdoor cinema, and surf skate sessions. Other camps may also provide affordable packages that cater to different preferences.

Before booking, double-check what each package includes and review the booking policies to ensure they meet your needs.

Booking Rules

Here are some common cancellation and booking policies to keep in mind:

  1. Cancellation Terms
    Stoked Surf Bali charges a 15% fee for cancellations made more than 28 days in advance. However, cancellations within 7 days are non-refundable and incur a full charge.
  2. Booking Flexibility
    Mahalo Surf Experience allows cancellations made at least 90 days before arrival to receive 100% credit toward future bookings. However, cancellations within 14 days are not eligible for refunds.
  3. Weather and Safety Conditions
    Most camps, including Stoked Surf Bali, do not offer refunds for cancellations caused by bad weather or injuries during lessons. To avoid losing money, consider purchasing travel insurance to cover these situations.

Pro tip: Some camps allow you to postpone your trip. Look for operators offering a one-time date change option within 18 months of your original booking.

6. Extra Services

Extra services can make your stay more enjoyable by complementing both your training and accommodations.

Yoga Classes

Many Canggu surf camps include yoga sessions to help improve your surfing skills. For example, Wave House Bali offers daily yoga classes for 150,000 Rp per session in their dedicated facilities. Pelan Pelan Bali provides a serene joglo-style yoga shala overlooking the forest, where guests can enjoy regular meditation and yoga as part of their Yoga & Wellness Package.

These yoga sessions are designed to:

  • Increase flexibility for surfing
  • Strengthen your core and balance
  • Sharpen mental focus
  • Aid in faster recovery

Gear and Add-ons

Surf camps often provide extra services to enhance your overall experience. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:

Service Category Available Options Typical Pricing
Equipment Surfboard rental, Rash guard Often included in packages
Training Aids Video analysis, Theory classes Usually included
Cultural Tours Kintamani tours 650,000 Rp
Adventure Tours Volcano climbing 750,000 Rp
Island Excursions Nusa Penida tour 1,700,000 Rp
Temple Visits Uluwatu sunset tour 650,000 Rp

For travelers on a budget, Solid Surf House offers affordable cultural experiences, like Ubud Monkey Forest and Water Temple visits for €30, or the Uluwatu Temple & Kecak Dance for just €20.

Social activities are another highlight at many camps, fostering a sense of community among guests. Kima Surf Camp Canggu includes weekly events like a Thursday night barbecue in their room rates. Wave House Bali goes a step further with activities such as:

  • Surf Trivia Night
  • Bonfire Night
  • Complimentary BBQ dinner buffet

Additionally, many camps, like Kima Surf Camp Canggu, can help you arrange local motorbike or bicycle rentals for exploring the area.

7. Find Surf Camp Bali Guide

Website Tools

Find Surf Camp Bali simplifies the process of finding surf camps in Canggu. The platform offers a directory with detailed filters, making it easier to tailor your search based on specific needs:

Search Filter What It Helps You Find
Location Camps near popular surf spots
Skill Level Programs for beginners to advanced surfers
Amenities Accommodation types and on-site facilities
Activities Extras like yoga or video analysis
Price Range Options from budget-friendly to premium

Each camp listing provides key details, such as:

  • Accommodation options: Shared dorms, private rooms, or luxury villas
  • Facilities: Equipment storage, pools, and communal spaces
  • Extra activities: Yoga classes and video analysis sessions
  • Package offerings: Meals, airport pickups, and surf equipment

These tools allow you to compare camps and packages directly, making the decision process much easier.

Camp Comparison Tips

When comparing surf camps on Find Surf Camp Bali, keep these points in mind to ensure you pick the right fit:

  • Use the Filters Wisely
    The "Activities" filter is especially helpful if you're looking for camps that combine surfing with extras like yoga or video analysis. Narrowing down your options this way saves time.
  • Compare Package Features
    Look closely at what each package includes. Pay attention to factors like surf lesson durations, group sizes, provided equipment, meal plans, and extras like video analysis.
  • Evaluate Accommodation Details
    Each listing lays out room types and amenities. Consider what’s important to you, such as privacy, bathroom setup, air conditioning, or shared spaces like lounges or pools.

The platform's user-friendly layout makes it simple to compare multiple camps side by side, helping you choose based on what matters most to you.

Conclusion

When choosing a surf camp, focus on a few key aspects: its proximity to great surf spots, the expertise of its instructors, and the quality of its safety measures. Look for instructors certified by organizations like ISA and trained in CPR and lifesaving techniques.

Here are some important factors to consider when evaluating packages:

Factor What to Check
Skill Level Does the camp cater to beginners, intermediates, or advanced surfers?
Safety Are the instructors certified, and do they have clear emergency protocols?
Package Details Does it include gear, meals, accommodation, and transportation?
Extras Are there options like video analysis, theory lessons, or yoga?

Many camps offer semi-private lessons, gear rentals, accident insurance, and video analysis as part of their packages. Costs typically range from $68 for dorm accommodations to $95 for private rooms. For the best experience, book early - especially during peak seasons - to secure your preferred dates and lodging.

Canggu, known for its intermediate-level waves and mix of left and right reef breaks, is a popular choice. Use comparison tools and read reviews to find a camp that offers quality instruction, strong safety standards, and extras like video analysis to help you improve quickly.

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