Beginner Weekend Surf Camp in Croyde

The Beginner Weekend Surf Camp is ideal for anyone looking to take their first steps into surfing or those who’ve had a few attempts and want to feel more confident in the water. Over two full days, you'll experience four surf sessions, each tailored to help you build the skills, knowledge, and confidence to enjoy surfing at your own pace. With a group size of just 6 people, you'll receive individual guidance from expert instructors, ensuring that you’re supported every step of the way. Whether you're catching your first wave or improving your technique, this camp will provide the perfect foundation for your surfing journey.

Key Details

Duration: 2 full days
Group size: 6
Age: 18+
Meeting point: Baggy Lodge, Moor Lane, Croyde EX33 1PA

Key Skills

Basic surf safety and ocean awareness
Understanding surf etiquette and how to respect other water users
Techniques for wave selection and proper positioning
Surfing terminology, surf signals, and communication in the surf
Warm-up techniques to prepare your body and prevent injury
Goal setting to track and measure progress throughout the weekend

What to Expect

On day one, you’ll be introduced to surf safety and ocean awareness, learning essential information about tides, currents, and the best practices for staying safe in the water. You’ll start your first surf session with basic techniques, focusing on paddling, positioning yourself on the board, and catching smaller waves. The session will also cover how to wipe out safely and the importance of surf etiquette. Between surf sessions, you’ll take part in video analysis, where instructors review your performance and offer tailored feedback.

On day two, you’ll continue developing your surfing skills with more challenging waves, working on improving your technique and increasing your confidence. You'll learn more about wave selection—how to identify and choose the best waves to catch—and how to position yourself for a smooth ride. Additional focus will be given to surf signals, allowing you to communicate effectively with fellow surfers in the water. Throughout the camp, the instructors will provide functional warm-ups to help with flexibility and strength, along with motivational goal setting to help you track your progress.

By the end of the camp, you’ll have a clearer understanding of surf techniques, be able to handle different types of waves, and have gained the confidence to continue surfing independently. You’ll also feel more comfortable with surf etiquette and safety practices, ensuring that you’re always respectful of the ocean and other surfers.

Location

The camp takes place in Croyde, one of the most famous and welcoming surf spots in the UK. Known for its beautiful bay and reliable surf, Croyde offers the perfect environment for beginners to learn and practice.

Baggy Lodge, the meeting point for the camp, is conveniently located close to the surf beaches, making it easy for participants to transition from the classroom to the surf in just a few minutes. The natural beauty of Croyde Bay, combined with its consistent surf conditions, makes it the perfect spot for learning and improving surfing skills.

Prerequisites

This camp is ideal for those new to surfing or for anyone looking to refine their basic skills. There are no specific prerequisites other than an interest in surfing and a reasonable level of fitness.

Whether you're a complete beginner or have had a few attempts before, the camp is designed to provide you with the guidance you need to build confidence and improve your abilities in a safe and supportive environment. If you’ve never been in the ocean before, you may want to prepare by getting comfortable in the water, though this isn’t a requirement.

Why Choose Us

The surf school is highly rated across several prestigious platforms, including The BBC, Vogue, and Carve Magazine, and has consistently received 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor. This reputation is built on years of experience, expert instructors, and a commitment to personalised coaching. With a teaching ratio of 6:1, participants receive plenty of individual attention, ensuring that you get the support you need throughout the course.

The school’s focus on both safety and fun creates an environment where you can relax, learn, and progress quickly while enjoying your time in the water. Whether you’re starting your surfing journey or honing your skills, you can trust that you’ll be in excellent hands.

All surf equipment (surfboard, wetsuit, boots, gloves, and hood if needed)
Heated indoor changing rooms
Hot showers on-site
Video analysis sessions
Expert surf instruction

Personal insurance
Transport to and from the meeting point
Meals and drinks
Accommodation

Yes, this is one of the few places in Croyde where you'll be able to enjoy a hot shower after your session.

It’s a welcome comfort, especially on colder days.

Yes, heated changing areas are available and separated by gender.

Free lockers are provided for all participants.

You’ll be able to lock away your personal items securely while you're out in the water.

Absolutely. There are hundreds of wetsuits on site, with at least 10 available in each size.

This means you'll be kitted out with a suit that fits well and keeps you comfortable throughout your session.

The surf coaching team is headed up by a seasoned professional with years of experience, including nearly a decade coaching for Team GB.

The leadership ensures a high standard across all lessons and keeps the instruction consistent and inspiring.

The Beginner Weekend Surf Camp includes all necessary surf equipment such as surfboards, wetsuits, boots, gloves, and hoods (if required). You will also have access to heated indoor changing rooms and hot showers.

Additionally, expert surf instruction is provided throughout the two-day camp, along with video analysis sessions to track your progress. Lunch is not provided unless specified, so it’s recommended to bring your own.

The camp is specifically designed for beginners or those with a little experience. If you’ve never surfed before, this is a great place to start. Even if you’ve had a few attempts and want to improve your skills, this camp will provide you with the guidance and support needed to build confidence and technique.

The instructors cater to all levels within the group, ensuring you get the most from the experience.

The camp is limited to a small group of 6 participants to ensure you receive plenty of individual attention from the instructors.

This smaller group size allows for a more personalised experience, with instructors able to tailor their feedback and coaching to suit each person’s progress and needs.

Accommodation is not included in the price of the camp. However, there are plenty of accommodation options in the Croyde area, including B&Bs, hostels, and self-catering properties.

The surf school can provide recommendations, and many accommodations are just a short walk from the meeting point.

Located right by the waves in one of the UK’s top surf spots, this centre offers expert-led surf lessons, coasteering adventures, and high-quality equipment hire - all backed by outstanding facilities, including hot showers and heated changing rooms. Lessons are led by experienced coaches trained to national standards, with options for all abilities from beginner to advanced. Whether you're joining a group session, booking private coaching, or organising a weekend package, the focus is always on safety, progression, and having a great time in the water. Also available on-site: sauna and ice bath sessions, plus accommodation options to make the most of your stay in Croyde.