Bed & Barrel Rolls: Great Surf Camps in the Philippines

Whether you ride baby waves or hollow barrels.
by Gene Loves Acosta | August 26, 2016

Surfari is a surf lingo which means a hunt for good surf. It’s basically a tropical retreat where you get to travel and catch the best waves of your life. Sweeeet! But wait. With all the surfing spots in the Philippines, do you even know where to start?

Here’s a list to help you plan (and save) for your next trip:

Puraran Surf Camp

Budget: PHP 2950 for 2 days and 1 night (Beginners Surf Package)

Puraran, Baras, Catanduanes | Website | +63 977 182 7537

Get stoked at one of the country’s top surfing destinations! This place is home to the Majestic—a powerful barreling wave which is known to surfers all over the world. Don’t worry, though, because it’s not only for seasoned sea-dwellers. Aside from the surfing season (July to October), the swell heights here are not intimidating. It even has a stunning landscape of a creamy golden beach with marvelous rock formations when the sea is calm.

What’s included?

• Accommodation (overnight)
• Daily in-water training
• Maximum 3 hours surf lesson
• Personal Surf Instructor
• Surf equipment
• Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
• Freebies (Mesh Cap/Tshirt)
• Side trip tour

Kermit Surf Resort Siargao

Budget: PHP 25000 for 1 week

Purok 5, General Luna Siargao Island, Surigao Del Norte | Website

From the surf camp, there are about ten amazing surf breaks that you can reach through a bit of paddling or via a 5-10 minute boat ride. You’ll also have a guide to brief you about the surf spots and give you tips on how to improve your technique. After a fun-filled day, you can chill out at the resort, enjoy the care-free vibe and meet new friends over amazing food and drinks.

What’s included?

• 7 nights’ accommodation
• Daily breakfast
• Airport transfer
• Daily surf guide trips
• 3 yoga sessions
• Free use of camp bicycles and standup paddle board

Crystal Beach Resort

Budget: Room rates start at PHP 1700/day + PHP 400/hour surf lesson

San Narciso, Zambales-Pangasinan Road | crystalbeachresort@gmail.com | (0917) 545-2791 | Website

Surf to your heart’s content in this surfing spot located just a few hours away from Manila. The waves here can range from small to overhead, and the instructors are so friendly they’ll make sure you won’t go home without having a fun day in the water. You never know, this place is just what you need to get on the surfing lifestyle—if you haven’t yet.

What’s included?

• Accommodation with Breakfast
• Board rental
• Surfing instructor

La Union Surf School

Budget: Starts at PHP780 per person per night in Flotsam and Jetsam Hostel; PHP5300 per night in Kahuna Beach Resort; PHP4000 per night in Urbiz Garden; Surfing lessons start at PHP1599 for one day to PHP6299 for a five-day course

Website | info@launionsurfschool.com | +63 998 555 1990

Whether you’re a fan of the Instagram-worthy corners of Flotsam and Jetsam, or the homey vibe and quiet surroundings of Urbiz Garden, La Union Surf School has the perfect package to make your surf trip memorable. Each course is designed to meet each student’s needs so everyone—newbies and pros—are welcome here.

What’s included:

• Accommodation
• Surfing lessons
• Mobile surf stations
• Sunblock and water

San Juan Surf School

Budget: Starts at PHP1980 for 2 pax + Surf lesson fee

Website | Urbiztondo, San Juan, La Union | sanjuansurfschool@yahoo.com.ph

This surf school was established by Filipino-Australian surfer Luke Landrigan who trained in Australia. The atmosphere is relaxed, friendly and fun so it won’t be a surprise if you’ll meet new surfing buddies. Also, if it’s your first time surfing, make sure to visit their spa—we’re pretty sure it’s going to be a refreshing treat for that post-surf bliss.

Got other surf camps you want to add to the list? Sound off below!