Surfing Programs Abroad
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123 Surfing Adventures
Gapforce
4.29
21
This Gapforce program is an action-packed, six-week tour combining travel and adventure with volunteering on Australia's famed East Coast. Your journey begins in the awesome city of Sydney before heading north to Brisbane via the legendary Byron Bay. You will spend two weeks volunteering on an envir
GoEco - Top Volunteer Organization
4.83
40
GoEco offers a wide variety of social work volunteer opportunities and internships worldwide. These programs provide support to children and adults in need, especially those facing one or more layers of disadvantage in society. Our programs aim to support these children and adults, as well as the lo
See All 27 ProgramsInternational Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
4.76
17
Help provide children from under resourced communities with safe access to the ocean, structured after school activities and positive mentorship. You will support local surf coaches and community leaders who use surfing to build confidence, resilience and life skills in young people who may have lim
See All 4 ProgramsMAXIMO NIVEL
5
2
Learn to surf at one of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica! Manuel Antonio is the perfect destination to learn, refine, or level up your surfing skills. Whether you’re catching your first wave or looking to take your technique to the next level, Maximo Nivel’s expert instructors provide pers
See All 3 ProgramsPacific Discovery
4.65
40
Experience an unforgettable 10-week Gap Year Semester through New Zealand and Australia, two of the world’s most amazing travel destinations. This Pacific Discovery program is designed for students taking a gap year, seeking an alternative study abroad, or looking to combine travel with purpose. Jo
See All 12 ProgramsGlobal Works
4.7
10
Global Works specializes in teen service trips and educational experiences to Costa Rica for high school and middle school students. These student travel programs have been our most popular over the years for good reason. Incredible biodiversity and a welcoming culture make Costa Rica an awesome cho
See All 2 ProgramsRustic Pathways
4.44
36
Costa Rica is where adventure, service, cultural immersion, and the wonders of nature intersect. Our programs focus on turtle conservation, surfing, and connection with the local communities. With programs for high school students, college students, and young explorers, there’s an exciting opportuni
See All 7 ProgramsARCC Programs
4.57
7
The Costa Rica: Cloud Forest Community Initiative program offers the perfect mix of adventure and service. Whitewater raft through the lush rainforest of the Pacuare River, spotting wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and toucans along the way. Live in a remote cloud forest village, contributing to impo
See All 4 ProgramsArcos Journeys Abroad
4.86
42
Travel to Costa Rica for a program rich in community service and eco-adventure. Experience the traditional town of Atenas, surrounded by verdant mountains. Immerse fully in the Costa Rican culture by living with a local family and engaging in community service projects and afternoon cultural worksho
See All 2 ProgramsNosara Spanish Institute
4.71
7
For those looking to combine training of the body and mind, NSI's Spanish & Yoga program combines the best of what Nosara has to offer. As a world-class yoga teacher training destination, Nosara has an abundance of expert yoga instructors and first-class yoga studios. In this program, students c
See All 3 ProgramsWestcoast Connection
5
2
Dive into the perfect balance of meaningful service projects, cultural immersion, and unforgettable adventures in this teen summer program. Travel to Costa Rica and work alongside some of our long-standing partners on projects such as building infrastructure in the Central Valley and helping cook fo
See All 11 ProgramsGoBeyond Student Travel
4.88
8
This program goes beyond ordinary high school travel programs and build cross-cultural community service summer trips perfectly geared to your interests and curiosities. Whether you’re looking to contribute to authentic service projects, experience exhilarating adventure, or develop your language sk
See All 2 ProgramsGo Abroad China Ltd.
4.65
23
Go Abroad China’s High School Chinese Language Immersion Program is designed for international students aged 13–18 who want to learn Chinese in China while experiencing authentic Chinese culture in a safe and supportive environment. Students can choose from University Chinese Language Programs, Sm
Travel For Teens
5
1
Join us this summer for some sun, sand, and sea turtles as we explore the Hawaiian Islands on this adventure designed especially for younger teens (aged 12-14)! From vibrant Honolulu to laid-back Maui, this middle school program covers some of the best highlights of Hawaii, including postcard-perfec
See All 4 ProgramsLove Volunteers
0
0
This program aims to bring a lasting, positive impact on the lives of some of Cape Town’s most impoverished children and youth ages 6 - 13. Volunteers are placed in a physical education program that runs in conjunction with the local public primary school curriculum. They help deliver a sports progr
Spanish Gap Year
4.4
10
This all-in-one semester begins with one month traveling Spain by train, followed by two months in Barcelona where you choose your pathway. You’ll build soft skills (communication, confidence, problem-solving), hard skills (Spanish, digital tools, cooking), professional skills through internships or
See All 4 ProgramsPutney Student Travel
0
0
Journey through the South Pacific on an immersive adventure that spans Fiji’s coral-rich waters, New Zealand’s alpine landscapes, and Australia’s rugged Outback and iconic reefs. Begin in a coastal Fijian village, where you experience island traditions, explore waterfalls, and snorkel alongside loca
See All 2 ProgramsIntercultura Costa Rica
5
6
Ready for the ultimate summer in Costa Rica? Our Teen Summer Adventure Camp is a chance to improve your Spanish while exploring tropical beaches, volcanoes, rainforests, and some of the most incredible places on the planet. After your fun, active Spanish classes (both in the city and at our amaz
Instituto Hemingway
5
1
Bilbao and the Basque country are internationally renowned for having the best waves in Europe throughout the year. Experience this (and more!) in a program that boasts a magnificent combination of Spanish learning and surfing. We welcome anyone interested in learning a foreign language in a truly u
Luderitz Blue School
5
2
Do you love the ocean — and want to share that passion with the next generation? At Luderitz Blue School, Namibia's only IOC-UNESCO Blue School, ocean literacy isn't a subject — it's a way of life. As an intern, you'll become part of a unique school community where every week brings beach clean-ups,
See All 2 ProgramsA Guide to Surfing Adventures Abroad
Popular Locations
There are hundreds of amazing beaches for surf tours, but here are our top picks to travel and hang ten:
Indonesia. First stop on the list: Bali. Known for its forests and volcanic mountains, beaches, and coral reefs, you’ll not only catch worthy waves, but also have great views while you do it. Make your way to the top beaches including Uluwatu, Canggu, Kuta, and Nusa Dua on your surf holidays.
Australia. Next on the list is the Land Down Under! This may seem like an obvious pick, but with close to 23,000 miles of surfable coastline blessed with point breaks and coral reefs, it’s a wave-rider's paradise. Start in the east on the Gold Coast, a region south of Brisbane—famous for its surfing adventures, and beaches large enough to house all of the surfers it attracts. It has one of the most famous point breaks in the world, creating barrel after barrel of waves.
Home to glorious beaches and coastlines on the Caribbean and Pacific oceans, your surf adventure in Costa Rica can only be described one way: cowabunga! Expect big waves at Naranjo Beach and the river-mouth point break at Potrero Grande or Ollies Point.
What Else You Need to Know
Anywhere there is a surfing adventure, there is a teacher. There are tons of surf travel programs in every surf town to turn you from beach bum benny to a surfer pro. Programs are fit for all skill levels and budgets. Schools, instructors, and programs often provide boards, wetsuits, and surf lessons. Most lessons will be one-on-one or in a small group; if you’re a beginner, the instructor usually starts the lesson on the sand, teaching you how to lie, paddle, and stand up on the board. Then you’ll move into the water.
Depending on your experience level, your surf tours instructor may stay with you in the swell to give you an extra push to paddle hard, stand up, find your balance, and catch a wave. With more experienced surfers, instructors may focus more on fun tips and tricks, like 360s, laybacks, and kickflips.
The moment you stand up on the surfboard is a total rush. You’ll feel weightless as the force of the wave pumps you across the shore. It’s almost as if you’re flying across the jewel-toned water beneath your feet. Typically April through October are the warmest months to surf, but with the advanced technology in wetsuits, you can tackle the surge anytime and still stay warm.
GoAbroad's Inside Scoop
Surfing is a relatively easy skill to learn. As you progress and hone your skills, you may be zipping through glassy barrels in no time! Whether this is your first time crushing the waves, or you’re a seasoned surfer, there is no doubt the adrenaline will be pumping non-stop during surfing adventures. You’ll have a blast, enjoy the beach, and get in some great exercise (have you ever seen an out of shape surfer? I don’t think so!).
Surfing is pretty easy to catch onto, but it does take some physical stamina. If you’re not the most athletic person, don’t worry. Whenever you need to take a break, ride back to the beach and bask in the sunshine for a while. Pay attention to the tides and currents as well. Some oceans, especially those with waves, can get rough at times. Know your skill level, and if the waves get a little rough for your liking, hang out on the sand until the tides have calmed.
Get ready to yell “Banzai!” Once you get the hang of it, you won’t want to stop the thrillingly surreal experience of surf trips. The power of the wave pushing you to gain speed while you’re right in the heart of nature. That feeling of being part of the ocean and riding on top of the world is freedom, adventure, and creativity all rolled into one. There’s only one place to get that feeling and it’s in the surf!
Latest Program Reviews
I had a great time
June 27, 2026by: Liam Hume - CanadaI book a week of Spanish Immersion in San José along with a week of surfing. I had a great time combining the time and found everyone I interacted with to be super pleasant and friendly. The spanish course at Maximo Nivel were very thorough and helpful and the surf camp was a lot of fun with great instructors. Pura Vida, I will return.
Pura Vida
May 13, 2026by: SusieProgram: Costa Rica Surf, Adventure, Service & Turtle Programs
My son participated in a program with Rustic Pathways in Costa Rica last year, and it was an incredibly positive experience for both him and our family. The counselors updates, looking at the photos and videos gave me a great sense of comfort and connection. He was able to keep his phone, so we stayed in touch throughout the trip. Hearing how happy and even on days focused on community service validated that I chose the right camp. The program was a wonderful balance between meaningful work and fun. He is super excited to go on a trip this year to Belize My son returned home more independent, and inspired to continue to connect with many cultures and see the world.
Thanks so much for your comment, Susie! We're thrilled your son had such a great experience! We love hearing about their transformation post-trip. We hope he joins us for another awesome summer soon :)
Best experience EVER!
December 03, 2025by: Talley Desparrois - United StatesProgram: Australia Adventure with Gapforce
The program has been absolutely amazing! I have loved everything about Australia, formed a lot of new friends/relationships, and made so many great memories so far. I would 100% recommend it to others, I think everyone should get to experience this beautiful place. My favorite part was the camping trip on Frasier Island, but I have also loved sky diving, snorkeling, and all of the nights out have been a blast. Overall, this has been the best experience I’ve ever had and I’m so glad I got out of my shell and booked it.
I had the best time of my life!!
September 26, 2025by: Ashley Ajayi - United StatesDon’t know what I would expect going into the surf school. Everyday I saw myself getting better and becoming more confident in the water and with my swimming skills. Thank you so much for offering this program.
Wonderful experience
May 16, 2025by: Aurélien Bianco - FranceProgram: Surf Instructor in Australia
Joining the surf instructor course in Australia at 40 was an unexpected yet unforgettable life chapter. I found myself learning just as much from the younger crowd as they did from me. The camp’s atmosphere was all about kindness, no judgment, just people living in the moment. From early sunrise surf sessions with dolphins to deep late-night conversations, every day was filled with meaning. The training was intense but rewarding, and the instructors were passionate and supportive. I made lifelong friends, reconnected with nature, and came home with a fresh perspective. I’d go back in a heartbeat, no hesitation.
Three life-changing months of surf, sunsets & friendships in Australia
May 16, 2025by: Lilas Hampe - FranceProgram: Surf Instructor in Australia
Doing my surf instructor training in Australia was honestly one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Starting from zero made it all the more rewarding, every wave was a small victory. A typical day ? Waking up with the sun (and the tides), grabbing a quick breakfast, then heading straight into the ocean where stingrays might glide beneath you and dolphins often joined us for the sunset sessions. Lunches were fresh wraps on the beach, followed by lazy naps under the sun and fireside evenings with surf films, theory lessons, and chats over tea or beers. We lived in tipis or beachside cabins just a few steps from the water, a dreamlike setup. The instructors were incredibly passionate, not just about surfing, but also about the ocean and preserving the environment. Their support in and out of the water was unmatched. Beyond the surfing, this experience immersed me in a whole new world. I met inspiring people from all over the globe, improved my English dramatically, and fell in love with a lifestyle I didn’t know existed. It wasn’t just a course, it was a reset. Now, there’s a list of dream waves pinned in my room, and a whole new life mindset that came with them.
Incredible Journey
April 16, 2025by: Aurelien Bianco - FranceProgram: Surf Instructor in Australia
Professional surf instructor training in Australia was a real-life lesson for me. At 40, I learned as much from 20-year-olds as I could have given them. You don't go to the other side of the world for no reason, but there, no one judges; everyone just wants to have a good time, and everyone adapts. Getting up at 4 a.m. to film the sunrise, surfing from 6 a.m. until sunset, is a privilege. This interlude in my life will undoubtedly be one of the indelible memories.
the best trip
December 11, 2024by: stacy maurice - KenyaProgram: Western Sprint - 11 Days
Participating in the program was an absolute joy! It was a fun and enriching experience where we not only made new friends but also gained valuable knowledge and skills. The activities were diverse and engaging, providing hands-on learning opportunities that made complex concepts easy to grasp. We delved into exciting topics, explored new cultures, and worked on team projects that were both challenging and rewarding. Overall, it was an incredible journey of growth, discovery, and unforgettable memories.
One of the most unforgettable experiences of my life
November 27, 2024by: Ander SanchezProgram: Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation
Pacific Discovery gave me one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life. The 10-week gap year program was a perfect mix of adventure, learning, and personal growth. The staff were very knowledgeable, and always there to encourage us. I left with lifelong friends and memories, plus a newfound appreciation for nature and different cultures. If you're looking for a meaningful, eye opening adventure, I can't recommend Pacific Discovery enough!
The most amazing trip i’ve ever been on!
November 26, 2024by: William BerglandProgram: Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation
The Australia and New Zealand semester was the most amazing trip I’ve ever been on! From the beautiful beaches of AUS to the stunning southern alps of New Zealand, every single activity and view on this trip was amazing. There is nowhere I would rather have spent the last 70 days, and no group I would rather have been with!
This trip truly changed me
November 22, 2024by: Madison HickmanI was really nervous before coming on program about how i was going to make friends and what the people would be like and it was everything i’d hope for the people were amazing and my instructors made sure everything was perfect this trip truly changed me and i am so grateful i went no matter how scary it seemed at first
I have come out of this program with a better sense of self
November 16, 2024by: Tessa AdesThis program implements so many elements of self discovery and growth. I did the Australia mini semester and I have learned so much in such a short amount of time. Not only about the culture and activities here in Australia but myself as well. I faced many positives, a few challenges, and I am equally grateful for both! As I wouldn’t be who I am now without the hardship. I have come out of this program with a better sense of self and for that I am very grateful!
Live and travel more sustainably
November 04, 2024by: Noa HeinrichProgram: Semester Abroad in New Zealand & Australia - Conservation
I had an amazing time with amazing people on the Australia New Zealand Gap semester! It was an incredible program that showed us how to live and travel more sustainably, make the most of our time with every experience, and learn from others we meet along the way! I definitely recommend this program!!
Worth it!
November 01, 2024by: Isabella Harris - United StatesProgram: USA: Hawaii and New Orleans Travel with Rustic Pathways
Eye-opening cultural experience! Really changed how I see the world. Made a real difference in the community too. Even if you can only do a short trip, it's worth it! Thank you Rustic for giving me this opportunity.
Hey Isabella! Thanks so much for traveling with us. We're happy that this changed how you see the world! We hope you travel with us again soon.
Worth going
November 01, 2024by: Aaron Anderson - United StatesProgram: USA: Hawaii and New Orleans Travel with Rustic Pathways
Really made me appreciate what I have in my own life. No doubt it was an amazing experience that developed by personality and boosted my confidence and morale. A life time journey that let me make new friends. Thank you so much for this incredible trip.
Hey Aaron! We're so happy that you traveled with us, and that you returned home with a deep sense of gratitude. What's even more awesome is that you got a confidence boost! Imagine all the things you can do now that you thought you couldn't do before? We hope you travel with us again soon!
Greater impact
November 01, 2024by: Lucas Jones - United StatesProgram: USA: Hawaii and New Orleans Travel with Rustic Pathways
It was fun that we could connect with locals and other volunteers and make an impact building houses. Hands-on experience that brought us all together to make such an incredible team. Learned so much in this exercise.
Hey Lucas! We're so grateful that you traveled with us and made a significant impact in the community you visited. That home you helped built will stand for a long time! It's something to be very proud of! We hope you have more positive experiences like this, and travel with us again soon.
Learning experience
October 31, 2024by: Gabriel Torres - FranceProgram: USA: Hawaii and New Orleans Travel with Rustic Pathways
This trip was top-notch. The staff went above and beyond—helpful, friendly, and always there when needed. I'd jump at the chance to do it again. I learned so much, and the team’s expertise was clear from the start. They had my back every step of the way, handling any issue I had with genuine care. Absolutely recommend it to anyone. Thank you Istvan and team.
Hi Gabriel! Thanks so much for joining us. We're thrilled to hear that you felt comfortable and supported by our team. We hope you travel with us again in the near future!
Amazing experience
October 29, 2024by: Megan Young - United StatesProgram: USA: Hawaii and New Orleans Travel with Rustic Pathways
The place here was always kept clean. I had some concerns with another kid on my tour, but he was send home and then I felt super comfortable everywhere I went with the group, whether that be in the village, the forests, or in the city.
Thanks so much for traveling with us! We’re committed to making sure all students feel comfortable, and we’re glad you had an enjoyable time. We hope you travel with us again soon!
Loved it
October 29, 2024by: Dylan Rodriguez - United StatesProgram: USA: Hawaii and New Orleans Travel with Rustic Pathways
Loved my week with Rustic! I learned so much about myself when I was there. The staff was great and I'm planning to go back for more. If you want to learn to surf and do service and hang out in a beautiful place, this is it! I really loved the trip and was totally exhausted by the end
Hey Dylan! Thanks so much for traveling with us. We're glad you had a great time surfing, and doing service. Hopefully you took a big nap when you got home. And we hope to see you on another trip soon!
Amazing Experience!
August 25, 2024by: Katy Abbott - United StatesMy 15 year old daughter looked at a number of programs before narrowing in on this program. ARCC was very professional prior to departure, during the trip, and afterwards. My daughter got so many experiences within the two weeks she was there-- all so valuable and educational. I loved that the teenagers were without phones for all but an hour of the trip. ARCC has the whole thing dialed. It's clear they know what they are doing.
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RealStep
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I wanted to see the world and explore to see how Australia looked. I've heard many many stories about this country and they were all true!
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I always enjoyed traveling and exploring new countries, which was also the main reason for choosing to study tourism.
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International Volunteer HQ [IVHQ]
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This contrast can be seen in the beautiful church facade in San Andrés Xecul; though it is a Catholic church, it was constructed by Mayan slaves, and ...
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First off, it wasn't an easy decision. But, for me, it was something I had to do. I was in my freshman year of college, working so hard everyday for a...
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Global Leadership Adventures
I wanted to discover what life was like in a developing country, step outside of my comfort zone, and sharpen my social and leadership skills.
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Broadreach
I’d always had a hunch that I wanted to go on to get my Divemaster certification, and after diving the past two summers with broadreach I knew that Sc...
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I’d always been interested in traveling abroad, especially to study marine science. I thought it would be a great experience for me to learn more abou...
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I love to Travel and I love to dive, The UK is too cold!!!
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