Surfing Programs Abroad

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 environmental conservation project, a great way to give back to this amazing country, before continuing north into Queensland. Sailing on the Whitsunday islands, 4x4 jeep rides on Fraser Island, and snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef are just some of the highlights. Your epic adventure ends with a week in Cape Tribulation, a stunning paradise where the reef meets the rainforest.

Whether you’re a pro surfer or just a beginner, join this Surf Outreach Project and provide structure, learning and new skills to children from disadvantaged neighborhoods. Divided into two parts, you'll first work independently with a surf instructor to develop your own surfing skills, and then work with children from the community to help improve both their surfing abilities and general life skills. This fully-hosted, life-enriching volunteer program is provided by International Volunteer HQ - the world's leading volunteer travel organization, trusted by more than 120,000 volunteer travelers. Ranging up to 24 weeks and starting at just $320 for 1 week, your fully hosted experience includes airport pick-up, orientation, accommodation, meals and 24/7 support. You’ll be accommodated in a volunteer house with the opportunity to meet other like-minded, impact-driven travelers. Thanks to IVHQ's affordable fees, flexible booking and free changes, you can register for your volunteer program in South Africa with confidence.

Known for being the home of the most beautiful beach in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio proves to be a perfect destination for surfers of all levels. The beach life in Manuel Antonio is the epitome of the ‘Pura Vida’ way of life that Costa Rica offers, allowing you to kick back, relax, catch some waves (and some rays), and all around just enjoy life. The 5-day surf school program includes: - Bilingual, certified instructor - All surf equipment - Transportation to/from surf sites. - 2-3 hours per day of private instruction - Lounge chairs and refreshments on the beach

Embark on a 30-day adventure through Ecuador, combining culture, adventure, and meaningful volunteering. You’ll start in Quito, exploring its historic streets and vibrant atmosphere before heading to the Andes to marvel at breathtaking landscapes like Cotopaxi Volcano and Quilotoa Crater. Along the way, you’ll learn Spanish, dance salsa, and enjoy thrilling activities such as mountain biking and zip-lining in Baños. In Puyo, you’ll make a difference by volunteering at an Amazon rescue center and caring for wildlife. Finally, unwind on the coast in Montañita with yoga, surfing, and beachside relaxation. This trip is your chance to connect with Ecuador’s beauty, culture, and people in a small international group of travelers hosted by a local tour guide.

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. Journey across dramatic landscapes, from the fjords of New Zealand to the tropical reefs of Australia. Hike, surf, snorkel, and dive while building global perspective through hands-on conservation and meaningful service learning. Learn directly from Māori and Indigenous Australian communities through authentic cultural exchange. Along the way, develop real-world skills in leadership, teamwork, and sustainability with the option to earn U.S. college credit. With experienced instructors by your side, you’ll gain clarity, confidence, and lifelong friendships while exploring two iconic destinations for adventure and growth. Whether you’re preparing for college, building your resume, or redefining your education through travel, this immersive journey will leave you inspired and ready for what’s next. Inquire today to start your New Zealand & Australia Semester with Pacific Discovery.

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 choice for a summer adventure. Global Works offers volunteer programs in different focus areas. We offer opportunities for community service, Spanish immersion, cultural exchange, pre-med and public health, wildlife, adventure travel, and a middle school-focused program to this special corner of the globe. Program Options: * Costa Rica: Service & Sand (15 days) * Costa Rica: Wildlife Adventure (17 days) * Costa Rica: Intro to Pre-Med & Public Health (17 days) * Costa Rica: Middle School Service Adventure (10 days)

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 opportunity to live the ‘pura vida’ lifestyle for all explorers. Turtle Conservation Project – Embark on a journey to protect sea turtles. Contribute to conservation through beach cleanups, hatchery construction & nest monitoring. Learn to surf in your free time. Pura Vida Service – Create authentic bonds with local communities and contribute to meaningful service projects. Program highlights include zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and hot springs. Surf and Service – Take in breathtaking sunsets and the blue waters during a week of surf, service, and community support. Spring Break Surf and Service – The Spring Break version of our popular Surf and Service program! Young Explorers – The perfect intro for young adventurers! Journey from the mountains to the beaches and participate in impactful service projects.

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 important infrastructure projects. Learn to surf the calm waves of Costa Rica’s Pacific Ocean, while enjoying the country’s stunning palm-fringed beaches. Discover the process of coffee production in the lush green mountains where it’s grown, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of rainforests, pristine coastlines, and hidden waterfalls, all while connecting with and supporting local communities.

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 workshops. Travel for eco-adventure to the beautiful region of La Fortuna, at the base of the majestic Arenal Volcano. Trek through the rainforest to a breathtaking waterfall and go on a zipline canopy tour through the jungle. Perform trail work at a private reserve and see exotic wildlife such as sloths, howler monkeys, and toucans. Travel to Manuel Antonio beach on the Pacific coast for surf lessons, white water rafting, and hiking through the national park. Learn what sustainable tourism and eco-adventure are all about! A basic level of Spanish is recommended for this program.

Embark on an unforgettable journey to become a certified surf instructor on the breathtaking beaches of Australia! The Academy Surfing Instructors (ASI) accredit this program, which blends expert surf training, ocean safety education, and hands-on teaching experience, equipping you with the skills to conquer waves and inspire others. You will gain a surfing technique and a globally recognized certification. If you're looking for adventure, a career change, or a chance to connect with nature, this program offers the perfect balance of skill development, adventure, and environmental awareness.

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 skills, GoBeyond will immerse you in a new culture where you can make a meaningful difference while on the journey of a lifetime. Our high school community service summer programs proudly serve in many under-resourced communities and environments throughout the world. Explore our journeys in the British Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Galapagos & Ecuador, Peru, Iceland, Spain, China, Thailand, India, Sri Lanka, and Australia. Beyond experiencing the adventure of a lifetime and creating lasting memories, we believe our community service summer trips enable lasting positive change in the world. For over forty years, we’ve been transforming communities, environments, and students’ lives through meaningful, collaborative adventures and service that develop skills and a more sophisticated worldly outlook—ultimately shaping the person you become.

This is truly the ultimate West Coast teenage road trip! The program begins in San Francisco and Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Then, cruise down the coast and fall in love with the beaches of Santa Barbara and the most famous hotspots in LA and San Diego. Next, it takes you into the American Southwest, exploring the majesty of dramatically changing scenery with a stay in Vegas. The grand finale is in beautiful Scottsdale. Our program leaders are experts at creating a close-knit, inclusive family atmosphere where everyone feels welcome. With so much adventure and excitement on this teen tour, you’re in for an unforgettable summer with plenty of new friendships ahead! This program is available to students completing grades 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 (ages 13-17). Separate departure dates are assigned to create compatible co-ed age groups. We offer an exclusive departure for middle school students completing grades 7 and 8.

In Nice, you will live in a modern student apartment, in the beautiful Old Port neighborhood, in the very heart of town. Every student chooses two classes as their academic focus: a major and an elective. The French major class meets every morning Monday to Friday while electives meet three afternoons a week. Electives include French Conversation, Photography, Sports, and Studio Art. Abbey Road provides three meals a day of high-quality food through a variety of venues. We often cook together using traditional French recipes. On some nights we go out for group dinners. In any case, our students eat authentic, quality food, as opposed to fast food or tourist meals. Our teaching method emphasizes active, hands-on learning, cultural and language immersion. Most of our French classes include interacting with locals, practicing French, and small group French conversation workshops. The program also offers a great variety of cultural, educational, athletic, and travel activities. You will visit some of the most beautiful destinations on the French Riviera: St. Jean, Beaulieu, Monaco, Eze, Antibes, Cannes, and many others.

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 local communities overall. A few examples of our social work programs include our Girl Empowerment in Cape Town, South Africa, our Community Aid in Rajasthan program in India and our Social Work Internships program in San Jose, Costa Rica. We also offer programs that help those with special needs, in both Israel and Chile. No matter which program you choose, your social work will make a difference both to these individuals and in these communities.

Embark on a 10-day Annapurna Trek – Ghorepani & Poon Hill with Adventure Walkways, exploring the heart of Nepal’s Himalayas. This moderate trek combines nature, culture, and breathtaking mountain panoramas, passing through traditional Gurung and Magar villages, terraced fields, and lush rhododendron and oak forests. Witness the iconic sunrise from Poon Hill (3,210 m) and, for adventure seekers, optional excursions to Annapurna Base Camp (~4,130 m). Relax in the soothing hot springs at Jhinu Danda and enjoy comfortable tea house accommodations throughout the trek. Along the route, take in stunning views of Annapurna, Dhaulagiri, Machhapuchhre, Hiunchuli, and surrounding peaks. Perfect for first-time trekkers, small groups, couples, and foreign travelers, this itinerary offers a well-paced, immersive Himalayan experience. Adventure Walkways ensures experienced guides, porter support, and safe trekking, providing a seamless and unforgettable journey through Nepal’s iconic landscapes.

Seeds of Change seeks to train young biology students in comparative microbial bioinformatics to give them a leg up in this burgeoning field. Students study microbial bioinformatics because microbes are central to all environments on the planet, drive biogeochemical cycles, and perform functions vital to all life forms. Before students travel to Costa Rica, they are introduced to the Joint Genome Institute’s (JGI) Integrated Microbial Genomes and Microbiomes (IMG/M) platform, a gateway to sophisticated genome databases and analysis tools. The five interactive pre-trip modules present a seminal case study that applies the fundamentals of genetics (DNA structure, replication, transcription, translation and gene regulation) to an insect-bacteria symbiotic relationship. Once in Costa Rica, students work with a partner to generate their original research question and use their new-found expertise in microbial bioinformatics to develop a poster of their research. Students engage in off-site activities that include guided hikes in the cloud forest, a zipline adventure in the cloud forest, a coffee tour, a horseback ride in the cloud forest, and a sea turtle marine research experience.

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 local dive experts. Ski New Zealand’s Southern Alps, join a welcoming Kiwi homestay, and then sail through Australia’s Whitsunday Islands as part of a working crew. Cap it off with time in Sydney and epic hikes around Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Discover China Through Language & Culture. Founded in 2003, Go Abroad China (GAC) offers immersive Mandarin programs for international high school students. This program combines intensive classroom learning with real-world practice, cultural workshops, and social activities. Program Types: Short-Term (2-8 weeks): Summer/Winter camps. Long-Term (Semester/Year): Study at top Chinese schools. Customized Programs: Tailored to individual needs. What’s Included: Mandarin instruction at leading schools. Homestays, shared apartments, or dorms. One-on-one tutoring and language exchange. Cultural tours, networking, and excursions. 24/7 support for safety and guidance. Why Choose GAC? Achieve Mandarin fluency with certification. Gain cultural fluency and global exposure. Enhance college applications and career prospects. Build lifelong friendships and professional networks.

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-perfect beaches, turquoise water, and plenty of adventure! Plenty of action-packed adventures will complement our service projects. Hike to the top of a volcanic crater, take a surf lesson, snorkel and kayak through pristine waters, and more on this incredible journey to discover the best of the Aloha State! On our Younger Teen trips, you will find smaller group sizes, outstanding staff who connect on the same level as this age group, and itineraries that perfectly inspire a passion for travel and a greater understanding of the world for all who join us!

Get ready for six weeks of non-stop adventure in Costa Rica! This program is packed with a variety of activities designed for those who want to travel and spend time in the outdoors. You'll hike through the vibrant jungles, surf epic waves, zip line through lush canopies, and camp under starry skies. Experience all the famous spots and uncover hidden gems, making every day a new adventure. Learn the basics of outdoor skills while connecting with fellow travelers. This is your ticket to a wild, life-changing journey in the heart of Central America! Accommodation, transport, meals, activities, and local guides are all included in the program price. Experience travel like no other with small group sizes, the ability to try new things, traverse the whole country, and embrace different cultures. This Costa Rica program is the perfect blend of travel and expedition—great for those looking for a gap year program, adventure travel program, or those looking to see all of Costa Rica's highlights!