Husband puts his arm around his wife on the beach with surfboards

It's never too late to start!

In fact, at our surf camp in Spain, we meet guests every season who are just beginning their surf journey in their 30s, 40s and even 50s or beyond.

Many are parents, solo travellers or couples looking for a new kind of holiday. Some have always wanted to surf. Others are tagging along with their kids or partner and end up loving it even more.

Whether you’ve never touched a surfboard before or just want to brush up on old skills, Spain is one of the best places in the world to start.

Here’s why.

  • Elderly surfer walks along the beach as a silhouette at sunset
    An elderly surfer walks along the beach with a surfboard, silhouetted by the sunset and the glowing sky

1. Gentle conditions + sandy beaches = a beginner’s dream

Southern Spain, especially spots like El Palmar, offers long stretches of sandy beaches and consistent beach break waves.

These kinds of breaks are far more forgiving than rocky point breaks or heavy reef breaks, which are better suited to more advanced surfers.

The waves here are what we call "beginner-friendly". That's to say they're the best waves for learners (not to mention they're incredibly beautiful).

During the summer months it can be busy here. We don't open for this reason. But the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are ideal. The swells are more consistent and the lingering warm weather makes getting into the Atlantic Ocean much more inviting.

  • Soft, sandy beach breaks are ideal for first-timers who want a safe and comfortable start

  • Water temperatures are mild in the warmer months, so you spend more time surfing and less time shivering

  • Wide, open beaches mean more space to practice without worrying about crowds

  • Many surf schools in Spain are located directly on the beach, making access easy and stress-free

  • Two male surfers hug each other after surfing
    Two male surfers hug each other after surfing on the beach, smiling and looking relaxed

2. Supportive, experienced instructors who get where you’re coming from

If you’re learning to surf later in life, you don’t want to be thrown into a one-size-fits-all lesson with 19-year-olds doing backflips on the beach, right?

The best surf schools (like ours) have instructors trained to work with all ages and skill levels.

Our daily surf lessons are tailored to meet you where you are, whether that’s learning to pop up, working on your paddle strength or just figuring out how to read the waves.

To be honest, we didn't grow up by the ocean either. So we know better than most that the ocean can be intimidating at first.

That’s why your surf experience with us is paced, practical and encouraging, not competitive. We have amazing people who work with us to provide surf and yoga lessons tailored to your abilities.

  • Surf instructors are patient, professional and understand adult learning styles

  • Small group sizes allow for more personal attention during each surf course

  • Lessons are structured to gradually build confidence and core surfing skills

  • You’ll learn about ocean safety, surf etiquette and how to choose the best surf spot

  • Stylish surfer house in Spain with surfing equipment and balcony
    A stylish surfer's house in southern Spain with a front garden full of wetsuits and a sunny balcony above

3. Surf camps in Spain have come a long way

Today’s surf camps aren’t just about sleeping in bunk beds and surfing until you collapse. That's old school and quite frankly, not ideal if you want to live your best life post-30.

Our surf camp has private or double rooms, modern facilities, sea views, delicious food and even yoga classes.

There’s a communal area, a sunny terrace, cosy vibes and plenty of shaded spots to relax. After a morning surf course, you might join a yoga session, nap in a hammock or take a sunset walk on the beach.

Plus, our camp in Spain is walking distance from the surf spot, so there’s no need for complicated travel arrangements.

We also offer shuttle transfers from nearby airports like Jerez or Seville. Because while we're not technically off the beaten track, we still want to make it as easy as possible for you to arrive.

  • Yoga sessions are available daily to help you stretch, relax and recover

  • Amenities like hot showers, comfortable bed frames and healthy meals make a big difference

  • Surf equipment is provided and included in your package.... no need to worry about buying or renting a board!

  • The whole experience is designed to be restorative and enjoyable, not exhausting

  • Surfer lies on the beach on her surfboard and waits for instructions
    A surfer lies on her surfboard on the beach and looks ahead as she waits for instructions before the lesson

4. It’s not just about surfing... it’s about the people

When you learn to surf later in life, you’re often more aware of what makes a trip meaningful.

At our surf camp, the people are just as important as the waves.

From quiz nights and beach games to jam sessions and shared dinners, it’s easy to connect with other travellers... including many solo travelers and families.

Some guests come for the surf and stay for the community. Others come back every year to experience our surf house, the good food and the beautiful town of El Palmar.

In fact, lots of our guests are repeat customers. Which makes us feel super grateful that they chose us when they think of booking a surfing holiday!

  • The atmosphere is warm, inclusive and ideal for making new friends and connections

  • Social activities like sunset walks, group dinners and jam sessions bring people together

  • Families, solo travellers and couples all feel equally welcome

  • Many guests form lasting friendships and return for another surf trip year after year to catch up

  • Yoga group stretching on the beach in El Palmar, Spain
    A group does stretching exercises on the beach in El Palmar, Spain, with a view of the sea and a relaxed atmosphere

5. Spain is the perfect destination for body and mind

Surfing can be physically demanding, especially in your first few days.

That’s why yoga sessions are part of our surf camp experience. Stretching before and after surfing helps improve mobility, balance and strength... and keeps injuries at bay.

Plus, the natural surroundings, from the long stretches of sand to the sunsets over our local beach, offer a grounded, peaceful atmosphere that’s ideal for slowing down and resetting.

Whether you’re enjoying great food on the terrace or listening to the waves crash at night, you’ll find something deeply calming here.

  • Daily yoga classes complement your surfing and enhance flexibility

  • Nature is central to the experience, whether you’re walking on the beach or gazing at beautiful sunsets

  • Spain’s slower pace of life helps you unwind, especially if you’re coming from a high-stress routine

  • Many guests describe their stay as a mini-retreat... a reset for the body, mind and spirit that has them returning home with confidence and contentment

Learning to surf later in life

Absolutely not. We’ve taught guests well into their 50s (and beyond). If you’re reasonably fit and willing to learn, you can surf!

Nope. Our surf packages include everything you need... boards, wetsuits and even zinc or sunscreen. You just show up. We look after the rest!

It's different from northern Spain to southern Spain. The spring months and early autumn are ideal for southern Spain. Manageable but consistent swells, warmer water temperatures compared to the north and west Iberian coastlines and sunny days make it easier for first-timers.

Not at all! Many of our guests come alone and leave with new friends. The vibe is welcoming, not cliquey. Prepare to connect with cool people from all over Europe and across the world.

Yes! We offer courses for all levels, including more advanced surfers. We also work with local partners to help you explore El Palmar, enjoy other activities and see other great surf spots nearby.

Ready to love surfing?

Learning to surf at 30, 40 or 50 is not just possible. It’s exciting, energising and incredibly rewarding.

And with the right people, the right setting and a little patience, it might just be the start of something new!

Whether you’re coming to tick something off your bucket list or looking to build real surfing skills, a surf camp in Spain is one of the best ways to dive in.

Come for the waves. Stay for the sunsets, the yoga, the community and the feeling of catching your very first wave.

We can’t wait to show you A-Frame and El Palmar!

Male surfer with hat riding a wave on a soft-top surfboard
A male surfer in a hat rides a small wave on a soft-top surfboard with a relaxed posture and good balance

What others have to say

  • Tobias_ keller.t

    5 months ago

    This has already been our second stay at A-Frame and again it was a super relaxed week and overall a holiday that can‘t be much better. We, a family with a toddler, can ony recommend this place to other families who are looking for a relaxed holiday with yoga, surf and amazing food. The people at A-Frame from surf coach to kitchen staff are just super friendly and you feel very much taken care at all times. Thanks so much to the whole team for another great holiday experience. We‘ll be back for sure.

  • Victor Lombardi

    5 months ago

    Pretty much a perfect vacation. I learned to surf, did a lot of yoga, soaked up the beautiful weather, ate delicious food, and met some wonderful people. I don't speak German or Spanish and the staff switched to English to make everything easy for me. El Palmar is a very chill area and from there it's easy to make day trips to Conil, Vejer, and Cádiz.

  • Inga

    a week ago

    One of the best sufcamps I´ve visited so far. Excellent sufcoaches with a great accomodation and catering nearby the beach.

  • Yoav Nassau

    a year ago

    Thoroughly enjoyed our stayed at A-Frame. Super friendly and helpful staff. We were always received with a smile and welcoming attitude. Shoutout to the kitchen people who were kind, and did an incredible job of serving tasty, healthy, and varied food that we all loved. We came with three small children and they all had a great time - surf lessons, board games, ping-pong table among other fun activities.

    The house was spacious, well-kept, and clean. Would definitely stay there again if visiting El Palmar in the future.

🥳 Celebrating 20 Years of Surf, Yoga & Community 🥳