What to look for when booking a surf camp in Spain?

Spain’s coast is long and varied. Like, 4,964 kilometres long.

The north, including the Basque Country and regions near San Vicente, is rugged and wild with powerful Atlantic swell. The Canary Islands offer volcanic landscapes and whole year surf potential.

But if you’re looking for the sweet spot—consistent surf, warm temperatures and a mellow vibe—consider the south and south-west coast... especially around El Palmar.

This small surf town is one of those great surf spots that still feels a little off the beaten path.

The beaches stretch on forever, the sunsets are magical and the waves? Ideal for all levels, especially during the spring and autumn months.

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed surf zone where you can catch lots of waves, chill and just enjoy life, El Palmar might just be the perfect surf holiday destination.

Not all surf camps in Spain are created equal. And it’s important to book a surf camp that offers surf lessons or a surf course appropriate for your level.

The best camps will welcome both beginners and advanced surfers, tailoring sessions so everyone improves and has fun.

In places like El Palmar, the waves offer great learning conditions for beginners but also enough punch for more experienced riders.

The right surf school should give you structured lessons with progression in mind—so you don’t just stand up, but actually learn how to read the ocean, ride with style and ultimately become someone who can surf the world with confidence.

If there's one thing we've learned from running a surf camp since 2005, it's that who you learn from matters.

You want surf instructors who are not just certified but stoked, patient and (most importantly) fully present.

At camps like A-Frame, the coaching team includes experienced instructors who live and breathe surfing. We teach you more than just how to pop up—we help you understand the rhythm of the sea, pick the right wave and build real confidence in the water.

A great surf instructor will push you just enough but also know when it’s time to just paddle out and have some fun.

That's ultimately what surfing's all about anyway, right?

Surfing isn't the most expensive sport in the world, but the cost of buying your own gear can definitely add up.

Fortunately, most surf holiday providers (like us) ensure you needn't worry about buying gear for your surf holiday.

Good camps will provide well-maintained surf equipment—from soft-tops for first-timers to hardboards for those stepping it up. A snug wetsuit is also a must, especially if you’re surfing outside of peak summer.

At A-Frame, the camp is fully stocked and organised. There’s a dedicated boardroom, showers for rinsing and all the little things that make your time surfing smoother.

It’s these modern facilities and personal touches that turn a good surf camp into a great one, and your getaway into the trip of the year!

Let’s talk about where you’ll be staying.

After hours in the ocean, you want a cosy place to kick back. Somewhere that feels like a home away from home.

Most Spain surf camps offer shared rooms, but others (like us) provide beautifully designed multi-person rooms, studios and even family apartments—ideal whether you’re travelling solo, with friends or with your loved ones.

And the food? BIG bonus points if the camp serves fresh healthy meals!

At A-Frame, breakfast is always included, and our camp chefs prepare fresh international dishes every day... including delicious dinners most nights.

Eating together is part of the experience—swapping stories, making new friends and fuelling up for another day in the waves. We're happy to cater to allergies, intolerances and vegetarian or vegan lifestyles.

Between meals, enjoy a selection of fruits, water, juices, tea, coffee and ginger water.

While the surf is the main attraction, the best surf camps offer more than just time in the water.

Think yoga classes with a sea view, optional day trips to local towns and opportunities to soak in the culture of southern Spain.

A good surf camp helps you explore the area without feeling rushed.

In El Palmar, you can walk straight from your room to the beach, watch wild horses in the dunes or take a drive to whitewashed villages like Vejer de la Frontera.

It’s all about blending the surf lifestyle with nature, relaxation and a bit of adventure.

Besides, surfing can be physically demanding, and balancing casual exploration with wave-riding ensures you return home feeling rested and recharged.

No one wants a headache before they’ve even hit the water.

A well-run camp will have a smooth booking process—clear dates, easy payment options and helpful info from the start. If you’re flying into Spain, check for camps that offer airport transfers or are easy to reach from nearby hubs.

Getting to El Palmar is simple. The closest airport is Jerez de la Frontera, just a short drive away. You can also fly into Seville (1.5 hours) or Malaga (2.5 hours) and make your way to El Palmar or Conil by rental car or bus.

Prefer not to rent? We offer a direct transfer service to the surf camp (so you can focus on waves, not logistics).

Our transfers are run by a reliable local driver who often coordinates shared rides with other guests.

If you’re traveling in a group larger than four and a van is needed, note that a small surcharge applies.

The real magic of a surf holiday often comes from the people you meet.

Look for camps where the community vibe is warm, inclusive and supportive. Whether it’s solo travellers bonding over their first green wave or groups of experienced surfers pushing each other in the lineup, the right crowd can make your week unforgettable.

Camps like A-Frame foster that sense of belonging—many guests come back year after year and it’s easy to see why.

The mix of locals, staff and guests creates a welcoming space where you don’t just surf—you connect.

Want proof? Check out our Instagram or TripAdvisor reviews.

Spain’s surf season depends on where you go. 

The northern coast has bigger swells in winter but cooler weather. The Canary Islands offer reliable surf all year but it’s harder to reach. But for balanced, consistent waves and good vibes, El Palmar shines in spring and autmn.

If you’re aiming to progress quickly or surf quieter lineups, March to May and September to November are prime.

Just always remember that at the end of the day, a surf trip is about more than just the act of surfing.

It’s about feeling alive, recharging and remembering what it’s like to live in the moment. The culture, the food, the connections, the salty hair and sandy feet—it all adds up to something special.

When you book with a camp that gets that balance right—like A-Frame in El Palmar—you don’t just go on holiday.

You come home with stories, skills and friends you didn’t know you needed. And for that we're honoured to be part of your journey.

Spain has some of the best surf spots in Europe, and picking the right surf camp can turn a regular trip into a life-changing one.

From the waves to the people, from the beach to the breakfast table, it’s all part of the experience.

So take your time, choose the camp that fits your style and go all in.

Whether you’re paddling out for the first time or hunting your next perfect set, your next surf adventure in Spain is waiting... and we hope it's with us at A-Frame in El Palmar.