Whether your goal is to get in shape, find a fun family or couples activity, or accelerate your SUP training, SUP camps can be a great way to find physical, spiritual and mental fulfillment while away on your vacation (or if you’re lucky, in your backyard).
Many of these camps and retreats are popping up in beautiful locations around the world.
Below are 6 SUP camps that have received excellent reviews and may be worth further investigation when planning your next SUP getaway or training excursion.
These learning options range from small group, all-inclusive SUP retreats to individual classes and fitness certification programs.
1. Kalama Kamp
Founded by legendary surfer and SUP pioneer, Dave Kalama, this camp offers a full immersion into SUP education and lifestyle. Upcoming locations include Namotu Fiji (Oct 31 – Nov 9, 2013), Maui, HI (Spring of 2014), Hood River (August of 2014), and Turks & Caicos (Fall of 2014).
Depending on your chosen destination, the Kalama Kamp may include full accommodations, SUP equipment and gear, education in paddling drills, downwind technique, Eco hikes and side trips to nearby islands, dining and more.
Some of these SUP camp destinations only accommodate a limited number of attendees (i.e., 10 total guests) so early booking is advised.
As one Kamp alumnus described his experience, “going to Kalama Kamp is a must go on trip for all skill levels.” Check it out here.
2. Kristen Murphy’s Siren Surf Adventures (Bahamas SUP Camp)
Run by former pro-surfer Kristen Murphy, along with a group of dedicated women paddlers in the Bahamas, the Siren Surf SUP Camp provides a fun, carefree learning environment for all skill levels. They have created a true “retreat” for attendees.
One reviewer describes it as “pristine blue water, ultra-white sand, friendly locals, a good supply of Kaliks & rum punch, and a very laid-back vibe. I would definitely go back again!” Sounds pretty nice.
This camp offers a chance to get some serious instruction mixed in with a laid-back vacation atmosphere . . . in the Bahamas.
3. Blue Zone SUP
Blue Zone is an all-inclusive, purpose-built, SUP surf retreat located in the tropical surf town of Nosara, Costa Rica. The retreat is custom designed for SUP’ers of all levels: from first-time paddlers to expert wave riders.
The camps include daily SUP sessions with PaddleFit Certified instructors, excursions, meals, yoga routines, and more.
Camp options include all levels and advanced training, as well as intermediate training with 3 time ASP World Champion Colin McPhillips.
This group applies over 25 years of local knowledge to provide a comprehensive SUP learning and vacation experience for individuals, couples, families, and groups.
4. SupXscape
This camp is based on Portugal’s Silver Coast just 80km (1 hour) North of Lisbon. They pride themselves in offering ASI (Academy of Surfing Instructors) accredited instruction on all aspects of paddleboarding, while bringing you to unique locations along the Portuguese coastline.
Instruction levels include ASI L1 (building a foundation – enclosed flatwater), ASI L2 (learning to stand-up paddleboard in the open ocean), and ASI L3 ( learning surf etiquette and wave riding).
Check it out and learn more here. .
5. Maria Souza – Maui Stand-Up Paddleboard School
Maria Souza offers comprehensive SUP lessons based in Maui.
These sessions cover all aspects of SUP instruction, including “theory, weather assessment, beach hazards, self- launching, self-rescue, posture, balance, endurance, equipment advice, basic water rescue, critical decision making, and etiquette, emphasis on safety.”
Maria also provides more advanced training for those looking to prepare for distance runs and races. Learn more about the Maui Stand-Up Paddleboard School
6. PaddleFit
PaddleFit is a complete fitness and training system applied through both land and water-based workouts. They cover paddling technique and total body fitness, while spending the majority of class time in the great outdoors to expose students to the physical and mental benefits of paddleboarding.
These classes are available through monthly memberships or per class fees.
The PaddleFit Instructor Certification system is a sequence of courses offering certification at levels 1, 2 and 3. Level One covers SUP safety, regulations and industry knowledge.
Level Two focuses more on coaching and fitness. Level Three brings instructors to an elite level of SUP training, technique and fitness ability.
Have you attended any of the above SUP camps or classes? If so, let us know!
SupBoardGuide Editorial Team
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