The winter is nearly over in the northern hemisphere, the days are getting longer and the temperatures warmer. The ocean is a bit behind as always, and we may have to suffer the excess winter rubber for a bit longer. But in short, it is time to start thinking about a little surf trip.
We thought we would get together a list of some of the best places to go and stay for your little expedition to find Shangrila (not the recent Globe surf movie).
Here at Surf Bunker we like to think that the best people to stay with are people who actually surf themselves. Not people that employ people that surf to look after you, but people that actually own the business who actually surf. That way you can be sure you are going to get the best waves. We also like to recommend actual people that have decided to do something a little different, and businesses that we think have an interesting twist on what is essentially making sure you get the best waves on offer and have the best time possible, whatever that is.
Ebb & Flow Jungalows - Sri Lanka
Custom designed from the ground up, these 'Jungalows', each housing 4-6 people, are in the most idealistic location. Walk out the front door, across the road and, boom, there you are, six different options for waves right in front of you. It really doesn't get much better than that. Owners, hosts and much more, Garrath & Verity have built their version of paradise into one that you can experience too.
Surf Simply - Costa Rica
There are not many places in the world that offer it all. Perfect waves, a sumptuous level of comfort, a friendly welcome, with an emphasis on proper surf coaching at any level.
Based in Nosara, Costa Rica, this special group of people have transformed the way that surfing is taught, using new techniques that unlock abilities native to the individual and allow a more intuitive approach.
While the emphasis is on training, the company do not stop there; the coaches are employed year round, are socially articulate, and use real language instead of surf jargon. The level of accommodation is exquisite and the meals that are created by the in-house chef look stunning. It appears that everything has been thought of.
J Bay Surf Retreats - South Africa
J Bay Surf Retreats is the perfect place to stay, they have everything covered. Literally everything, from a 5 day Safari, to the largest bungee jump in the world. Oh, and then there is the surf, with 10 spots that are within walking distance of the lodge and the option for organically sourced vegetarian meals as you wish. The list of things to do is seems endless...
Here is some footage of 2 of the best making it look easy, I give you Sean Holmes and Kelly Slater at the perfect right hander...
The Surfers Lodge Peniche - Portugal
The Surfers Lodge Peniche is a 4 star lodge located in Baleal, Peniche. The building itself has been designed and built to accommodate up to 49 guests in sumptuous comfort.
From a suite dedicated to the Beatles (yes the band) to a roof top swimming pool to a cinema and dedicated massage rooms, the Lodge is immaculately finished with a heavy emphasis on recycled materials. Oh, did I forget to mention the restaurant and the food, the old type 2 VW bus you can borrow,a nd also beach cruisers and skateboards to rent on the premises.
The Shred Mill - Hossegor France
Few people have this spot dialled better than a couple of British guys who I feel I have already met in some other reality. Gav and Marty are the founders of the Shred Mill, accommodation for surfers built by surfers, which is situated minutes walk from the grinding beach break barrels of the most famous surf coast in Europe. Whatever you need these guys seem to have it covered. Need a lift from the airport? Need a board? Want to have dinner? (which by the way is astounding) or just want to talk endlessly about surfing? Nothing is too much trouble. The best thing is, it's not expensive.
And I think that's about enough taste bud wetting for now, give this a mull over, do some Googling for yourself and check these guys out. Each and every one of these places is situated in one of the top surfing destinations in the world and the accommodation speaks for itself. You are welcome.
smelly
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