Introduction: Back to the Basics of Surf Travel
Surf trips aren't just about chasing waves—they're about connecting with the ocean, the land, and the communities that call it home—while surfing as much as possible. But traditional surf travel has lost a little of its charm lately, thanks to mass-market resorts and crowded line-ups. The secrets are out, but that's okay.
At Nuala Australia, we believe surf travel should be taken back to the basics: waves, local vibes, and having fun—no matter where you end up. In a world where it's easy to lose yourself, compare yourself, or push yourself to be someone you're not, a little surf trip can remind us it's not all so serious. There are still plenty of ways to surf freely and soak up the stoke on our romanticized getaways.
1. Let Go of Perfection
We all dream of perfect waves, empty line-ups, and endless sunshine. But reality is rarely perfect—and that's okay. There have been thousands of waves before, and hopefully, we're all on for at least another thousand.
- Crowded line-up? Remember we're all there for the same beautiful feeling—just sit there, enjoy the chat and wait for your wave to roll through.
- Dropped in on? Enjoy the party. It happens.
- Missed waves? Get stoked it's picked up someone else down the line.
- No swell? Sip coffee and have fun watching everyone else go crazy.
The art of surf travel is embracing the imperfect and finding joy anyway.
2. Surf as Much as You Can, But Enjoy the Break
Yes, the dream is endless waves. But some of the best waves happen the day after a day off spent zooming around on scooters, spotting elephants and playing volleyball.
Your body recovers, you explore more of the land and you gain a deeper appreciation for the place you've had the blessing of travelling to.
Sometimes the best memories are made off the board. Balance the stoke with rest and discovery.
3. Support Local Surf Communities
The soul of surf travel lies in after-surf beers, grabbing a roti on the way back from a day of shredding, and the local communities that welcome us in. Supporting the locals wherever you go makes all the difference:
- Stay wherever you want, surf wherever you want but venture out and eat around—you'll get some amazing food and the locals will love you.
- Grab a beer (or six) and share it with the locals—it's a whole a lot easier to apologise for an accidently dropping in on one of them when you're the legend that gave them beers the night before.
The locals know the way of the waves in their hometown, you might get some cheeky little insider info if you spend some time hanging out with them.
4. Respect Others & the Environment
While chasing waves, remember we're all visitors here.
- Be a legend—make everyone feel seen, included, and respected. Even if they cooked your wave.
- Choose less crowded breaks if needed—sometimes it's easier to remove yourself from the chaos and enjoy the surf elsewhere.
- Pick up a bit of rubbish on your way back from a surf —you'd be stoked if someone did this at your home break.
It's easy to soak up the stoke when you're giving back a little and being an all round legend to others.
5. Find Your Own Rhythm
Every surf trip has its own rhythm. It's easy to get caught up in the crew's happenings or your own expectations. Sometimes the best rhythm unfolds when you lean into it and do whatever feels right in the moment.
- Wake up when you want, paddle out when you want.
- Take a nap in a hammock between sessions. Oh the delight.
- Let the day unfold naturally.
Surf travel is marvellous when you free yourself to enjoy it your way, without holding yourself to such a high standard.
Final Thoughts
Surf trips are meant to be enjoyed and remembered for years. Put out good vibes, have fun, surf freely, and soak up the stoke wherever you can—it can last a lifetime.
📅 Coming Next Month
"Getting Into Surfing: The Joys and Challenges of Learning to Surf"
We'll explore what it really takes to learn surfing, the commitment it requires, and why it's worth it—even if you remain completely average your whole surfing life.
💬 Your Turn
How do you approach surf travel? Do you have tips for trips planned or ways you soak up the stoke? Tag us @nuala.aus TikTok or Insta
🛍️ Explore Surf Travel Gear
Prepare for your next surf trip with Nuala Australia's surf travel essentials—especially the dope as Zipperless Travel Covers - ideal for travel.