THE TOP 5 OCEAN ACTIVITIES

THE TOP 5 OCEAN ACTIVITIES

(WHEN THE WAVES ARE FLAT)

Like it or not, sometimes, there are just no waves to be surfed. On the North Coast of the Dominican republic this is very rare, but 5 to 10 days per year the waves get smaller than knee high. This is something which is naturally disappointing if you have travelled to a particular destination intent on catching some swell, though there are many other exciting and fun ocean activities which you can certainly try if the waves are flat. These will perhaps provide you with an altogether different experience and feel of the ocean than surfing. Nonetheless, they still have the potential to be amazingly fun and increase your overall appreciation of the ocean when the surf is not up.

SUP

Stand-up paddleboarding is something which many surf enthusiasts have likely already tried. If not, then anyone with some decent experience on the board will take to this ocean activity in no time at all. There is something very tranquil and peaceful about SUP. This activity allows you to glide, almost effortlessly across the ocean.

During this experience, you are bound to experience some moments of peaceful enlightenment. SUP is growing steadily in popularity with many beautiful global destinations keen to offer this for periods during which the waves are calm. It is also relatively easy for a novice surfer to pick up.
As mentioned, it is a great way to improve board confidence which you can then transition into your surfing experiences. Check out the center for surf research for some awesome information on all things sustainable, and some great information on the best paddleboards to suit your style. As with any activity, it takes some learning and practice which is best performed with the right equipment. Once you get the hang of paddleboarding though, it is perfect for those days when the waves are flat, or you just feel like a more relaxing cruise along the coast. Some have even been known to commute via paddleboard.

KAYAKING

Another water-based sport for the times when the ocean is calm, although this can be either relaxing or exhilarating depending on your preference. Naturally, you can have some great experiences kayaking the oceans when the waves are low. There are many different types of kayak suitable for one or two people which are usually highly durable and easy to transport to your destination.

Besides just paddling around, you could explore some nearby caves, or just admire the views and the stunning ocean from your location.
Kayaking is very easy to pick up for beginners in terms of a learning curve, and you can be out on the ocean in no time at all. The fantastic thing about kayaking is thanks to the safety and security of most kayaks, you can go out in groups and enjoy a really fun day in the ocean.

Why not bring some lunch and aim for a nearby sandbar or beach to explore for the day. All of this will be possible depending upon your location. This is one of the most enjoyable pursuits for many who want a break from surfing but still wish to enjoy the qualities of the ocean from above. Certain forms of kayaking can also provide the thrill which many surfers often seek, although these are most often found in rivers rather than with ocean kayaking. Either way, it presents a great opportunity to view the ocean from the surface in all of its splendour.

SNORKELING

Moving below the surface, snorkelling can be an easily accessible, yet life-transforming experience under the correct conditions when the waves are not on your side for surfing. With just a few easy to acquire pieces of equipment, you can begin exploring what lies beneath that beautiful ocean which you often surf. For many, this can be a truly transformative experience. Seeing the beauty of life, flora, and fauna which is just below our feet can be a powerful moment.

Ultimately, snorkelling is a fun activity which you can also enjoy at your leisure with a partner or younger family members without any fear of injury or accident, and if you are lucky, you may get to capture some picturesque moments along the way. Certain areas are of course more suitable than others. These include areas such as Cebu, the Philippines which is famous for its amazing snorkelling experiences where swimmers can interact with whale sharks up close.

There are many of these types of experiences offered, usually in the deeper waters, but if you are just curious to check out what is beneath the usual surf, this is the ideal activity of choice for you on the next calm ocean day.
Swell offers snorkeling trips to Sosua for our clients, see more information on the adventure day trips we offer

SCUBA DIVING

If you have tried and enjoyed snorkelling but wish to go quite a lot deeper and become fully immersed, then scuba may be the ideal direction for you. Naturally, this is not something which you can decide to do on a whim. It will take a lot of learning and dedication to become an accomplished diver. Even getting started as a beginner can be a daunting task. It is also though, one of the most rewarding experiences which any ocean lover can undertake.

Exploring deep below the surface, you will likely encounter many breathtaking scenes which you simply could not comprehend from above. This gives most of us an entirely new perspective on ocean life, and can greatly enhance our future surfing experiences. From having the ability to view shipwrecks to the most diverse ranges of aquatic life, this is certainly one of the most impressive and energizing experiences you can engage in, and in fact, it goes much further beyond just something to do when the surf is not good. Both activities though can certainly be learned and enjoyed at the same time.
You can also check an interesting article on underwater scooters for scuba diving on Cape Boating

SAILING

If all of the above sound like a lot of hard work to you, you could always decide to take to the ocean in a different form of transport entirely. One activity loss is another’s gain. Sailing is one activity which certainly relies on calm seas, quite the opposite to what would be ideal for surfing. Of course, this is another activity which requires some preparation, you need to have the use of a sailing boat for a start. Once this is the case, however, there is often no better or more exciting way to traverse the open sea, depending on the type of sailboat you are using.

Sailing can be smooth and relaxing or also hard work. It really depends on who is doing the sailing, however, as a passenger it can provide a fantastic sense of freedom and adventure. There are many stories of solo or tea sailboats travelling the world. This open approach to the ocean provides a sense of escape which is unattainable through an activity such as surfing. With someone else in control, it can also be a relaxing way to experience your surroundings from a more distant and comfortable viewpoint.

CONCLUSION

Of course, under ideal circumstances, the waves will be fantastic and perfect for surfing. As experienced surfers, however, we know that this is not always the case and that unexpected changes in conditions can drastically alter your plans for the day. As we can see from the above ocean activities, though, there is no shortage of other options to pursue when the sea conditions are calm. Whichever other activity you choose to spend your time on will open up your eyes to viewing the ocean in a new light, and will likely also provide the entertainment or relaxation you require.

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December 28, 2018December 28, 2018

STAFF: MEET RICCI AND ALEXANDRA

At Swell we want to make sure our clients get the best surf experience possible, and the best way to guarantee this is by having top staff work for us. Last year Ricci was at Swell for 3 months, and he left a great impression on the clients and the rest of our staff. Because Ricci had commitements in Europe as a Snowboard instructor & guide in the Alps he had to leave us for a season in the snow.

Ricci was keen to come back to Swell, and we are very keen to have him back. for the full 2018 / 2019 winter season.

Alexandra (Alex) is Ricci’s partner and she is the new surf photographer at Swell taking photos of our clients who are interested in the photo packages she offers. And additional bonus is that Alexandra also takes video footage of the clients during their lessons, so after the lessons are done the footage can be played back to analyze where improvements can be made in the surf technique of the clients.

Alexandra has years of experience as an action and lifestyle photographer, and so far the lifestyle and surf photos she has produced are of great quality.

Here are some sample photos of here first few days in Cabarete

Surfing Encuentro — Morning at Playa Encuentro

As you can see Alexandra is a great photographer, so if you want to have your surf photos taken and a surf video analysis during your stay at Swell, sign up for the photo package and go home with your memories in HD photo format.

OTHER SWELL NEWS

Normally when one surf instructor arrives another instructor leaves, this winter we have deceided to change this, since it’s looking like it’s going to be a very busy winter season for us here in the Caribbean. As a result Lee, our lovely English surf instructor has decided to stay on for the rest of our high season.
So our team for the winter season 2019 is:

So if you are interested in learning to surf, then have a look at the learn to surf courses we offer at Swell and contact us today to secure your surf holiday.

CARIBBEAN SURF HOLIDAY EXPIRIENCE

About Swell: We provide active holidays for adults in the Caribbean. Ideal for solo travelers and couples who are looking for a fun and social vacation.
See our video below.

We hope to see you soon in the Caribbean
Clare & Jeroen Mutsaars

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October 10, 2018April 19, 2025

BEGINNER SURF DESTINATIONS

THE BEST WORLDWIDE BEGINNER SURF DESTINATIONS

Even though our surf camp is in the Dominican Republic, we are also surfers ourselves and have travelled extensively for years in the search for waves to catch.

Why Choosing the Right Spot Matters

For new surfers, picking the best spot is crucial. The waves, water temperature, and access to lessons and rentals matter a lot. These factors help make your first surfing steps smooth and rewarding.

Factors to Consider for a Safe and Enjoyable Experience

Wave size: Beginners need small, gentle waves for a safe learning space.
Water temperature: Warm water makes surfing more comfortable for beginners.
Accessibility: Beaches close to surf schools and rentals help you get started faster.
Surf lessons and equipment: Good surf lessons and gear improve learning and safety.

Think about these factors to pick the best beginner surf destinations. The right spot and support help you surf with confidence quickly.

WHAT ARE THE IDEAL SURF CONDITIONS FOR BEGINNERS

Small and consistent waves

When you’re just starting out, you want waves that are small and steady. Big, unpredictable waves can be scary and dangerous. Look for spots where the waves break gently and at a slow pace. This makes it easier to stand up and ride them all the way to the shore.

Shallow Water

Shallow water is a must for beginners. If you fall off your board, you want to be able to stand up quickly. Plus, it’s less intimidating to learn in water where you can touch the bottom. Beaches with a gradual slope into the ocean are perfect for this.

No dangerous rips or currents

Safety first! Avoid places with strong rips or currents. These can pull you out to sea and make it hard to get back to shore. Always check local surf reports or ask a lifeguard about the water conditions before you paddle out.

Separate surf area for surfers of different levels

It’s great when a beach has different areas for beginners and more experienced surfers. This way, you won’t feel pressured or get in the way of someone doing advanced tricks. Plus, you’ll be surrounded by other newbies, which can make the experience more fun and less stressful.

Finding the best beginner surf destination involves looking for these key conditions.

Surf Camps and Lessons: Kickstart Your Journey

Starting with surfing can be exciting, but it’s better with a surf camp or lessons. These options are great for beginners or those wanting to improve. They offer many benefits that make learning faster and safer.

Benefits of Professional Instruction

Having an experienced instructor is key when learning to surf. Here are the main reasons to choose surf camps and lessons:

Develop Proper Techniques – A skilled instructor teaches you surfing basics like paddling and riding waves. This ensures you start with the right skills.
Enhance Safety Awareness – Instructors focus on safety. They teach you how to read waves and avoid dangers, making you a responsible surfer.
Boost Confidence – Personalized feedback and support in lessons help you feel more confident. This lets you enjoy surfing more and progress faster.
Progress Faster – A good instructor knows how to improve your skills. They help you work on your strengths and weaknesses, speeding up your progress.

When looking for surf camps or lessons, choose reputable schools for beginners. This ensures you get the right support and attention to start your surfing journey well.

BEST BEGINNER SURF DESTINATIONS

Based on our experience, here are our top beginner surf destinations in the world, which could also suit intermediate and expert surfers.

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

We must begin with one of our own places of course: Swell Cabarete is located on the North Coast of the Dominican Republic. We very deliberately chose this location after having visited many countries around the globe which might have been suitable as a place to build a surf camp, especially a surf camp which offers perfect, complete-beginner waves for learning to surf.

The boxes we feel that must be ticked to be considered a great beginner surf destination are as follows:

Consistency of surf
Are there waves for multiple levels of surfers?
Are there any dangers in or out of the water?
Ease of access to the waves
Distance to an international airport

Consistency of surf

To be suitable as a beginner surf camp destination we need to be able to offer our guests surfable waves at least 300+ days of the year.

The North Coast delivers on this, with at least 340+ days of surfable waves at Playa Encuentro.

Waves for multiple levels of surfers

Of course, not everyone is a beginner surfer, so in order to consistently make it into the top ten surfing destinations, a great surf camp needs to cater not just for complete beginners, but for intermediate and even expert surfers. Fortunately for us at Swell in Cabarete, once again Playa Encuentro delivers; there are multiple waves and different peaks, all within a short walk from each other. From mellow inside beginner waves to big barreling waves on shallow reefs for expert surfers + everything in between.

Are there any dangers in or out of the water?

Playa Encuentro is also a very safe spot to surf or to learn to surf because there are no dangers in or under the water. Tidal differences are minimal so getting injured from the reef bed is almost impossible. There are no dangerous rips or currents at Playa Encuentro, so there’s no danger of being dragged out to sea.
Neither are there sharks or other dangerous sea life (for example crocodiles and sharks as can be seen in certain parts of Costa Rica) so the Dominican Republic scores very highly on this element too. It also helps to have very warm water year-round, so another bonus point is scored there.

Ease of access to the waves

‘Highway surfing’ is not a term that surfers want to hear as it means they are constantly on the search for waves, without finding them. Again, the Dominican Republic’s waves score highly on the ease of access criteria; it’s only a journey of 10 minutes to a charming, completely unspoiled surf beach.

Distance to an international airport

Just as with the afore-mentioned highway surfing we also wanted to minimize the travel time for our clients, so we wanted to be close to an international airport. Our location in Cabarete is just 25 minutes from Puerto Plata International Airport (code POP).

Santiago International Airport (airport code STI) is one and a half hours away. Santo Domingo International Airport (airport code SDQ) is also an option at 3 hours car journey time and with buses on offer running north every hour during the day.

Because Cabarete and Playa Encuentro ticked all the right boxes, that’s where we put our first, purpose-built surf camp.

We haven’t talked much about other important criteria, such as choice and quality of food, the beauty of beaches, additional activities on offer, or an available party scene when required, but Cabarete has all of these too, so it remains our firm No.1 complete-beginner surf destination.

Where else in the world can you learn to surf?

As mentioned earlier, we have also visited more than 20+ surf destinations and countries over the last 25 years in our search for waves and fun. Here is our honest opinion on some of them:

COSTA RICA

Costa Rica is still one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and surf tourism is growing fast there. It’s mountainous and beautiful and there are some fine surf camps and surf resorts in Costa Rica, suitable for an awesome surf holiday.

Pros:

Very pretty country and scenery
Famous for its nature and animal/reptile species
Some good surf spots are available
Lots of eco-tourism
Politically safe country
Plenty of flights to Costa Rica from lots of countries

Cons:

Costa Rica has become very expensive in recent years: on average 40 to 70% more expensive than a surf holiday to another comparable destination such as Bali or the Dominican Republic
Many of the surf areas are remote and require long road journeys or another internal flight once you have arrived at San Jose airport. Travel time from the airport to the beach can be between 4 and 8 hours depending on where you stay.
The surf can be crowded these days
Theft is an issue
People say that Costa Rica has become too ‘Americanised’
Not a wide choice for eating out in these remote surfing areas and food choices can be very limited/rather expensive
Some known water hazards, such as crocodiles at river mouth spots.

NICARAGUA

Nicaragua is less popular than it’s neighbour Costa Rica, because of fairly regular political turmoil. Tourism only started to take off 20 or so years ago and it’s much less developed than its neighbour, which can be seen as a real plus. Like Costa Rica, it’s also a beautiful country.

Pros:

30-40% cheaper than Costa Rica
Offshore winds create very clean surf conditions

Cons:

Not a large variety of good beginner surfing spots
Travel distances between surf spots is very long
Not a wide choice of dining is available
Recent political unrest is again causing instability

PORTUGAL

If you are based in Europe then one of the most popular places people go surfing is to Portugal. The long, exposed coastline with plenty of beaches is suitable for surfers of all levels. Portugal is also rich in culture, especially around Lisbon.

Pros:

There are plenty of cheap and basic surf camps (please note that these tend to be more suitable for 18 to 25-year-olds)
Variety of surf spots suitable for people of all levels
Surf & culture & city life close to Lisbon

Cons:

Coldwater year-round so you will need to bring and wear a wetsuit at all times of the year
There are literally 100’s of surf camps and schools so it’s surfboard mayhem at times.
Because of the cheap nature of the majority of surf schools, they tend to teach in very large groups; often 20 students to one surf coach
Cold air temperature between November and April
Basic food choices in the north of Portugal (more choice towards the Algarve region).

SAYULITA, MEXICO

A charming fishing village just north of Puerto Vallarta; it’s one of the most beautiful Mexican towns we have ever visited. We actually lived there for 10 months whilst we researched its possibility as a new surf camp for Swell. The food and ambience in Sayulita is wonderful. In the end, we left because of its rather inconsistent surf, but when there are some waves it’s great fun.

Pros:

Stunning town and some really fun surf out front.
Within a short drive, there are a variety of surf spots suitable for people of all levels
Incredible food on offer in the town.

Cons:

Surf gets very busy
Mexico’s infamous cartel crime hangs a shadow over the area, even though we found Sayulita to feel safe
It’s rather expensive to stay there
The water in Sayulita bay can get rather dirty.

CANARY ISLANDS, SPAIN

This group of islands lies off the coast of Morocco and are a part of Spain. Rugged and volcanic (not active volcanos) the landscape of most of the islands is dramatically barren and in places resembles the moon-surface. The Canary Islands have a great winter climate (Nov to April) and some fun surf spots.

Pros:

Easy to get to from Europe
Quite a few surf spots dotted around most of the Canary Islands (Lanzarote, Tenerife and Fuerto Ventura have the best surf spots)
Good climate

Cons:

Surf gets very busy
The Canary Islands are notoriously wind-swept, so many surf spots get blown out by mid-morning.
You will need a wet-suit year-round as the water is always cold
They are known as cheap islands to stay on, which for some is an advantage, but if you are looking for any kind of luxury, it’s hard to find.

SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka is a relative newcomer to the surf holiday market but has gained a reputation for having some fun waves. There are two provinces with very different surf seasons, so make sure that you do your research on where you should go at what time.

Pros:

A variety of surf spots
Warm water
Great local food
Relatively inexpensive

Cons:

Strong monsoon season
Crowd levels
Long-distance between surf spots.
Crowded in high season
Drops in and bad surf etiquete

HAWAII

Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing. Year-round warm weather and water and great beginner waves around the south coast of Oahu make it a great place to have your first surfing experience.

Pros:

Beautiful scenery and beaches
A safe place to visit
Plenty of other activities besides surfing
Great surf for expert surfers

Cons:

Very expensive (there are only a few surf camps but they are pretty basic and tend to be double or triple the price of Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic.)
Very, very crowded in the water leading to well-known local aggression.

All of the above entries are based on our experience with several trips to each of the countries mentioned. We haven’t commented on places we haven’t experienced ourselves, so it’s far from a definitive list. There are many more countries in the world that cater to beginner surfers with suitable surf camps and surf resorts.

If you have any questions about surfing destinations, feel free to send us a message; normally, we’ve been there and can tell you if it’s suitable for you. If you prefer to come and see us in either of our two fabulous Swell locations, please do check out Swell surf camp in the Dominican Republic or our brand new location, Swell Bali in Indonesia, you can contact us easily by using the contact us links on either of those websites.

Enjoy the waves wherever you go!

Jeroen & Clare
Owners Swell Surf Camp

ABOUT SWELL SURF CAMP

Located on the scenic north coast of the Dominican Republic is our purpose-built surf resort

We cater for surfers of all levels, from beginners to expert surfers who are looking for an active surf holiday

Swell offers full surf packages holidays

FAQ

Why is choosing the right surf destination important for beginners?

Choosing the right spot is key for beginners. It means finding waves that are easy to ride, water that’s not too cold, and places where you can easily get lessons and rent gear. This makes learning to surf safe and fun.

What factors should I consider when choosing a beginner surf destination?

Think about wave size, water temperature, how easy it is to get there, and if there are surf lessons and rentals. These things make sure you have a good time as you learn to surf.

What is important to know about surf etiquette as a beginner?

Knowing surf etiquette is important for beginners. It means respecting the ocean, surf culture, and other surfers. We’ll share tips on being a good surfer and taking care of the ocean and its people.

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June 27, 2018January 29, 2019

CABARETE IN SURFING PICTURES

CABARETE IN SURFING PICTURES

We have a lot of text describing what a surf vacation on the north coast of the Dominican Republic is all about, but instead of writing about how pretty the scenery is here, we thought we’d show you the scenery , landscapes and action you can expect when you visit us.

All Surfing pics and scenery pics are taken by Swell staff in and around Cabarete.

( sorry there’s a fair few sunrise and sunset shots, because we never get tired of them)

25 VISUAL REASONS FOR A (SURF) HOLIDAY TO CABARETE

Taken at La Boca, a few minutes east of Cabarete. They have a nice restaurant in a local ambience here. Enjoy the Seafood and Dominican food

Presidente, the local beer of the Dominican Republic. Available everywhere and very tasty.

Pretty skies over the mountains just back of Cabarete. Photo is taken from Swell, and most nights the sky will turn some incredible colour.

Fishing boat Las Terennas — Fishing boat in Las Terrenas

Ok so technically this is not Cabarete, however if you are doing an adventure holiday on the north coast then Las Terrenas should be a place to stop for a night. No waves here but a very pretty Caribbean town, some nice restaurants too.

Playa Encuentro is just a few miles west of Cabarete. This is where we take our guests surfing every day, and since we are pretty much always the first ones at the surf beach, we love taking pics of the sunrise. Palm trees, no development, chill vibes; we are blessed to call this our local surf spot. Want to see more surfing pictures of Cabarete? See our surf pictures gallery

The stunning bay of Cabarete captured with a drone flying over Swell. Windsurfing, kite surfing and sunbathing is all done at Cabarete Bay. It’s a few minutes walk to the beach where you can also find tons of good restaurants and bars

This surf spot is also not in Cabarete, but it’s only 45 minute drive away. It’s stunning white sand beach, lined with Palm trees. With the right Swell direction it’s also a world class surfing spot.

This is the scenery at Playa Encuentro where we surf. No high-rise condos or McDonald’s signs here, just palms trees and good waves.

The Sky over Cabarete bay at Sunset. This photo is taken on the west side of the bay, looking over Cabarete and kitebeach

#10

Just a 10 minute drive west of us is Sosua bay. No surfing in Sosua but there are some very nice snorkelling spots with plenty of fish to see. At Swell we can organise this snorkelling trip for our guests ( diving and diving courses can be organised too)

#11

When there is no wind (kitesurfers love kiting at La Boca Lagoon where there is wind), it’s very quiet and peaceful at La Boca. Stroll along the lagoon, sunbathe on the beach or have lunch at the local restaurants.

#12

Playa Encuentro is one of the most consistent surfing spots in the Caribbean. Warm water so leave your wetsuit at home. Have a look at the surf seasons page to see when is the best time to visit the Dominican Republic

#13

Drive an hour east of Cabarete and you will come across this stunning viewpoint.

#14

Swell regularly organises day trip to Playa Grande and Laguna dudu, See #15

#15

Swim in the amazing deep blue water of Laguna Dudu. There’s a zipline that can launch you into the refreshing deep water.

#16

Cabarete is considered one of the best spots in the world for kitesurfing, as a result, the local Dominicans are amongst the worlds best. Take a kite lesson in Cabarete or just watch the locals do their incredible moves a few meters from the shoreline. Cabarete beach and Kitebeach are the best places for kite surfing.

#17

Swell can organise a trip to La Boca, where there will be local food, cold beers and a bonfire. What more could you ask for?

#18

Want a refreshing coconut? ask a local and you’ll have a refreshing drink and bite a few minutes later.

#19

Watch the sunset over kitebeach after a day of surfing or kitesurfing as a great way to end the day.

#20

Stand up paddle boarding (SUP) at Cabarete Bay

Flat water inside Cabarete Bay make it an ideal place to take a SUP lessons at one of the SUP Schools in Cabarete. Want some waves. Cabarete reef also has some perfect mellow waves.

#21

Wander out of Swell and within minutes you are at Cabarete Beach. Stroll along the bars and restaurants where there’s always 1 place that has a happy hour with some good Mojito’s or cold Presidente on offer.

#22

The north coast has too many pretty beaches & coves to name them all here. You are never far away from the next spot that is ideal for your instagram shot.

#23

At Swell we cook dinner 4 times per week for our clients, the other evenings all our clients usually go for a short walk to Cabarete beach to choose one of the many restaurants located right on the beach, so you can enjoy fish or a fine steak ( or pizza) with a cold beer under the palm trees.

#24

The Dominican Republic has very fertile soil, plenty of sun and refreshing rains, as a result there are some stunning plants & trees to be admired. This is a pic taken in the gardens at Swell.

#25

There are many different surf spots to choose from. From easy and mellow spots for a learn to surf vacation to reef breaks that are great for advanced and experts surfers looking to get barreled. To see more surfing pictures in and around Cabarete, Dominican Republic go to this page

I hope this “Cabarete in surfing pictures” post got you excited for a vacation to the north coast of the DR. There’s a good reason the saying here is

“The Dominican Republic has it all!”

We hope to see you soon in Cabarete

See what Swell Surf Camp is all about

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June 1, 2018July 9, 2024

CABARETE: ADVENTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN

9 Reasons why Cabarete is the ultimate water sport destination in Central America / Caribbean.

There are so many places in the world where you can lie on a sun-soaked beach and do absolutely nothing (if that’s your thing), but where do you go if you want an action-packed, adult sports holiday with a variety of different watersports or land-based sports to choose from, or if you are looking for an adult surf camp?

Cabarete, on the North coast of the Dominican Republic, is your answer: Easy to get to (with direct flights from Europe and North America) and a quick transfer from Puerto Plata (POP) international airport, Cabarete has a huge variety of sporty activities on offer, both water-based and land-based.

WHY CABARETE FOR AN ACTIVE ACTION PACKED VACATION?

Easy, quick travel time: Puerto Plata (POP) international airport is just 25 minutes drive to the centre of Cabarete. (Have a look at this page on how to get to the Dominican Republic)
It’s safe in the Dominican Republic: Friendly and welcoming locals will offer you their hearts for visiting their beautiful island. Tourist Police are on hand in all popular areas to help keep you safe.
So much to do: Unlike Costa Rica where getting around involves some lengthy journeys, Cabarete is reached after a quick journey from North America so the same day as you leave home, you’ll be on beautiful beaches for a great surf vacation. Cabarete itself offers so much to do, all within a very small area; you won’t waste whole days travelling around to see and experience some really diverse scenery. Surfing beaches, kitesurfing, windsurfing, canyoning, horse riding, history, culture and so much more, are all within a few miles of each other.
Fantastic dining choices: Because of the cosmopolitan nature of Cabarete, it is absolutely packed with restaurants with all different cuisines on offer. You can choose from traditional Dominican restaurants, Sushi, stone-baked pizzas made by Italians, Mexican restaurants, lobster and fresh fish on the beach, stylish French Bistros, high-end, ocean-side romantic meals and simple street food. Vegan, gluten-free and vegetarian choices are all on offer. It’s impossible to go hungry in Cabarete! ( have a look at the restaruants in Cabarete)
Great Nightlife: Once the beachside dining is over, tables and chairs are put away and Cabarete beach becomes the ultimate party venue. You can dance beneath the palm trees with your bare feet in the sand. Taking part in the party is not mandatory of course; with a short walk, you can make your way back to a surf camp like Swell for a more peaceful end to the day.
Culture; The Dominican Republic is one of the islands discovered by Christopher Columbus in the late 1400’s. Close to Cabarete is the historic town of Puerto Plata, with its ancient fort dating from 1564 and built by King Felipe II of Spain. The town has many old and restored timber buildings, reminiscent of those you might see in old Havana, for example.
Music: To the Dominican people, music is not just a hobby, it’s a way of life. There are so many music festivals throughout the year that there will normally be something going on during your visit. Cabarete hosts part of the Dominican Republic Jazz Festival (opens a new window) each November (in 2018, it’s November 3rd and 4th). Merengue, Bachata, Salves and Palo are all traditional Dominican music genres, but you’ll also hear Reggaeton, Jazz, Rock and Hip Hop. Dancing is as popular as the music danced to and there are many places in Cabarete where you can take dance lessons from the most natural movers on the planet.
Beautiful Beaches: Light sandy beaches and turquoise water abound. You can set off to find your own deserted cove between Cabarete bay and Encuentro, or stick to one of the more expansive sandy bays. Visit places like Playa Grande for the day for a fish BBQ on the beach.
It offers good value: On average surf camps in Costa Rica are 50-70% more expensive than similar surf camps and surf hotels in Cabarete

THE WATER SPORTS ON OFFER IN CABARETE

LEARN TO SURF

Cabarete has the most ideal and consistent beginner surf conditions anywhere in the world. With warm water year round and ideal wave conditions for getting your first rides on a surfboard, Swell surf camp in the centre of Cabarete is one of the best adult surf camps in the world for beginner surfers.

How long does it take to learn to surf?

You should give yourself a week at a surf camp like Swell Cabarete Surf Retreat to be able to master your pop up and to start to turn the surfboard to ride along the wave. Completely mastering the art of surfing takes a good deal longer, but an award-winning adult surf camp like Swell will give you the very best start and certainly get you hooked on the incredible feeling of surfing a wave, regardless of your age!
Want to learn to surf and are over 40 – 50 or 60, read this article >>

LEARN TO KITESURF / KITEBOARD

Along with great surf conditions for beginners, Cabarete also enjoys near-perfect kite-boarding conditions. The wind picks up in the afternoon generally and is side-on, which is one of the reasons why learning to kite in Cabarete is such a good idea (side-off winds are less desirable).

There are many good kite schools in Cabarete along the bay and two known places to take kite lessons; Kite Beach and Cabarete Bay. Down-winders are also very popular along the North coast.

How long does it take to learn to kite?

You should allow yourself around 8 hours of structured kite lessons with an IKO kiteboard instructor; use an accredited school using up-to-date, new or nearly new equipment.

YOGA CLASSES

There are many different Yoga centres in and around Cabarete, offering different Yoga styles. Yoga at Swell surf camp is 3 times per week and Molly the Yogi there is practising Ashtanga Yoga. Yoga in the water on SUP boards, is also available on the main bay of Cabarete.

SUP (stand-up-paddleboarding)

Cabarete bay provides a wonderful location for paddleboarding around a huge bay. 100m of paddling your SUP from the beach will have you out on the reef where you can catch ideal waves. There’s plenty of space for you to spread out and enjoy paddling in the warm water. If you don’t want to catch waves on your SUP, you can use the wide expanse of the bay to paddle and keep fit. As mentioned before, you can even enjoy a Yoga class on your SUP in the mornings.

WINDSURFING

Before kiteboarding became popular in Cabarete, it was world-renowned for windsurfing. You can still take a windsurfing lesson, or rent good quality equipment from several schools situated along this wide sandy bay.

SNORKELLING AND DIVING

Just 10 minutes from Cabarete is the pretty bay of Sosua, where you will find some really professional diving schools. Schools like TSM can get you accredited from scratch with a PADI dive course. If you don’t want to dive, they will also take you out to snorkel in the bay of Sosua, which is jam-packed with pretty fish to swim with along areas of reef. Snorkelling is also possible in Cabarete, especially on kite beach in the mornings, just be careful of the low tide.

CANYONING

The Dominican Republic is bursting at the seams with mountains and rivers. You may not know but it is home to the highest peak in the Caribbean region, Pico Duarte, which is over 3000m high. These mountains and rivers create some amazing canyons and caves, so beautiful they will take your breath away. Canyoning with Kayak River Adventures is a day trip not to be missed and they have several different tours, with varying degrees of difficulty to choose from for an action-packed exhilarating adventure, exploring some real geological wonders of the world.

WHAT’S ON OFFER AT SWELL SURF CAMP?

Swell has been voted Best Surf Camp in both the Dominican Republic and in the wider Caribbean region and also voted Best Surf Camp for Beginners several times over in the 9 years they have been open.

Swell caters to adults who want to learn to surf in a stylish, fun place. The ‘camp’ (it’s really a stylish boutique surf retreat in Cabarete) was purpose built and the design based on the owner’s many years of surfcamp and surf travel experience.

The owners knew exactly what surfers, novice or beginner surfers wanted; a social place with great accommodation and delicious food, where adult travellers could come, either solo, as a couple or friends, to experience a great surf vacation.

Swell offers surf lessons for its own guests (they won’t give lessons to you if you are not staying at the camp) and has a complete concierge service to organise any or all of the other fun activities on offer in the area. You can contact us via this page.

BEST TIME TO VISIT THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The North coast of Cabarete has waves 340-350 days of the year, ranging from chest high to overhead. Conditions for learning to surf are year round, advanced and expert surfers are best off in the winter months.
Have a look at the season and when is the best time to visit the Dominican Republic

ABOUT SWELL CABARETE SURF HOTEL

We opened in winter 2009/2010 to create a boutique luxury surf camp experience whilst having the comforts of a surf hotel. Located right in the center of Cabarete, minutes walk from cabarete main beach.
Swell caters for adults who want to learn to surf or kitesurf, and want to improve their surfing & kiteboarding whilst staying at a social and comfortable place with like minded people. Because of the social aspect of our Cabarete surf hotel we are an ideal place to stay for solo travellers that are looking for an active holiday.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON!

Have a look at the Gallerie below to see what Swell Cabarete Surf Hotel and the sports on offer on the north coast of the Dominican republic

SWELL GALLERY

Swell

Rooms

Surf Lessons

Surfing

Activities

Surroundings

Single / Solo Traveller? Read this article why Swell is the place for you

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May 24, 2018July 1, 2024

SWELL HOLIDAYS

LEARN TO SURF HOLIDAYS

What’s new at Swell Surf Camp

May 2018 Swell Surf Holiday news

News
Why go to Swell on a learn to surf holiday
Summer kitesurf season in cabarete

NEWS

About 2 months ago we launched the Swell 2018 website, aftre some initial technical difficulties the site is now running smooth and we see visitors stats are good, people are finding the pages and info they are looking for easier and quicker to find on the new website. We have updated the Swell Gallery page so it’s now real easy to see what Swell Learn to surf holidays are all about. have a look at the galleries and let us know what you think.

iNSPIRE DR AND SWELL SURF CAMP

We are also very proud and happy to announce that we have partnered up with Inspire DR, A US non-profit organisation based just a 100 yards from where Swell is based. Inspire teaches young Dominican and Haitian boys essential skills to become the community leaders of the future.

The boys learn vitally important skills for life; critical thinking, respect, timeliness, responsibility, leadership, entrepreneurship and teamwork, using a variety of methods.

The programme also teaches them some valuable practical skills; woodworking, swimming, English, surfing (that’s one of the ways we help) and many more.

We love the way InspireDR reward the boys when they have reached certain goals; each day, the boys have to demonstrate the values and skills listed above.

As they must be demonstrated every day, with no exceptions, these values just become normal for the boys. They must also have an attendance record at the school of more than 90% so consistency and reliability also becomes normal.

InspireDR have so far helped 97 boys from the local community, with 62 currently in the programme and a waiting list of 71 more boys hoping to join.

Winter season has come to an end in the Dominican Republic, but that doesn’t mean the surf season has

The Dominican Republic has waves year round, no distinct rainy season and the water is always warm, have a look at this page, and this page for more info on when to go to the DR

WHY GO ON A LEARN TO SURF HOLIDAY WITH SWELL?

Here at Swell we are all fanatical about our surfing (well not all, Haudy our lovely manager doesn’t surf, her passion is food and cooking, and the Swell clients love here for it!)

When we started Swell we had 1 goal:

“To provide the best luxury surf camp experience available on the market”

We designed a building from scratch that is comfortable, stylish and a social place to stay, we wanted it to be a place where we ourselves would be very happy to stay on our holidays.

Even though we have many years of surfing experience between us, we also know our weakness: we are not the best surf instructors ourselves, so we were the first surf camp in the Dominican Republic that employs fully qualified ISA surf instructors. The minimum requirement for surf instructors at Swell is to be ISA level 1 qualified, but most of the time we have ISA level 2 coaches working for us.

A STRUCTURED APPROACH TO LEARNING TO SURF

Before we opened Swell we had visited many surf camps around the world (we used to run a successful surf travel company).At a lot of those surf camps in Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Panama and Bali we saw practises that were not very beneficial for the students that wanted to learn to surf

Why?

Classes with student to instructor ratios over 10:1
Instructors that were not qualified
Instructors that barely spoke english
Instructors that didn’t want to teach, instead they wanted to surf themselves
No safe soft top surfboards

*Definitely not all Costa Rica, Panama, Nicaragua and Bali Surf camps give , what is in our opinion, bad surf lessons. There are some very good surf camps and surf schools in those countries (I’d be very happy to send a list of highly recommended surf camps and schools , just send us an email).

We at Swell want to make sure that every Swell clients get a top learn to surf holiday from us, so that’s why we use qualified ISA surf instructors for our ” learn to surf holidays “.

INTERESTED IN JOINING SWELL

Have a look at the following pages to see if the learn to surf holidays we offer are something that would suit you.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON!

Swell

Rooms

Surf Lessons

Surfing

Activities

Surroundings

Swell learn to surf holidays

Swell learn to surf holidays/span>

Written by: Reviewer

Date Published: 12/01/2017

Swell’s learn to surf holiday is a perfect way to learn the sport of surfing in a fun, safe and quick way

9.7 / 10 stars

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April 8, 2018October 22, 2023

What level is my surfing?

Here at Swell, we deal with this question on a weekly basis.

Of the many emails we receive each week, we find that several of our potential guests are unsure how to class the level of surf experience they have: Many people call themselves intermediate surfers, but in our experience, it’s such a generic term, this is not applicable. Far better to judge the term by what you can actually achieve on your surfboard in the water, so we’ve put together a simple guide for you to help you decide which level you are really at and if you can still benefit from taking surf lessons.

How much surfing have you actually done?

We start by asking this question. The answer is that if you have only visited one or two surf camps, you have less than 20 hours of surf lessons, or you have not surfed regularly, we, and most reputable surf camps, will consider you still to be a beginner surfer.

I’d give myself as a good example to compare and consider your own level; I have been surfing pretty regularly (several days in each month) for two years, and whilst I am no longer a beginner, I still consider myself a Novice, not yet an Intermediate. Why? The answer is that I am still not comfortable in larger waves and despite being generally paddle fit (which many of our guests are not, having just come out of an office) I am not completely confident in catching green waves larger than chest high. And, whilst I can trim, I can’t yet carve.

The next question is: Do you need surf lessons?

Again, using myself as an example, I don’t take regular surf lessons, but sometimes, I will take a couple of hours of lessons to improve a particular aspect of my surfing that I know i need help with.

If you are someone who has taken say 10 to 15 good lessons in recent months and are able to paddle independently, select your own waves and pop up consistently, we might say that you just need practise rather than lessons and can get by on tips from our coaching staff (who are ever-present) to improve certain aspects of your surfing.

To help you correctly judge your level, we’ve made a list below which we hope will indicate the steps you should have accomplished to reach the various surfing stages.

Complete Beginner:

When you have no previous surf experience at all, or maybe have taken a single lesson at some stage. Before entering the water, you will taught the terminology of a surfboard (rail, tail, etc.) and be shown how to lie on the board + how to ‘pop-up’ correctly once the wave is carrying you.

In a complete beginner lesson, you will be taught in the shallow water, using the power of waves which have already broken. Once you are able to pop-up regularly, you’ll be taught the correct stance to take and how you can start to place certain pressures on the board, allowing you to ‘turn’ to ride in one direction or another. A complete beginner can enjoy the benefit of having a surf coach give them a push to get them started on a wave.

Beginner:

When you have only done a few hours of surf lessons or a couple of surf camps. Most importantly, you are still a Beginner if you cannot yet achieve the following steps independently 1. Enter the water and paddle out to unbroken waves. 2. Select a wave to ride. 3. Pop-up quickly. 4. Turn the surfboard easily and ride down the line.

Much like a complete beginner lesson, our team will go over the pop-up with you to see if you have the basics (bad habits in a pop-up are certain to cause you future issues). Once you are in the water, our team will assess where you are with your paddling and your pop-up, moving you quickly on to new tips if you have already mastered those vital skills. Surfing depends so much on fitness, so even if you were rocking in a previous lesson at another surf camp, you may find that paddling again exhausts you fairly quickly, so you too will benefit from some helpful pushes from our surf coaches.

Let’s expel a myth about surf lessons: Just because you are not catching green, unbroken waves, it doesn’t mean you are not learning to surf. Every paddle, every pop-up, every ride, every turn; they all count, even in the white water. Everyone has to master those basic skills before you can move onto the unbroken waves.

Novice

This is you if you already have several months of regular surfing behind you and can achieve the following: 1. You feel comfortable paddling independently out to a line up on a smaller swell. 2. You can paddle yourself into a wave and are able to pop up and trim the surfboard to ride down the line.

Our staff can still teach you a great deal; tips on popping up more quickly, taking the correct stance, better trimming, even beginning to make bottom and top turns (carving).

Intermediate.

When you are surfing regularly (every week) for at least one year and more importantly, you can achieve all of the following: 1. You can catch head high, unbroken waves independently (you certainly don’t need to be pushed by a surf coach to get into a wave). 2. You can control your speed on a wave. 3. You can carve or trim the surfboard whilst on the wave, changing direction easily. Giving lessons to a genuine Intermediate surfer is mostly dependent on wave co-operation (too big a swell makes coaching intermediates very challenging). We coach intermediates at Swell by being out in the water with you and giving tips and advice on improving certain aspects of your technique.

Interested in a Swell learn to surf holiday? Have a look at our approach to surf lessons

SWELL GALLERIES

Swell

Rooms

Surf Lessons

Surfing

Activities

Surroundings

Single / Solo Traveller? Read this article why Swell is the place for you

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