Barbados Surf & Scuba Camp - Teen Summer Camp Adventure
Our Barbados Teen Surf & SCUBA Caribbean Adventure Camp is designed for beginner surfers and divers ages 14 - 17 with no prior surfing or SCUBA experience required. You will not only learn how to surf and SCUBA dive in a fun and supportive environment, but will receive an introduction to the island culture, surf etiquette, and ocean safety, giving you a passion and confidence that will last a lifetime. We will surf the crystal clear Atlantic waters at named breaks like South Point, Freights, and Parlors and dive on spectacular reefs and wrecks around the island with seemingly endless visibility.
The natural beauty, variety of landscapes, beautiful beaches, and extremely warm-hearted locals make Barbados one of the best surf destinations in the world. Due to its geographic positioning and shape, Barbados can receive swell from all directions, which means on a typical day, you can find surf somewhere on the island. With world class spots such as Soup Bowls and beginner breaks such as Freights Bay, Barbados offers a range of quality surf spots.
Its geography also contributes to amazing waters perfect for diving. Set apart from the rest of the Caribbean, Barbados is a haven for marine life out in the open ocean. The water temperature will be warm and tropical so no wetsuits are required.
To maximize surf and dive time, campers will be taking the classroom portion of their SCUBA certification online through PADI's e-learning website. This allows campers the convenience of learning at their own pace and minimizes classroom time on the island. When we arrive on Barbados, we can head right to the water and being our surfing and SCUBA adventures!
Activities include:
- Extensive surf instruction at a variety of surf breaks
- Receive your PADI SCUBA Open Water dive certification
- Visit the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
- Swim with sea turtles and snorkel amazing reefs on an all day catamaran cruise
- Tour the capital city of Bridgetown and learning about the Barbadian culture
- Hike Barbados’ tropical forests and exploring the island’s natural wonders
- Earn 10 Community Service Hours working with local community non-profits
Below tuition includes lodging, all meals (from dinner on the first day through lunch on the last day), 24-hour same gender adult supervision, shuttle to and from the Grantley Adams Airport (BGI), equipment (surf board rental, rashguard usage), professional surfing instruction (3:1 student to instructor ratio), PADI SCUBA certification, 10 hours of community service credit, daily transportation to and from activities, admission to all events/activities, Surf Camp t-shirt, Surf Camp’s Pre-Surf Stretching Guide, Surfing Etiquette Guide, Sea Turtle/Coastal Conservation Guide, surftificate of achievement, and memorable group photo. Each person is responsible for: roundtrip airfare to BGI and departure tax. A passport is required for this adventure. For more specific information about our teen adventure camps, please call toll free 1.866.844.SURF. Enrollment limited to 12 students.
2012 Dates:
Click Any Date to Sign Up Now!
Itinerary
DAY 1-2: CAMP KICK OFF, INTRO TO SURFING FREIGHTS BAY
Camp starts off with orientation, team-building games, and visiting the main breaks we’ll be surfing during camp. After covering all the important aspects of ocean safety, it’s on to catching our first waves!
DAY 3-4: SURF FRIEGHTS BAY, SEMINARS, SCUBA CLASSES & COMMUNITY SERIVCE
Surfing is the focal point for most days. To shape you into a well-rounded surfer, we will be teaching you about wave dynamics, swell prediction, and surfing etiquette. In the afternoons we’ll alternate between working on our community service hours with local organizations and taking our SCUBA certification classes. We’ll also take time to head to the northeast coast for a hike through the old settlements of Barbados exploring the cliffs and countryside.
DAYS 5-6: EXPLORE MULTIPLE SURF BREAKS, GOAL SETTING & SEMINARS
One very special aspect of surfing in Barbados is the lack of crowds. This makes you comfortable as you work on your paddling, popping up, and riding waves. Depending on the conditions and tides, we’ll surf South Point and Surfers Point where you’ll experience more challenging waves. We have several different board shapes and sizes in our collection, so as your surfing progresses, you’ll have the opportunity to move from a long board to fun shapes, fishes, or possibly short boards. Your trip leaders will advise you on which board is best for you now and in the future purchase of a surfboard.
DAY 7-8: SURFING, COMMUNITY SERVICE, CATAMARAN SNORKLING VOYAGE
Morning surf sessions have now become routine. By now, you’re probably paddling yourself into your own waves…stoked! As another component of our community service hours, we’ll visit the Farr Children’s Home to assist them with painting and other maintenance projects. On our catamaran voyage we’ll snorkel over a shipwreck where you’ll swim with sea turtles, hundreds of tropical fish, and many other varieties of amazing marine life.
DAY 9-10: HIKING WILDLIFE RESERVE, IN-WATER SCUBA CLASSES, SURF PARLORS
Our island explorations continue with an expedition through the Barbados Wildlife Reserve. Located in four acres of mahogany forest, we’ll search for the many different native animals that roam amongst the hardwoods. SCUBA certification has now shifted to water classes where you’ll become comfortable with the equipment and learn safety maneuvers. We’ll also add another surf break to our list by heading to Parlors on the east coast of Barbados. The east coast receives waves 350 days a year (so there’s almost always something to ride). It is also home to Soup Bowls, a world class break that is one of Kelly Slater’s (11x world champion) favorites.
DAY 11-12: SURFING MULTIPLE BREAKS, SCUBA CERTIFICATION OPEN-WATER DIVE
The friends you’ve spent the past two weeks with are now lifelong connections, and you’re trying not to think about having to say farewell in just a few days. There are many more waves to share before camp ends, so don’t worry, we’ll be making the most out of our last days. As you’ve traveled around to different breaks, Barbados now feels like your own backyard. Since your comfort level has increased so much, we’ll head back to the east coast to surf Parlors and Surfers Point and then do some real underwater exploration during our official SCUBA certification open water dives.
DAY 13-14: COMMUNITY SERVICE, SURF SESSIONS, CLOSING CERIMONIES
We’ll finish our community service by completing a beach cleanup. Each camper has completed ten hours of service on this adventure - a total of 100 hours in just two weeks! We’ll take a tour of the southeast coast and visit Bridgetown for some souvenir shopping and then enjoy our closing surf sessions at South Point and Surfers Point. Our hotel host and hostess will cook our last meal for us and we’ll spend the evening telling stories and reliving memories of the past two weeks as we sit around a bonfire. As we say our final goodbyes to each other, plans will already be in the works for next summer’s WB Surf Camp Adventure!
Pictures
Accommodations
Ocean View Apartments
Located on the South End of Barbados, is a mere two minute walk to the beach and the perfect place to stay when we check into paradise. A complex of spacious, self-contained apartments with a fully equipped kitchen in each unit, including a glass top stove with an oven, a 15 cubic ft. refrigerator, microwave, blender, coffee percolator, and sandwich maker. Other amenities include security safe, hair dryer, towels, and linens. For our convenience, we can purchase tokens for laundry facilities.
Each roof deck offers a breathtaking view of the ocean where we can relax in hammocks while the constant, invigorating sea breeze fills the air. Imagine drifting off into a pleasant reverie to the sound of the ocean, lulling you to sleep. Each participant will have his or her own bed with linens provided. Apartments will be gender-specific, and instructors will stay in adjacent rooms, providing 24-hour same gender supervision.
Located less than a mile from South Point and Surfer’s Beach, we are right where we want to be! We’ll do some exploring throughout the rest of the island, but the most consistent and fun surf is right outside our door and just down the road. The gentle reef breaks are perfect for beginner to intermediate surfers experiencing surf travel for the first time and getting used to surfing in tropical, warm, clear water where the reef is right below you. The weather is perfect and the locals are some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.
Reviews
Ivey, Wallace, NC- “Going to Barbados with WB Surf Camp was an incredible experience for me! I improved my surfing skills, made new friends from different countries, and gave back to the environment and Bajan community. The time I spent there was truly enriching and unforgettable.”
Ben, Millburn, NJ – “The beauty of Barbados is that there is something for everyone. People who had never surfed before this trip were able to paddle out, sit in the lineup, paddle into waves, and stand up on their own towards the end of the trip. We had the privilege of visiting a wildlife preserve full of monkeys, and going on an awesome catamaran cruise. After surfing in California, North Carolina, New York, New Jersey, Costa Rica, Panama, and Nicaragua - this is also the only place I’ve been able to surf alongside sea turtles, which was a cool experience for everyone in the group.”
Jennifer, Richmond, VA- “For the past three years, I spend two weeks of my summer at a regular sleep away camp. This summer, my cousin and I wanted to improve our surfing skills and found your camp online and wanted to give it ago. My past camp experiences were amazing and I thought nothing could top it, really, but your camp put my summer over the top. It tops all three years, put together. Everything about your camp is so awesome - I was so thrilled just to be in the relaxed atmosphere with the instructors who were not only amazing at surfing, but also nice, funny and thoughtful.”
Alex, Charlotte, NC- “I wanted to let you know the experiences at your camp last summer were some of the most enjoyable of my life. You’ve created a program not only of great surfing at the beach, but also many other wonderful activities. Camp included everything you would expect out of a fantastic summer vacation: surfing, sun, new friendships, marine life, and, of course, relaxation time at the beach!”
Brendan, New York, NY- “I always had an interest in the marine sciences and the vast unknown that is the ocean, but you guys took what was there and molded it into a passion. Surfing has become a part of me and so has the sea.”
Rachel, Phoenix, AZ –“We had a lot of one on one time with the instructors but as we got better we were in small groups along with an instructor. By the end of the week I was ready to ride the waves by myself! Being out in the water was such an AWESOME experience because the warm, crystal clear water felt spectacular, the weather was beautiful and the soft white sand felt great between my toes.”
Hannah- Memphis, TN - “I came to WB Surf Camp to learn how to surf, but I ended up learning a lot more than that. I gained confidence and a new love for the ocean and surfing. I remember being nervous as I was heading to Surf Camp, but the minute I arrived all of my nervousness faded away. I don't know if it was the sun and salt air or those tan, cool, friendly counselors, but something made me feel really excited and happy instead of feeling scared and nervous.”
Kristen, Boston, MA- “I never thought I would be able to stand up on a board, and it did take me a while, but I didn't give up. I didn't want to be a kid on shore just hanging out, I wanted to be in the water. When I would look over to see the others actually surfing, it just made me want to try harder, and the counselors were behind me every step of the way.”
FAQs
If I have never surfed before, is this camp for me?
Our Barbados travel adventure program was developed for the beginner to intermediate surfer. There are several flat reef breaks with consistent gentle waves just outside of where we will be staying; making it perfect for beginners.
If I have some surf experience will I get to learn more advanced maneuvers?
Although this camp is designed for the pure beginner, our staff is composed of amazing free surfers as well as competitive surfers, all of whom will be able to coach you to a higher level of wave reading, performance, and creativity in your surfing.
Do I need any previous diving experience?
No previous experience is needed. This program is designed for both beginner surfers and divers.
Do you provide equipment or should I bring my own?
All equipment is provided. We provide a variety of boards to use during your Barbados adventure. There are shortboards, fun boards, fishes, and longboards available for you to use.
Do you provide snorkeling equipment?
No. For the SCUBA and snorkeling activities you will need to bring your mask, snorkel, and fins or you can purchase them from our SCUBA instruction partner upon arrival to ensure optimal fit.
Where on the island will we be doing the majority of our surfing?
We will surf in the crystal clear blue water at named breaks like South Point, Freights, and Parlors.
Is there a lifeguard at the beach you use? I am worried about some of the safety aspects of a surf camp.
All of our trip leaders hold current American Red Cross Lifeguard, CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and First Aid certifications. One might even say that we over-qualify our team with this many lifeguards. We have an impeccable safety record and are very proud of it!
Where do we stay?
We stay in the Ocean Bliss Apartments with breathe taking views of the ocean and a 2 minute walk to the beach.
What are the rooms like where we stay?
Each camper has their own bed in triple occupancy, gender specific rooms with their own bathroom.
What are the ages of your overnight campers?
Our Barbados Surf & SCUBA program is designed for ages 14-17.
How old are the campers I will be rooming with?
Roommates are grouped together by age in order to enhance the overall level of comfort.
What kind of supervision is there?
Trip leaders provide 24-hour, same gender supervision for every camper for the entire trip from the moment they clear customs until the moment they pass back through security at the airport. All activities are group centric and campers are never given the opportunity to wander off or “stay back” unsupervised.
What happens if the teens sneak out?
Prior to camp, all participants must sign an agreement regarding our behavioral policies. Parents will be called and the teens in breach of the agreement will be sent home. We have a zero tolerance policy for this type of behavior.
What do I need to bring?
You will receive a detailed packing list with your registration materials. For the most part, you shouldn’t have to purchase anything that you don’t already have at home. We do, however, recommend that girls bring board shorts, which may need to be purchased from your local surf shop or department store. All campers should also bring a mask, snorkel, and fins or be prepared to purchase them upon arrival.
What is the nearest airport and do you have a shuttle service?
Participants fly into the Grantley Adams Airport (BGI) and are met right outside customs by WB Surf Camp trip leaders. On the way home, trip leaders stay at the airport until each camper’s flight has taken off. Our office stays attuned to any delays or cancellations to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible.
What if I can’t get in by the set check-in time?
In order to avoid missing any planned activities, campers should try to arrive between 12 pm and 2 pm on the first day and depart between 1 pm and 4 pm on the last day of camp. Our office staff will be diligent in coordinating your camper’s travel schedule with our trip leaders, should there be any delays or changes in itinerary. Please contact our Program Coordinator to discuss arrivals and departures outside of our preferred times.
What if my luggage doesn’t make it?
Occasionally the airlines will misplace luggage or your suitcases will miss connecting flights. We recommend campers keep essentials, such as medications, toiletries, bathing suit, and extra change of clothes, in their carry-on luggage just in case.
Will there be more surfing or diving?
You will be surfing throughout the entire two weeks, though not every day as we do participate in other fun, adventurous activities as well as perform our community service hours. The SCUBA portion of camp take place for 3-4 days.
How many dives do we get to go on?
There will be four separate certification dives performed.
Will we get to SCUBA dive in the ocean and if so, where?
Yes! All 4 of your certification dives will be done in the crystal clear waters surrounding Barbados. Since the island is composed entirely from coral reef, you needn’t go far off the beach to find amazing underwater vistas. There are several locations, depending on weather conditions, that your instructor may take you including Carlisle Bay, a sunken barge called Folkstone, and a “scattered reef” called Dottins, which is interspersed with sand patches. This provides opportunities to see conchs and rays, not to mention their resident sea turtles.
How long does the certification last?
Your PADI SCUBA certification will last a lifetime, but if you do not use your skills for a long period of time it is always recommended to take a refresher course or complete a SCUBA review with a certified dive master or instructor.
Will most meals be eaten in a restaurant?
We will go grocery shopping and buy standard breakfast items for each morning. Lunches will be packed each day with lots of healthy snacks. Half of our dinners will be at local restaurants while the rest we will cook ourselves.
Can you give me some specifics on the food we'll be eating, such as what is available?
Most meals will be buffet-style. Breakfast may include eggs & bacon, toast, cereal, pancakes, fruit, and juice. Dinner menu includes tacos, fish, chicken, pizza, burgers, and pasta. For dinner on the dine-out evenings you will have similar choices. You will have many opportunities to try local Bajan food!
What other activities will we be participating in besides surfing & SCUBA diving?
- Swimming with sea turtles and snorkel amazing reefs on an all day catamaran cruise
- Visiting the Barbados Wildlife Reserve
- Touring capital city of Bridgetown and learning about the Barbadian culture
- Hiking Barbados’ tropical forests and exploring the island’s natural wonders
- Earning 10 credits of community service working with local community non-profits
What will we do at night?
Each night our professional instructors will hold surf seminars to educate teens on all of the multi-faceted aspects of surfing, surfboard design, wave prediction, and surf culture. Although most nights everyone will be surfed out after dinner and seminars, we leave time for daily reflection and team building activities.
How much spending money should I bring?
We recommend campers bring $100 to $150. This is for special food items and snacks, souvenirs, or gifts you wish to purchase while at camp.
Does Barbados accept US Currency?
Many places do accept US currency but you will be able to exchange US dollars for Bajan dollars.
