Hey, it’s Joe Walsh, founder of Witch’s Rock Surf Camp. It’s 2025, and I’m writing this blog to show you some of the rad upgrades we’ve made over the past year—because if you’ve been here before, you know we’re always dialing things in: tweaking, upgrading, fine-tuning—never settling, never satisfied, always chasing that next level of surf trip. That’s just how we roll.
Maybe it’s because I’m a Virgo and a perfectionist, or maybe it’s because I’ve been obsessed with creating the ultimate surf experience since Day 1. Either way, as we enter our 25th year of running Witch’s Rock Surf Camp, we’re still pushing the limits. Here are 10 ways we’re making your next surf trip the best one yet.
#1 New Surf Camp HQ On The Beach!
The beachfront side of the surf camp has leveled up in a big way this past year. We moved dozens of surfboards back onto the sand, making it effortless for guests to grab a board and paddle out. We also added multiple beach showers and a shaded area perfect for gearing up before your next lesson or tour.
Right next to the stage, we built a brand-new kiosk—Surf Camp HQ—your go-to spot for lessons, tours, and board rentals. This is the official launchpad for all things surf.
Inside, the old Seminar Room has been transformed into The Wave Cave—a fully stocked, air-conditioned space free for all surf camp guests. It’s got board balance trainers, yoga mats, private lockers, a ping-pong table, and beach games like footballs, soccer balls, and frisbees to keep the fun going between sessions.
Everything flows through this space—it’s where guests connect, meet instructors, and gear up for their next session. More than just a hub, it’s the pulse of the surf camp, making sure every part of your trip runs smoothly.
#2 Surf Safari Days
Surfing is all about the right waves, the right place, the right time. That’s why we’re running Surf Safari Days—full-day surf tours (up to 8 hours) where we chase waves up and down the coast. These are included in every Intermediate and Advanced surf camp package.
We keep you fueled with fresh fruit and filtered water while we hunt for the best waves of the day.
Here’s how it works:
Intermediate surf camp guests get one Surf Safari Day included in their package.
Advanced surf camp guests get:
- One Surf Safari Day + one boat trip to Witch’s Rock
- Or, swap the boat trip for a second Surf Safari Day if conditions aren’t ideal for Witch’s Rock or if you’d rather mix it up.
Either way, you’re scoring world-class waves with expert guides leading the way.
#3 Free Filtered Water
Finally—free filtered water for all surf camp guests! No more plastic waste, no more hauling around bottled water. We’ve installed fresh filtered water dispensers throughout the camp, so you can refill anytime and stay refreshed all day long.
This should’ve been done a long time ago, but hey—better late than never. It’s hot down here, so make sure to hydrate!
#4 Private Beach Chairs
We’ve added brand-new beach beds right on the sand, exclusively for surf camp guests. Now you can kick back, soak up the view, and take in everything Playa Tamarindo has to offer—without fighting for a spot.
Bar service? Yep, we’ve got that too. These are first-come, first-serve, but don’t worry—there are plenty to go around. It’s the perfect way to chill between sessions and catch a legendary Tamarindo sunset
#5 High-Speed WiFi Everywhere
I’ll be the first to admit—our WiFi used to suck. But those days are over.
In 2025, we’ve got blazing-fast internet covering the entire surf resort. Whether you’re streaming, working remotely, or just staying connected, you’ll have rock-solid WiFi everywhere.
And yeah, you can totally answer emails from one of those beach beds I just mentioned.
You spoke, we listened.
#6 Surfboard Insurance Included in Package Price
Starting January 1st, 2025, surfboard insurance is officially included in every surf camp package—so if you ding a board or even snap it in half, you’re covered. No extra costs, no surprise fees, no stress.
That said, this isn’t a free pass to go full rockstar and destroy your board like a hotel room. We still expect you to take care of the gear—because the longer we keep these boards in the water, the better it is for everyone (and the planet).
This exclusive perk applies to all surf camp guests and anyone renting a board at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp. Ride hard, but keep it classy.
#7 Online Check-In Now Available
Nobody likes waiting in line after a long day of travel. That’s why we’ve streamlined the check-in process. One week before your arrival, you’ll get an online check-in form by email. Fill it out ahead of time, and when you arrive, you can skip the front desk and head straight to your room.
Even better? You can even fill this out on the way to the surf camp, since all of our shuttle vans now have free WiFi. Yeah, we’re kinda nerds about this stuff.
Less time checking in, more time surfing, relaxing, and enjoying your trip.
#8 Witch’s Rock Boat Trips for Intermediate Surf Guests
For the first time ever, Intermediate surf camp guests can now experience a boat trip to Witch’s Rock.
Here’s how it works:
If conditions are right and your coach gives the green light, you can join a boat trip to Witch’s Rock for just $50 (plus the Santa Rosa National Park entrance fee). This is an amazing opportunity for guests who have always wanted to visit the rock but never had the chance.
Witch’s Rock isn’t just for advanced surfers—sometimes the waves are small or medium-sized, making it perfect for Intermediate surfers to get a taste of this legendary spot. Even if you’re just along for the ride, it’s worth it—the scenery, wildlife, and raw beauty of the national park make this trip unforgettable.
If you’ve ever wanted to see the famous rock up close, now’s your chance.
#9 Welcome to the Lineup (Weekly Meet & Greet)
- Meet other surf camp guests – especially great if you’re traveling solo.
- Hang out with instructors and camp staff – get to know the crew outside of the water.
- Enjoy fun events like ping-pong challenges, surf movies, and more.
#10 Free Surfboard Storage for Life
Tired of hauling your surfboard back and forth from your Airbnb, partner hotel, or wherever you’re staying? We’ve got you covered.
If you’re a surf camp guest but not staying in our beachfront hotel, you can store your board at Witch’s Rock Surf Camp for free between sessions. No extra fees, no hassle—just grab your board when you’re ready to surf.
Even if you’re not part of the surf camp program but rented a board from us, this still applies—you can leave your rental here instead of dragging it around town.
Even better? This offer extends beyond your stay. If you’ve ever been a guest at Witch’s Rock, you can leave your board here for long-term storage, free of charge. Whether you’re coming back next month or next year, your board will be waiting.
Because once you’re part of the Witch’s Rock crew, you’re family for life.
That’s the latest from Rock Surf Camp—new perks, better experiences, and the same mission we’ve had since Day 1: to give you the best surf trip possible. Whether you’ve been here before or you’re planning your first visit, we can’t wait to see you in Tamarindo.
So pack your bags, book your trip, and get ready for an epic surf adventure. We’ll be waiting for you in the lineup.
