Kima Surf Camps: Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your first-ever surf trip? Or heading off on your third and still wondering whether to choose Bali or Sri Lanka? Maybe you’ve already booked your flight to Bali and now you’re stuck deciding between Seminyak, Canggu or Uluwatu.
We get plenty of questions before our surfers arrive, so we’ve put all the most common ones in one place. Think of this as your Kima Surf Camp cheat sheet with short answers, useful information and links to our more detailed guides if you want to know more.
Content List
Our Surf Camps
Where are the Kima Surf Camps?
We currently have 5 surf camps spread across Bali and Sri Lanka. We have 3 in Bali (Canggu, Seminyak and Uluwatu) and 2 in Sri Lanka (Weligama and Hiriketiya). Each location was chosen with the same train of thought, we want our guests to have great surf and easy access to waves for different levels of surfers.
If you are planning a longer surf trip, a short surf-focused holiday or a retreat, choosing the right destination makes all the difference. Beyond our surf camps, we also offer surf retreats in destinations like the Mentawai Islands for those looking for a more remote surf adventure.
What is the main difference between the 5 camps?
Canggu, Bali — Our Surf, Yoga & Fitness Resort in the heart of Canggu. Expect a lively atmosphere, three pools, a 15 m climbing wall, gym, ice bath, surf skate area and plenty to do between surf sessions. Great for surfing, fitness, food and nightlife.
Seminyak, Bali — Our original Kima camp, with a relaxed, social atmosphere and classic Bali feel. It's also home to our 5-Day Learn-to-Surf course, making it a great choice for complete beginners.
Uluwatu, Bali — A relaxed surf resort right in the middle of Bukit's famous surf scene. You're close to legendary breaks like Padang Padang and Bingin, with a pool, yoga shala, coworking space, surf skate ramp and restaurant at camp.
Weligama, Sri Lanka — Our social Sri Lankan camp, set in a beautiful old colonial property close to Weligama Bay. It's relaxed, friendly and a great base for beginners and intermediate surfers.
Hiriketiya, Sri Lanka — Our smaller, more peaceful camp surrounded by jungle and close to Hiriketiya Bay. Perfect if you want a quieter surf trip with yoga, nature and waves for all levels.
For a more detailed review on the difference between our camps read: How to choose the right Kima Surf Camp for your level.
Which camp is best for beginners?
Seminyak and Weligama are great for complete beginners, while Hiriketiya is a good option if you prefer a quieter setting. We also offer a 5-Day Learn to Surf course in Seminyak and Uluwatu. Staying in Canggu? We’ll arrange transport to and from Double Six Beach, where the course takes place.
Which camp is best for intermediate surfers?
All five camps work for intermediate surfers. Canggu, Uluwatu and Hiriketiya are especially good if you're looking to challenge yourself.
Which camp is best for advanced surfers?
Uluwatu is the obvious choice in Bali, while Hiriketiya and Canggu also give advanced surfers access to more challenging breaks.
What if I'm between levels?
No problem. Our guides use the Kima Six-Star Session Planner to match you with the right waves for your ability and the conditions. Here is a detailed guide on our Six-Star Session Planner
Do I need to bring my own surfboard?
No. We have boards available to rent, including our Premium Surfboard Collection for more experienced surfers. Have a good look at the boards we have available in our Catalogue, please note board collections change depending on the camp.
Can I bring my own board?
Yes, of course. If you have a board you love surfing, bring it along. For a rough idea on how much it will cost you to bring your board along, read Airline Surfboard Fees to Bali and Sri Lanka.
The Kima Package
What is included in the Kima package?
Two daily guided surf sessions to Sri Lanka or Bali’s best surf spots, based on your level according to our custom 6 star session planner.
Video analysis sessions daily, six days a week.
Two daily yoga sessions, six days a week.
Daily three-course breakfast.
5x dinners a week (Sri Lanka only), included Monday to Friday.
1x BBQ weekly (Bali only).
Daily social activities.
Three pool sessions a week.
Ice bath 3x a week in Bali camps and 3x a week in Sri Lanka Camps.
Access to all camp facilities and pools.
Access to coworking spaces, open 24/7.
Filtered water dispensers around the camps.
For more information on what is included read This is the Kima Package.
** Please note that surf sessions are subject to availability and exclude check-in/check-out days.
Is surf equipment included?
If you join our 5-day learn to surf (LTS) course then all surf equipment is included at the cost of the LTS course. If you are joining our daily surf guiding sessions you can either use your own surfboard or you can rent a board from either our Premium Surfboard Collection or from our range of beginner-friendly boards.
Are social activities included?
Yes. We organise different social activities at our camps. What’s on depends on the location and season. Expect movie nights, BBQs, party nights, surfskate sessions, DIY activities, game nights and more! For more read Social Activities at Kima.
Extras and Add-ons
Can I rent a surfboard?
Yes. We have a range of boards available, from beginner-friendly boards like soft tops and NSP funboards to options for more experienced surfers from our Premium Surfboard Collection. For pricing please find out more at Kima Surf Pricing explained.
What is the Premium Surfboard Collection?
Our Premium Surfboard Collection gives experienced surfers access to high-performance boards from brands including KT Surfing, AIPA and Gerry Lopez. Boards are available at all Kima Surf Camps, however the collection varies based on surf camp location. Check each surf camps catalogue in our add-ons section.
What is board insurance?
Board insurance is available for eligible rented boards and covers certain types of damage, subject to the terms and conditions.
Do I need board insurance?
It is not compulsory however it allows you to be on the safe side and enjoy your sessions without worrying.
Can I book a private yoga session?
Yes. Private yoga sessions can be booked as an extra. Enjoy a 90-minute private session with our experienced yogi. Book here.
Can I book private surf coaching?
Yes. Private surf coaching is available, the session will be individually tailored to your level. During an intensive two-hour session our experienced guide will be with you in the water to give you specific tips and advice on your surf style, wave selection and maneuvering. Book here.
Can I join trips and excursions?
Yes. We offer different trips, activities and excursions depending on the camp. For more information on our cultural trips read Hidden Gems of Bali or Hidden Gems of Sri Lanka.
Can I add extras after I arrive?
In most cases, yes. Just speak to the camp team and we'll let you know what's available.
Camp Life
What is camp life like?
Kima Surf Camps live by the Eat, Sleep, Surf lifestyle, so that is what you can expect plus making great friends and connecting with surfers from all over the world. Each camp has its own personality, but the Kima vibe is always social, relaxed and centred around surfing. If you are curious as to what a typical day looks like, read A Day at Kima Surf Camps.
Will I meet other travellers?
Yes. A lot of our guests travel solo, so it's easy to meet people through surf sessions, yoga, activities and hanging out around camp.
Are Kima camps good for solo travellers?
Definitely. You can arrive alone and still have people to surf, eat and explore with.
What can I do when I'm not surfing?
Depending on the camp, you can join yoga, relax by the pool, hit the gym, try the surf skate area, join activities or explore the local area.
Can I stay at Kima if I don't surf?
Yes. You can enjoy the camp, join activities and explore the area. Just be prepared to get tempted into surfing.
Can I work remotely from Kima?
Absolutely! All our camps have 24/7 coworking spaces and Wi-Fi, so you can fit some work around your surf sessions.
Travel and Arrival
How do I get to my Kima Surf Camp?
Kima has camps in Bali and Sri Lanka, and the easiest way to get to your camp depends on your destination. We can also arrange airport pick-ups and drop-offs. For stays of 5+ nights in our Bali Camps airport pick-up and drop-off are included for free. For our camps in Sri Lanka, pick up and drop off can be arranged for an additional cost and transport from the airport in between 2,5-3,5 hours.
What should I know about getting around?
In Bali, Gojek and Grab are useful for getting around, while in Sri Lanka you can use PickMe, tuk-tuks, taxis or private drivers. Kima also provides daily transport to surf spots with our surf guides.
Should I get a local SIM card?
Yes, it's a good idea. In Bali, XL and Telkomsel are popular options, while Dialog and Mobitel are commonly used in Sri Lanka. Kima camps also have Wi-Fi.
Can I pay by card?
Cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, restaurants and hotels, but it's always a good idea to carry some local cash for smaller shops, markets and local restaurants. ATMs are available in both destinations and our Front office team will assist you.
Do I need a travel adapter?
Yes, depending on where you're travelling from. Bali uses European-style Type C and F plugs, while Sri Lanka commonly uses Type G and D. A universal adapter is the easiest option if you're visiting both.
Do I need a visa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Bali and Sri Lanka both have online options for many travellers, but requirements can change, so always check the latest official information before you travel.
Is Bali or Sri Lanka safe?
Both are popular surf destinations and can be enjoyed safely with normal travel precautions. Travel insurance is recommended, especially when surfing, riding scooters or exploring.
Can I drink tap water?
We recommend drinking bottled or filtered water in both Bali and Sri Lanka. Kima provides water dispensers at our camps.
What else should I know before I arrive?
From SIM cards and money to transport, visas, health and safety, we've covered the important stuff in our full travel guide.
Good to know
What should I pack for a surf camp?
Keep it simple: swimwear, surf clothes, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, a reusable water bottle and anything you need for your trip. For a more detailed checklist, read your ultimate surf trip packing list.
Do I need travel insurance?
We strongly recommend it. Surfing, travelling and activities like scooter riding all come with some risks, so make sure you're covered for your trip. Here is why you need travel insurance.
What happens if I get sick or injured?
Our camp teams are there to help and can point you towards local medical facilities if needed. Travel insurance is always recommended.
What happens if the weather changes?
That's part of surfing. Our guides check the conditions each day and adjust the surf plan when needed to find the best available waves.
Is Kima suitable for non-surfing partners or friends?
Yes. You can enjoy the camp, yoga, facilities, activities and local area even if you're not surfing every day.
How long should I stay?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. A few nights works for a quick surf trip, while a longer stay gives you more time to settle in, surf different spots and really get into the Kima routine. With our loyalty program you can get perks for the longer you stay!
Still have questions?
Hopefully, that cleared up the big ones.
Still not sure which camp, room or package is right for you? Get in touch with our team and we'll help you figure it out.
Then all that's left is to pack your boardies, book your flights and get ready to surf.
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