Surfing & Coaching

Do you cater for intermediate and advanced surfers?

Yes. Xanadu isn’t only a beginner surf camp. We offer structured coaching for intermediate and advanced surfers, with groups separated according to surfing ability. Our Advanced Surf Progression Program (Level 4) at Xanadu Retreat is specifically designed for Level 4 surfers and runs throughout the year.

I’m a complete beginner. Can I join?

Absolutely. You don’t need any previous surfing experience to join our beginner program. Our coaches will introduce you to surfing step by step, starting with ocean safety, board handling, paddling, pop-up technique and catching your first waves. We split our guests into smaller groups based on their level so beginners will start from scratch on a beach break in white water. You do, however, need to be comfortable swimming in the open ocean. For safety reasons, our surf programs are not suitable for non-swimmers. Programmes suitable for beginners: - Surf & Yoga Week at Xanadu Village - Surf, Yoga & Wellness Retreat (Level 1-3) at Xanadu Retreat

What surf levels do you cater for?

We cater for surfers from complete beginners through to advanced surfers. Our surf coaching is divided into levels so that you can surf with guests of a similar ability and work on skills relevant to your progression. Our general level structure is: Level 1 - For complete beginners or novice surfers who still struggle with the pop up or balance - Focus on strong foundations, learning surf etiquette, board management and feeling safe in the ocean - Great if you’re building confidence and want to enjoy your first real rides Level 2 - You’ve nailed the pop up and are starting to link your first turns - We’ll surf mellow forgiving waves where you can practice angled takeoffs and riding the wave’s face - Perfect if you’re ready to move past the basics and start thinking like a surfer (i.e. surf etiquette, anticipating conditions, understanding surf forecasts and planning solo surf trips once you feel ready for those) Level 3 - ALL BOARD TYPES - This intermediate level is ideal for anyone catching small green waves with confidence - You’re working on improving your efficiency and flow - You’re comfortable in the ocean and can handle slightly bigger sets - You’re thinking of starting to cross-step or getting to the nose doing your first hang five if you’re riding a longboard - This level is also suitable for intermediate surfers transitioning to be a future shortboarder  - This is where you commit to waves, trust your timing and develop rhythm in your surfing Level 4 – MID-LENGTH & SHORTBOARDS only - For mid-length and shortboard riders who can paddle into waves on their own and hold position in the lineup - You are able to catch your own waves (without a push) - You’re chasing more challenging waves and working on more advanced maneuvers like cutbacks, snaps and floaters - Best suited if you want to push limits, refine your style and stay composed in tougher conditions (bigger/steeper waves, shallower reefs) Read more about the Xanadu surf levels here

How do I know my surf level?

Before your stay, we ask you about your surf level (on a Xanadu scale) so our surf team can place you in the most suitable group. Rather than looking only at how long you’ve been surfing, we consider things such as: - whether you can catch unbroken waves independently - your paddling ability - your take-off and positioning - your ability to surf along the face of a wave - turning and board control - wave selection and ocean awareness - the type of board you normally surf Here you can find more information about our surf levels at Xanadu.

How many surf sessions are included?

Our surf programs include one coached surf session per day, according to the weekly program schedule. A typical surf session includes around two hours in the water. Including preparation and travel to and from the surf spot, the whole surf activity generally takes approximately 3.5–4 hours. The exact timing changes daily because we choose the surf spot and schedule according to the tides, swell and conditions. Read here why we believe one coached surf session is better than three free surfs.

How long is each surf session?

You can expect approximately two hours of surfing in the water during a coached session. Including getting ready, travelling to the surf spot and returning to Xanadu, you should generally allow around 3.5–4 hours for the full surf activity. Surf times aren’t fixed throughout the week. Our surf team plans each session around the best available conditions for your level.

Can I surf more than once a day?

Your program includes one coached surf session per day. If you’re staying at Xanadu Retreat and would like to free-surf again, we can arrange complimentary transport to selected surf breaks. If you're staying at Xanadu Village, you are welcome to use the Xanadu board and go for an independent surf. Transport is not included but our team can help you make necessary arrangments. Additional surfing is not coached.

What happens if the waves are too big or too small?

South Lombok gives us access to a variety of surf breaks that work in different swell, wind and tide conditions. Our surf team checks the forecast and conditions every day and selects the surf spot according to both the conditions and the ability of each group. If a swell is too large for one location, we can often surf a more protected break. Likewise, different groups may surf different locations when conditions better suit particular levels. Surfing is weather- and ocean-dependent, however, so specific surf spots and wave conditions can never be guaranteed.

Are surfboards included?

Yes. Surfboards are included as part of your surf program, so you don’t need to rent a board separately. We have a quiver covering different levels and styles of surfing, and our coaches can help you select the most appropriate board. You’re also welcome to bring your own surfboard.

Do I need to bring my own surfboard?

No. Surfboard rental is included in our surf programs, and we have a range of boards suitable for different levels. You are also very welcome to bring your own board if you prefer surfing equipment you’re already familiar with. Our surf team can help you choose an appropriate board from our quiver based on your level, conditions and progression goals.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Yes. You must be able to swim confidently in the open ocean to participate in our surf program. Even beginner surf lessons take place in the ocean, where conditions can change and currents may be present. For safety reasons, guests who cannot swim are unfortunately unable to participate in the surfing component of our programs.

Can two people of different surf levels come together?

Absolutely. It’s very common for couples and friends to join Xanadu with different surfing abilities. You’ll still stay together and take part in the overall Xanadu experience together, but you may be placed in different surf groups so that each of you receives coaching appropriate to your level. Different groups may sometimes surf at different breaks or at slightly different times depending on the conditions. This allows a beginner, for example, to learn in a safe and suitable environment while a more experienced surfer can work on their own progression rather than having to compromise on the level of coaching.

How many students per instructor?

The student instructor ratio is 2:1 unless it's a more advanced group then it may be 2.5:1.

Does everyone go to the same spot at the same time?

No. We split our guests into groups and choose the surf spots based on the level and surf conditions.