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- Seven nights of Caribbean island life
- Expert coaching for Beginner and Progressor surfers
- Coastal apartment accommodation – so close to the waves that you can count turtles from your balcony
- Live the local life, led by our resident Bajan, Jodie. She lives and breathes Barbados…experience her experience!
Sharpen your surfing skills in the Caribbean. With tropical sunshine, warm water and laid-back vibes, it’s what dreams are made of. On this seven-night trip to Barbados, our expert tuition will see you catch wave after pristine wave. Away from the surf, our island tour day will show you Barbados through local eyes, from coconut-lined Crane Beach to the turquoise Batts Rock Bay. You’ll glimpse a side to the island that many wouldn’t see – unless you have a local as your guide…and part of your new crew of all-female surfers.
QUICK FACTS
- Fun, safe and consistent waves on your doorstep, 25 seconds from bed to ocean (we’ve timed it!) check our photos and videos – it’s pure fun
- Tropical climate, consistent swell and water temperature averaging 28°C
- Includes video & photography package for you to take home
- Small, chilled waves – check our photos and video, it’s pure fun!
- The break on your doorstep is home to hundreds of turtles (so pack your snorkel!)
- Once-in-a-lifetime memories and lasting friendships forged
- Benefit from your trip leader’s knowledge and connections on this amazing island
- Close to some of the world’s best beach clubs and restaurants
- Fully insured with contingency and emergency plans for any eventuality
- Eat like the locals – fish dishes, rice and peas are all served on the street with a reggae vibe and enjoy some of the best restaurants in the world
- Beautiful white sand beaches that will send your Instagram audience wild
Like the idea of advancing your surfing while also taking in the best of Barbados? Or want to learn to surf in perfect, fun waves? Then this trip is for you. Over seven days, you’ll get heaps of expert surf coaching, plus explore this Caribbean island’s insanely beautiful beaches, epic marine life, tasty food and chilled-out reggae vibes. With a group of like-minded women by your side, including Bajan local Jodie leading the way, you’ll learn new techniques, experience the true Barbados lifestyle and have an awesome time together.
We’ll take care of everything both on and off the water, so you can focus on catching waves and soaking up everything Barbados has to offer. Our expert coaching will see your surfing soar. Jodie’s local knowledge of the area means we can find uncrowded waves suitable for your level, whether you’re a Beginner or a Progressor surfer.
The week will include numerous methods to help you improve, such as video analysis and training on land. Consistent swell, bath-warm water and our video team capturing your rides mean you’ll see huge improvements in your surfing during this trip.
To experience more of Barbados, we’ve also included a surf-free day. We’ll take a road trip around the island, pausing at some of the most beautiful – and Insta-worthy – beaches, including Crane Beach. Expect fine powdery sand, turquoise water… and all the tropical feels. We’ll pull on masks and snorkels and dive beneath the waves, and stop at our favourite restaurants for lunch and dinner.
When it’s time to ease aching paddling muscles – or limber up for your next surf – we’ll roll out our yoga mats and dive into two classes with Jodie. These yoga sessions will help with everything from balancing and staying agile on your board to breathing techniques.
As for accommodation, our two oceanside apartments could not be closer to the waves. Positioned right on the beach at Freights Bay, you’re just three steps from the front door to the sea. We hand-picked these apartments because they are so close to the surf. Located on the south coast, Freights Bay is sheltered, with off-shore winds and a long, hollow wave that’s perfect for everyone from beginners to more experienced surfers. You’re going to love it!
The apartments both have a great balcony for enjoying a sundowner while watching the surf – the perfect spot to feel surfed-out and blissed out. The apartments are self-catering, offering the best of both worlds – cook in or eat out. For more info, check out our Accommodation tab.
WHO IS THIS TRIP FOR?
This trip is suitable for Beginner and Progressor surfers. If you’re a Beginner, we’ll get you up and riding in no time. Progressor Surfers will learn how to confidently paddle out back and catch green waves. Whichever your level, we’ll help you to develop your surfing skills and increase your ocean awareness – all whilst having heaps of fun! Come prepared to seriously step up your surfing! Not sure what level you are? Then take our quick test.
Nature lovers will also enjoy the abundance of marine life and incredible scenery on offer, while teachers can also book on since the trip runs during October Half Term. And with loads of great flight connections (Barbados is a short hop from North America and a direct 7-9-hour flight from Europe), it’s pretty accessible, too.
AIRPORT ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE MEETINGS AND TRANSFERS
- You’ll be greeted at airport arrivals by a member of our transport team and whisked away to our base for the week (around a 15-minute journey from Grantley Adams International Airport).
- After a surf-stoked seven nights, we’ll drop you back at the airport in good time for a stress-free check-in.
Please note if you are not able to join our airport transfer between 1pm and 4pm there will be an additional cost of $12 each way for your airport transfer. On departure day, we’ll drop you back at the airport by 10am.
ACCOMMODATION
- Seven nights of self-catered accommodation – see more in our Accommodation tab.
FOOD
- There’s a perfect balance of self-catering and eating out on this trip.
- On your first day, we’ll show you the best supermarkets to buy snacks and breakfasts or any meals you’d like to cook at the apartment.
- We’ll also eat some meals out together and can arrange optional group meals at our favourite sunset restaurants and beach clubs.
- Food is not included in the price of the trip.
COACHING
- Five days of surf coaching delivered by life-long surfer and Barbados local Jodie and her assistant instructor, Ross.
- Photo and video analysis.
- Training includes a flat water session to establish paddle skills and techniques.
- There are two instructors per eight guests. Small groups ensure you get personalised coaching.
- A Women + Waves surfing log book to track your progress and accelerate your improvements.
- We choose the best tidal state, swell size and conditions for you to get the most out of your sessions.
- We have a board waiting for you in Barbados to suit your experience level
- Remember you can surf as much or as little as you want through out the trip, this is a no pressure camp with the focus on fun!
SURF SKILLS WORKSHOPS
- These will often be delivered during the analysis sessions and will cover everything from building confidence to tips on bodysurfing, breathing techniques and how to surf bigger waves
- Surf forecasting and travel
- Equipment (the right board for you and building a quiver)
- Ocean Safety
- Pop-up progression
- How to gain and maintain speed
- Paddling workshop
- Turtle rolling
- Surf etiquette + how to handle a line-up.
- If you are a progressor surfer we bespoke the coaching to your needs
PHOTO & VIDEO ANALYSIS
- You’ll be filmed surfing throughout the trip – watching yourself in action during our video analysis sessions is hands down the fastest way to progress
- You’ll take home an awesome photo and video package of your surf sessions
OTHER ACTIVITIES
- A visit to the beautiful Crane Beach
- Superb snorkelling – we recommend bringing a mask and snorkel
- Turtle watching from your front balcony
- Experience some of the Caribbean’s most scenic and untouched coastline on our island tour
- Optional organised meals at breathtaking beach clubs
- Optional professional massage from Jodie (not included in the price)
- Optional kayak or paddleboard tours available (not included in the price)
- Remember, you are staying less than 20 seconds from the ocean – you can pick up your board and hit the water whenever you feel like it!
Day 1
Touch down in Barbados! You’re about to spend seven nights surfing pristine waves with a group of like-minded women – with adventure, culture and perfect beachside accommodation all thrown into the mix.
At international arrivals, we’ll pick you up and transfer you to your oceanside apartment at Freights Bay, on the south coast. You could head to the supermarket if you arrive early enough. After being shown to your room, there’s time to freshen up before our chilled welcome meeting. It’s a relaxed evening, a chance to meet the other women on the trip and share the stoke for the days ahead.
Day 2
Today your surf coaching begins. Wake up to the sound of the waves and jump straight into the ocean for your first surf session with Jodie and Ross. Later you’ll pick up even more knowledge in a video analysis session. This will be followed by a guided free surf session with Jodie or Ross to practice your skills. This evening, chill out with sunset drinks or head to the supermarket if you didn’t get the chance on Day 1. There’s the option of dinner at Deia Beach, where the menu includes seafood, ceviche and pizza.
Day 3
Today we’ll have an early-morning surf lesson, followed by video analysis. The afternoon is yours to chill, before a flat water coaching session at the tranquil Miami Beach. It will include everything from bodysurfing to ocean confidence. This evening, kick back with sunset drinks before dinner at Cafe Luna or Casper’s, depending on which has the best vibe on the night!
Day 4
It’s island tour day! Before we load up the cars, there’s the option of a short surf to start the day. Then our road trip kicks off as we travel around the island, taking in some of its most scenic spots including Crane Beach. The sand here has a pink tint to it! We’ll also sink beneath the waves for some snorkelling and stop at one of our favourite restaurants for lunch. We’ll head to Jodie’s yoga shala for an awesome stretch out and surf inspired yoga session. We’ll round off an epic day with dinner at Salt, a cosy little cafe serving everything from truffle fries to Asian wings.
Day 5
Wake up and dive into another early-morning surf lesson, followed by video analysis. In the afternoon will be he option to head back into the water for a guided free surf session with Jodie or Ross to practice your skills. Next up – sunset drinks, followed by some food and retail therapy at the Sheraton Mall.
Day 6
Today kicks off with an early-morning surf lesson, then video analysis. In the early afternoon, you could practise everything you’ve learnt so far in another guided free surf session with our expert guides. Tonight, enjoy sunset drinks at an evening at Oistins Fish Fry for delicious food and a cool, Caribbean vibe.
Day 7
Our final day in Barbados will be chock-full of surfing. Start with an early-morning lesson and video analysis. In the early afternoon, practise your new skills in another guided free surf session. Later in the afternoon, we’ll head over to Brandon’s Beach for another chilled surf session, followed by a relaxing yoga class at Jodie’s place. Tonight, we’ll head to La Cabanne, our favourite spot for an evening cocktail and food. Grab a drink, and watch the sun as it sets on your last night in Barbados.
Day 8
After an epic trip, it’s time to say goodbye to Barbados (for now!). We’ll return you to the airport relaxed and ready for your flight home.
You’ll be staying at one of two large, self-catering apartments, right on the beach at Freights Bay. We hand-picked this accommodation because of its proximity to the surf – just steps away! The two apartments are ground floor and middle floor, and there are single and twin room options available.
As well as being right on the beach, the apartments are brilliantly set up for surfers. There’s an outdoor shower for a post-surf rinse-off and board storage. The manicured front lawn is great for chilling and is where we’ll deliver some of our coaching.
The apartments feature well-equipped kitchens, living areas and – a highlight – balconies overlooking the sea. The water is so close that you can count turtles from your balcony while sipping your morning coffee! Rooms are clean and air-conditioned. Prepare to wake up and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean.
ROOMS
Choose from three twin rooms (sleeping two people) and two private rooms. Please note, there are limited private rooms available – so be quick to snap one up!
Choose from:
Apartment 1
Room 1, private (shared bathroom)
Room 2, private (shared bathroom)
Room 3 twin (en suite)
Apartment 2
Room 4, twin (shared bathroom)
Room 5, twin with private balcony (shared bathroom) book early to grab this one!
FACILITIES
Both apartments are self-catering, but there will be the option to eat out. There are restaurants within walking distance that suit both economy and high-end budgets.
Get ready to advance your surfing to the max. With five days of in-water coaching, video analysis and theory sessions, you’ll step up your skills and improve your technique fast. This trip is perfect for new surfers or for those who want to surf out back for the first time or have surfed out back and want to develop their skills of catching unbroken waves. You’ll be in great hands with Jodie – she’s a fantastic surfer and coach!
PHOTO & VIDEO ANALYSIS
Seeing yourself surf is the best way to improve and gives you a move-by-move breakdown. Plus, you get to take the footage and photos home with you – it’s both a great memento and a valuable coaching tool.
WHAT A TYPICAL DAY LOOKS LIKE
We’ll be up early to surf at dawn – and can pretty much guarantee we’ll be the first in the water. The beauty of our accommodation is that you can easily get out and have a coffee before jumping in again. After the surf, we’ll go through video feedback while munching some brunch, before a chill to recharge. We’ll meet up for afternoon activities, drinks and food.
For more details on what each day involves, check out our Itinerary tab.
BARBADOS SURF TRIP –
£2699 – Single bed in twin shared room (sharing with another female on the trip)
£2999 – Private double room
(Payment plans available, see FAQ’s)
MORE INFO
AREA
The mere mention of Barbados may make your mind drift away to the sounds of gentle waves lapping at golden sands… And for good reason. This is truly an island paradise, where the sunsets are sublime, the atmosphere is uber chill and turquoise waters are filled with turtles and dolphins. Fantastic beaches, superb food and welcoming locals… it’s all here, waiting to be discovered.
WAVES
We’ll be based down south, at Freights Bay, so-called because of the huge ships that pass by on the horizon while you’re surfing. This is home to some of the best Beginner and Improver surfing waves we’ve experienced on any of our trips. That’s why we hold the majority of our coaching sessions here.
Looking out at the bay each day, you’ll get to experience its different moods and become familiar with the way the waves break. By the end of the trip, you’ll know all the spots where the turtles hang out the most.
We recommend that everyone wears reef shoes to make it comfier underfoot, as there are some rocks and patches of crunchy reef as well as sandy areas. We’ve been in this game for 25 years and can honestly say that if you’re going to learn to surf, or improve, there aren’t many better places. Crystal-clear water with turtles popping up next to you, white sand and a palm-fringed shoreline take some beating. We’ll also visit Drill Hall Beach, which offers similar fun, mellow waves and is a ten-minute drive from our accommodation.
CLIMATE
We visit as the seasons change from wet to dry. This is for two reasons – first, historical swell data shows consistently fun waves during that period; second, crowds are super low. In fact, you can expect to be the only surfers in the water a lot of the time.
Expect the rain to hammer down at least once a day. But this is almost always followed by tropical sun. You may even get a full day of dull weather, but it will still be lovely and warm with a cool sea breeze since we’ll be on the coast. This isn’t guaranteed dawn-‘til-dusk sunshine, but on our last trip we did have several sun-filled days.
You can eat like a king – or queen! – in Barbados. The food here is as good as anywhere else on the earth. From fried flying fish (the national dish) to coconut turnovers, there’s something sure to satisfy your taste buds. But it does come at a price. With this being an island, importing some items is expensive. So if you like cereal for breakfast, we suggest bringing it with you as it’s super pricey out here.
Buying simple, local brands from the supermarket is ideal for those fast snacks to refuel ready for your next surf. Make up some pasta and sauce or avocado on toast (the avos are huge and delicious, you can just spread them on your toast like butter). Then treat yourself to a meal out in the evening. You can stay on a tight budget or splash out – there are restaurants to cater to your preference.
With Jodie on the team, we have a mine of useful information to get everyone the food they want. We’ve tried, tested and hand-chosen the spots that we visit so there’s a good mixture of exclusive fine dining, local vibes and high-energy surf fuel to suit the budget.
HOW DO I BOOK AND PAY?
We Offer 3 Easy Ways To Pay!
- Pay In Full – Pay the full amount in one, that’s it your done! (Available online)
- 50/50 – Pay 50% deposit and then 5 weeks later pay the remaining 50%. (Available online)
- Payment Plan – Pay an initial deposit of as little as £100 to save your place and the rest in instalments! (Contact us using our online chat for this option)
We can’t guarantee your place until we have received a payment from you.
Once you have made a payment, you’ll then be sent a trip confirmation email with all details on.
Can I attend on my own?
Of course! 95% of our guests attend alone! We pride ourselves on being super welcoming and friendly. You’ll arrive solo and leave with a whole heap of new surf friends for life!
Can I reserve a spot to think about it for a few days?
Due to this trip being in high demand and having limited spaces, we can only hold your space for up to 24 hours without payment.
How do I book my flight?
Please do not book your flights until we have had our pre trip video call. Then for further help please read our helpful blog post about booking flights.
I’d like to come on the trip but I can’t attend for the full duration?
You are welcome to attend for a shorter period to suit your personal schedule, however, the package price will remain the same.
How soon should I book?
ASAP! These holidays fill up quickly and, with super limited spaces available, sell out fast. We operate on a first come first serve basis. If you want to secure your place on the trip, it is advised that you pay as soon as you can.
Are the holidays predominantly for young people?
We pride ourselves that Women and Waves is inclusive to all. We have a great mix of all ages and backgrounds.
Can a non-surfing partner stay with me in the accommodation?
If you wish to bring a non-surfing partner with you, that is absolutely fine, however, please be aware that this is a women-only trip, please contact us via our online chat to discuss this.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I BUDGET FOR THE TRIP?
You’ll have to pay for all your meals. Please budget around £5 to £20 per meal for this.
What happens if the surf conditions aren’t good enough?
We choose the time of year and location for our events based on local knowledge and historical swell data. In the event of flat waves or stormy conditions, we will offer alternative activities and day trips to help you get the most out of your holiday. Please take a look at our ‘Other things to do’ in the ‘Area, Waves + Climate’ tab.
We may adjust the format of the trip. For example, choosing to run more surf sessions on the days that the waves are at their best.
Please visit our T&Cs for more information
What are the surf conditions likely to be during my stay?
With decades of experience and knowledge within our team, we pick the best dates when the surf conditions are consistently fun and will be most suitable for the group. We’ll send you a brief predicted forecast in the pre-trip email. We choose Bali at this time of year due to the fun waves and gorgeous weather. The shoulder season is before the famous big swells of the dry season hit. The beautiful long sandy beaches offer peaks for all abilities; the skill is to know which is best on the tide and wind conditions that are on offer. That’s where our local guides are worth their weight in gold. We pride ourselves in having you in the right place for the best waves for your ability each trip. Your morning surfs will be a blissful experience!
Who will be coaching me during the trip?
You’ll be coached by Barbados local, Jodie, and her assistant instructor, Ross.
Do I get a discount for bringing my own surfboard or/and wetsuit?
We do not offer a discount for bringing your own equipment.
What is the best way to transport my surfboard and kit?
Remember to check the baggage size and weight allowance with your airline. Read their guidance for carrying surfboards. Baggage handlers can be unforgiving so you need a tough travel bag and pack it well.
Firstly, pack your board(s) in a protective, padded board bag, and write FRAGILE and TOP LOAD ONLY on it with the largest, most permanent marker you can find. Make sure you wrap your towel and clothes around your board inside the bag for added protection.
Place your shampoo and other wet toiletries in a separate sealed bag in case of leakage. We also recommend locking your bag zips with a padlock.
DO I NEED A VISA?
Most countries do not need a visa to visit Barbados. For more information, check the Barbados Visa & Entry Requirements page.
ARE THERE ANY AGE RESTRICTIONS?
If you are under 18 we will need to chat to you on the phone and you will need to be accompanied on the trip by a parent or guardian throughout the holiday (although they don’t need to participate in the surfing). If you are 60 or over we’d love to chat to you about the trip before you book. Please email us to arrange a time and we’ll contact you. Or you can call us on +44 (0) 7544 094518.
CAN WE CONTACT YOU IF WE HAVE ANY TRAVEL PROBLEMS?
On the day you travel please keep your mobile phone handy so that we can stay in touch in case of delays and flight changes. Please inform us if you’re early or delayed for any reason.
If you need help to book your flight then just drop us a line.
If you can’t find our representative at the airport, stay there and wait, they won’t be far away having tracked your arrival time. However, if you’re having difficulties finding them, please call +44 (0) 7544 094518 or follow the instructions in your pre-flight email. One of us will locate you.
Do I need personal travel insurance?
As with any holiday, full travel insurance is a requirement for all guests booking a trip with the company.
Please also ensure that your policy covers you for ‘disruption to travel’ and ‘cover for cancellations’ as standard.
For further help please read our helpful blog post about travel insurance.
You may need to add additional cover for surfing, it is essential that your insurance policy covers you for all activities during your stay. Failure to take out travel insurance breaks the contract between Women And Waves and the client.
If you are joining one of our trips and you are native to the country of its location (i.e you live in Lisbon and are joining our Portugal trip) you do not need to take out medical travel insurance. This is as long as you have your own personal health-care plan or are covered by your country’s National Health Service. Although, we kindly request that you still take out trip disruption and cancellation insurance to cover all possible eventualities.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT ABOUT MEDICAL ADVICE BEFORE TRAVELLING?
Visit Gov.uk: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/barbados
Please contact your doctor if you’re unsure about vaccinations. We advise you to take mosquito repellent to avoid getting bitten.
WHAT CURRENCY SHOULD I TAKE?
Barbadian Dollar
IS THIS TRIP OPEN TO INTERNATIONAL TRAVELLERS OR ONLY UK RESIDENTS?
We are a UK based company that delivers trips all over the world welcoming travellers of all nationalities.
Is it safe to travel to Barbados
Yes! You can find out the latest safety and security advice for Barbados from Gov.uk.
CAN I MAKE CONTACT FROM ABROAD?
If you’re based outside the UK and want to chat through the trip details, you can contact us through WhatsApp, Facetime, Zoom or Skype.
Just let us know by email and we can arrange this with you.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I WANT TO CANCEL MY BOOKING?
If your circumstances change and you can’t join the trip, please let us know as soon as possible via email. Your cancellation notice will start from the date we receive it.
Cancellation terms:
We hold part or full costs, depending on when you cancel:
- If you cancel 12 weeks or more before the trip we retain one-third of the total trip price
- If you cancel between 36 days to 12 weeks before the trip it’s 50% of the total cost
- If you cancel between 21-35 days, we retain 75% of the total cost
- Under 20 days – we keep 100% of the total cost.
Cancellation may fall under the terms and conditions of your holiday insurance policy and you may be able to claim.
Still have questions?
Contact us via our online chat.
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