Honu Honi Surf Camp

Just left Honi Honi after a 2-day getaway that exceeded all expectations! Becks, Ian, and Heidi all made me feel so welcome - almost more like a friend visiting than a paying guest. The glamping tent was very cute and much easier to stay warm in at night than I’d feared. Also fully stocked with local breakfast products (only a few things shown in the picture - I love a good breakfast and I wasn’t disappointed!). The rest of the meals were home-cooked and delicious. I am not usually vegan, but I didn’t feel like anything was missing, and I’ve even got a few of the recipes so I can (attempt to) recreate the dishes at home. The afternoon yoga lesson took place on a mossy spot next to a babbling brook… just perfect for those achy surf muscles. This was combined with an afternoon adventure to Lake Elizabeth, a tranquil place I’d never have found on my own. And yes, of course the surfing. A-ma-zing. Becks took great care picking the best spot for my skill level, and she is such a calm and positive teacher. There was a great balance between theory, “training exercises” such as paddling and rolling, and just surfing to have fun. I feel like I improved heaps in just those two days. So, in short: this is some of the best money I’ve ever spent on myself. For anyone considering Honu Honi - do yourself a favour and get that trip booked ☀️

I had the absolute best time on my 6 week surf camp. Becks is experienced and passionate about everyone developing not only good surfing skills but a love for the sport and ocean aswell. You learn everything from pop ups to surf etiquette. Not only is she a fabulous teacher, she’s created a whole community of ex surf school members who regularly meet for social surfs and meals out. If you’re in any doubt book on! Honu honi has a special place in my ❤️ even if my surf skills could use some more work.

When searching on Google for surf-courses I found the 'Week In The Life Surf Camp' and immediately became suspicious due to the many perfect scores. Since I'm a cynical prick I almost did not book it, but decided to give it a chance anyways. As it turns out I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Honu Honi and will now contribute to this 'problem' by adding my own five star rating. I had zero experience with surfing going in. If that's the case for you as well I would still definitely recommend the seven day camp, but you should be open minded to try different things, as you will encounter more than just surfing lessons. However on any day including the two days without a lesson, you can always lend a wet-suit and board and go ahead yourself. The other activities are not chosen randomly and are designed to complement the surfing lessons. For example there's Yoga involved, which I personally didn't really care about initially. Yet over the duration of the camp, the more I understood about surfing, the more I understood why it's included. Regarding the length seven days are definitely not enough to gather sufficient experience. Which is why the instructors also aim to equip you with necessary knowledge to continue with your own training afterwards. For example judging the weather conditions, how to handle your gear correctly and what the surfer etiquette is like. Make sure to bring some tenacity as well. Can't learn to surf without wiping out a bunch.

From beginning to end, our surf trip was magical and the essence of wellness. The day began early however, with Becky as our chauffeur and tour guide, we were able to sit back and relax as we travelled from the city to the surf coast. The surfing lesson was so much fun and I was pretty stoked to be able to stand up on the board. Lunch was absolutely delicious, healthy and nourishing after a morning of exercise. The tranquil walk to a waterfall really topped off a beautiful day. Unfortunately we ran out of time for yoga but you can bet I will be back for that! Thank you Becky and Honu Honi for the opportunity to get out of my comfort zone and spend some time on myself. It was a day that I will never forget and I highly recommend Honu Honi for their hospitality and adventure.