Jamaica Surf Camp: Learn to Surf with the Island's Longest-Running Surf School

The day at Jamnesia revolves around the surf. Mornings are usually the best time to get in the water, especially in summer when the trade winds pick up by mid-morning. The camp's shuttle will take you to the best break within five miles for US $5, or you can arrange a Surfari — a day-long trip to spots such as Boston Beach, Long Bay, Roselle or Prospect. Surfari pricing depends on how far you're going, so ask at the camp.

If you're new to surfing, the camp’s surf school is the main draw. A lesson costs US $30 and is taught by some of the most experienced instructors on the island. For surfers who already stand up but want to improve, personalised coaching is available and focuses on what you actually need to work on. Boards are available to rent: US 0 per day if you're staying at the camp, US $20 per day if you're not. There are no surf shops in Jamaica, so the rental quiver is made up mostly of boards donated by travelling surfers.

Billy Wilmot, a surf photographer, shoots sessions and sells HD digital copies — US 0 for the first image and US for each additional one. It's a good way to take home proof of the waves you caught.

Jamaica's surf seasons are distinct. Summer (May to August) brings smaller but fun waves early in the day, with the chance of double-overhead sets and hidden spots coming alive. Winter (November to March) is the busiest season, with cold fronts from the north delivering consistent, glassy conditions that can last all day and waves that can get double overhead or bigger.

Jamnesia is a camp, not a hotel. It's basic, social, and built around surfing. Expect to spend most of your time in the water, on the shuttle, or on the deck comparing notes with other guests. The camp is also the base for the island's surf community, so you'll likely be sharing waves with locals.

What's included

- On-site accommodation at Jamnesia surf camp (room type to be confirmed with camp) - Access to the camp's surf shuttle to local breaks (US $5 per trip) - Option to book surf lessons and personalised coaching (US $30 per lesson) - Discounted board rental for guests staying at the camp (US 0 per day) - Access to the camp's communal areas and board quiver - Opportunity to book Surfari day trips (additional cost) - Surf photography by Billy Wilmot available for purchase (US 0 first image, US each additional)

What's not included

- International and domestic flights - Travel insurance - Airport transfers - Meals (unless confirmed by the camp) - Surf lessons and coaching (US $30 per lesson) - Surfari day trips (price varies by distance) - Surf shuttle (US $5 per trip for local breaks) - Board rentals for non-resident guests (US $20 per day) - Surf photography (US 0 first image, US each additional) - Personal expenses and tips