Kala Surf Camp - Surf Levels

The surf levels progress from beginner to advanced, with goals such as mastering pop-ups and bottom turns for beginners, positioning and top turns for intermediates, and advanced maneuvers like airs and snaps for experts.

Book a surf lesson

Surf Levels

Which Surf Level Am I?

Not sure about your surf level? We’ve got you covered.
No matter where you’re at in your surf journey, we’ll match you with the right waves. Each day, we choose the best surf spots based on conditions and skill levels, ensuring the perfect setup to progress. With guidance from our ISA-certified coaches, you’ll build confidence, refine your technique, and improve at your own pace.

Check out the breakdowns below to find your level or if you're unsure, reach out to our team, and we’ll help you get started!

Surf Lessons - Kala Surf Camp

Surf School

First Timer Surfers (whitewash)

Perfect for the ones surfing the first time or those needing a refresher, this level focuses on the basics like balance, paddling, and timing. You’ll start on a soft-top board, riding whitewash waves with hands-on support from our coaches to build confidence and develop a solid foundation in just 3 days.

If this sounds like you, the Surf School Package is likely your best choice.

Is this level for me?

I am new to surfing or surfed a few times

I surf in the whitewash (broken waves) only

I need help with a push to catch waves

I am still learning how to pop up and balance

I am practicing paddling but do not paddle out to the lineup

Surf Lessons - Kala Surf Camp

LEVEL 1

Beginners (small green waves)

You’ll paddle out on a soft-top board and start catching small green waves. With growing confidence, you’ll practice taking off on your own while coaches provide guidance and occasional support to refine your positioning and technique. As you progress, you’ll start preparing for Level 2 transitioning to a hard-top board, learning to change direction, and beginning basic turns on the wave.

If this sounds like you, the Surf School Package is likely your best choice.

Is this level for me?

I can ride small green waves straight and slightly angle my board

I am learning to paddle out to the lineup

I am able to do a Turtle roll

I still need a push to catch green waves

I start to understand positioning & timing

Kala Surf Camp - Surf Guiding

LEVEL 2

Beginner-Intermediates

Now on a hardboard, you’re confidently paddling out and catching small to medium green waves on your own. At this stage, the focus is on refining technique, improving wave navigation, and learning to maneuver and turn with more control. Coaches provide guidance as needed, helping you build confidence in different wave conditions.

If this sounds like you, the Surf School Package is likely your best choice.

Is this level for me?

I use a long hardboard

I paddle out to the lineup confidently

I still need occasional coach assistance to catch waves

I can take off on small-medium green waves and angle my board

I can turn and ride along the wave face

LEVEL 3

Intermediate

At this level, surfers are riding hardboards that are below 7'0. Surfers are now able to catch larger green waves and are refining their skills for making turns, trimming the wave, and positioning themselves for more advanced maneuvers. The goal here is to improve confidence and control in bigger waves while learning how to read the surf for better wave selection. Coaches only step in when absolutely necessary, and the surfer is expected to handle most situations on their own.

If this sounds like you, the Guided Surf Package is likely your best choice.

Is this level for me?

I ride a smaller board (under 7’0) confidently

I can paddle out with duckdive and position myself in the lineup without help

I catch waves independently without coach assistance

I can perform bottom turns and trim along the wave face

I understand wave selection and can choose the right waves to catch

Surf Lessons - Kala Surf Camp

LEVEL 4

Advanced (Shortboards Only)

This level is for surfers riding shortboards (under 6'1) and targeting bigger green waves, looking to push their limits with advanced techniques. Surfers at this stage are focused on mastering maneuvers like carving, cutbacks, and barreling. They have a strong understanding of the wave dynamics and are skilled at positioning themselves to catch powerful waves. Coaches provide minimal intervention as surfers at this level rely on their expertise and experience to handle challenging conditions and continue progressing.

If this sounds like you, the Guided Surf Package is likely your best choice.

Is this level for me?

I ride a shortboard in various wave conditions

I am able to do a duckdive

I can confidently catch waves in different surf spots

I perform advanced maneuvers (cutbacks, top turns, etc.).

I read waves well and position myself correctly

I surf in more challenging conditions with confidence

What is the difference between Surf Coaching and Surf Guiding?

Surf Coaching (Surf School - Level 2): 

Surf Coaching focuses on improving your surfing skills through personalized instruction and feedback. Here’s what it typically involves:

‍Beginner-Friendly Lessons: Coaches provide easy-to-follow instructions designed for first-time surfers. They start with basics like how to paddle, balance, and catch your first waves.

‍Skill Building: They focus on fundamental techniques such as standing up on the board, timing your take-offs, and riding small waves. In places like Uluwatu, they might start with safer, beginner-friendly areas.

‍Supportive Feedback: Coaches give clear, supportive feedback to help you understand what you’re doing well and what to improve.

‍Safety and Confidence: They teach essential safety tips and build your confidence in the water, ensuring you feel comfortable and secure.

‍Progress Tracking: Coaches help set simple goals and track your progress, adjusting your lessons as you improve.

Kala Surf Camp - Surf Coaching
Tagline

Surf Guiding (Level 3 & 4):

Surf Guiding helps you have the best surf experience by using local knowledge and expertise. Here’s what it involves:

‍Advanced Spot Knowledge: Guides provide insights into the best surf spots and conditions, including challenging waves and hidden breaks. In Uluwatu, they can direct you to the most suitable reef sections based on your skill level.

‍Performance Enhancement: They help you find the best waves for your abilities and suggest techniques to tackle more complex maneuvers and challenging conditions.

‍Safety and Navigation: Guides ensure you navigate tricky spots safely, offering tips on handling powerful waves and avoiding hazards.

Local Insights: They provide information on local surf spots, peak times, and conditions, helping you make the most of your sessions.

‍Logistical Support: Guides assist with practical details like transportation and equipment arrangements to ensure a smooth surf experience.

Kala Surf Camp - Surf Guiding
Kala Surf Logo
Follow us
Packages & PricesServicesActivities & ToursSurfFAQBlogRestaurantAbout usContact us
Copyright © Kala Surf Camp All rights reserved
KALA Surf Camp is a division of Pt Kala Management Service a daughter of Kala Management Service Ltd
Privacy PolicyGDPRTerms & Conditions
Web design by
KeKu Design