Sal SurfCamp & School once had an excellent reputation for its friendly atmosphere and close-knit team, but recent reviews point to disorganisation and reliability issues. It may work if everything aligns, but today it raises genuine doubts.
When you’re not sure if you arrived too late
There are places people already talk about in the past, even though they still appear on maps. You arrive with good reviews in mind, ready to surf, and quickly notice something off: unanswered calls, unclear schedules, people unsure about what’s happening today.
With Sal SurfCamp & School, that confusion shows up early in several recent experiences.
What it was… and what it seems to be now
For years, this school had a very strong reputation. A family-like atmosphere, approachable instructors, and special care for beginners, children, and anyone nervous in the water. Kukuka appears repeatedly in older reviews as the heart of the project: positive energy, human warmth, and a no-stress approach that fit Sal perfectly.
The issue is that more recent reviews tell a different story. Some travellers say the school no longer exists, or that while the name is still active, operations feel erratic.
What worked when it worked
When everything was running smoothly, the experience was highly valued. Dynamic lessons, motivating instructors, fast progress, and trips to different surf spots around the island. Many people describe feeling at home, with a near-family vibe including barbecues, snorkelling, and shared plans beyond surfing.
For absolute beginners, children, or insecure surfers, it seemed like a particularly kind environment.
This wasn’t just about surfing. It was about feeling comfortable.
Where the problems begin
The negative reviews focus on the same issue: poor organisation. Lack of clear information, schedules that change or aren’t confirmed, booked activities that don’t happen, old or unsuitable equipment, and lessons shorter than promised.
Some accounts go further, mentioning cancellations without notice, weak excuses, and refusals to refund money. It’s not an isolated complaint — the pattern repeats often enough to raise doubts.
Who it might work for… and who it won’t
If everything is running properly, this kind of school can suit those looking for a relaxed, human approach without pressure or technical overload.
But if you value reliability, punctuality, and clear booking processes, there are too many warning signs in recent times.
An ending worth reading carefully
Sal SurfCamp & School feels like one of those projects that left great memories… but now raises real questions. Not because the spirit was wrong, but because the execution is no longer consistent.
Maybe it was a great school.
Maybe it still is, on certain days.
But right now, coming here means hoping everything lines up that day.
