Goa Surf School , Arambol

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Address - Khalchawada, Arambol, Pernem, North Goa, Goa 403524

🕒open - 7:30 am

🕙Closed - 6:00 pm

🔖Entry Ticket Required

Address - Khalchawada, Arambol, Pernem, North Goa, Goa 403524

🕒open - 7:30 am

🕙Closed - 6:00 pm

🔖Entry Ticket Required

Summary

Goa Surf School, established in the mid-2010s in Arambol, is a leading hub for surfing, paddleboarding, and ocean education in North Goa. Founded by Vincent Mascarenhas, it blends eco-conscious travel, local culture, and surf wellness, helping redefine Goa’s image through sustainable coastal tourism and community-driven adventure.

Location

  • Khalchawada, Arambol, Pernem, North Goa, Goa 403524

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Full Story 

Goa Surf School, located in Khalchawada, Arambol, has established itself as a prominent institution for surfing and water sports in North Goa. Its history is closely tied to the passion and vision of its founder, and its growth reflects the increasing popularity of surfing in India.

Here’s a detailed historical history of Goa Surf School:


1. Origin & Founding

  • Goa Surf School was founded in the mid-to-late 2010s, most likely between 2015–2017, in Arambol, North Goa.

  • It was founded by Vincent Mascarenhas, a passionate Goan surfer and instructor, who wanted to introduce structured surf training in North Goa.

  • At the time, surfing was not widely popular in Goa. Arambol was mainly known for its hippie crowd and yoga culture.

  • Vincent recognized the potential of Goa’s waves for surf education and set out to build a surf school with safety, culture, and lifestyle values.


2. Early Mission and Purpose

  • The goal was to teach surfing responsibly, combining it with ocean safety, yoga, and eco-awareness.

  • Goa Surf School was created not just as a business, but as a platform for building a local surf community.

  • It aimed to engage locals and foreigners alike, breaking the myth that surfing was only for Western tourists.


3. Growth and Activities

  • After its launch, the school began offering:

    • Beginner & advanced surfing lessons

    • Stand-up paddleboarding

    • Ocean safety training

    • Yoga-surf retreats

  • It quickly gained popularity for its friendly environment, personal coaching, and professional guidance.

  • Tourists, backpackers, and even Indian travelers began signing up, making it one of the first professional surf schools in North Goa.


4. Community and Environmental Role

  • The school has contributed to:

    • Local employment by training young Goans as surf instructors

    • Beach clean-up drives

    • Cultural exchange through community surf jams and events

  • Its philosophy centers on respect for nature, inclusivity, and slow, mindful travel.


5. Recognition and Legacy

  • Goa Surf School has been featured in:

    • Travel blogs

    • Social media by influencers

    • Surf documentaries focused on India

  • It’s now considered a pillar of Goa’s alternative tourism scene, especially in Arambol.


Conclusion

Goa Surf School is more than just a place to learn surfing — it’s a movement that shaped the rise of surf culture in North Goa.
Founded in the mid-2010s by Vincent Mascarenhas, it blended sport, spirituality, and sustainability in a way few others did.
Today, it stands as a symbol of community-driven tourism, eco-conscious adventure, and Goa’s evolving identity beyond just nightlife and beaches.

Opening time
  • Open: Monday to Sunday

  • Timings: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Best time to visit
  • Morning (7:30–10:00 AM) are perfect for surfing with calmer waters and fewer people.

  • Late afternoons (4:00 PM to 5:30 PM) also offer good conditions before the beach gets crowded or the sun sets.

  • Avoid Midday (11:30 AM – 3:30 PM) due to strong sun and fatigue risk

Best day to visit
  • Weekdays (Monday to Thursday)
    Weekdays offer a less crowded, peaceful beach atmosphere with more personal attention from instructors, ideal for focused surfing lessons.

  • Avoid Weekends (Saturday & Sunday)
    Weekends bring higher tourist footfall, often causing fully booked or shared surf lessons with more noise, distractions, and longer wait times.

Best month/season to visit
  • Best Season: Winter (November to March) – The ideal time to visit for surfing and beach activities is during Goa’s dry and pleasant season.

  • Best Months: December to February – Clear skies, calm sea conditions, and ideal wave size for beginners and intermediates.

  • Avoid: Monsoon (June to September) – High tides, rough sea, and most water activities including surf schools remain closed.

National Emergency Number( sos )112
Place helping / contact no.Tourism Department of Goa:

Contact details for surf schools in Arambol:

Significance
  • Pioneered surfing culture in North Goa

  • Promotes eco-friendly and wellness tourism

  • Supports local employment and training

  • Builds global surf and travel community

  • Enhances Arambol’s image as an offbeat, conscious beach destination

Type of PlaceSurf Academy / Surf School , paddleboarding , Adventure , Water Sports Center , Eco-Tourism Spot.
Built ByGoa Surf School was founded and built by Vincent Mascarenhas, a passionate local surfer and certified instructor from Goa.
Year of Construction

mid-to-late 2010

Public washroomAvailable Nearby
Canteen / RestaurantThere are some popular and well-reviewed dining options near Goa Surf School.
ParkingAvailable nearby
Busiest day
  • Weekends (Saturday and Sunday):

    • High footfall from domestic tourists and international backpackers

    • Surf lessons often fully booked or shared

    • Increased activity at nearby cafés and the beach area

Local language
  • Konkani: Primary local language spoken by the majority of Goans.

  • English: Widely understood and used, especially in churches, tourism, and official communication.

  • Portuguese: Some older locals and religious texts still retain Portuguese influence.

  • Hindi & Marathi: Also commonly spoken and understood in the region.

Nearby accommodationAvailable nearby
Spread over area

Goa Surf School is a small, privately run training center rather than a large physical campus. It is:

  • Spread over a compact beachfront setup, typically covering 1,000–2,000 sq. ft near the Khalchawada stretch of Arambol Beach.

  • The area includes:

    • A surfboard storage and rental shack

    • An open training space on the sand

    • Access to the sea-facing practice zone for surfing lessons

  • Additional support like changing rooms or resting spaces are usually offered by nearby cafés or partner shacks.

  • Note: Goa Surf School utilizes the natural coastline and open beach area for most of its training, making it more of a mobile and beach-integrated setup than a fixed campus.

 

Ticket fee details for Goa Surf School: 

Goa Surf School does not charge a general entry fee, but offers paid sessions and rentals based on activity type. Below is a breakdown of typical fees:

Activity / ServiceDurationEstimated Fee (₹)Inclusions
Beginner Surf Lesson1.5 – 2 hours₹1,500 – ₹2,000Surfboard, wetsuit, instructor, safety briefing
Intermediate Surf Lesson2 hours₹2,000 – ₹2,500Coaching on wave catching, turning, safety
Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP)1 – 1.5 hours₹1,200 – ₹1,800Board rental, instructor, life jacket
Surfboard Rental (Solo)Per hour₹300 – ₹500Basic surfboard or foamboard
Day Surfboard Rental4–6 hours₹800 – ₹1,200Full-day use
Group Surf Lesson1.5 hours₹1,000 – ₹1,400 per personShared instructor, boards included
Yoga + Surf Combo Session3 hours total₹2,000 – ₹2,8001 hr yoga + 2 hr surf; instructor + gear included

Notes:

  • Prices may vary slightly between seasons or based on group/private preference.

  • Discounts often available for multi-day packages or group bookings.

  • No entry charge to visit the school or beach zone; you pay only for booked sessions.

  • Payment accepted via cash, UPI, or card.

Things to Do at Goa Surf School: 

  1. Surfing Lessons – Learn to surf with certified instructors; beginner to advanced levels available.

  2. Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) – Enjoy calm water paddling sessions ideal for balance and core strength.

  3. Ocean Awareness Training – Learn about wave behavior, surf safety, and beach conditions.

  4. Yoga & Surf Retreats – Join surf-yoga combo sessions blending physical and spiritual well-being.

  5. Board Rentals – Rent surfboards, bodyboards, and SUP boards for self-practice.

  6. Group Surf Camps – Join seasonal camps for group learning and fun sea activities.

  7. Sunset Watching & Beach Relaxation – Chill post-surf with stunning Arambol sunsets.

  8. Meet Global Travelers – Connect with surfers and travelers from around the world.

Travel Tips: 

  1. Book in Advance – Surf sessions fill up quickly, especially in peak season (Dec–Feb).

  2. Arrive Early – Morning waves (7:30–10:30 AM) are ideal for beginners with calmer conditions.

  3. Wear Comfortable Swim Gear – Rash guards or snug-fitting swimwear help avoid rashes from the board.

  4. Stay Nearby – Choose a guesthouse or hostel within walking distance for convenience and flexibility.

  5. Carry Essentials – Bring sunscreen, water bottle, towel, and extra clothes for after your session.

  6. Avoid Alcohol Before Surfing – For safety, stay hydrated and clear-headed.

  7. Use Waterproof Bags – Protect your phone, wallet, and valuables during beach activities.

  8. Be Respectful – Follow instructions, respect the sea, and avoid littering the beach area.

  9. Check Conditions – Surf conditions change daily; check tides and weather before heading out.

  10. Engage Locally – Enjoy Arambol’s cafés, yoga centers, and drum circles post-surf for a full cultural experience.



How to Reach: 

By Air (Nearest Airport)

  • Manohar International Airport (Mopa) – Approx. 27 km from Arambol

  • Dabolim Airport (GOI) – Approx. 60 km away

  • From the airport, hire a prepaid taxi, GoaMiles cab, or rent a scooter to reach Arambol Beach.

By Train (Nearest Railway Station)

  • Pernem Railway Station – Closest station, about 17 km from Arambol

  • Thivim Railway Station – Second best option, approx. 28 km away

  • How to Continue: Take a local taxi, auto-rickshaw, or rent a scooter from the station.

By Road

  • Well connected via NH-66 to Mapusa, Panaji, and other parts of Goa.

  • You can self-drive, book a cab, or take private buses heading to Arambol from cities like:

    • Mapusa (20 km)

    • Panaji (35 km)

    • Calangute (30 km)

By Local Transport

  • Scooter Rentals: Easily available in Calangute, Morjim, or Mapusa (₹300–₹500/day)

  • Auto-rickshaws & Taxis: Available in Mapusa and nearby towns

  • Local Buses: Limited frequency; take a bus to Pernem or Mapusa, then a connecting rickshaw to Arambol

Final Stretch

  • Once in Arambol, head to the northern end of Arambol Beach, near Khalchawada road.

  • Goa Surf School is located just off the beach trail, walkable from the beach entrance.

1. Minimum Traveling Budget 

This budget is ideal for backpackers or solo travelers who prioritize essentials.

CategoryEstimated Cost (₹)Details
Transport₹200 – ₹400Scooter rental (₹300/day) or local bus/auto (₹100–₹200)
Surf Lesson₹1,5001 beginner group session (1.5 to 2 hours)
Food & Water₹300 – ₹4002 simple meals + bottled water
Stay (Budget)₹500 – ₹800Dorm or guesthouse in Arambol
Miscellaneous₹100 – ₹200Sunscreen, snacks, beach mat, etc.

Total Estimated Budget (Minimum): ₹2,600 – ₹3,300 Per Person Per Day



2. Medium Traveling Budget 

Ideal for couples, families, or comfortable solo travelers seeking balanced comfort and convenience.

CategoryEstimated Cost (₹)Details
Transport₹400 – ₹700Scooter with fuel / Private taxi for short distances
Surf Lesson₹2,000 – ₹2,500Intermediate or private lesson with personalized coaching
Food & Water₹600 – ₹800Meals at beach cafés or mid-range restaurants
Stay (Comfort)₹1,200 – ₹1,800Private room in a boutique guesthouse or beachside hut
Miscellaneous₹300 – ₹400Souvenirs, beverages, Wi-Fi, sunscreen, etc.

Total Estimated Budget (Medium): ₹4,500 – ₹6,200 Per Person Per Day



3. Large Traveling Budget 

Perfect for Luxury Experience who prefer high-end accommodations, private transport, and fine dining.

CategoryEstimated Cost (₹)Details
Transport₹800 – ₹1,200Private AC cab, full-day hire, or premium two-wheeler with fuel
Surf Lesson₹2,500 – ₹3,500Private surf coaching or multi-day package
Food & Water₹1,000 – ₹1,500Dine at beachside restaurants, health cafés, or seafood grills
Stay (Luxury)₹2,500 – ₹4,500Boutique resort, beachfront villa, or high-end wellness retreat
Miscellaneous₹500 – ₹800Spa, yoga classes, surf gear shopping, and local experiences

Total Estimated Budget (Large): ₹7,300 – ₹11,500 Per Person Per Day

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