Surf, Stay, Savor! Exploring Varkala with Paddle Cult
Updated: Mar 12
I didn't start surfing because I expected it to be my career. It was something I just had a good time doing. But once I started, I couldn't stop. Nothing compared to the thrill of riding waves. - Kelly Slater (11 times World Surf League Champion)
Are you a water baby or an adventure enthusiast who loves that adrenaline rush? Either way you are going to love this one sport that is not so common in India. Yes, surfing!
Riding the waves in style is nothing less than dreamy and an unusual way of meditating and getting to know your inner self. While there are multiple destinations all over India to surf, with Mulki topping the chart and Goa and Pondicherry making to the same list but this one place that has my heart has to be Varkala.
And I seem to have found my surfing, staying and eating haven all in one in Varkala, Paddle Cult. In this blog, I am going to take you through all the whats, hows and whys of surfing and some of the best recommendations for your next surfing vacation all of which I experienced firsthand.
A brief of blog contents
Discovering Varkala: Beach with a Cliff
Varkala's beauty lies in the harmonious blend of natural elements – the cliffs, the sea, the beaches, and the cultural richness – creating a destination that is both visually stunning and spiritually enriching.
It is known for its stunning cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. The beach in Varkala is characterized by a rocky coastline with cliffs and the waves can vary in size and intensity. Click here to know more about Varkala and experience this beauty through my words in this blog.
The waves in Varkala are a dynamic canvas, varying in size and intensity, providing an exhilarating experience for surf enthusiasts. Whether you are a rookie or a pro surfer or are you just transitioning from the wipeout (Wipeout is a classic term used in surfing lingo to imply one being thrown off the board by a wave) zone to mastering cutback (Cutback is when a surfer changes direction with a turn using his/her rails to go back towards the breaking part of the wave), this place beckons with its diverse surf conditions.
Honestly, it doesn’t matter because Varkala’s coastline offers a variety of wave conditions, ranging from small to moderate. This diversity is appealing to surfers of different skill levels, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers. It has seen the development of quite fancy surf schools and infrastructure to support the surfing community.
These surf schools provide equipment rental, lessons, and guidance, making it accessible for beginners to learn and for experienced surfers to enhance their skills. Compared to other popular tourist destinations, Varkala's beaches are relatively uncrowded, offering surfers a more serene and laid-back environment.
So Where in Varkala?
Although there are quite a lot of surf schools offering their services but having seen a few of them, my personal favorite remains Paddle Cult. So, what’s so special about this one?
Well, it’s a whole immersive experience in itself. Paddle Cult offers stays ranging from budget to premium to luxury, depending on your preference. You can choose to stay there, master the art of surfing and gorge on the super yum breakfast they serve in the morning after you have exhausted yourself with the intense surfing session at an affordable price of INR 150 (might vary as per the latest rates).
While most of the schools provide a surfer to coach ratio of 4/5:1, Paddle Cult has a ratio of 3:1 with the founders who are pro surfers themselves coaching the students.
Meet Paddle Cult: More Than Just a Surf School
Paddlecult, located in Varkala, 500 meters from Black Sand Beach, is more than just a surf school. Let's hear from the founders Blacky and Sebin how Paddlecult came into existence:
“We were living in Varkala from so many years but we never really crossed each other until Covid happened and all of us were in our homes, reflecting upon the lives we have lived and what lies ahead and then a lot of retrospection. And that’s when we met each other and saw our visions align and found that one thing that united us - our love for surfing and the idea of spreading this one hell of a sport to the masses.
Our primary focus is to offer fun, safe, and professional surf lessons for all ages and abilities. We understand that surfing is not just a sport but a way of life, and that's why we are dedicated to sharing our passion for the ocean with everyone who comes through our doors.
Our team is led by Blacky , our head surf coach with over 10 years of experience in surf coaching. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, our team will help you to get the most out of your surfing experience.”
So, if this sounds exciting enough to you and you just can’t wait to get out there and ride those damn waves, let me add some more spice to it and share with you my surfing experience with them.
My Experience with Paddle Cult: Riding the Waves
Personally speaking, I am a big fan of adventure sports and I absolutely love to explore everything myself before making any recommendation. So, how did it actually start? I signed up for a 5-day surfing course for beginners to capture the whole essence of this surf school and make an honest recommendation.
You will find that the majority of the surf schools start at 6:30am but Paddle Cult starts at 7:30am. Why? So that the waters are not overcrowded when we start our surfing lessons. Of course, there’s a trade-off with the heat of south India, but starting a little late is one of the best ways to make the most of your beginner surfing voyage.
Typical Day at Paddle Cult:
Before Surfing
Assemble at Paddle Cult at 7:30am (Having your conveyance is preferred but if not make sure that you inform them well in advance so that they can arrange for the commute)
Leave for the Pozhikkara beach which is 15kms (~25 to 30 mins) from Paddle Cult (surfing location may vary depending upon the time of the year you are visiting Varkala and also the weather conditions)
Reach to the site along with your surfboards by 8:00am (And yes, you need to carry your own surfboards from the auto to the beach side (~200m) 🙂)
Change into surfing clothes and apply a lot of sunscreen to protect yourself from that tan 😀 (They provide rash guards too in case you don’t have yours and that’s complimentary, so yayee!)
And from here, it begins! Before you are actually thrown in water there’s a guided stretching session by one of the coaches.
The beginners are trained about the basic surfing etiquettes and techniques while the seasoned ones are made to perfect their infamous popup stance and paddling which is actually an art to master when you have just started surfing
During Surfing
And by 8:30am, you are in the water with your surfboards, struggling to keep up with the crashing waves but trust me it’s so much fun 😂
The session lasts for 1½ hours and I swear you will love every single minute of it
The beginners are advised to remain with the coaches at all times
The first 3 times are just to make an arch while maintaining your balance on the surfboard while the wave carries you all the way to the shore
If you are a beginner, until you learn to stand up on the board and maintain your balance on the board, the coaches will always push you when there’s an incoming wave and will shout ‘popup’ which is actually a cue for you to stand up on the board, maintain balance and ride that freaking wave 😀
If you are not a beginner, the coaches will guide you at all the crucial points, like when to start paddling, when to start paddling faster and finally when to pop up and ride that wave 😀
And after you have fallen off the board 100s of times but exhilarated about finally being able to catch a few waves, it’s time to celebrate that win and head back to the shore
After Surfing
You know what’s a nightmare? Carrying the surfboard back to the auto (remember those 200 meters🙂?) but if you are lucky enough and have another batch of surfers after you then hooray you are saved! 😂
Have a delicious breakfast at Paddle Cult Cafe along with your newly made friends from across the globe.
Beyond Surfing: Stay and Savour!
PADDLE CULT Varkala – not just a surf school, but a thriving ecosystem for surf enthusiasts! Nestled in the heart of Varkala, this unique resort stands out with a stellar 4.1 out of 5 rating, making waves in the accommodations world.
Cozy clean rooms, Green outdoors, Hammocks, Occasional complimentary fresh tender coconut, Phenomenal service, and budget-friendly prices. Do you need any more reasons?
To become a part of this surfing ecosystem, ride the digital wave over to https://paddlecult.com/ and you can use my referral to get an additional discount😁
Planning Your Surfing Adventure?
Here’s a guide to help you plan and make the most of your surfing experience:
Booking a Surfing Course with Paddle Cult
Reservation Procedure: Visit Paddle Cult's official website or WhatsApp them directly to inquire about available courses. Booking can often be done online or through walk-in.
Course Options: Paddle Cult offers a variety of courses catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced surfers. Whether you're looking for a quick lesson or a more immersive experience, they have options to suit your needs.
Cost of Surfing at Paddle Cult
1 session with instructors: INR 1,500
5 sessions with instructors: INR 6,000 (Recommended)
Board rental: INR 500/session (only for experienced surfers)
Paddle Cult Contact Details
Website: https://paddlecult.com/
Phone number: 918156880064
Contact person: Aparna
Packing and Preparing for Your Surfing Trip:
Essential Gear: Pack essentials such as a high-quality rash guard, sunglasses, cap, and waterproof sunscreen. You can read this for more information.
Considerations for Travel: Check the weather for your planned dates. Varkala has a tropical climate, but it's essential to be prepared for any unexpected changes.
Capture the Moments: Bring along a waterproof camera or GoPro to capture your surfing adventures and the stunning coastal scenery. These memories will add an extra layer of joy to your experience.
Is there only Surfing in Varkala?
Of course not! Surfing remains one of the most sought adventure sports when in Varkala, but this is not all this amazing place has in store for you. Check out this list to give a little more boost to that adrenaline in you:
Parasailing: Experience the thrill of soaring high above the Arabian Sea while parasailing. Operators along the beach offer this exhilarating activity, providing panoramic views of the coastline and the cliffs.
Jet Skiing: It is a popular water sport in Varkala, allowing you to speed across the waves and enjoy the adrenaline rush. Rental services are available on the beaches.
Kayaking (Highly Recommended): Explore the backwaters and estuaries near Varkala through kayaking. Paddle through calm waters, mangrove forests, and scenic landscapes, discovering the natural beauty of the region. My suggestion, that you pre book this one so that you save yourself from bumping into that ‘Housefull’ signboard 😀
Fishing Trips: Join local fishermen or book a fishing excursion to experience traditional fishing methods. This provides an adventure and allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Yoga and Ayurveda Retreats: While not traditional adventure sports, Varkala is known for its yoga and Ayurveda retreats. Engage in activities like beachside yoga or indulge in Ayurvedic treatments for a rejuvenating and holistic experience.
Boat Tours: Take a boat tour along the coastline to explore hidden coves, caves, and other scenic spots. Some boat tours also offer opportunities for dolphin watching.
Planning your surfing adventure with Paddle Cult is not just about riding the waves – it's a holistic experience that encompasses learning, growth, and a vibrant coastal lifestyle. Pack your bags, book your course, and get ready for an unforgettable surfing journey in Varkala!
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