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Jamnesia Surf Club

Jamnesia Surf Club

Welcome to Jamaica’s first and only surf camp. Jamnesia Surf Camp was established by the Wilmots – Jamaica’s first surfing family – to provide a home to groom new surfers and help with the development of surfing through surf related events. Jamnesia caters to travelling surfers by providing affordable accommodations and everything surfing. Plus we are

Bull Bay Jamaica Saint Andrew
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Surf Camps in Saint Andrew

Saint Andrew, Jamaica, offers a unique surfing experience with its vibrant local scene and consistent windswells. Home to the legendary Jamnesia Surf Camp, it's the perfect place to catch some Caribbean waves and soak up the island vibes.

The Heart of Jamaican Surfing

Saint Andrew parish is the epicenter of the Jamaican surfing scene. While Jamaica might be more famous for reggae and jerk chicken, a dedicated and passionate surf culture has been growing here for decades, centered around the area of Bull Bay. This is where you'll find the legendary Jamnesia Surf Camp, run by the Wilmot family, who are pioneers of surfing in Jamaica. The vibe is incredibly welcoming, and you'll find a mix of locals and travelers sharing the waves.

Waves and Breaks

The surf in Saint Andrew is primarily generated by the northeast trade winds, creating consistent windswells. While you won't find the same groundswell as in other Caribbean hotspots, there's still plenty of fun to be had.

  • Bull Bay/Copa Bay: This is the main event. A right-hand reef break can produce some hollow, high-quality waves. There are also a number of other peaks along the beach, offering a variety of options.
  • Lighthouse: Located near the airport, this spot is consistent but can be a bit unruly. It can offer some clean left and right reef breaks, but also some mushy conditions.
  • Makka: Further east, Makka is known for its consistency and is home to the Makka Pro, Jamaica's premier surf competition. When it's on, you can find some excellent barreling right-handers.

Best Time to Go

The trade winds blow year-round, but the best time to surf in Saint Andrew is during the spring (March-May) and in September. During these months, the winds are not as strong as in the peak of summer, resulting in cleaner conditions. The winter months (December-March) can also see some good swells.

Who is it for?

Saint Andrew is a great destination for surfers of all levels. Beginners will find plenty of mellow waves to learn on, especially around Bull Bay. Intermediate and advanced surfers will enjoy the challenge of the reef breaks and the more powerful waves at Makka. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place for anyone looking to experience a unique and vibrant surf culture.

What Makes It Unique?

Surfing in Saint Andrew is about more than just the waves. It's about the people, the music, and the culture. It's about sharing a Red Stripe with a local after a session, and falling asleep to the sounds of the Caribbean. It's an experience you won't find anywhere else.

The best time to surf in Saint Andrew is during the winter months, from November to April, when the north swells bring consistent waves. The summer months, from May to August, also offer rideable surf thanks to the trade winds, with the calmest conditions typically found in the mornings. Hurricane season, from June to November, can also occasionally produce large swells, but it's a less predictable time to plan a trip.

Saint Andrew is a fantastic destination for surfers of all skill levels. Beginners will find gentle, rolling waves at spots like Bull Bay, which is home to the famous Jamnesia Surf Camp. For more experienced surfers, the area offers a variety of reef breaks that can produce more challenging waves, especially during the winter swell season.

Jamaica is blessed with warm, tropical water year-round. The water temperature in Saint Andrew typically ranges from 26-29°C (79-84°F). You can comfortably surf in boardshorts or a bikini all year long, although a rash guard is recommended for sun protection.

Besides your surfboard (or you can rent one locally), you'll want to pack light, breathable clothing for the warm, humid climate. Essentials include swimwear, a rash guard, plenty of high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. It's also a good idea to bring insect repellent, especially for the evenings. For a more detailed list, check out our packing guide for a surf trip to Central America.

Saint Andrew is part of the Kingston Metropolitan Area, so you'll have access to a vibrant mix of Jamaican culture. The local food is a must-try, with famous dishes like jerk chicken, ackee and saltfish, and patties. The surf scene in Bull Bay is deeply connected to the local Rastafarian culture, creating a unique and welcoming atmosphere. For more on Jamaican cuisine, see our guide to Jamaican food.

A surf trip to Saint Andrew can be relatively affordable. A bed in a dorm at a surf camp might cost around $30-50 USD per night, while private rooms can range from $60-100. A meal at a local restaurant will typically cost between $5-15 USD. Surfboard rentals are usually around $20-30 USD per day. For a more detailed breakdown, see our Jamaica budget guide.

Like any major metropolitan area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings in Saint Andrew. The Bull Bay area, where the main surf spots are located, is generally considered safe, especially around the surf camps. However, it's always a good idea to take precautions like not leaving valuables unattended on the beach and avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. For more safety tips, check out our guide to staying safe in Jamaica.

When you're not surfing, there's plenty to see and do in and around Saint Andrew. You can visit the Bob Marley Museum in Kingston, hike in the beautiful Blue Mountains, or explore the historic town of Port Royal. For a taste of the local music scene, there are always reggae shows and sound system parties happening in Kingston. For more ideas, see our guide to attractions in and around Saint Andrew.

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