Surfboard Purchase Guide in El Nido: Types, Local Shops & Custom Shaping Options

Surfboard Purchase Guide in El Nido: Types, Local Shops & Custom Shaping Options

Dreaming of epic surf sessions in El Nido, Palawan? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner, having the right surfboard is crucial for maximizing your fun. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about buying or getting a board in El Nido, from understanding different types to finding the best local shops and even exploring custom shaping options.

Who is this guide for?

This guide is for anyone planning a surf trip to El Nido. This includes:

• Beginners: New to surfing and unsure what board to choose.
• Intermediate Surfers: Looking to upgrade their equipment for the El Nido waves.
• Experienced Surfers: Considering a custom board or needing a travel-friendly option.
• Anyone wanting to support local businesses in El Nido.

Need Instant Advice? Use Our AI Surfboard Selector!

Finding the perfect board can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created an AI-powered chatbot to help! Simply tell the chatbot about your surfing experience and the type of waves you prefer (e.g., “small beach breaks,” “powerful reef breaks”), and it will recommend the best board type and suggest local shops where you can find it. It can also provide quick comparisons between shortboards and longboards. You’ll find the chatbot integrated at the end of this article – give it a try!

Understanding Surfboard Types

El Nido offers a variety of surf conditions, so choosing the right board is key. Here’s a breakdown of common types:

• Shortboards: Ideal for experienced surfers tackling steeper, faster waves. They offer maneuverability but require more skill.
• Longboards: Perfect for beginners and those who enjoy cruising and smaller waves. They provide stability and are easier to paddle.
• Funboards: A great middle ground, offering a balance of stability and maneuverability. Suitable for intermediate surfers.
• Fish Boards: Increasingly popular in El Nido, especially for reef breaks. They’re compact, responsive, and excel in a range of conditions. In fact, the 2025 trend points towards compact fish boards being the go-to choice for many El Nido surfers!

Where to Buy or Rent in El Nido

El Nido has a growing surf scene, with a couple of excellent local shops to choose from:

• El Nido Surf School: Offers a range of new boards starting from around ₱18,000. They also provide surf lessons and rentals. A great all-in-one option for beginners.
• Bamboo Waves: Another popular choice, offering new boards from ₱18,000 and a selection of used boards. They’re known for their friendly service and local knowledge.

The Appeal of Custom Shaping

Want a board tailored specifically to your needs and the El Nido waves? Custom shaping is the way to go! Both El Nido Surf School and Bamboo Waves offer custom shaping services. Expect to pay around €250+ depending on the board’s complexity and materials.

• Why choose custom? You can specify the length, width, thickness, rocker, and fin setup to perfectly match your surfing style and the local conditions.
• Considerations: Custom shaping takes time (usually a few weeks), so plan accordingly.

Life Hacks for Surfers in El Nido

• Reef Booties: Highly recommended! El Nido’s beautiful waves often break over coral reefs. Reef booties protect your feet.
• Board Bags: Essential for protecting your board during transport, especially if you’re island hopping.
• Sun Protection: The Palawan sun is strong. Wear a rash guard, sunscreen, and a hat.
• Respect the Locals: Be mindful of local surfers and follow surf etiquette.
• Check the Surf Report: Stay updated on wave conditions before heading out. Many local shops and tour operators provide daily reports.

How Local Shops Enhance Your Tour Experience

Buying or renting from local shops like El Nido Surf School and Bamboo Waves isn’t just about getting a board. It’s about supporting the local economy and tapping into valuable local knowledge. They can provide:

• Wave Spot Recommendations: They know the best spots for your skill level.
• Local Surf Culture Insights: Learn about the best times to surf and the local vibe.
• Tour Connections: They often collaborate with tour operators, potentially unlocking exclusive surf trips.

Practical Recommendations

• Beginners: Start with a longboard or funboard. Take lessons from El Nido Surf School.
• Intermediate Surfers: Consider a fish board or a funboard. Explore custom shaping for a personalized experience.
• Experienced Surfers: A shortboard or fish board will likely suit your needs. Don’t hesitate to explore custom options to maximize performance.
• Travelers: If you’re flying, consider a durable travel-ready board or renting locally.

Ready to find your perfect board? Let our AI Surfboard Selector help! Just scroll down and start chatting.

telegram:@ElnidoRent Whatsapp:639988866550 Phone: +63282487369