Have you ever wondered what it’s like to combine your passion for content creation with surfing, adventure, and meeting people from all over the world? Hi, I’m Amber! Two years ago, I arrived at Surf Lodge South Africa as a Content Creator Volunteer, expecting to stay for just seven weeks. Fast forward to today… I’m still here. Safe to say this place had a bigger impact on me than I ever imagined. So, who better to tell you what it’s really like? In this blog, I’ll take you behind the scenes of life as a Content Creator Volunteer at Surf Lodge SA. From sunrise surf sessions and golden-hour shoots to community dinners and unforgettable adventures, every day brings new stories to capture. Whether you’re a photographer, videographer, drone pilot, or social media creator, this might just be the creative adventure you’ve been looking for.
Just after graduating, I knew one thing for sure: I wanted to travel.
The only problem? I had no idea where to go. I’d never travelled solo for such a long period before, and taking that first step felt both exciting and a little intimidating.
A few months earlier, I had joined one of Rachel’s RAJOS surf camps at Surf Lodge South Africa. It was honestly one of the best trips I’d ever been on. I completely fell in love with surfing and Jeffreys Bay.
Then, one day, I saw a post from Rachel and Surf Lodge SA saying they were looking for a Content Creator Volunteer for the upcoming camps. It felt like the perfect opportunity. A month later, I was sitting on a plane to South Africa.
Looking back, I had no idea that saying “yes” to that opportunity would completely change my life. What started as a seven-week volunteer experience became the beginning of my solo travel journey, lifelong friendships, and a career I never expected.
Most importantly, it gave me the chance to combine my two biggest passions: photography and surfing.
After my time at the lodge, I continued traveling and exploring new places, Jbay always had a special place in my heart, oh and maybe I fell in love with someone as well, oops. Now, after my own adventures, I’m back in Jeffreys Bay and working as the lodge’s Marketing Manager.
The best part? I get to work with content creators from all over the world who come here to share their own experiences.
It’s pretty special to go from being the person who once arrived here with a camera and a dream, to now welcoming and supporting other travelers with the same dreams.
Hard edition
6AM – Wake up and go with the group to the surf school
7AM – Create content during sunrise lesson
9AM – Breakfast @Lodge with the guests
11AM – Create content with surf skate lesson
1PM – Lunch in town
4PM – Join a surf skate lesson
6PM – Dinner at the Lodge
7PM – Shooting content during sunset with the guests
9PM – Edit photos + create tomorrow’s schedule
Easy edition
7AM – Sunrise shoot with guests
8AM – Breakfast with the guests
9AM – Join the surf lesson
11AM – Lunch in town
1PM – Going on safari with your camera
9PM – Create planning for tomorrow
As a Content Creator Volunteer, your main goal is to capture the feeling of Surf Lodge SA. The people, the waves, the adventures, and all the little moments in between.
During your time with us, you’ll create content such as:
📸 Lifestyle photography — capturing the people, atmosphere, and everyday moments at the lodge
🎥 Instagram Posts, Reels & TikToks — showing the real Surf Lodge SA experience
🌊 Surf action & in-water photography — capturing the magic of surfing from the ocean (experience with in-water photography is a big plus!)
🚁 Drone footage — showcasing the waves, coastline, and surroundings from above
🎤 Guest interviews & stories — sharing the journeys and experiences of our guests
🎬 Behind-the-scenes content — giving people a glimpse into life at the lodge
We do ask that you bring your own creative gear (camera, lenses, etc.) where possible. However, we usually have access to a drone and/or GoPro at the lodge that you may be able to use during your stay.
Being a Content Creator Volunteer at Surf Lodge SA is about much more than just creating content. It’s about becoming part of our community, experiencing life in Jeffreys Bay, and creating memories along the way.
During your stay, we’ll provide you with everything you need to feel at home and make the most of your South African adventure:
🏡 Your own private room & bathroom
You’ll have your own room and bathroom during your stay (shared only with other volunteers if applicable).
🌊 A safe and beautiful lodge to call home
Stay at our secure surf lodge with a swimming pool, relaxed common areas, and even our own private beach access.
☕ Breakfast every morning
Start your days with a good breakfast before heading out for surf sessions, adventures, or content creation.
🏄 Surf lessons
Whether you’re catching your first wave or improving your skills, you’ll get to join our surf lessons and experience the magic of surfing in Jeffreys Bay.
🌊 Surfboard & wetsuit
No need to bring your own surf equipment, we’ll provide boards and wetsuits so you can make the most of the ocean.
✨ Lodge activities
From beach days and hikes to exploring the area and enjoying sunset moments together, you’ll have the chance to join in on the experiences that make lodge life so special.
🤍 New friendships & an amazing team
One of the best parts of Surf Lodge SA is the people. You’ll become part of a welcoming community of guests, volunteers, and our team, many of whom leave as lifelong friends.
🇿🇦 An unforgettable experience in one of the world’s best surf destinations
Live, create, surf, and explore in Jeffreys Bay, a place known for its incredible waves, beautiful coastline, and laid-back South African lifestyle.
We don’t just want you to create content about Surf Lodge SA, we want you to experience it.
If you’re passionate about photography, videography, storytelling, social media, surfing, and adventure, I would love to hear from you.
Becoming a Content Creator Volunteer at Surf Lodge SA changed my life, and I can’t wait to welcome the next person who gets to experience this incredible adventure.
If you feel like this could be you, send us your portfolio, social media links, and a little introduction about yourself to:
volunteer@surflodgesouthafrica.co.za
I can’t wait to meet you and hopefully share some waves, sunsets, and unforgettable memories together!
See you in J-Bay?
FAQ
Do I need professional gear?
Ideally yes, but we may have access to a GoPro and drone.
Do I need to be a professional surfer?
No! Everyone is welcome.
Can I travel solo?
Absolutely. Most of our volunteers do.
How long is the stay?
Usually one to three months, depending on availability.
What if I have never been to South Africa?
That’s exactly why you’re here, to experience it
