About Us
Hayley and Justin Maisch, owners of Pumula Surf Camp are locals who opened up the first surf school in Umzumbe in 2000.
A few years later in 2012 they bought an old fisherman’s cottage in the seaside village of Pumula, lovingly restored it, in a surf, beach style, into what is now Pumula Surf Camp. A homely Surf House, home away from home, where you can come hang out, learn to surf, improve your skills, do some yoga, or just come to get away from it all and have some beach time.
Justin Maisch is part of the legendary South African Surfing Family, The Maisch Family. Justin and his brothers grew up surfing the South Coast, predominantely in the Pumula Area, but have surfed all over the South Coast and South Africa their whole lives. Justin is head coach and a South African Pro Surfer. He has competed both internationally and nationally and still competes in the SA Surfing Champs every year. He has his South African Surfing Colors and wears them proudly.
When you stay at this amazing place you will definitely become one of the family. The passion they all have for surfing, the beach and living the beach life is infectious.
Justin and his family are very involved in the running of their business and this shows. They are professional and passionate about what they do and about all their guests. You will definitely feel like a part of the family when you stay here and you will want to come back for sure.
Justin Maisch
Owner & Head Coach
Justin grew up on the south coast, moving here when he was just 6 months old & learning to surf at 8 years old. Their family was always on the beach, surfing and hanging out. His parents bought a small holding in the farmlands of Umzumbe, opened a surf factory and raised their 4 children. Justin and his brother still own and run the legendary Wedge Surfboards, making hand crafted surfboards and fins. Justin is super passionate about surfing and it shows in how well he teaches.
Justin represented South Africa in the World Surfing Games in Brazil in 1994, earning himself his South African Colours and he wears his Surfing blazer with pride. Justin has surfed and competed both locally and internationally and still surfs SA Surfing Champs every year
Hayley Maisch
Owner & Head Coach
Hayley studied Hotel Management and Tourism and runs the Surf Camp with their 2 cleaning ladies Rita and Zola. Hayley is a great host, very professional and she makes sure that she can help in any way that you need.
Hayley is a passionate cook and you should definitely book a meal or two for your stay, they are delicious. Especially their famous beach breakfasts and the homemade wood fired pizza’s.
Testimonials
Nelius Nortje
World-class surf camp. Justin, the owner, is a former pro who is so knowledgeable and can improve your surfing, no matter your level . The vibe at the house is great; pizzas, live music and a comfortable atmosphere. Good WiFi, clean and full-on value for money. The surf camp is not a business, it’s a way of life.
Elise Langley
What a beautiful place to stay. Beautiful warm sea with great surf instruction. Love the large wooden deck overlooking forests & sunsets, lovely people, very comfortable accommodation. So much fun things to do when not surfing & delicious healthy food. Campfires on the beach with local musicians playing was my best memory.
Alicia Carter
Had an incredible stay at Pumula Surf Camp! The rooms were cozy and colorful and the food was amazing. Hayley, Justy and the girls welcomed me into their daily lives with music at a local joint, surf lessons, and an extra stop out at the Maisch surf factory. Thank you!! Will definitely be back to this beautiful part of the world.
