In honour of International Surfing Day, we caught up with Xanadu Retreat Surf Manager, Sam.
Sam is a globe-trotting wave chaser who swapped the 9-to-5 grind for barefoot days, Indo food and a life built around tides (not time slots).
From South Africa to Sri Lanka and now the dreamy coastlines of Lombok, her journey is all about sharing the stoke of surfing.
At Xanadu, Sam’s the friendly face helping first-timers catch their very first wave, guiding nervous surfers through their wobbly beginnings and reminding everyone (whether you’re popping up or paddling out) that surfing is meant to be fun.
In this chat, she opens up about the leap of faith that brought her to the island, the magic of the Xanadu crew and why compassion in the water might just be your secret weapon.
She also drops a few golden tips for anyone thinking of paddling out for the very first time (spoiler: do it).
Ready to meet Sam?
Let’s dive in.
Q. First things first… Happy International Surfing Day, Sam! What does surfing mean to you?
Thanks! It’s always a tricky one to answer without sounding a little cheesy haha! But honestly, surfing is my safe space.
It’s what keeps me grounded. When I’m in the water, everything else fades away. You’re totally in the moment and focused on the next wave, your next move or just trying not to get caught inside.
It resets my mind and helps me stay present.
Q. You’ve surfed and worked in South Africa, the UK and Sri Lanka. What initially pulled you towards Xanadu and Lombok?
It really came down to my love for surfing and wanting to share that love with others.
I’ve always felt drawn to Indonesia and deep down I knew I’d make my way back for good one day.
After Covid, I went back to South Africa and worked in marketing. But that office life just wasn’t it for me. Sitting in traffic, back-to-back meetings, staring at screens all day… I felt stuck.
Then I saw Xanadu’s “Surf Manager wanted” post on Instagram and something clicked.
I was so nervous I stared at that post for almost a week before applying. But after chatting to Kayan our Surf Director, I just knew I wanted in.
Looking back, applying was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!
Q. That’s such a big move. What was going through your mind when you decided to just go for it?
I was terrified and excited all at once.
I left my apartment, sold my car, said goodbye to my boyfriend and closed my business. All to move to a tiny island I’d never even been to. But I kept thinking… if I don’t make a bold move like this in my late twenties, then when will I?
Q. Now that you’re settled in, what’s been the best part of life in Lombok so far?
Definitely the team. I honestly feel like I’ve gained a family.
Q. You work with a lot of first-time surfers. How do you help them feel comfortable when they’re nervous?
I think about how I feel when I paddle out to a new or heavy spot. It can be intimidating.
So I try to connect with guests through that. I give them simple ways to manage nerves and remind them that it’s totally normal. That little reassurance can go a long way.
Q. You’re known for bringing a lot of compassion into the water. Why does that matter so much?
Starting out in surfing can make people feel super vulnerable. It’s important to remember we all started somewhere. A little kindness and patience can really shape someone’s whole surf journey.
Q. So true! We heard the surf workshops at the retreat just got a bit of a glow-up. What’s new?
We’ve added more interactive, hands-on sessions to bring the theory to life.
There’s a big focus on muscle memory (getting guests to practice movements on land and in the pool) so they feel more confident when they’re back out in the surf.
Q. Everyone’s surf journey is different. How do you help guests embrace their own pace?
I’m really hard on myself too, so I get it when guests feel frustrated.
I try to remind them they’re here to enjoy it. Most of the surfers we compare ourselves to have been at it for years. With time and consistency, it all clicks.
Sometimes we all need a reminder that surfing is supposed to be fun.
Q. Is there a guest story that really stuck with you?
There are so many, but what stands out most is watching people transform over the week.
Someone might arrive stressed or unsure and leave full of confidence with new friends and unforgettable memories. There’s something about sharing waves with strangers that breaks down walls and sparks real growth.
Q. Last one. What advice would you give someone paddling out for the first time this International Surfing Day?
Don’t be shy to book a lesson or join a retreat. Having someone guide you through those first steps makes a huge difference. Just a heads up though… surfing is very addictive!
Ready to ride your first wave with Sam? Whether you’re starting from scratch or you need a little confidence boost, Sam and the team at Xanadu Retreat are here to guide you every step of the way.
Come join us in Lombok and discover just how fun surfing can be.
