Legal
User Agreement
Effective Date: June 19, 2026
This User Agreement sets forth the terms governing the relationship between Surfaway, Hosts, and Volunteers who use the Surfaway platform. Surfaway provides an online space for surf camps, hostels, and related surf organizations ("Hosts") to connect with travelers and volunteers ("Volunteers") seeking cultural and work-exchange experiences related to surfing, hospitality, and ocean life.
By creating an account or using Surfaway's services, you ("User") agree to be bound by this Agreement, in addition to Surfaway's Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.
Surfaway’s Role
- Provides a digital platform for listings, communication, and coordination only;
- Does not verify, guarantee, or control the behavior of Hosts or Volunteers;
- Is not responsible for any contractual, financial, or personal arrangements between users;
- Cannot ensure the safety, legality, or quality of any placement or environment.
All participation in Host-Volunteer exchanges occurs entirely at the users' own risk.
Eligibility
- Be at least 18 years of age;
- Possess legal capacity to enter into binding agreements;
- Use the Platform only for lawful purposes consistent with Surfaway's community values.
Surfaway reserves the right to request identification or remove accounts that fail to meet eligibility criteria.
Host Responsibilities
Accurate Representation
Hosts must provide complete and truthful information about their property, surf camp, or organization, including:
- Volunteer duties and working hours;
- Accommodation and meal arrangements;
- Safety standards and local regulations;
- Cultural or behavioral expectations.
Legal and Ethical Compliance
- Comply with all applicable local labor, immigration, and housing laws;
- Ensure no forced labor, exploitation, or discrimination occurs;
- Maintain a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment;
- Refrain from requesting work that is unsafe, illegal, or exceeds the agreed-upon exchange.
Communication and Conduct
Hosts must communicate clearly with Volunteers before confirming stays and notify Surfaway immediately if disputes or safety issues arise. Surfaway reserves the right to suspend or remove Host listings that violate this Agreement or harm Surfaway's reputation.
Volunteer Responsibilities
Honest Representation
- Provide accurate personal and skill information, including surfing level, language abilities, and availability;
- Include true and current contact details and health or legal considerations.
Conduct and Work Ethic
- Complete agreed-upon tasks responsibly and respectfully;
- Respect property, staff, and community;
- Follow surf safety, environmental, and cultural norms;
- Avoid alcohol or drug abuse, theft, or disruptive behavior.
Risk and Liability
Volunteers acknowledge that travel and volunteer activities involve inherent risks, including surf injuries, travel accidents, or natural hazards. Volunteers participate entirely at their own risk and must obtain appropriate travel and health insurance before arrival.
Mutual Code of Conduct
- Zero tolerance for discrimination, harassment, or abuse;
- Respect for ocean conservation and local cultures;
- Transparent communication before, during, and after placements;
- Reporting any misconduct or unsafe situations to Surfaway immediately.
Safety and Verification
Surfaway may conduct limited checks but does not perform full background verification. Users are solely responsible for ensuring safety and compliance with local regulations.
Insurance and Legal Compliance
Surfaway does not provide insurance coverage. Hosts and Volunteers must ensure compliance with applicable laws and maintain valid health, travel, and liability insurance before participation.
Termination of Accounts
Surfaway may suspend or terminate any account at its discretion for breaches, fraud, or unsafe conduct. Users can delete their accounts by contacting info@surfaway.org.
Intellectual Property
All intellectual property on the Surfaway platform is owned by Surfaway or its licensors. User-generated content remains the property of the user, but Surfaway is granted a non-exclusive license to use it for operation and promotion.
Limitation of Liability
To the maximum extent permitted by law, Surfaway is not liable for any loss or damage from user interactions or platform use. Total liability shall not exceed $100 USD or the total amount paid to Surfaway in the preceding 12 months.
Indemnification
Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless Surfaway, its founders, and affiliates from claims arising from misconduct, breaches, or disputes.
Governing Law and Jurisdiction
This Agreement is governed by U.S. law. Disputes will be resolved first through mediation, then binding arbitration if necessary.
Amendments
Surfaway may modify this Agreement at any time. Continued use after updates constitutes acceptance.
Severability
If any provision is invalid, remaining terms continue in full effect.
Acknowledgment
By using Surfaway, you acknowledge that you've read and agreed to this User Agreement, Terms of Service, and Privacy Policy.
Contact Information
For legal inquiries or support, email: info@surfaway.org