Plunge Into the Adventure of a Lifetime, Learn To Surf
Not sure what to expect for your first lesson? First, don’t worry, we are here to help you through all the ins and outs of getting on your board and feeling confident.
Here are some FAQs to help you out. Still have questions? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help.
FAQ’S
Frequently Asked Questions
Getting Started / Booking a Surf Lesson
Do I need experience to take lessons?
The good news is that you do not need any experience to take lessons. We are here to help everyone from beginners to intermediate customers.
What ages do you teach?
We try to focus on students ages 8 and up, but younger children may be accommodated on a case-by-case basis depending on their swimming ability, comfort in the ocean, and ocean conditions.
How do I book a lesson?
Booking is easy! Simply fill out the contact form on our website, call or text 607-752-2181, send a message through social media, or email brettclow60@gmail.com. We’ll help you choose the best day and time based on surf conditions, tides, and your schedule.
How far in advance should I book?
I recommend booking at least a few days in advance, especially during the summer when lesson times fill up quickly. Last-minute bookings are sometimes available, so don’t hesitate to reach out and ask. I’ll do my best to accommodate your schedule while also choosing the best surf conditions for your lesson.
What is your cancellation/rescheduling policy?
Safety is my top priority. Because surfing lessons are dependent on weather, surf, and ocean conditions, lessons may occasionally need to be rescheduled.
- If conditions are unsafe or unsuitable for surfing, I may reschedule the lesson at no additional charge.
- If you need to cancel or reschedule, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice whenever possible.
- Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice may be subject to a cancellation fee.
- No-shows may be charged the full lesson amount.
- If weather or ocean conditions require a cancellation, you will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.
I understand that plans can change, and I will do my best to accommodate rescheduling requests whenever possible.
How long is a lesson?
Lessons are 1 hour long
What will I learn in my first lesson?
Your first lesson is designed to help you feel comfortable, safe, and confident in the ocean while having fun.
During your lesson, you’ll learn:
- Basic ocean and surf safety
- How to carry and handle a surfboard
- Proper paddling technique
- How to position yourself for waves
- The pop-up (standing up on the board)
- Surfing stance and balance
- How to ride whitewater waves safely
- Surf etiquette and awareness
Most first-time students are able to stand up and ride waves during their first lesson. Lessons are tailored to each student’s age, experience level, and comfort in the water, so we’ll progress at a pace that works for you.
Will I actually stand up on my first lesson?
Most beginners do! Everyone progresses differently, but our instructors focus on getting you the fundamentals so you can catch and ride a wave safely.
How many people are in a group lesson?
Group lessons typically include 2–4 participants. Keeping groups small allows for personalized instruction, plenty of wave opportunities, and individual feedback.
For larger groups, lessons may be divided into smaller rotations to ensure everyone receives quality instruction and time in the water.
If you have a larger family, birthday party, school group, or special event, please reach out and I’ll be happy to discuss custom group options.
Do you offer private lessons?
Yes! Private and semi-private lessons are available for those who want one-on-one coaching or a faster pace.
Do you offer lessons for special occasions?
Yes! Looking for a unique birthday or anniversary present? Want to celebrate good grades or a graduation? Want to do something amazing on a family vacation? Surf lessons are a great option.
What’s the difference between beginner and intermediate lessons?
Beginner lessons focus on ocean safety, paddling, and catching whitewater waves. Intermediate lessons build on that foundation with green-wave riding, angle takeoffs, turning, and reading the lineup.
Do you offer gift cards?
We do not currently offer gift cards, maybe that’s something we can do in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
Gear & What to Bring
Do I need my own surfboard or wetsuit?
Nope. We have boards available to use as part of your lesson but if you do have a board, feel free to bring it. Not at this time. If water temperatures require a wetsuit, students will need to bring their own.
What should I wear?
A swimsuit or board shorts with a rash guard works great. In cooler months, a wetsuit might make you more comfortable.
What should I bring to my lesson?
Sunscreen, a towel, water, and a good attitude! We provide everything else.
Where do lessons take place?
Lessons are held at Lessons take place at North Topsail Beach near the St. Regis Resort. This location offers convenient beach access and beginner-friendly waves, making it a great spot for learning to surf. along Topsail Island, including Topsail Beach, Surf City, and North Topsail Beach, depending on wave and tide conditions. If you’re staying at a beachfront rental elsewhere on Topsail Island, lessons can often be arranged near your location.
What if the waves or weather aren’t good on my lesson day?
Our instructors monitor swell, wind, and tide conditions daily. Safety is always our top priority. We monitor wave, wind, weather, and ocean conditions daily. If conditions are unsafe or not suitable for learning, we’ll contact you as soon as possible to reschedule your lesson at no additional cost. Our goal is to make sure every student has a fun, safe, and successful experience in the water.
What time of year is best for surf lessons in Topsail?
Topsail Island offers surfable conditions nearly year-round, but summer months tend to have the warmest water and most consistent beginner-friendly waves.
Is the water warm?
Topsail Island’s water is warm and swimmable, roughly May through October.
Frequently Asked Questions
Location & Conditions
Have more questions?
If you do not see your question and want more information, feel free to contact us and someone will get back with you as soon as possible to help you out.