FAQs
Who are lessons for?
Whether you're catching your very first wave or looking to refine your skills, our surf lessons are designed for all experience levels. Our Learn To Surf lessons provide a fun and supportive introduction to surfing, while surfers with some experience can build confidence and improve their technique with guidance from our experienced coaches.
Surfing is our passion, and we're committed to delivering lessons that are safe, informative, and, above all, fun. Our goal is to help every surfer enjoy the ocean, develop their skills, and leave with a smile.
How do I book?
Hit the BOOK NOW button (bottom/right), Call the Smiths Beach store on 03 5952 3443 or send us an inquiry below.
What do I need to bring?
Just bring a towel—we'll take care of the rest. Your lesson includes a surfboard, wetsuit, sunscreen, and two hours of fun in the water with our experienced instructors.
What skills will I require?
Being able to stand comfortably on dry land is definitely an advantage! During our lessons, you'll stay in water that's around waist deep, so you won't need to paddle out beyond the breaking waves. Our experienced coaches will always there to guide and assist you throughout the lesson, so strong swimming skills aren't required.
When do lessons take place?
Lesson availability is subject to demand, but Public Group Lessons are generally available every weekend throughout the year, and sometimes mid-week if required.
During busy periods, including school holidays and long weekends, Public Group Lessons are usually available daily and often book out in advance, so early bookings are recommended.
Private Lessons can be arranged at a time that suits you, subject to conditions and instructor availability.
We aim to schedule lessons around high tide, as this typically provides the best conditions for beginner surfers at Smiths Beach. However, lesson times may vary depending on weather, surf conditions, and other factors.
For the latest lesson times and availability, please contact our Smiths Beach store.
Where do lessons take place?
All lessons take place at beautiful Smiths Beach, widely regarded as one of Victoria's best locations for learning to surf.
You'll meet us at our surf shop, just 100 metres from the beach, where we'll get you fitted with all the equipment you need before heading down to the water to begin your lesson.
During summer, Smiths Beach in incredilbly popular as its gently sloping sandy bottom creates smaller, more forgiving waves than many of the surrounding beaches, making it an ideal environment for beginner surfers. Smiths Beach is patrolled from Boxing Day through to Australia Day.
Smiths is a safe, sand bottom beach which is also afforded great protection from the winds and the larger swells, so even if conditions are rough, our experienced coaches will put you in the best and safest position to learn to surf.
What will I experience in one lesson?
Around 99% of our students stand up and ride a wave during their first two-hour lesson. While that's an exciting milestone, there's much more to learning to surf than simply getting to your feet.
Our Learn To Surf lessons cover essential surf safety, including how to identify rips and currents, along with the fundamentals of paddling, catching waves, and proper surfing technique.
Standing up on the board is an important goal, but you’ll also learn how to manoeuvre the board and other necessary skills to continue your surfing journey long after your first lesson.
I’ve done my lesson, where to next?
Finished your lesson and ready for more? That's where the real adventure begins.
While it's not essential, we often recommend another lesson or two to help reinforce your technique and build confidence in the water. From there, having the right equipment can make a big difference to your progress and enjoyment.
Our coaches and friendly team are always happy to help you choose the surfboard, wetsuit, and accessories that best suit your experience and goals.
As one of our students, you'll also have access to exclusive deals on boards, wetsuits, and other surfing equipment.
Whether you're heading out for your next surf or working towards bigger goals, we're always here to offer advice and support whenever you need it.
Are the coaches qualified?
In line with the Surfing Australia (SA) guidelines, we work with a 1:8 ratio of coaches to participants.
Island Surf School is affiliated with SA which requires that all our coaches are Level 1 accredited coaches.
Our Head Coaching team are all Level 2 Accredited, with a combined total of nearly 100 years experience in the surf coaching industry.
Our entire coaching team are qualified in their Surf Rescue Certificate, First Aid, Advanced Resuscitation Techniques and Play By The Rules - Child Protection, as well as being current holders of their Working With Children Check.
Island coaches are also all experienced local surfers, including a former World Championship Tour (WCT) surfer, former Australian Team coaches and Australian & Victorian Champions and team members.
