FAQs

 

Who are lessons for?

Our surf lessons cater for any level of surfer, from beginner through to expert. Our learn to surf lessons are perfect for a first time beginner but if you are a novice with some experience our expert coaches will be able improve your technique.

Surfing is our passion and our lessons informative, safe and more importantly FUN!!

How do I book?

 Call the Smiths Beach store on 03 5952 3443 for bookings and session times or send us an inquiry below.

 

What do I need to bring?

The only thing you will need is a towel. The price includes boards, wetsuits, sunscreen and a good time for 2 hours!

 

What skills will I require?

The ability to stand up on dry land is definitely advantageous. During the lessons you do not need to go out beyond about waist deep water, and our skilled coaches will always be there to guide you and assist where necessary, therefore strong swimming skills are not necessary.

 

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. 

Over the busy periods (school holidays, long weekends), public lessons take place almost every day, and are usually booked out in advance. 

Private Lessons can be organised for any time.

We try to run our lessons across the higher tide, as this usually provides the ideal conditions for beginner surfers on Smiths Beach, though other factors can also influence lesson times.

Contact the Smiths Beach store to get the most up to date details.

 

Where do lessons take place?

Lessons take place at Smiths Beach, well known as one of the best beginner locations in the state. 

We organise your gear at our store (100m from the beach).  

We then take you down to the waves to begin the lesson. 

A very popular beach in summer (patrolled from Boxing Day until Australia Day), the gentle drop-off in depth makes for gentler waves than surrounding beaches.

Smiths is a safe, sand bottom beach which is also afforded great protection from the winds and the larger swells, and 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?

99% of our students will stand up on a board in their first two hour lesson, although many other valuable experiences are offered as part of the lesson procedures. 

In a general lesson, we’ll teach you surf safety and how to read rips and currents, as well as the correct technique for paddling and catching waves. 

Getting to your feet is a focus of the lesson, but you’ll also learn how to manoeuvre the board and other necessary skills for your future surfing career.

I’ve done my lesson, where to next?

So you finished your lesson and no doubt had a great time, now you want to keep going. 

Although not compulsory, another lesson or two is recommended to get the technique right, then the most important next step is getting hold of the right equipment to continue and improve your surfing. 

It is recommended you talk to your coaches or other staff at Island and work out what is the ideal equipment for you. 

Being one of our students, you’ll be entitled to the best deals on boards, wetsuits and other surfing equipment. 

Then it is up to you to head off on your own and have fun, and Island will always be there to help with any issues along the way. 

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.

(for more information see http://www.sasurfschools.com.au/about.php)

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.