Gold Coast’s Favourite Learn to Surf Lesson (Ages 13+)

Gold Coast’s Favourite Learn to Surf Lesson (Ages 13+): An Honest Review

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave on Australia’s iconic Gold Coast, this surf lesson promises to be a fun, safe, and surprisingly personalized experience. It’s a popular choice for those eager to dip their toes into surfing, with a high satisfaction rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 26 reviews. From families to solo travelers, many have found this experience both accessible and exhilarating.

What really catches the eye here is the small group size, which boasts the lowest student-to-instructor ratio in Australia—just 5 students per instructor. That means more tailored guidance, fewer crowds, and a better shot at standing up on your board. We also love the beautiful location at The Spit, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle of Surfers Paradise, and the professional, friendly guides who make the entire process feel approachable.

A potential consideration is that transfers are not included, so if you’re relying on public transport, you’ll need to plan accordingly. Also, this tour is strictly for those aged 13 and above, so families with younger kids will need to look elsewhere.

This experience suits first-timers, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a memorable introduction to surfing in a relaxed setting. If you’re after personalized instruction, stunning scenery, and a genuinely fun day on the water, this is a strong contender for your Gold Coast bucket list.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Highly personalized with a 5:1 student-to-instructor ratio, the lowest in Australia
• Includes all equipment: surfboards, rash vests, wetsuits (seasonal), sunscreen, and showers
• Perfect for beginners, no experience needed
• Stunning setting at The Spit, away from the crowded hotspots
• Affordable price at only $49 per person for a two-hour lesson
• Photos available for purchase to capture your first waves

What Makes This Surf Lesson Stand Out

Location and Scenery: Located just a two-minute drive past Seaworld on Seaworld Drive, The Spit offers a quieter, more scenic alternative to the busier beaches. The backdrop of Surfers Paradise adds a touch of glamour to your snaps, and the nearby natural beauty makes the whole experience more memorable. Multiple reviewers highlight the “perfect location” with “good waves,” making it ideal for beginners eager to practice.

Expert Instruction and Small Groups: The guides, like Jason and Tom, are repeatedly praised for their patience and clarity. One reviewer shared, “They gave us great feedback after almost every wave,” which is crucial for beginners trying to improve. With a maximum of five students per coach, you get plenty of attention and tailored tips, unlike larger classes that can feel rushed or impersonal.

Facilities and Equipment: No need to bring much — all gear, including wetsuits (seasonal), rash vests, and surfboards, are provided. The outdoor showers and lockers let you rinse off and store your belongings safely, adding convenience after the lesson.

Safety and Approachability: The instructors prioritize safety without sacrificing fun. They’re in the water with you the entire time, making sure everyone feels supported. The lessons are explicitly aimed at beginners, so no prior experience is necessary.

Photo Opportunities: Photos are taken when it’s safe to do so, giving you a chance to commemorate your surf debut. Reviewers mention that these photos make for great souvenirs, especially since the instructors won’t compromise safety just to snap a shot.

Cost and Value: At $49, this lesson offers excellent value considering equipment, instruction, and location. Compared to other surf experiences, it’s a cost-effective way to try surfing without the hefty price tag.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Meeting and Setup: You’ll meet at the Surf Shack behind the Seaworld Café, arriving 15 minutes early to gear up. The staff, known for their friendliness, help you get organized and ready for your lesson. Arriving early is recommended to avoid rushing and to ensure a smooth start.

Location and Transport: The lesson is held at The Spit, just a quick two-minute drive past Seaworld, which you may want to access via taxi, Uber, or car since public transport stops at Seaworld itself. Parking is free at the venue, a significant bonus, especially during peak times when parking at popular beaches can be scarce.

The Lesson: Over two hours, you’ll receive a mix of land-based instructions and hands-on practice in the water. The guides run through safety guidelines, basic paddling techniques, and how to stand up on your surfboard. Reviewers mention that the instructions are clear and accessible, even for complete beginners.

In-Water Practice: Once in the water, the guides stay close, providing real-time feedback, which is invaluable for beginners. Many reviewers highlighted how the guides like Jason and Tom stayed in the water with them the entire time, making sure everyone stayed safe, motivated, and on track.

Wave Riding: The goal is to get everyone standing up at least once, and from reviews, most participants succeed. The location’s waves are described as “good for beginners,” with enough push to make riding fun but not overwhelming. This balance allows newbies to gain confidence in a safe environment.

Post-Lesson: After surfing, you can rinse off in the outdoor shower, change, and, if you wish, purchase photos of your session. The instructors encourage safety and fun over pushing for perfect technique, which makes the whole experience less intimidating.

Additional Options: Transfers can be booked in advance, though they are not included in the base price. This flexibility allows visitors staying outside the immediate area to tailor their experience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable and patient guides. One said, “The instructors were knowledgeable, patient, and made the session so much fun, even for a complete beginner.” This reflects the overall vibe—friendly, encouraging, and professional.

The location gets particular praise for offering good waves and a peaceful setting. Multiple guests mention the “perfect location” with “lots of good waves to practice on,” which adds confidence for first-time surfers.

The small group size really makes a difference. One reviewer noted that “most people in the group managed to stand and catch waves,” which is a testament to how personalized instruction boosts your chances of success.

Photos are a bonus for many, serving as a reminder of their milestone moment. But importantly, instructors prioritize safety and won’t sacrifice that for the shot, which gives peace of mind.

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Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Timing: The lessons run for about two hours, with sessions generally available in the morning and afternoon, fitting well into most travel plans.

Pricing: At $49, this is an affordable introduction to surfing that includes all necessary equipment, making it good value for money. It’s perfect for those on a budget yet wanting a quality experience.

What to Bring: Just your swimwear and a towel. Everything else, from wetsuits to sunscreen, is provided, so you can just focus on enjoying yourself.

Age and Fitness: Suitable for ages 13 and above, the activity is designed for beginners of all fitness levels. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility issues.

Safety and Comfort: Small group ratios and guides in the water ensure safety and support throughout the lesson. The staff is committed to making surfing accessible for all, regardless of fitness or experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This surf lesson is an excellent choice for first-timers eager to learn the basics in a supportive environment. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a fun, practical introduction to surfing with expert guidance.

If you’re after a scenic, less crowded spot to learn, the location at The Spit offers a peaceful atmosphere away from busier beaches. The competitive price point also makes it appealing for travelers on a budget.

Those with a sense of adventure, a love for the outdoors, and an interest in Australian beach culture will find this experience both enjoyable and memorable. Plus, the small class size guarantees personalized tips to help you catch that first wave.

Final Thoughts

This lesson delivers excellent value through attentive instruction, a stunning location, and inclusive gear. Its small-group approach means you’ll get more personalized coaching, boosting your confidence and chances of standing up on your board. The expert guides, like Jason and Tom, are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making the whole process accessible even for absolute beginners.

The setting at The Spit provides a quieter, more scenic alternative to the busier beaches, and the overall vibe is relaxed and encouraging. For anyone wanting a genuine taste of surfing with minimal fuss, this experience hits the mark.

While it’s not inclusive of transfers, the free parking and proximity to public transport options (like taxis or Ubers) make it a manageable choice. Plus, at just $49, it’s hard to find a better deal for such a comprehensive, friendly introduction to surfing on the Gold Coast.

If you’re looking for a fun, beginner-friendly surf experience with knowledgeable guides and a stunning backdrop, this tour is a fantastic option. It’s suitable for those eager to learn, have fun, and create memories in the beautiful Australian sunshine.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the lessons are designed specifically for beginners with no prior experience needed.

What is included in the price?
All equipment, including surfboards, rash vests, wetsuits (seasonal), sunscreen, and showers, are included.

Can I purchase photos of my surfing session?
Yes, photos are available for purchase after the lesson, when it’s safe to take pictures.

Where do I meet for the lesson?
At the Surf Shack behind Seaworld Café on Seaworld Drive, Main Beach. Arrive 15 minutes early.

Is transportation included?
No, transfers are not included but can be booked separately for a fee.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 5 students per instructor, ensuring personalized attention.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be aged 13 or older.

What should I bring?
Swimwear and a towel; everything else is provided.

To sum it up, this surf lesson offers a balanced mix of fun, safety, and expert guidance at a reasonable price point. It’s a great choice for first-timers eager to learn in a scenic, relaxed environment with plenty of support. Whether you’re visiting for a day or just want to see what all the fuss about surfing is, this experience is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: