Surfs up, and if your kids are all about catching waves, signing them up for surf lessons in New Jersey is a sure way to hang ten at the shore. Whether it’s a weekly surf camp, private lesson, all-girls experience, or adaptive lessons for special needs, kids (and their parents) can learn how to ride the waves safely and build skills that last for a lifetime. Scroll down for the top places for lessons at the shore, and for more beachy things to do, check out our guide to the best beaches in NJ. (featured photo credit: Istock/Bicho_raro)
Here’s where you can sign up for surf lessons in New Jersey
Surf Lessons in Monmouth County
Pink Pineapple
At this all-girls surf school, empowerment is emphasized through surfing. In addition to the Surf Camp (ages 8-13), the girls create surf art inspired by their time in the ocean. If your daughter loves surfing and has experience on the waves, have her try out for the Summer Grom Team (ages 9-14). They practice twice a week for eight weeks during the summer, developing their craft and building their confidence.
368 First Ave, Manasquan, NJ 08736 (Look for a shed and tent in the middle of the beach)
(732) 691-2450
Summa Love
Conquer your dreams and learn how to surf at Summa Love Surf Camp. Taught by a group of seasoned instructors, there is something for everyone here. There are camps throughout the summer and after-school mini-camps in September if you live by the shore. Looking for just one lesson? You can choose from a semi-private class or a private lesson, and for grownups, the Saturday class Adults on Board is an excellent introduction to the waves.
1 South Bath Ave, Long Branch, NJ 07740
(908) 910-4552
Lucky Dog Surf School
Lucky Dog’s mission focuses on four things: surfing, ocean awareness, healthy living, and environmentalism. Sign your kiddos up for Kids Surf Camp (ages 5-15), where beginners will learn the basics while more advanced surfers will learn specific techniques and skills. They also offer Advanced Surf Coaching private lessons focusing on improving and preparing for competitions. And if you have an avid surfer in your crew, encourage them to try out for the Surf Team (ages 10-17).
1096 Ocean Ave, Sea Bright, NJ 07760
(732) 314-6900
Summertime Surf
At this northern shore spot with 4 locations, kids ages 7-14 will want to be a part of the weeklong Kids’ Surf and Ocean Safety Camp, where they’ll learn ocean, surf, and life skills. Younger kids (ages 4-6) can learn about surfing, ocean safety, and wildlife—while building their confidence—during the weeklong Keiki Surf Classes. For a more customized class, sign up for a 1.15-hour private lesson.
Asbury Park, NJ 07712
Bradley Terrace, Belmar, NJ 07719
1217 Ocean Ave, Bradley Beach, NJ 07720
1620 Beacon Ln, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742 (Ocean County Location)
(732) 599-2700
Surf Lessons in Ocean County
Coastline Adventures Surfing School
This surfing school offers one- to two-hour private, semi-private, and private group surf lessons, as well as adaptive lessons. For a class atmosphere, sign your kiddos up for surf camp: Kids’ Surf Adventure Camps are offered for one, three, or five days, or if your littles aren’t sure about surfing, sign them up for the Kids’ Bodyboarding Camps. And mamas, you can join in—the Women’s Surf Retreat starts with stress-relieving yoga and meditation, then helps you build a strong surfing foundation.
Brick Beach 3, 440 NJ-35, Mantoloking, NJ 08738
(732) 300-5115
Hammer Surf School
Founded by New Jersey professional surfer Sam Hammer, this surf school has three-hour classes for kids (7-11) and teens (12-15) of all skill levels, as well as Advanced Kid & Teen Group Surf for kiddos who have the basics down but want to be challenged and improve their craft. For one-on-one, they offer beginner private lessons and exclusive coaching with Hammer for a more competitive edge. And for kids who’ve mastered the waves, encourage them to try out for the Hammer Surf Team. They also offer 75-minute private Surf Therapy For Special Needs lessons.
S Ocean Ave & 5th Ave, Seaside Park, NJ 08752
Oceanfront & Brown Ave, Lavallette, NJ 08735
2 Ocean Terrace, Seaside Heights, NJ 08751
Remsen Ave & Ocean Ave, Spring Lake, NJ 07762 (Monmouth County Location)
(732) 966-6430
LBI Surfing
LBI resident and surfer Jeff Santoloci runs this popular surf school with his Intro to Surfing Camp and Junior Surf Camp. If your vacation is short and your kids just want to learn the basics, book a Semi-Private Surf Lesson or Private Surf Lesson. And for your kiddos who love everything ocean, sign them up for The School of Skim, Boogie-board, and Fun Camp, where they’ll learn how to surf, skimboard, bodyboard, and more.
The shop and some lessons: 1301 Long Beach Blvd, North Beach Haven, NJ 08008
For more information and other locations, click the links above.
(609) 494-SURF
Randazzo Surf School
Have your fam learn from a pro—this surf school is run by world-famous professional surfer Dean Randazzo (nicknamed “The Jersey Devil”). Sign them up for a one-day, three-day, or five-day Kids Surf Camp in North Wildwood or the Margate Pier, where they’ll learn surfing basics, ocean safety, and more. The school also offers hour-long private and semi-private lessons in both locations. And for the moms, there’s a Women’s Yoga and Surf Weekend Retreat that takes beach yoga to the next level.
North Wildwood and Margate Pier
(732) 825-SURF
The Sandy Avocado Surf Camp
The entire fam can do these surfing lessons—each lesson starts with a yoga warm-up and safety instructions, then pivots to catching waves along the shore, depending on each skill level. If not everyone is game, book a private lesson for your grom or gather their best buds for a semi-private lesson where they can learn and laugh together. Have a daughter interested in surfing? Sign them up for the Girls Surf Immersion, which combines surfing and skateboarding for a unique experience.
Beach on Taylor Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008
(609) 290-4797
Surf Lessons in Atlantic County
Stacey’s Surf & Paddle
This surf school has camps for all ages and abilities, focusing on having a good time and overcoming fears. So sign your fam up for the Little Rippers Camp, Beginner/Intermediate Surf Camp (ages 8-17), Teen Surf Camp (ages 13-18), or Advanced Surf Camp (for surfers with a little more experience). And for mom, you can join the Women’s Wednesday class. Sign your kiddos up for a semi-private or private lesson for more customized learning.
9511 Amherst Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402
(609) 335-9891
Surf Lessons in Cape May County
EcoVentures Surf School
Kids ages 8 and up can sign up for a private or group surf lesson—whether they’ve never surfed before or have their board and are looking to improve. The school purposefully chooses beaches with gently rolling waves and gradual shorelines so kids learn at a comfortable pace.
1901 New Jersey Ave, North Wildwood, NJ 08260
(609) 742-5656
Ocean City NJ Surf School
This surf school aims to have you appreciate the beauty of the ocean while learning to ride the waves. With surf lessons and surf camps for kids and adults, there is a chance for everyone to get on the water and surf. The school offers private surf lessons and group lessons for all skill levels, but you must be at least six years old to sign up.
51st St. Beach, Ocean City, NJ 08226
609-736-0131
SurfTopia
Kids will be stoked to take a surf lesson here, which brings Aloha vibes to Wildwood and is run by a local who spent time surfing worldwide. They’ll learn about safety and surfing on land first, then head into the water and have an hour to catch the waves. Watch them learn alone in a private lesson or join them in the water for a group lesson. Surfers must be at least five years old.
4400 Boardwalk, Wildwood, NJ 08260
(609) 305-2700
Have you signed up your kids for surf lessons in New Jersey? Let us know!
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