About Coastal Shred Academy

Coastal Shred Academy is a locally rooted surf school in Tofino, built around creating meaningful, confidence-building experiences in the ocean. We’re a team of passionate surfers who believe the best progression happens when people feel supported, safe, and genuinely stoked.

After more than a decade teaching surfing around the world, our founder Aaron learned something simple: people improve faster when the environment feels relaxed, encouraging, and authentic. Coastal Shred Academy was built around that belief — offering small-group, progression-focused surf lessons in Tofino designed for real growth in the water.

Rooted in Tofino

Before CSA officially launched in 2022, its foundation was already forming through local youth surf and skate programs. We’ve proudly partnered with Wickaninnish Community School and the District of Tofino to create programs families trust and kids return to year after year.

Today, that same community-first approach shapes every Tofino surf lesson we teach — whether you’re local or visiting. We focus on real progression, small groups, and an authentic West Coast surf experience.

Our story

Private beginner surf lesson on Tofino beach by Coastal Shred Academy

How We Teach

Keep it fun. Keep it safe. Help people truly improve.

Our surf lessons in Tofino are built around clear instruction, personalized feedback, and creating an environment where learning feels natural and enjoyable. Whether you’re catching your first wave or developing stronger ocean awareness, we coach with patience, clarity, and purpose.

Boardsports Are in Our DNA

Aaron grew up in Australia and has spent over 10 years teaching surfing internationally across Australia and Europe before settling in Tofino. He is also a lifelong skateboarder and a certified CASI (Canadian Association of Snowboard Instructors) evaluator.

As a CASI evaluator, Aaron trains and assesses snowboard instructors in Canada and Japan, helping develop high-level coaching standards in technical progression, safety, and teaching methodology. That deep experience in instructor development shapes how we approach every surf lesson — with structure, clarity, and a strong focus on long-term progression.

Our team blends global coaching experience with genuine local knowledge — instructors who grew up on these beaches and understand the rhythm, tides, and character of Tofino’s coastline.

Family-Built, Community-Driven

Today, Aaron lives on the West Coast with his wife Rachel and their two kids. Coastal Shred Academy is a family-built, community-driven surf school shaped by creativity, connection, and a genuine love for Tofino.

We’re proud to grow here and grateful to share this coastline with you.