Beginner Surf Lessons in Tofino: Should You Book a Group or Private Lesson?

Coming to Tofino and keen to give surfing a go? Awesome. One of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether to join a beginner group lesson or book a private session.

We get asked about this a fair bit at Coastal Shred Academy. My answer usually starts with a few questions: Who’s coming? Have you surfed before? And how are you feeling about getting in the ocean?

Both options can work for complete beginners. Here’s how I’d help you choose.

Beginner group surf lessons: learn with other first-timers

A beginner group lesson brings you together with other people who are learning too. You book your spot, meet your instructor and get stuck into the basics together.

It’s a good option if you’re visiting Tofino on your own, travelling with a mate or keen to meet a few people while trying something new.

There’s something pretty fun about sharing those first attempts. Someone catches a little wave, someone works out their pop-up, and everyone starts cheering each other on. You don’t need to arrive knowing what you’re doing.

Our beginner group lessons are for ages 12 and up, with surf gear included.

I’d lean towards a group lesson if you:

Want a more affordable introduction to surfing.
Feel happy learning alongside people you haven’t met.
Are travelling solo or with friends aged 12 or over.
Want to try surfing before deciding whether to do more.

See our beginner group surf lessons and current prices.

Private surf lessons: your own crew and instructor

In a private lesson, the booking is just for you and the people you bring. You can also book a one-on-one session if you’d like an instructor to yourself.

You don’t need to be an experienced surfer to book privately. Plenty of our private lessons are with people who have never touched a surfboard.

A private session gives us more room to work around your group. Maybe one person is keen to charge in while another wants to ask a few questions and take things slowly. Knowing that beforehand helps us plan the session.

I’d lean towards a private lesson if you:

Want to learn with your partner, friends or family.
Would feel more comfortable with your own instructor.
Have different confidence levels within your group.
Want coaching focused on your own goals.

Tell us about your crew when you book. The more we know, the easier it is to help you choose.

What’s best for families with younger kids?

For families with children under 12, I’d point you towards our family or kids’ private lessons rather than the beginner group.

If you want to surf alongside your children, a family lesson lets you share the experience. You’ll get to see their little wins up close—and they’ll probably enjoy watching you have a go too.

If the kids are surfing and you’d rather stay on the beach, have a look at our kids’ private options.

We offer family lessons from age five. If you’re unsure whether a lesson will suit your child, get in touch before booking. Tell us their age, water confidence and whether they’ve surfed before.

Explore our family and kids’ surf lesson options.

What if you’re nervous?

That’s worth telling us. You won’t be the first person who’s felt a bit unsure looking out at the ocean.

Let us know what’s worrying you, particularly if it’s swimming ability, cold water or your child’s confidence. We can talk through the options and whether a lesson is suitable before you commit.

You don’t have to promise us you’ll stand up. There’s plenty to learn along the way: handling a board, understanding what’s happening around you and getting a feel for catching waves.

What’s included, and what do you bring?

Our gear-included lessons provide the surf equipment you need. We also have a separate kids’ coaching option for those bringing their own equipment, so check which product you’re booking.

Bring a swimsuit, towel, water and warm clothes for afterwards. Your booking confirmation will have the meeting instructions and any other details you need.

Read what to expect during your surf lesson.