Surf Steps - Bournemouth Surf School for surf lessons London, Bournemouth and the South

Q. Do you supply the equipment?
A. Yes, all our lesson prices include equipment; consisting of a soft surf board and wetsuit (boots and gloves are also provided if required). We do not offer any discount if you bring your own equipment.Back to the Top

Q. What do I need to bring?
A. All you need to bring is a towel, swimmers and something warm(ish) to wear after the lesson (this is England after all!). We provide sunscreen and drinking water is available! Back to the Top

Q How old do I have to be to learn to surf?
A. All participants must be at least 8 years old. If under 10, must be accompanied by their parent/guardian for the entire duration of the lesson.Back to the Top

Q. What age is too old to begin surfing?
A. NEVERBack to the Top

Q. How good of a swimmer do I need to be?
A. You should be able to comfortably swim 50 metres in open water. If unsure, we can make arrangements to provide a swim test.Back to the Top

Q. How many people are there in a group surfing lesson?
A. We usually operate on a 1 instructor to 8 students ratio. However, even if there is just one person booked for a basic group lesson we will still run the lesson. Back to the Top

Q. Do I need to organise a group of people if I want a basic group lesson?
A. No. You do not need to arrange your own group – if you book in as an individual you will join a group of others. We do offer 1-2-1 lesson, though as a beginner we advise joining our group lessons as you will learn exactly the same and it is more fun to learn with others!Back to the Top

Q. Do I need to book in advance?
A. Yes, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment. However, if you have not booked give us a call or pop down you may be in luck! Unfortunately we can not guarantee any spaces unless a deposit is received.Back to the Top

Q. How can I pay for my lesson?
A. We cannot guarantee any places unless you pay a deposit by credit / debit card or cheque to confirm your place. The remaining balance can be paid on the day by card, cheque or cash. Cheques should be made payable to Bournemouth Surf School Ltd.Back to the Top

Q. How do I get to Surf Steps Surf School?
A. Head for Bournemouth! On arrival at Bournemouth, head for ‘Boscombe Pier and Beaches’, which is signposted from the A338 (the main road through Bournemouth). If you are coming by bus or train, although you can walk from Bournemouth Train station (Bournemouth Travel Interchange), unless you know where you are going we would advise getting a bus or taxi to Boscombe Pier. On arrival at Boscombe Pier, face out to sea. Turn right and follow the Promenade (beach road) towards the other pier (Bournemouth Pier). Parking is available along the promenade but can be considered expensive especially during peak season. If you are walking, find your way to the beach at the closest point to you, the promenade runs for miles along the seafront – no left or right turns to remember, just make sure you are heading in the right direction!! Surf Steps is located between Bournemouth and Boscombe Piers, but closer to Boscombe Pier (as described above). Please see the contact us page of this website for detailed directions and a map.Back to the Top

Q. What if there are no waves for our surfing lesson?
A. Over the years we have adapted our lessons to accommodate calm conditions. The ultimate alternative on flat days is Stand Up Paddle Boarding - a form of surfing that has seen a recent resurgence, practiced at one time by the beach boys of Waikiki. Popular with watermen as an alternative way to ride the surf and a great means of staying in shape. We use larger, thicker boards, ideal for beginners, to practice balance and control of a board whilst standing on the water. With a single bladed paddle to provide propulsion there is plenty to keep you occupied in the absence of 4-5 ft swell! Whatever the weather, (as long as the red flags are not flying!) our main focus is to give each student a safe, satisfying, surfing experience.Back to the Top

Q. What if it is raining for our surfing lesson?
A. If it is raining, surfing is the best thing you can do as you are already wet and it’s a great way to spend a rainy day! The only reason a lesson would be cancelled due to rain is if there is a very heavy down pour!!Back to the Top

Q. What is the best time of the year to learn?
A. Any time from April through to October is best for beginners; it’s usually a bit warmer as well! Though with our new heated changing facilities the cold is no longer such an issue and we are happy to offer lessons all year round!!Back to the Top

Q. What happens if my lesson is cancelled?
A. Bournemouth Surf School never choose to cancel a lesson, however if the lifeguards ‘red-flag’ the beach we are unable to take anyone in the water and therefore have to cancel the lesson. In the rare event of a cancellation we offer all customers booked in for lesson the opportunity to rebook that lesson at another time or a gift voucher for the full amount (with no expiry date). For further details please see our terms and conditions.Back to the Top

Q. What should I do if I wear contacts?
A. Seeing is of course helpful when learning to surf, although perfect vision is not required. We recommend disposable lenses, or alternatively an old pair. The best advice is of course to close your eyes tightly when underwater.Back to the Top

Q. I have a medical condition, can I still learn to surf?
A. Yes, but we need to know about it. If you suffer from any medical condition(s) that may affect safety, e.g. asthma, epilepsy, diabetes, heart problems, back and/or joint injuries, please ensure you inform your instructor before your lesson. Back to the Top

Q. Can I bring my own surfboard?
A. As a beginner you will use our soft boards; they are made of foam and are especially designed for learning how to surf – safely! If you are an improver and wish to bring your own board we can not guarantee you will be able to use it. Hard board usage is assessed on an individual basis and is entirely at the discretion of the coach on the day. We do not however offer any discount if you bring your own equipment.Back to the Top

Q. Do you offer any weekend or week long packages?
A. We prefer to let our customers design their own package and choose when they would like to surf – some people can be quite worn out after their first lesson and may want a day off to recover. For this reason we recommend a basic group lesson followed by as many or as few practice sessions as you want, when you want them!Back to the Top

Q. Is it safe to learn to surf in Bournemouth?
A. Yes, Bournemouth is ideal for beginners. We have no marine wildlife you need to worry about, apart from weaver fish stings but they are easily treated with a bucket of hot water! Bournemouth consistently achieves blue flag status on all its beaches making them a pleasure to visit and an enviable place to work! We pride ourselves on employing the most qualified and experienced staff, all our instructors are fully qualified beach lifeguards, level one (or above) surf instructors and experienced surfers.Back to the Top

Q. How long will it take to learn to surf?
A. Most people will be able to stand up on their first surfing lesson but it depends on the individual. Surfing is a long learning experience, our surfing lessons provide you with the best possible start. We recommend just one basic beginner lesson, followed by practice sessions. Practice sessions bridge the gap between your first lesson and buying your own equipment.Back to the Top