You’ll jump straight into Byron Bay’s waves with expert local guidance (and plenty of laughter). Stand up on your board—maybe even ride that guaranteed 40 meters—while sharing stories with fellow beginners. All equipment is provided so you can focus on finding your balance and soaking up that salty air.
We were already ankle-deep in Byron Bay’s chilly morning surf when Terry, our guide (he’s got this wild energy, kind of like he’s part of the ocean), called out — “Alright legends, let’s get you standing!” I’d never touched a surfboard before. The wax felt gritty under my palms and the salt air sort of stung my nose, but in a good way. There were about eight of us, all grinning nervously as Terry cracked jokes about koalas being better surfers than tourists. He showed us how to paddle and pop up, and honestly, I thought I’d be the one to wipe out first.
The first wave hit harder than I expected — not scary, just… real. I swallowed half the Pacific and came up spluttering, but Terry was right there shouting encouragement (and maybe laughing a little). When I finally managed to stand up for those few seconds — maybe it was 10 meters? — everyone cheered like I’d just won something big. There’s this weird moment when you’re actually riding the board: time slows down and you only hear your own breath and the slap of water on fiberglass. It’s addictive. Someone from Sydney next to me managed the full 40 meters on his third try; we all whooped for him like idiots.
I didn’t expect how much we’d end up talking between sets — swapping stories about failed attempts, sunscreen running into our eyes, even sharing bottled water because someone forgot theirs (thanks for packing extras, by the way). Terry kept us moving and safe without ever making it feel strict or school-like. He told us about teaching here since ’93 and pointed out dolphins in the distance — not that I saw them at first; too busy trying not to nosedive again.
Afterwards my arms felt like jelly but in that good way where you know you’ve done something worth remembering. Still think about that tiny second of balance when everything went quiet except for the sea spray and my heartbeat. Not sure if I’ll ever be a surfer but now whenever I see a board on top of someone’s car I get it, you know?
The lesson is a one-day activity suitable for beginners or as a refresher if you haven’t surfed in a while.
Yes, boards, wetsuits, rash vests, sunscreen, masks, hand sanitizer, and bottled water are all provided.
If you don’t stand up and ride a wave for 40 meters during your lesson, you get your money back.
Yes, they start from scratch and are perfect for anyone new to surfing or needing a refresher.
Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.
The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, poor cardiovascular health, epilepsy or narcolepsy.
Bottled water is provided as part of your day.
Specialized infant seats are available if needed.
Your day includes use of boards and wetsuits (plus rash vests), sunscreen so you don’t fry out there, bottled water to keep everyone hydrated between waves, masks and hand sanitizer for peace of mind—all sorted so you can just show up ready to try surfing in Byron Bay.
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