GROUP
Group lessons with Ballito Surf School are the perfect way to experience surfing one of our world-class breaks in a fun, social setting. Our instructors are highly trained, friendly, and committed to making sure you have the best possible time in the water. We keep our ratios low (1 instructor to 3–4 surfers), so you’ll get plenty of attention and personalised feedback — but if you’re after even more one-on-one focus, we’d recommend a private lesson.
Each lesson runs for 1 hour and is subject to weather and tides on the day.
Please note: Group lessons are best suited for ages 8+
Ratio: 1 instructor to 3–4 students
We’ll match you with a surfboard suited to your ability.
Beginners: soft, safe, stable boards that make it easier to balance, paddle and stand.
Intermediates: fibreglass boards available on request — or feel free to bring your own.
Wetsuits & rash vests
Everything you need for comfort and protection in the water.
Sunscreen
We’ve got you covered (literally).
Experienced & friendly surf instructors
Qualified coaches dedicated to keeping you safe and helping you progress.
Surf safety briefing
Your lesson starts with a quick 10-minute briefing covering ocean safety, board basics and pop-up technique before heading into the water.
Swimwear
Towel
Water
We run an industry-leading ratio of 1 instructor to a maximum of 4 surfers.
All instructors are local surfers and trained watermen with deep knowledge of the area. Lessons are conducted in safe, waist-deep water with broken waves — perfect for learning and progressing unless you’re further along and ready to head out the back, in which case your instructor will guide you accordingly.
BEGINNER LESSONS
Beginner group lessons are ideal for anyone ages 8yrs and above trying out surfing for the first time. It is recommended that you are comfortable in the water and enjoy learning in a group setting. Whether it be a moment shared with your friends or meeting new people relative to your age and ability, this option will ensure you get the most out of a social surf experience.
INTERMEDIATE LESSONS
Intermediates are required to have previous surf experience and should be comfortable enough to surf on their own without the help of an instructor to push them on waves. If this sounds like you and you are looking to improve your overall technique in a group setting, then this option is for you.
Don’t take our word for it
“There are few times in our city lives that we get to experience something as awesome as this. These guys are friendly and helpful, and I highly recommend them. My son was in his element in the water, having doubts about whether he would enjoy it or not. He definitely did! The guys took extra care to ensure he could thoroughly enjoy it!.”
- Dani
“Fantastic. The guys at Ballito Surf School really enjoy introducing kids to surfing. My 9-year-old son loved it. After 5 minutes of coaching on the beach, he was into the waves with coach Liam. Great experience. Ridiculously good value for money.”
- Daniel Bodewig
“The best place to learn how to surf. I was on holiday from Joburg, never surfed before and they had me up and standing within two lessons. The surf instructors were really cool guys and were more than happy to help.”
- Finlay Jonah
“Had such a great time surfing with these guys on my holiday! Even caught my first real waves at the back. Highly recommended.”
- Megan Marr
“I cannot recommend Janek & his team enough. My son Hayden has had a few lessons with them now and he absolutely loves it and can’t get enough. We booked Hayden’s Birthday Party & every child and parent was blown away. Bring on the holidays for more surfing fun!”
- Samantha Colley