Frequently Asked Questions

Can courses be started on any day of the week?

Yes, subject to availability.

 

What time do the courses start?

Lessons usually start at 10am and 2pm however we may vary our start times to work around the tide and therefore ensure you get the best surf conditions in which to learn. We will send you details of your lesson times with your booking confirmation.

 

How long do lessons last?

Our surf lessons are all 2hrs long with the aim to spend as much time in the water as possible.

 

Will I surf with other people of the same ability?

Yes, we try to stream classes by ability, so beginners are coached with other beginners, improvers are taught with other improvers and so on.

 

Do you provide boards and wetsuits?

We provide everything you need to surf; boards, wetsuits and even wetsuit hats, boot and gloves when needed.

 

What age do you start from?

We teach from 8 years and up.

 

Will you have a wetsuit big enough/small enough to fit me?

Our smallest wetsuits are children’s extra small and our biggest wetsuits are adults extra extra large. So we should have a wetsuit to fit you no matter how big or small you are.

 

Can I surf with my glasses on?

We recommend disposable contact lenses or prescription goggles for safety reasons. Metal framed glasses or glasses with glass (rather than plastic) lenses are the least safe. However, you can wear your glasses in the surf with a special head band to hold them on.

 

Do I need to book surf lessons or can I just turn up?

Each courses has a limited number of places due to student to coach ratios. We also limit the number of places available to maintain the highest standards of coaching and ensure everyone gets lots of individual attention. Therefore it is advisable to book as far in advance as you can.

 

What do I need to bring?

We will provide you with a surfboard, wetsuit and wetsuit boots/hat, if needed. However, if you have your own wetsuit or surfboard feel free to bring them along. You should also bring a completed health & safety form, (which we will provide upon booking), a towel and swimsuit, warm clothing for after the session, high factor waterproof sun cream, change for parking and any relevant medication (asthma inhalers, etc.).

 

Can I still surf if I am not a strong swimmer?

Our surf courses for beginners all take place in waist depth water. We are experienced at teaching people of all ages and with varying levels of fitness. The great thing about our courses are that you can take them at your own pace and have a rest whenever you like. However, we do require all students to be able to swim a minimum of 25 metres without resting.

 

Is the sea cold?

The sea temperature varies depending up on the time of year. Our wetsuits are full length and incorporate the latest in wetsuit technology. They are designed to keep you warm and comfortable whatever the weather. We want happy customers and cold customers aren’t happy, so we make sure the suits we provide are warm enough! We have both winter and summer wetsuits so even if its late in the season you'll still be warm!

 

When is the best time of the year to surf?

We open from the start of April to the end of October. During this time the surf tends to be consistent and reliable. However in our opinion the best times of year are April, May, June, September and October.

 

Does it matter if it’s raining?

Surfing in the rain is great, and you’ll be getting wet anyway. Surfing is an ideal all weather activity and lots of our students tell us they were having such a good time they didn’t even notice the rain.

 

What if the surf is too rough?

Fortunately, Aberavon Beach is situated close to a number of beaches that offer more protection from rough conditions. We track weather and surf conditions on a daily basis and will advise you of this prior to any lesson you have booked. If a venue change is necessary we will inform you of this prior to your lesson.

 

What happens if there is no surf?

It is extremely rare for us to have no surf. However, if we decide the conditions are unsuitable, we will offer you a lesson on another day that is suitable for you, an alternative activity or a voucher valid for 2 years. See our booking conditions.

 

Are there group discounts?

Yes, we offer large discounts for groups of 10 or more as well as school and youth groups, corporate groups, stag parties and hen parties.

 

Do you cater for more experienced surfers?

We have coaches qualified and experienced in coaching all levels of surfer from beginner to advanced.  

 

Will I get my money back if I cancel my booking?

We do not offer refunds for cancellations because we will have turned other people away please see our booking terms and conditions. We therefore recommend you take out suitable holiday insurance.

 

Do I need travel insurance?

We recommend you take out travel insurance in case of cancellation due to illness etc.

 

Are dogs allowed on the beach?

Dogs are allowed on certain parts of Aberavon beach, please contact us for more info.

 

How do I book?

You can call us directly on 07783 467560 or 07578 769443, email us your enquiry info@surfmoresouthwales.co.uk) or use the contact form online.

 

How do I pay?

You can pay by cash, cheque, bank transfer or PayPal. Payments must be made in advance of lesson in order to secure your space.

 

Is there parking?

Aberavon beach has plenty of parking along the whole of the beach front. There is both free parking and also a cheap £1 all day option.

 

What can I expect to learn?

Our aim is to get you stood up surfing on your first lesson, although personal ability will certainly help some customers. After gearing up we start on the beach going through the basics. This includes a safety brief, getting to know the equipment, and how to get out in waves. After these initial basics we go through how to catch a wave and ultimately how to stand up on your surfboard. Everybody will learn at different rates, our aim is for customers to be able to return and have the confidence and knowledge to hire the same equipment and surf unaided in order to progress further and of course 'to have fun!'.