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About this Experience

What you'll do:

Paddle out where the city meets the Atlantic, on the only real surf beach in New York City.

  • Learn Surf Basics on the Sand - Your instructor walks you through safety, stance, and paddling before you touch the water.

  • Paddle Out Together - Head into Rockaway's gentle, beginner-friendly waves as a group, with instructors right beside you.

  • Catch Your First Wave - Get hands-on coaching and a push into the wave so you can feel what riding actually feels like.

  • Cheer Each Other On - Take turns catching waves while your group watches, laughs, and shouts encouragement from the water.

  • Capture the Moment - Grab photos and video between sets to remember the day.

You'll leave salty, sandy, and a little more confident than when you started, with a group of people who watched you catch your first wave.

Why we love it for your group:

  • Beginner-Friendly Waves - Rockaway's waves break over shallow sandbars in the 1 to 3 foot range, ideal for first-timers.

  • All Skill Levels Welcome - Instructors adjust coaching so first-timers and experienced surfers both get real time in the water.

  • A City Beach Unlike Any Other - Rockaway is NYC's only legitimate surf beach, an hour from Manhattan by subway or ferry.

  • Built for Groups - This group surf lesson is designed around bonding and shared moments, not just individual instruction.

  • Everything You Need Is Provided - Boards and wetsuits are included, so your group can show up ready to go.

About this experience partner:

Surfs Up NY is Rockaway Beach's longest-standing surf school, run by instructors Peter and Sean, who have taught surfing for over 10 years and have surfed some of the biggest waves in the world, including Nazaré, Portugal. They built their teaching around Rockaway's shallow, beginner-friendly sandbars, giving first-time surfers a safe, supportive introduction to the sport. Guests come to Surfs Up NY for a genuine surf lesson delivered by people who know the beach better than anyone else on it.

Additional information:

  • Surfboards and wetsuits are provided; no personal gear needed.

  • Group classes are recommended for ages 16 and up.

  • Younger surfers can join with an additional supervising instructor.

  • No prior surf experience is required to join a class.

Book This Experience

Visit the experience booking site to check availability and book your experience.

Location

New York, NY

108-10 Shore Front Pkwy, Rockaway Park, NY 11694, USA

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior surfing experience?

Not at all! No prior surfing experience is required. The lesson begins with basic safety, stance, and paddling instruction before you head into the water.

What is included with the surf lesson?

Surfboards and wetsuits are provided, so you don’t need to bring your own surfing equipment. Your instructor will also provide hands-on coaching throughout the lesson.

Is the lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes! The lessons take place at Rockaway Beach, where the shallow, beginner-friendly waves are ideal for first-time surfers. Instructors adjust their coaching based on each guest’s skill level.

What is the minimum age to participate?

Group classes are recommended for guests aged 16 and up. Younger surfers can participate with an additional supervising instructor.

What should I bring to the surf lesson?

Your board and wetsuit are provided, so just bring yourself and anything you’d normally want for a beach day, such as a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, and water. Be ready to get wet and have fun!