The Accessories Every Surfer Needs

You’ve bought your board.
You’ve bought your wetsuit.
You’re frothing.

Now what?

Here’s a list of essential gear that’ll make your surf life easier, cleaner, safer — and a little more dignified. All learned the hard way, by yours truly.

1. Wet Storage – AKA “The Bucket”

You’ve driven to your secret spot, had a great surf, and now what — stand around in a puddle peeling off your wetsuit while your neighbour’s toddler points at you?

Nah.

You could buy a fancy surf-specific wetbag for $80+.
Or you can swing past Bunnings and grab a big flexi cement bucket for less than $10.

Pro tip: Get the biggest one that fits in your car.

It doubles as a portable changing station in sandy carparks. Just stand in it, peel off your wetsuit, chuck everything in the bucket, and toss it in the boot.

No fuss.
No mess.
No sand in places sand shouldn’t be.

2. Car Key Storage

There’s no perfect system — only trade-offs. Your choice depends on:

• your car

• your key type

• your tolerance for fiddling around

• your tolerance for risk

• your tolerance for reading your car’s manual

Here are your options, ranked from “please don’t” to “this makes sense.”

Option 1: The “Safe Place”

(Not recommended)

You hide your key under a rock, in the wheel arch, behind the fuel cap — which is also exactly where every car thief checks.

And if your car gets stolen using your own key?
Your insurance is likely void.

Ask me how I know.

Option 2: The Non-Electric Copy

If your car allows it, get a cheap, non-electric key cut (yes, Bunnings does this).
Lock your real key in the car, take the copy surfing on a string around your neck, and use it to get back in.

Warning:
Some cars won’t lock with the key inside, and others won’t open with a non-chip key.
Test this before you’re standing in the carpark with wet hair and numb fingers.

Option 3: The Key Safe

The go-to for many surfers: a small combination box that attaches to your car.

Just make sure:

• your proximity key isn’t close enough to unlock the car

• you don’t set the code to “1234”

• you actually lock the safe (don’t laugh, it happens)

Option 4: My Method — The Waterproof Key Pouch

If you have a proximity key like me, this is the move.

No fiddling with safes.
No insurance dramas.
No manual reading.

Just seal it once, hang it around your neck or tuck it into your wetsuit.
Replace once a year to be safe.

3. The Changing Towel (Protect Your Dignity)

When I lived in England, I once changed on a windy cliff. Mid-change, a gust of wind ripped my towel clean out of my hands, just as two grannies pushing a pram came strolling around the corner.

Outstanding timing.
Cheers, universe.

Don’t be like me.

Grab a changing towel (also called a poncho towel). They make wetsuit changes:

• easy

• private

• warm

• not humiliating

Bonus:
❄️ For winter, Dryrobe makes fleece-lined versions that feel like putting on a sleeping bag after a cold surf.

4. A Proper Surfboard Bag

Ask any surfer how their nastiest ding happened, and most won’t say “A heavy wave at Winki.”
They’ll say something like:

• “I bumped it on the garage wall.”

• “I clipped the car door.”

• “It was fine until I put the roof racks on.”

Sound familiar?

Save yourself the heartbreak.
Buy a board bag.

Get one slightly longer than your board so you can also chuck your towel or wetsuit in there. The padding also helps massively for any future surf trips (Bali, New Zealand, a Dawn Surf Co. retreat… manifesting).

5. Water — Don’t Be Me

Let’s talk hydration.

I am, quite literally, the poster boy for dehydration.
In December alone I suffered heat stroke two or three times.
That’s not a typo.
Coaching all day in the sun is no joke — and it absolutely catches up with you if you don’t drink enough water.

So here’s my advice:

Bring water every single time.

Not “sometimes.”
Not “if it’s hot.”
Every session.

I’ve found that having a nice insulated flask with genuinely cold water makes a huge difference. After a couple of hours surfing or coaching, cold water actually feels appealing instead of like a chore.

If you need a bottle that won’t cook your water like a kettle in summer, pick up an affordable insulated one from Strapper Surf.

Your future, not-heat-stroked self will thank you.

6. Sunscreen — Slip, Slop, Slop, Actually Do It

The Australian sun is unhinged — especially on the Surf Coast.
If you’re from overseas (like me, originally from England), the sun here will teach you lessons you didn’t ask for.

And remember:
The water reflects UV light.
Double exposure.

Here’s what I personally use every single time:

Sun Bum’s Waterproof 50+ SPF Sunscreen

Face, neck, ears — anywhere that’s exposed.

Then, on top of that:

A layer of zinc paste (“surf mud”)

It’s a little stubborn to wash off, but that’s exactly why it works. It stays on through wipeouts, duck dives, and your third re-application that you forgot to do.

My first Aussie summer taught me something important:
Caps look cool until you come back looking like a cooked lobster.

So now I wear:

A waterproof Creatures bucket hat

Full coverage.
Less squinting.
No sunburned ears.

Trust me: life's too short for peeling nose skin.

7. The Right Surf Wax (And How Not to Destroy Your Board or Car)

I use Sex Wax — specifically:

• Blue base coat

• Temperature-appropriate top coat:

  • Green for summer & autumn

  • Pink for winter & spring

How to wax properly

1. Make sure the board is cold.
   Waxing a hot board causes smudging instead of bumps.

2. Apply your base coat until you’ve built a good foundation.

3. Add temperature-appropriate wax over the top for grip.

Good wax gives you:

• traction

• control

• better pop-ups

• fewer embarrassing slip-offs in front of strangers

Storing your board: Avoid Wax Armageddon

Whatever you do:

• Don’t leave your board in the car in summer.

• Don’t leave your board bag in the sun.

Otherwise:

• the wax melts

• it runs

• it glues itself to your board bag

• you enter a new circle of surfing hell

If you’ve ever tried to peel melted wax off a bag…
I’m sorry.
I’ve been there.

8. Supporting Local: Get Almost All of This at Strapper Surf

One of the best things about living on the Surf Coast is that we’ve got Strapper Surf right here — Torquay’s iconic surf shop and a genuinely great resource for beginners.

You can pick up:

• wax

• insulated bottles

• sunscreen

• zinc

• surf hats

• wetsuit accessories

• board bags

• changing towels

Basically everything on this list, in one stop.

Shop local, support the community, and get the right gear without trawling through random online stores.

Final Word

None of this gear is glamorous — but it will make your surf sessions smoother, safer, cleaner, and less sandy.

Got questions?
Drop into the DMs or ask me on the beach — I’ll probably be the guy stuffing a wetsuit into a $5 Bunnings bucket with a grin on his face.

How to Buy the Right First Surfboard (And Avoid the Mistakes That Make People Quit Surfing)

Buying your first surfboard is exciting. It’s also where a lot of people quietly make the decision that determines whether surfing becomes a lifelong pursuit… or something that gathers dust in the garage.

Surfing is a hard sport to learn. Unlike most sports, you don’t just turn up and practice. You need the right conditions, the right location, and the time to get there. Unless you live close to the ocean, chances are you can’t surf as regularly as you’d like either.

In a two-hour session, you might only get 20 seconds of actual surfing.

That reality changes how you should think about buying your first board.

This guide is here to reset expectations, save you money, and help you choose a surfboard that gives you the best chance of catching waves, improving, and actually enjoying the process.

Why Most People Buy the Wrong First Surfboard

The eagerness to jump straight onto a shortboard is completely understandable.

They look cool.
They’re light.
They’re easy to carry.

And they’re ridden by surfers who make everything look effortless.

What’s easy to forget is that the people surfing shortboards have usually been surfing consistently for years — often since they were kids. They’ve already built paddle fitness, timing, positioning, and ocean awareness.

When beginners copy that equipment choice, they’re skipping the foundations.

The Reality of Learning to Surf

Early on, surfing is about:

• Building paddle fitness

• Catching as many waves as possible

• Developing awareness in the water

• Learning positioning, timing, and etiquette

A small, low-volume board makes all of that harder.

The result?

• Fewer waves

• Slower improvement

• More frustration

Unless your board is missing a fin or snapped in two, it’s rarely the board’s fault. Sometimes the conditions aren’t ideal — but if you chose to paddle out, that’s part of surfing too.

Buying a board that’s too small is often the core reason people quit surfing altogether.

Resetting Expectations: What Your First Board Is Actually For

Your first surfboard is not your “forever board”.

It’s the first board in your quiver.

In surfing, you rarely sell boards — you build a collection that lets you surf more conditions. That’s why it’s so hard to find a good second-hand beginner board. Everyone loves their first board, and they keep it for fun summer days or small surf.

For the first couple of years, volume and length are your best investment.

That usually means:

• 8ft+

• High volume

• Forgiving rails

• Easy paddling and wave catching

A bigger board allows you to:

• Catch more waves

• Improve faster

• Build fitness naturally

• Spend more time standing, not paddling

The goal early on is simple: maximize wave count.

What Happens When a Board Is Too Small (From Real Experience)

When someone buys a board that’s too small too early, the pattern is almost always the same:

• They catch fewer waves

• Progress stalls

• Frustration builds

• Sessions become shorter and less frequent

They start blaming:

• The conditions

• The crowd

• The equipment

But in reality, they’ve made surfing harder than it needs to be.

There’s an old saying for a reason: the poor man buys twice.

Buying the right board early saves you money, time, and motivation.

Matching Your Board to the Conditions You’ll Actually Surf

Most beginners surf:

• Beach breaks

• Small waves

• 1–3ft (ankle to chest high)

For those conditions, you want a board that’s:

• Long

• Stable

• High volume

• Forgiving

Why Shape Matters

Beginner-friendly boards typically have:

• A flatter rocker (less curve from nose to tail)

• More foam under the chest for paddling

• Wider outlines for stability

These features help you get into waves earlier, stand up more consistently, and stay balanced while learning.

If you’re surfing beach breaks with soft, inconsistent waves, a minimal or longboard simply gives you more opportunity to succeed.

Surfing Goals: You’re Not Locking Yourself Into Anything

A common fear is:
“But what if I want to shortboard later?”

That’s the wrong way to think about it.

Soul Surfer / Walking the Board

Perfect. Think of your first board as:

• Your first longboard

• And probably your smallest longboard

You’ll use it forever on small, clean days.

Competitive / Shortboard Focus

Even better.

A high-volume board will:

• Help you progress faster

• Build paddle fitness

• Become your perfect summer board

Without it, you’re stuck compensating with gym sessions or running — and let’s be honest, that’s not why most people got into surfing.

Your first board doesn’t decide your future.
It enables it.

Accessories: The Hidden Money Trap (And How to Avoid It)

This is where beginners quietly overspend.

Surf shops will often discount accessories when you buy a board — take advantage of it.

Leash

• Should be equal to the length of your board

• Especially important on longer boards (yes, even if you’re dreaming of hang tens)

Fins

• Match the fin system (usually FCS II or Futures)

• Avoid expensive fins early

• $20 plastic fins work perfectly while learning

Those $150–$250 carbon fins? They’ll get ground into the sand just like everything else.

Board Bag

Ask any surfer how they got a ding in their board and you’ll see a moment of pain.

Boards rarely break in the water.
They break in garages and car parks.

Buy:

• A padded board bag

• A few inches longer than your board (future-proofing matters)

Wax

Say it together:
Soft tops don’t need wax.

For hard boards:

• Base coat

• Correct wax for water temperature

• Wax comb

Transport & Storage

Before buying roof racks:

• Fold down rear seats

• Recline the front seat

• Remove the headrest

• Feed the board through carefully

At home:

• Store boards in low-traffic areas

• Avoid corners and tight exits

• Protect both the board and your walls

Custom Boards: When They Make Sense (And When They Don’t)

Custom boards are incredible — at the right time.

Most off-the-rack boards exist because:

• They worked for someone

• Their friends liked them

• Demand grew naturally

For beginners, the only noticeable difference with a custom board is:

• Your name on the bottom

• The colour

You won’t yet feel or appreciate subtle refinements in rocker, rails, or foil.

To truly benefit from a custom board, you need:

• Experience on multiple boards

• A clear understanding of what you want to change

Until then, you’re paying for aesthetics, not performance.

The One Thing That Matters Most

If there’s one thing to remember, it’s this:

Volume and length are your friends.

You’re not buying your only surfboard.
You’re buying the first of many.

Buy the board that:

• Lets you catch waves easily

• Builds confidence

• Makes sessions fun

• Gets you surfing more often

If people start calling you a wave hog, you’ve chosen well.

That’s how surfing becomes part of your life — not just something that gathers dust in the garage.

Final Thought

Surfing rewards patience, consistency, and smart choices.

The right board won’t do the work for you — but the wrong one will make everything harder than it needs to be.

If you’re unsure, get advice from people who surf regularly, in the conditions you’ll actually be surfing. And if you want quality gear from people who genuinely understand beginners and progressing surfers, Strapper Surf is a solid place to start.

Choose well. Catch more waves. And enjoy the process.

How to Choose the Right Wetsuit for You

I’m writing this on the back of two weeks of decision paralysis trying to buy new wetsuits for the school. So now felt like the right time to give my two cents on this. I’ve gone down the rabbit hole so you don’t have too.

The short answer? Buy the wetsuit that fits you best within your budget.

The best way to do this is to head down to your local surf shop and try them on. Here in Torquay, you’ll find the best range in Strapper. They stock all the major brands and the staff are all super passionate surfers and want to make sure you buy the right gear.

1. The Fit

Wetsuits work by trapping a thin layer of water between your skin and the neoprene. Your body warms that layer, turning it into a heated blanket.

If your suit is too loose, cold water will “flush” through and force your body to re-warm a fresh layer again and again. If it’s too tight, you’ll struggle to breathe or move.

Your wetsuit should feel snug to the skin but never restrictive.

• If it feels baggy → try a smaller size.

• If it feels rib-crushing → size up.

Wetsuit Sizes are non very well standardised. By this I mean you could be 6 or a M in an O'Neill, and an 8 or L in a ripcurl.

2. Thickness & Water Temperature

Wetsuit thickness is measured in millimeters and usually written as 5/4, 4/3, 3/2, or sometimes 5/3/2.

• The first number = core thickness (warmth).

• The second/third number = arms/legs thickness (flexibility).

Surf Coast Rule of Thumb (Torquay, Anglesea, Lorne):

• 3/2 mm → Summer, Late Spring, Early Autumn.

• 4/3 mm → The rest of the year

A handy resource: Torquay water temperature chart. The ocean holds its heat well, so the water temperature is about 6 weeks behind the season.

If you really feel the cold, add hoods, boots, and gloves.

• Hoods: Only needed if you're surfing during the coldest days in winter, most people don’t need them in Australia

• Gloves: go for mitts over finger gloves. They’re easier to get on/off and even give a little paddling boost.

Wetsuit Thickness Guide

3. Seams (Sealed vs Non-Sealed)

This is simple: buy sealed seams!

• Sealed seams = glued & stitched → warmer and more comfortable.

• Flatlock seams = not sealed → common in surf school suits (cheap, durable) but not ideal for personal use.
  

4. Zip Options: Back-Zip, Chest-Zip, Zipperless

• Back-zip: Easy to get in/out of, good for bigger body types, but prone to flushing.

• Chest-zip: Warmer, less flushing, but takes practice to wriggle into.

• Zipperless: Like a chest-zip with more shoulder freedom, but less common and usually higher-end.

5. Materials & Linings

As prices rise, wetsuits improve in three main areas:

1. Neoprene stretch → easier paddling, less fatigue.

2. Internal linings → fluffy linings dry quicker and feel warmer.

3. Seam tech → more advanced taping or liquid seams = less cold getting = you stay warmer for longer.

If you’re surfing daily, that quick-dry lining is a lifesaver on frosty mornings. If you only surf occasionally, it’s a luxury, not a necessity.

6. Brands

Just like in any sport, you can find the cheap copies of the equipment.

My advice stick to the well established and trusted brands - Torquay is the birth place for many big brands such as Ripcurl, Billabong, Quicksilver, Roxy, Need essentials. Other notable brands include O’Neill, Vissla, Sisstr, Xcel, Hurley, Peak.

Final Notes

At the very high end, wetsuits split into two categories:

• Competitive suits → super stretchy, built for 30-minute heats, short lifespan. Think Formula 1 car: fast, precise, but fragile.

• Recreational suits → more durable, built for comfort and longevity. Better value for most surfers.

Bottom line: Head into your local surf shop, try on a few, and pick the one that fits like a glove (without crushing your ribs) and suits your budget. That’s the wetsuit for you.

Still struggling? head down to our friends at Strapper in Torquay and they’ll happily give you a helping hand. And Whilst your down here, come join me for a surf lesson!

What to Expect in Your First Surf Lesson as an Adult (Dawn Surf Edition)

If you’ve been thinking about learning to surf on the Surf Coast — whether you’ve just moved to Torquay, you’re holidaying along the Great Ocean Road, or you’re finally ready to tick it off your bucket list — you might be wondering:

“What actually happens during a surf lesson for adults?”
“Is it too hard?”
“Will I feel out of place?”
“Can I really learn at my age?”

These are some of the most common questions I hear, and they are completely normal. Learning to surf as an adult is exciting, empowering, and absolutely life-changing — but it also comes with a few nerves.

This guide walks you through exactly what to expect from your first adults-only surf lesson with Dawn Surf Co. on the Surf Coast. No surprises, no guesswork — just calm, clear, supportive information so you can step into the ocean with confidence.

The Night Before: Your Lesson Location & Meeting Point

Because I tailor every lesson to the conditions, you’ll receive an email the night before with the confirmed meeting details. This gives me enough time to check:

• Swell height

• Wind direction & strength

• Tide timing

• Safety hazards

• Best tide windows

• Suitable banks

This approach ensures that we choose the safest and most suitable beach for that specific day. Conditions change fast on the Surf Coast — choosing the right spot can mean the difference between a stressful lesson and a beautiful, confidence-building experience.

Meeting Locations

You’ll usually meet me at one of two places:

• Point Addis Beach Lookout
Look for the Dawn Surf Co. flag.
Point Addis offers a peaceful, protected teaching environment and gentle sand-bottom waves.

• The grassy area at Urquharts Bluff
Right in front of the public changing rooms.
Urquharts Bluff is quiet, scenic, and offers consistent, forgiving waves ideal for adults.

Both locations are chosen for their calm atmosphere and distance from crowded town beaches.

Getting Suited Up: Wetsuits, Changing Towels & Comfort

Before your session, you will have filled out a short questionnaire. I use this information to bring a curated selection of wetsuits in your size range.

How a good wetsuit should fit

A wetsuit should feel:

• like a glove

• snug but not restrictive

• warm but flexible

• secure with no loose areas

Most people expect a wetsuit to feel “tight,” but once you’re in the water, the snugness helps regulate temperature and gives you a much more enjoyable experience.

Changing Towels for Privacy

Because Point Addis and Urquharts Bluff are quieter beaches without the dedicated change rooms you’ll find in Torquay or Anglesea, I bring changing towels so you can suit up comfortably and modestly if needed.

Safety First: Your Conditions Briefing

Before we even touch the boards, I will walk you through:

• The swell forecast

• Wind speed and direction

• Tide timing

• Hazards (if any)

• Our plan to mitigate risks

• Safe zones and boundaries

• How we will communicate in the water

This gives you clarity and confidence before stepping into the ocean.

A lot of adult beginners feel nervous about the unknown. Simply understanding how waves work — and how we will manage them — can eliminate 80% of that stress immediately.

Land-Based Coaching: The Essential Foundations (15–30 Minutes)

Your first 15–30 minutes stay on the sand. This part is crucial — it sets you up for success in the water and dramatically speeds up your progression.

1. Ocean Awareness

We cover:

• how waves break

• how to choose safe zones

• how to avoid other surfers

• how to use whitewater safely

• how to identify a rip current

• how to exit a rip by paddling parallel

This removes fear and replaces it with understanding.

2. Safety Rules

At Dawn Surf Co., adult safety comes first. You’ll learn:

• board control

• safe falls

• spacing

• how to keep the board between you and the wave

• how to avoid collisions

• how to move through incoming waves calmly

Adults tend to appreciate structure — the clearer the rules, the more confident you’ll feel.

3. Technique Breakdown

We cover:

• your stance

• correct paddling position

• efficient paddling technique

• pop-up method (step-by-step)

• foot placement

• weight distribution

The pop-up is taught in a controlled, structured way so you build muscle memory before entering the water.

4. Warm-Up

A gentle warm-up helps loosen muscles and prevent injury.

By the end of the land session, you’ll feel ready — not rushed.

Into the Water: Catching Waves (The Fun Begins)

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, we head straight into the water.

A typical Dawn Surf Co. lesson spends most of the time actually surfing, not standing on the beach waiting.

45 Minutes of Focused Practice

You’ll start by:

• learning how to manage whitewater

• practising the pop-up

• finding your stance

• catching waves with instructor help

• feeling the timing of the ocean

We take breaks as needed — surfing is physically demanding, and a short breather can dramatically improve your technique.

Short Mid Lesson Break

Around the 45-minute mark, we pause briefly:

• water break

• slight technique adjustments

• more land corrections if needed

Every adult learns differently — small refinements here make a big difference when we head back out.

Second Water Session

We return to the water refreshed and more confident. This is often where things suddenly “click” for students.

In the last 10–15 minutes, you can choose:

• more instruction (for progression-focused learners)

• photos (for keepsakes or technique review)

Both options are valuable — it’s your lesson, your way.

A Coaching Style That Fits the Student

Everyone learns differently. Some adults want:

• constant feedback

• detailed breakdowns

• step-by-step instruction

Others prefer:

• space to try

• minimal input

• gentle corrections

My coaching adapts to you. There’s no ego, no pressure, and no expectation to perform. You progress at your own pace.

This is the beauty of adults-only lessons — the environment stays calm, focused, and respectful.

Photos: Your Surfing Memories Captured

Photos depend on the conditions:

If conditions are good:

I step out of the water and use a DSLR camera for high-quality images.

If conditions are less ideal:

I photograph you with the GoPro so I can stay close and assist if needed.

What You Get

Photos are delivered via a downloadable link sent by email after the session. These are perfect for:

• analysing technique

• tracking your progression

• sharing the memory

• celebrating your first waves

Many adults treasure their first-lesson photos — it’s often the moment surfing becomes real.

Who Comes to Dawn Surf Co?

All types of adults join lessons, including:

• new locals wanting to make the most of coastal life

• travellers exploring the Great Ocean Road

• people ticking surfing off their bucket list

• adults returning to the water after years away

The only requirement is the ability to swim 50 metres unassisted in open water.

During lessons, we always stay in areas where you can comfortably stand.

The goal is comfort, not stress.

What If You’re Nervous? (Most Adults Are)

If you're worried about:

• ocean depth

• looking silly

• being too unfit

• having bad balance

• getting too cold

• being “too old”

• not standing up

• being judged

You’re in the right place. Adults often learn best in environments that feel:

• safe

• controlled

• quiet

• respectful

• private

That’s why Dawn Surf Co. uses quieter beaches away from the crowds — many adults feel more relaxed knowing they won't be surrounded by kids zig-zagging in every direction or huge classes competing for every wave.

A calm adult mind learns faster.

The End of Your Lesson: Your Next Step

At the end of the session, you’ll have two choices:

1. Leave with a great memory

For many adults, their first lesson is a once-off bucket list moment. You’ll walk away with photos and a huge sense of accomplishment.

2. Begin your surfing journey

If you loved it — and most people do — we’ll chat about your next steps, including:

• which beaches to practise on (Cosy Corner, Anglesea, Torquay Back Beach when patrolled)

• what skills to focus on

• how to stay safe practising alone

• when to consider progression lessons

Surfing is a lifelong journey, and your first lesson is just the start.

So… What Can You Expect From Your First Adult Surf Lesson?

You can expect:

• the right beach chosen for you

• a warm, comfortable wetsuit

• a clear safety plan

• structured, patient instruction

• a calm teaching environment

• space to learn without pressure

• lots of waves

• real progress

• photos to remember the experience

• a sense of accomplishment

• a new connection to the ocean

Your first lesson is designed to make you feel supported, capable, and confident — no matter your age or experience.

Ready to Try Surfing on the Surf Coast?

Book Your Adults-Only Surf Lesson with Dawn Surf Co.

If you're curious, excited, or even a tiny bit nervous — that’s the perfect place to begin.

Whether it’s your first time ever or your first time in years, we’ll guide you through it safely, calmly, and with a clear technique that helps you learn faster.

Ready to give surfing a try? Book your adults-only lesson below — and let’s get you standing up on your first wave.

Am I Too Old to Learn How to Surf? (Absolutely Not — And Here’s Why the Surf Coast Is the Best Place to Start)

By Dawn Surf Co. — Adults-Only Surf Lessons in Torquay & Anglesea

If you’ve ever stood on a clifftop watching clean lines roll into Point Addis or Urquarts Bluff and thought, “I wish I could do that… but maybe I’m too old now,” you’re not alone.

This is one of the most common questions adults ask — and the answer is simple:

No. You are not too old. Not even close.

In fact, adults often learn faster, safer, and with far less frustration than they expect — especially when they’re coached in the right environment.

At Dawn Surf Co., we specialise exclusively in adults-only surf lessons on the Surf Coast, built around calm, patient, technique-focused coaching at two of the region’s most beginner-friendly beaches: Point Addis and Urquarts Bluff.

This blog will help you understand:

• Why age is never a barrier

• The real fears adults have (and how we solve them)

• Why quieter beaches mean faster progress

• Why adults learn differently — and better — than kids

• And how you can start surfing this season, even with zero experience

Let’s get into it.

You Are Not Too Old — Here’s the Truth About Adult Surfing

Most adults think surfing demands elite fitness, perfect balance, or some mystical ocean intuition you only get if you started at age 7.

None of that is true.

Here’s what you actually need to learn to surf:

• A safe beach

• A soft board

• An instructor who understands adults

• Clear technique

• Space to practice

• Encouragement

That’s it.

You do not need:

• Gymnast-level balance

• Peak fitness

• The flexibility of a teenager

• To be fearless

• To be “naturally sporty”

The ocean doesn’t care about your age — only your approach.

Adults learn incredibly well when the environment is tailored for them. And that’s exactly where most surf schools fall short.

Why Adults Learn Better With Adults

Most surf schools pack lessons with kids and travellers. The result?

• Fast, chaotic, competitive energy

• Little personalised coaching

• Kids advancing faster (and understandably dominating the waves)

• Beginners crammed into tiny takeoff zones

• Adults feeling self-conscious or overlooked

This was exactly my experience when I learned to surf as an adult.

I started on chaotic beaches in oversized classes full of kids who picked things up instantly, raced around me, and were… let’s say… energetic.
There was no real progression offered past “stand up once or twice,” and no help building confidence, ocean awareness, or personal technique.

I had to travel all over the world to get proper progression lessons — and even then, many were overcrowded, rushed, or aimed at a younger demographic.

That’s why I created Dawn Surf Co.
A surf school designed for grown adults who want clarity, calm, and real progress — without the chaos.

Why Dawn Surf Co. Is Different

Adults-Only Lessons

No kids. Ever.
This instantly changes the vibe — calmer, more focused, more respectful, and paced for how adults learn best.

Quiet, Beautiful Beaches Away From the Chaos

We teach at:

• Point Addis — protected, scenic, with long gentle waves

• Urquarts Bluff — sand-bottom, wide, forgiving, never overcrowded

Both beaches are perfect for adults because:

• They’re spacious

• They have gentle whitewater in all conditions

• There’s room to practise without feeling judged or rushed

• They avoid the crowds of Torquay and Anglesea town beaches

Patient, Technique-Focused Coaching

Adults don’t want to waste time “just having a go.”
You want clear, simple steps that help you progress — fast.

Our coaching focuses on:

• Efficient pop-up techniques

• Proper stance

• Wave selection for adults

• Safe paddling pathways

• Building confidence in deeper water

• Reading the ocean intelligently

• Developing your foundation for green waves down the track

Smaller Class Sizes

Unlike other surf schools that run “come hell or high water,” we cap class sizes and cancel if conditions aren’t safe. Small groups = more feedback, more waves, more progress.

Safety-First (Without the Fear Talk)

We keep it clear and empowering:

• Soft boards = soft landings

• Water is a forgiving environment

• We choose safe, mellow beaches

• Our instructors are trained to watch conditions constantly

• We carry the right rescue equipment

• And if conditions are not safe — your lesson does not run
  (Many schools won’t tell you this, but they’ll still run lessons in unsafe conditions.)

Photos Included

Because adults love seeing their real progression (and it helps you refine technique).

Faster Learning, Less Chaos

When you remove:

• crowds

• kids

• chaos

• cold shocks

• unclear teaching

Adults absolutely thrive.

Common fears adults have — and why they’re not barriers

“I don’t have good balance.”

Perfect — we don’t use balance to teach you. We teach technique.

Standing up on a surfboard is a sequence, not a talent:

1. Correct board position

2. Stable paddle

3. Smooth pop-up technique

4. Centre of gravity inside the board

5. Eyes forward and soft knees

Adults often learn this faster because they listen and apply instructions precisely.

“I’m scared of the ocean.”

Totally normal.
But here’s the truth: we teach at gentle, sand-bottom beaches in controlled whitewater.
You’re never thrown into anything intimidating, and we shape the lesson to your comfort level.

“It’s too cold.”

Not with modern wetsuits. We provide high-quality, warm wetsuits designed for Surf Coast temperatures so you can stay comfortable.

“Everyone else will be younger and fitter.”

At Dawn Surf Co.? Nope — everyone is an adult learner, just like you. You’ll see people in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond all progressing together. Age isn’t a disadvantage — it’s your superpower.

Why Point Addis & Urquarts Bluff Are Perfect for Adult Learners

These beaches are:

• Spread out

• Sand-bottom

• Forgiving

• Consistent across conditions

• Quieter than Torquay front beaches

• Ideal for developing confidence

• Beginner-friendly even on bigger swell days

When you’re learning as an adult, space and calm matter more than anything. These two beaches give you both — and that’s why we base our teaching there.

Pricing (Transparent and Simple)

• Group Lessons: $80 per person

• Private Lessons: From $160 (price increases with group size)

Group lessons are great for trying surfing in a supportive environment. Private lessons are perfect if you want rapid progression or personalised coaching.

So… Are You Too Old to Learn How to Surf?

Absolutely not.

Adults learn differently — and when you’re coached in the right environment, you often learn better than kids.

If you want:

• a calmer beach

• a smaller class

• a patient instructor

• real technique

• space to practise

• and lessons made for adults

…then Dawn Surf Co. is the perfect place to start.

Ready to Start Surfing? Let’s Make This the Year You Finally Do.

Book Your Adults-Only Surf Lesson on the Surf Coast

Whether it’s your first time or your first time in years — we’ll teach you how to surf safely, confidently, and with real technique.

Book your lesson now (spots fill fast on weekends)
Based at Point Addis & Urquarts Bluff — away from the chaos of town
Adults-only. Progress-focused. Premium. Empowering.

Let’s get you in the water.

Where’s the Best Beach to Learn to Surf Near Torquay?

A Local Instructor’s Guide for Adult Beginners**

If you’re visiting the Surf Coast — or you’ve recently moved to Torquay or Anglesea — you’ve probably asked the question:

“What’s the best beach to learn to surf around Torquay?”

And as an adults-only surf school that teaches every week across Point Addis, Urquharts Bluff, and the wider Surf Coast, I can tell you this:

There isn’t one “best” beach — there’s the best beach for you, on the right day, with the right conditions, based on your experience and confidence.

This guide breaks down — in simple, reassuring language — the safest and most enjoyable beaches for adult beginners, the beaches to avoid, and how to choose the right spot depending on wind, tide, and swell.

Most importantly, it will help you learn faster and stay safer.

Whether you’re a brand-new local wanting to get the most out of coastal life or a traveller on the Great Ocean Road keen to try surfing for the first time — this guide is your shortcut to choosing the right beach, every time.

Why You Should Trust This Guide

I teach adults exclusively — no kids, no chaos, no crowded mega-classes.

Every week at Dawn Surf Co., I work with:

• new locals looking to finally embrace coastal life

• adults travelling the Great Ocean Road

• people who haven’t been in the ocean in years

• people learning how to surf for the very first time
  

This guide is built from years of teaching adults safely and successfully at two beaches that consistently deliver great sessions:

• Point Addis

• Urquharts Bluff

But I’ll also explain when you shouldn’t use these beaches — and where beginners should practise on their own instead.

Let’s get into it.

The Best Beaches for Adult Beginners Near Torquay

Below are the safest, most forgiving places to learn to surf — based on protection from wind, wave shape, sand-bottom conditions, and overall accessibility.

1. Point Addis — For Quiet, Controlled Learning (With an Instructor)

Point Addis is one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches on the Surf Coast, and one of my favourite teaching locations for adults.

Why It’s Excellent for Lessons

• Protected from strong winds - The cliffs create natural shelter, meaning cleaner waves and less chop.

• Sand bottom - Forgiving, predictable, and beginner-friendly.

• Gentle rolling waves - Perfect for popping up on for the first time.

• Low crowds - Adults thrive when they’re not fighting for space or feeling watched.

• Calm, scenic atmosphere - This matters more than you think, relaxed adults learn 3x faster.
  

A Crucial Note: It’s Not Patrolled

Point Addis is not patrolled by lifeguards most of the year, which is why I do not recommend practising there alone as a beginner.

During lessons, this isn’t an issue — instructors are trained in:

• surf rescue

• first aid

• risk assessment

• and reading subtle changes in conditions

But without that support, it’s best to practise elsewhere.

2. Urquharts Bluff — Calm, Spacious and Perfect for First Timers (In Lessons)

Urquharts Bluff is another favourite teaching beach — quiet, scenic, and beginner-friendly.

Why We Use It

• Wide beach with plenty of space to yourself - Ideal for adults who prefer peace over pressure.

• Gentle, forgiving waves - Even when swell is present, the wave shape stays soft.

• Sand bottom in all directions - Great for safe wipeouts and learning comfortably.

• Light crowds - Less noise, fewer kids, less chaos.

Same Warning: Not Patrolled

Similar to Point Addis, it’s not patrolled regularly. Fantastic for lessons — not suitable for solo beginner sessions.

Where Beginners Should Practise Alone

If you’re practising without an instructor, choose beaches with:

• lifeguards

• large stretches of sand

• predictable whitewater

• plenty of exit points

• close access to help if needed

The best solo-practice beaches are:

Cosy Corner (Torquay)

Small, friendly waves and regular patrols in peak season.

Anglesea Main Beach

Very beginner-friendly, patrolled, and has gentle whitewater.

Torquay Back Beach (during patrolled times)

Excellent rolling waves that suit adults learning to catch whitewater.

These beaches offer:

• safer conditions

• patrolled zones

• smaller whitewater waves

• less complex currents

• easy access points

• consistent beginner-friendly banks

In short: If you’re practising alone, choose a patrolled beach every time.

Beaches Beginners Should Avoid (Until You’re Confident)

Many adults accidentally go straight to the wrong spots.

The biggest mistake?

Heading to Winkipop or Bells Beach.

They are world-class for experienced surfers…

…and absolutely terrible for beginners.

Why to avoid them:

• steep takeoffs

• heavy waves

• strong rips

• rocky bottoms

• competitive crowds

• advanced surfers

If you’re still learning in the whitewater, avoid these beaches until you’ve built confidence and ocean awareness.

Conditions Matter More Than the Beach

One of the biggest reasons beginners struggle is simple:

They don’t check the forecast.

The best beach in the world becomes unsafe if:

• swell is too big

• tide is too high

• wind is too strong

• rips are active

• there’s no beach left at high tide

Here’s how I choose teaching locations each day.

How an Instructor Chooses the Right Beach

1. Tide (Low Tide Is King for Beginners)

Lower tides mean:

• wider beaches

• weaker rips

• shallower whitewater

• more predictable wave patterns

I always aim to schedule lessons around low tide.

It’s safer, calmer, and much easier for adult learners.

2. Wind (Light Northerlies Are Ideal)

The dream forecast:

• Light winds under 10 knots

• Northerly winds (offshore in this region, giving clean, smooth waves)

Avoid:

• strong onshore winds

• southerlies that create chop

• gusty offshore winds that knock beginners off balance

3. Swell Size (Keep It Under Shoulder-High)

For beginners, ideal swell is:

• 0–3ft (waist to shoulder high)

• Soft, spilling waves

• Long whitewater sections

Anything bigger becomes:

• harder to paddle

• harder to control

• more intimidating

• more dangerous

If swell exceeds 3ft, I often move the lesson or reschedule entirely.

4. Safety & Rips

Rips are simply water moving back out to sea — not monsters, not whirlpools.

I explain them to adult students calmly:

“If you feel yourself being taken out, don’t fight the water.

Paddle parallel until you reach whitewater — it will carry you back in.”

Understanding this removes fear and builds confidence.

Why Adults Learn Better on Quiet Beaches

Adults learn differently from kids.

You want:

• patience

• clear technique breakdowns

• space to try things

• no kids zooming around you

• no crowds watching

• no chaos

• room to fail safely

Quiet beaches like Point Addis and Urquharts Bluff provide:

• more waves per person

• more attentive coaching

• a calmer mindset

• faster progression

• safer conditions

The environment alone can accelerate your learning dramatically.

What a Dawn Surf Co. Lesson Looks Like

Here’s the structure we follow to give you the best experience:

1. Meet at the Beach & Gear Up

Warm wetsuits, softboards, and a quick check of conditions.

2. Land-Based Coaching

We cover:

• ocean awareness

• how waves break

• safety plan

• correct pop-up technique

• board control

• paddling pathways

This saves you hours of frustration in the water.

3. Into the Water

Always in depth where you can comfortably touch the ground.

We choose the beginner zone carefully based on the tide and banks.

4. Catching Waves — Lots of Them

Small group sizes mean you get:

• more waves

• more personalised coaching

• more chances to practise

• more time standing up
  
  

5. Technique Adjustments

We refine:

• foot placement

• stance

• weight distribution

• timing

• paddling technique

6. Photos Included

Perfect for analysing your technique and capturing your progress.

7. Wrap-Up

You leave with:

• a clear next step

• simple drills you can do alone

• safety knowledge

• confidence

• and usually, a huge grin
  

Safety: When We Do Not Run Lessons

Lessons are postponed if:

• swell exceeds 3ft

• tide is too high and there’s no sandbank

• strong winds create unsafe conditions

• rips are especially active

• storms or lightning are present

Your safety comes before everything else.

We won’t run a lesson “come hell or high water” — unlike some larger schools.

So, What’s the Best Beach for You?

For lessons:

Point Addis or Urquharts Bluff — quiet, beautiful, beginner-friendly, and perfect for adult learners with an instructor.

For solo practice:

Cosy Corner, Anglesea Main Beach, or Torquay Back Beach — safe, patrolled, forgiving, and ideal for practising whitewater skills.

With the right beach — and the right guidance — adults progress incredibly fast on the Surf Coast.

Ready to Try Surfing on the Surf Coast?

Book Your Adults-Only Lesson with Dawn Surf Co.

If you’re ready to learn to surf in a calm, supportive, adults-only environment, I’d love to teach you.

Whether you’re a complete first-timer or returning after years away, you’ll learn safely, confidently, and at your own pace.

Book your adults-only surf lesson now

Lessons available at Point Addis & Urquharts Bluff

Perfect for locals and Great Ocean Road travellers

Let’s get you standing up, smiling, and catching waves.

Why Choose our Multi-Pack Lessons Instead of a One-Off Lesson?

In France, 25% of people live within two hours of the Alps — and that same 25% ski. In Australia, 87% live within two hours of the beach… yet only 10% surf.

If you’ve ever stood on the sand and watched a big group surf lesson unfold, you can understand why. A massive group of beginners crowded into one corner of the shore, instructors rushing to explain the basics, boards flying everywhere. An hour later it’s over — and the students are left with a memory, but not much muscle memory.

That’s exactly why we created our lesson multi-pack in Torquay. Surfing isn’t something you tick off once. It’s a craft, a community, and a connection with the ocean. Here’s why an intensive approach is the perfect way to learn.

1. Real Progression: Learn Faster and Go Further

A small-group one-off lesson gives you a high-quality taste — but multiple lessons with a clear progression gives you transformation.

When you’re in the water every day, each session builds on the last. You start by simply paddling into whitewater, then progress to pop-ups, turning, and wave selection. Your progression compounds — much like language immersion.

At Dawn Surf Co., we design our courses to mirror how surfers really learn: through repetition, feedback, and small wins that add up to big breakthroughs.

2. Sticky Learning: Muscle Memory, Not Just a Memory

Here’s a common story: you smash your first beginner lesson, feel like you’ve cracked it, then come back a year later for an “intermediate” session — and immediately feel out of your depth.

That’s why many of our students begin with a one-off session, then choose to deepen their learning with the next.

A single lesson lights the spark — but repetition turns it into instinct. Surfing isn’t just knowledge, it’s muscle memory, and your body needs multiple days of practice to build it.

Multiple Lessons builds on that spark through daily practice. By day five, you won’t just remember how to surf — your body will know.

3. Safety First: Surfing Deserves More Than a Taster

Large, overcrowded lessons can be unsafe. That’s why our small groups (max 5) give you space and attention — and why our multi-day intensives in Torquay and Anglesea take a slower, safer approach.

We build confidence gradually, ensuring every student understands ocean safety before moving on.

4. The First Lesson Is Just the Beginning

Your first surf lesson feels like discovering a new language — the rush of standing up, the thrill of catching your first wave. But it’s only the start of the story. With every extra session, the ocean opens up more: better timing, smoother paddles, cleaner turns. Each day adds a new chapter, until surfing shifts from being something you tried, to something you are. Whether it’s a single small-group lesson or a full intensive, each session takes you deeper into the rhythm of the sea.

5. Community: Surfing Is More Than Standing on a Board

Surfing is a culture, a community, and a way of life.

Even if you just join us for a single lesson, you’ll get a feel for the culture. But after back to back lessons, you’ll really live it.

You’ll surf where locals surf, eat where locals eat, and learn the unwritten rules that shape line-ups everywhere. The longer you stay, the more you feel part of something.

At Dawn Surf Co., we want you to walk away not only with skills, but also with a sense of belonging — like you’re connected to the coast and its people.

6. A Proven Model: Inspired by European Camps and Ski Schools

If you’ve ever been to a European surf camp or ski school, you’ll know the difference: it’s not about the one lesson. It’s about a course, a community, and a progression plan.

That’s exactly how we’ve designed Dawn Surf Co. — bringing the proven structure of European surf and snow programs to Australia’s Surf Coast. Students learn in small groups, progress daily, and share the experience together.

Like the best ski schools, we give you everything you need — and a few things you didn’t expect — so you can explore surfing confidently between lessons.

The Difference Is in the Depth

A single small-group lesson gives you a taste and a memory. An intensive surf course gives you depth and a foundation.

Whether you join us for a weekend progression or across multiple days, you’ll leave with more than just memories — you’ll leave as a surfer.

The Dawn Surf Co. Story

“The night is darkest just before the dawn.”
—Harvey Dent, The Dark Knight

This line hit home for me—and ended up inspiring the name Dawn Surf Co.

It also happens to be the name of my favourite thing in surfing: the “Dawnie.”
You wake up before sunrise, have your coffee and brekkie, jump in the car, get suited up, and paddle out just as the first light breaks over the ocean.

Then you surf.
One hour? Two? Three?
Wave after wave, with the entire beach to yourself.
You surf until your arms are cooked, your soul is buzzing, and you walk up the beach just as the crowds arrive—wearing a big grin they can’t quite explain. That’s the magic.

From Engineer to Surf Coach

Hi, I’m Henry, I was born to an Aussie mum and a Yorkshire dad, and raised in the most inland town in England. Surfing, to me, was something that happened in a far-off dreamland.

I followed the script:

• Studied hard

• Went to uni

• Got into snowboarding and surfing at uni

• Won a few gold medals in snowboarding and got qualified as an instructor

• Lifeguarded for 6 years

• Landed the “good job”

I worked as an engineer for 10 years, finishing as Lead Durability & Certification Engineer for an automotive consultancy on the Surf Coast. I led a team of 12, testing modified vehicles for the Aussie market. It sounded like a dream job—and for a while, it was.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, my dad was beginning his battle with cancer. I left the job to help care for him. Six months later, after his passing, I came back to Torquay.

The Turning Point

I had some savings, so I took time off. I surfed. I studied. I tried to recover from what had been a brutal couple of years.

Then one day, a friend asked me for a surf lesson. That was the moment everything changed.

I loved it. So I got certified—thinking I’d just pick up a few shifts at a local school while I figured out my next move.

But reality hit fast.

I walked into a local surf school and quickly realised something was off. It didn’t align with the return to work I had in mind.

So I did what I do best: ran the numbers, mapped it out, and yes… asked ChatGPT for a second opinion.

And Just Like That… Dawn Surf Co. Was Born

Premium adult surf lessons.

Small classes.
Scenic beaches.
Organised and good vibes.

That’s the vision. And it’s already happening.

Welcome to Dawn Surf Co.

What Makes Dawn Surf Co. Different?

Go to the main beach in any surf town during summer and you’ll see the same thing:
A teenage instructor (maybe with an assistant) leading a class of 8 students per coach. They’ll quickly run through safety and pop-up basics, then walk everyone into waist-deep water, push students into waves, yell “Yew!”—and that’s your lesson.

They’ll do that all day, every day, on the same beach—rain, hail, or shine.

Then what happens?
You come back the next day to rent a board and wetsuit, only to find the beach packed with yesterday’s students. It’s chaos—foam boards, screaming kids, flailing arms—and suddenly that magical memory of gliding across your first wave gets swallowed up in frustration… or worse, danger.

There’s a Better Way

That’s where Dawn Surf Co. comes in.

• We do offer the one-off “Yew and Shaka” lesson. The Dawn difference? We don’t stop there.

• We don’t pack classes with too many students.

• And we don’t teach on the most crowded tourist beach in town.

Why? Because it’s not just bad for learning, boring for us but it’s unsafe.

Surf Lessons, Reimagined

We’ve taken inspiration from European ski schools. At Dawn, your surf journey is treated like a week-long course, not a one-off thrill ride. Here's what you get:

• Your own surfboard and wetsuit for the week

• A changing towel

• A bucket to store your gear

• Five progressive surf lessons across five days

• Cafe-based theory sessions

• Access to quieter, more suitable beaches chosen daily based on conditions

• Photos to remember us by, and to share with your followers

And yes, we’ll even introduce you to some of the best local cafés during our theory sessions. We believe Australia’s cafe culture is part of the magic, and we want to share it with you.

Designed to Set You Up for Life

Our goal? To get you catching green waves—not just standing up in the whitewater.

By the end of your week, you’ll walk away with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to continue your surf journey on your own. We’ll even give you a buying guide to help avoid the most common beginner mistakes (because yes, in surfing, the poor man buys twice… or thrice).

This is surf coaching done properly. This is Dawn Surf Co.

Book your lesson with us today!