Do you dream of spending your days at the beach, chasing waves, and teaching people a skill they’ll remember for life?
Living by the ocean isn’t just for influencers or the lucky few – it’s something you can make your career. If you’re considering a career change, a gap year, or simply want to combine adventure with work, becoming a certified surf instructor might be your ticket to sun-filled days in some of the world’s most incredible surf destinations.
In this guide, we’ll cover what qualifications you need, how to get surf-ready, and what to expect once you’re qualified – your first step toward a life on the waves.
What Qualifications Do You Need to Become a Surf Instructor?
1. ISA Level 1 Surf Instructor Award
The ISA Level 1 Surf Instructor Course is internationally recognised and designed to get you teaching safely and confidently. Over two days, you’ll cover:
- Surf safety and rescue techniques
- Coaching strategies and group management
- Lesson planning and creating fun, engaging sessions
- Self-assessment and confidence-building in the water
2. Lifesaving Qualifications
To teach surfing safely, you’ll also need a lifesaving qualification. You have two main options:
SLSGB Surf Coach Safety & Rescue Award
- Covers first aid, board rescues, fitness tests, and beach safety
- Pre-requisites: 200m pool swim <5 mins, 200m open water swim, 200m run <1 min, 400m rescue board paddle
RLSS National Vocational Beach Lifeguard Qualification (NVBLQ)
- More intensive, ideal if you want to work as a beach lifeguard alongside surf coaching
- Pre-requisites: 400m pool swim <8 mins, 25m underwater swim <50s, 400m open water swim, 200m run <1 min, board paddling & sea swimming experience
3. Shadow Hours
Once your qualifications are complete, you’ll need 20 shadow hours with an ISA-recognised instructor. This gives you hands-on experience, lets you learn from seasoned coaches, and ensures you’re confident before leading your own lessons.
At Women + Waves and Newquay Activity Centre, we offer plenty of opportunities to complete these hours – even in winter – so you can hit spring fully qualified and ready to work.
How to become a surf instructor fast?
If you’re keen to start your career quickly, consider our Intensive Surf Instructor Course in collaboration with Newquay Activity Centre.
In just three weeks, you’ll gain all the qualifications needed to teach surfing safely, plus practical coaching experience. Our expert instructors guide you every step of the way, ensuring you become a confident, capable surf coach in record time.
Do You Need to Be a Pro Surfer?
Not at all! You don’t need to be on the pro circuit to become an instructor—but you do need to show a basic level of surf proficiency. During your course, you’ll be assessed on:
- Paddling technique – Need a hand? Here are some tips.
- Duck dives and turtle rolls
- Wave negotiation and take-offs
- Bottom turns and trimming – Here is everything you need to know about trimming.
- Forehand and backhand turns – Watch our tutorial here to help.
- Exiting waves safely
- Returning to shore under control
The ISA gives you 12 months from the course date to provide evidence of your surfing skills, so you can submit video footage if needed.
Tip: Practice on your own, take a few lessons or join one of our UK coaching weekends and use video analysis to fast-track your progress. Alan Stokes, three-time British National Champion, recommends:
“Work on pop-ups on land, add stretching and yoga to your routine, and use video feedback to improve faster.”
Skills That Make a Great Surf Instructor
Beyond surfing, successful instructors have strong soft skills:
- Communication and empathy
- Critical thinking and adaptability
- Reliability and professionalism
These qualities will help you connect with clients, progress in your career, and create a fulfilling job in the surf industry.
What to Expect Once You’re Qualified
Surfing is booming worldwide, especially since it became an Olympic sport in 2021. Instructors are in high demand at resorts, surf schools, and holiday destinations.
You could:
- Work abroad in tropical destinations
- Teach locally in your area
- Progress to Level 2 coaching or start your own surf business
- Explore online coaching or video tutorials
- Even become a surf assessor
While entry-level pay may vary, the lifestyle benefits – sun, waves, and adventure are priceless. Plus, the skills you gain are transferable to many careers. Here are 10 reasons why to become a surf instructor with Women + Waves.
Popular Destinations for Solo Surf Instructor Work
- Portugal: Beginner-friendly beach breaks, sunny weather, and a vibrant surf community.
- Costa Rica: Tropical waves, yoga, jungle adventures, and supportive surf communities.
- Bali: Exotic surf escapes, private surf taxis, yoga, and luxury beachfront stays.
- Morocco: Long right-hand point breaks, warm water, and off-the-beaten-path adventure.
- Barbados: Turquoise waters, playful waves, and a welcoming surf culture.
- UK: Accessible waves, supportive communities, and a great base to start your surf career.
Ready to Start Your Surf Instructor Journey?
The ocean is calling, and your new career could start now. Check our Intensive Surf Instructor Course and book onto our upcoming course dates that suit you. Don’t take our word for it – see how Erin transformed her life, turning waitressing into a career as a watersports instructor.
Whether you’re seeking a career change, gap year adventure, or a life on the beach, becoming a surf instructor offers freedom, fun, and a future full of waves.
Questions? Drop us a line at info@womenandwavessociety.com.
