Below are answers to the most frequently asked questions. If you have further questions, please feel free to drop us a line, and we'll get them answered!

Surf School

How many people are in a group lesson?
Classes never exceed a 4:1 (four students to one instructor) ratio in the water. For group lessons, we try to keep the classes at eight students maximum, but some busy weekends there may be 12 in a group. The group will share the same on-land beach instruction, and will then be split up into smaller groups in the water. Students will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

If I've never surfed, should I start out with a private lesson?
We recommend doing a group lesson to start out. As a surfer starts progressing a private lesson is a better option so that we can focus on his/her needs. However, for children under the age of 10, a private lesson is recommended unless the child is confident in the ocean.

Can I bring my own surfboard?
Definitely. However, if you have never surfed before, we recommend using our equipment. The boards are soft for safety and easier to ride.

How many lessons should I take?
It's all up to the individual. There's no doubt taking a lesson accelerates the learning process. Some people may take one lesson and go flounder on their own until they get it. And some people come back for years to learn faster without bad habits.

We also encourage people to take follow up lessons from a different member on our team of highly-qualified instructors. Each instructor is a world-class surfer, and brings their own unique approach and insights to the sport. This will only add to the student's experience and learning curve.

Do you have any tips or advice before I take a lesson?
The only prerequisite really is to know how to swim confidently. Other than that, you should read up on the Learn to Surf: How to Walk on Water in Seven Easy Steps that Richard Schmidt wrote for Surfline.com. This will give you a solid overview of surfing and it's environment before you get in the water. But don't worry if a lot of the information sounds confusing, we'll cover it in class.

Surf Camps

How many people are in a camp?
A full camp would consist of 18 people. Depending on the situation, sometimes we can admit up to 20 people. Camperss will be admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

What age are the campers?
The average age varies from week to week with 30-50 years old common. Out of 18 campers there may be 3-5 adults. Campers need to be at least seven years old, unless they're camping with a parent or guardian. Average age for kids is between 12-14 years old. Campers are arranged in tents so that they are in with other kids their age.

How many people sleep in a tent?
We have requests for adults wanting their own tents, which we try to accommodate.
Kids share tents with 1-4 total in each tent.

Do I have to know how to surf already?
No, the camp is actually a good program to get a good foundation of skills. We consider it a week-long intensive session. It's a great way to learn. The majority of campers are more towards first-timers and novices.

Are the kids supervised?
Yes, there are adults with the kids at all times at the beach and most of the time at the campground. They have a little time on their own if they want to skateboard around the campground or rent a bike. Avila Hot Springs Resort is very family-oriented with 24-hour security, and the kids are not allowed to go outside the campground. 10:00 pm is curfew and kids are to be ready for bed and checked in to their tent at this time.