private and group SURF lessons

FOR all ages and skill levels.

Topsail Island

Surf School

We Are Topsail Island Surf School

Topsail Island Surf School is a locally owned and operated surf school located on beautiful Topsail Island, North Carolina. We specialize in private and group surf lessons for all ages and skill levels, as well as kids’ surf camps. Whether you’re stepping on a board for the first time or looking to take your surfing to the next level, our mission is simple—share our love for surfing while creating a safe, fun, and welcoming experience for everyone.

The school is owned and operated by Holden Griffeth, a lifelong surfer who has been in the water since the age of three. Growing up right here on the coast, Holden developed a deep connection to the ocean and a passion for surfing that quickly became his way of life. What started as a childhood love for the waves turned into a dream of building something of his own—Topsail Island Surf School.

At just 22 years old, Holden now gets to live that dream every day, sharing his knowledge, experience, and passion with others. His goal is not just to teach people how to surf, but to help them build confidence in the water, respect the ocean, and create unforgettable memories.

Located at 101 Roland Ave, the surf school is just steps away from some of the best waves on the island. For added convenience, we also offer mobile lessons across Topsail Island—bringing surfboards, gear, and experienced instructors directly to your beach house for a $50 fee.

We offer private and group surf lessons tailored for all ages and experience levels. Whether it’s a one-on-one session, a family outing, or a group of friends looking to try something new together, our lessons are personalized to help each surfer progress at their own pace while having fun in the water.

Our kids’ surf camp is the perfect introduction for young surfers, focusing on ocean awareness, balance, and foundational surf skills—all while having a great time in the water.

All instructors are First Aid and CPR certified with years of experience. We provide everything you need, including surfboards, and leashes—just bring yourself and get ready to have fun.

Whether you’re visiting for a week or spending the whole summer here, we’re here to give you an experience you won’t forget.

We can’t wait to share the waves with you.

Services

Topsail Island Surf School

2026 Summer Surf Camp

Our 4-day surf camp is the perfect way for kids to dive into the surf lifestyle! At Topsail Island Surf School, we teach essential surf skills, life lessons and ocean safety. Held Monday through Thursday from 8-10:30 AM, our camp covers everything you need to know about surfing in just four days.

INCLUDED: Surfboards, leash, water, fruit, shade, beach games, and a FREE camp shirt!

FOR BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE SURFERS!

Weekly Topics:

BASICS - Surf stance, paddling, popping up

BOARDS - Board shapes, sizes, parts of the board

TECHNIQUE - Timing, positioning, turning

WAVES - Understanding wave parts, and selecting the right waves

OCEAN SAFETY - How to asses the ocean, reading tides ,and winds

*Camp schedule*

June: 1-4, 8-11, 15-18, 22-25, 29-3

July: 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 27-30

August: 3-6, 10-13

$450 per person

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Private SURF Lesson

Private surf lessons are tailored to help you learn at your own pace, with guaranteed one-on-one instruction that maximizes both your wave count and surfing knowledge. Offered for individuals or small groups.

- surfboard provided

$100 per person

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Group SURF Lesson

Group surf lessons are ideal for those seeking a fun, memorable experience with family and friends. Everyone will gain valuable surfing knowledge and ride plenty of waves. Offered for groups of 2 or more surfers (2-3 surfer per instructor)

- surfboards provided

$85 per person

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Advanced surf coaching

Take your surfing to the next level with our Advanced Surf Coaching! Designed for returning surfers of all ages, these sessions are perfect for those looking to refine their skills, whether you’re preparing for competitions or simply aiming to gain more experience in the water. In these 1-hour lessons, we’ll focus on key areas such as paddling, positioning, wave selection, and advanced maneuvers, providing you with the expert guidance you need to progress. Whatever your goals, we’re here to help you ride the waves with confidence and precision.

- call to book

$80 per person

After school surf club

The After School Surf Club is a great way for kids to enhance their surfing abilities while connecting with other young surfers in the community. With bi-weekly sessions, kids can work on advanced techniques or boost their confidence in the water. Whether they’re beginners or experienced surfers, all skill levels are welcome to join and improve together in a fun and supportive environment!

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SURFBOARD Rentals

8ft Gerry Lopez foam Surfboard

1 hr $15, 3 hrs $30, full day $40

2 days - $50

3 days - $60

4 days - $70

5 days - $80

6 days - $80

1 week - $80

bodyboard Rentals

42" Krypton Pro Bodyboard

1 hr $10, 3 hrs $15, full day $20

2 days - $25

3 days - $30

4 days - $35

5 days - $40

6 days - $40

1 week - $40

Single beach chair rentals

Tommy Bahama Folding Beach Chair

3 hrs $15, full day $20

2 days - $25

3 days - $30

4 days - $35

5 days - $40

6 days - $40

1 week - $40

Single umbrella rentals

Tommy Bahama Beach Umbrella

3 hrs $10, full day $15

2 days - $20

3 days - $25

4 days - $30

5 days - $35

6 days - $35

1 week - $35

CHAIR & UMBRELLA Rentals

2 Beach Chairs and a Umbrella

3 hrs $30, full day $40

2 days - $50

3 days - $60

4 days - $70

5 days - $80

6 days - $80

1 week - $80

Q and A

Topsail Island Surf School Help Center

What does a private and group lesson involve?

Both Private and Group lessons start with a 10-15 minute beach instruction, where we cover essential topics such as wave dynamics, wind and tide patterns, the pop-up technique, surfboard basics, surfer etiquette, and water safety. After the briefing, you’ll spend 1 hour in the water putting your skills to the test and catching some waves!

Whats the difference of private/group lessons?

Private lessons offer one-on-one instruction, ensuring personalized attention with 1 surfer per instructor. Group lessons are designed for groups of 2 or more surfers, with 2-3 surfers per instructor, allowing for a more interactive and focused experience.

What time do you offer surf lessons?

We offer surf lessons seven days a week at convenient times: 9 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, and 4 PM.

Where are you located?

We are located at 101 Roland Ave. - attached to the beach side of Buddy's Crab House just over Surf City Beach Access #18

Do you provide surf boards for the lesson?

Yes, we offer a range of foam surfboards in various sizes, ideal for beginners and perfect for getting started on the waves.

How long is a surf lesson?

Both Private and Group lessons last approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, giving you ample time to learn, practice, and ride the waves.

What are the prices of lessons?

$100 for a private one-on-one lesson, or $85 per person for groups of 2 or more surfers.

Where do we pick up/drop off beach rentals?

Pick up and drop off beach rentals are available at Topsail Island Surf School’s shop, conveniently located behind Buddy’s Crab House on the beach at 101 Roland Ave.