About Us
About Margaret River Surf School
Our Story – The Original Surf School in Margaret River
I’m Jarrad Davies, the surfer behind Margaret River Surf School. I’ve been immersed in the Margaret River surf scene my whole life and started surf coaching here in 2006 when I was just 19. In 2015, at 27, I took over the school and made it my own. It’s been an incredible journey sharing my passion for surfing with thousands of students who’ve come to learn to surf in Margaret River over the years.
Margaret River Surf School is the original surf school in the region, teaching beginners and advanced surfers alike for over three decades. What started as a teenager’s dream has become my life’s work – rooted in the waves, community, and coastline of Western Australia’s world-famous surf breaks.
Margaret River isn’t just where I work – it’s home. My two young groms, now 8 and 10, grew up in the ocean. I had them on a surfboard before they could walk, and now they’re charging waves with that same unshakable love for surfing, the ocean, and the outdoors. Sharing the stoke – with them and with every new surfer we teach is what keeps the fire alive!
Why Choose Us
Our Coaches – Experienced, Qualified & Local
Highly Qualified: All surf coaches are fully qualified through Surfing Australia’s accredited programs – the only coaching courses recognised by the Australian Sports Commission and International Surfing Association.
Loads of Fun: Surfing isn’t just a sport; it’s a joy. Our coaches infuse every lesson with enthusiasm and fun, ensuring you’re not only learning but also having a great time.
Local Knowledge: Born and bred by the waves of Margaret River, our coaches provide insights that only locals know. This deep-rooted connection to the ocean and the area is what sets us apart.
Supportive Feedback: We believe in positive reinforcement. Our coaches provide constructive and supportive feedback, guiding you to enhance your skills while boosting your confidence.
Top Rated Reputation
We highly value all our customers and encourage them to share their experiences with the rest of the world. We put great importance on our customer service and top quality programs, proven in our 5 star ratings on Google, Facebook, TripAdvisor and Yelp. We have been awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for our consistent 5 star reviews from our loyal and happy customers.
Decades of Coaching Experience
Our Surf Coaches are highly qualified, knowledgeable, friendly and fun. Our coaches are fully qualified through Surfing Australia’s coaching courses, adhering to strict safety guidelines and precautions to guarantee premium surf lessons. Every coach is Senior First Aid trained and holds a current Bronze Medallion or Surf Rescue Certificate as well as Working With Children police clearance check.
Program Variety for All Levels
We offer the largest variety of surf lessons, programs and services to suit all ages and ability levels. We have surf lessons to suit beginners, intermediate and advanced surfers as well as kids surf programs, school and corporate programs, high performance coaching, surf camps, surf guides, stand up paddle lessons and surf equipment hire.
Stunning Locations in the South West
Margaret River beaches and national parks are known for being some of the most pristine in the world. We are proud to have licenses to take our customers to the widest range of these stunning locations in the South West – Margaret River area. We choose our lesson location to suit our customer’s ability level and the safest conditions on the day.
Top-Quality Equipment and Safety
We use top quality equipment for all our surf lessons. We have a range of safe & stable surf school quality softboards and a wide range of hard boards to suit all levels. Our surf school van is also kitted out with all sizes right up to XXXL, kids, men and women’s Quicksilver 3/2 steamer wetsuits to keep our customers comfortable all year round.
Book Your Surf Lesson in Margaret River Today
Our up to date online availability and bookings are open 24 hours, 7 days a week for your convenience. With secure payment options, it is the quickest and easiest way to book the surf lesson of your choice.
Hear from our Surf Community
We're Proud of our Feedback!
Yewww!!
Couldn't recommend enough will def be using again if I'm in the area
Patrick is very educational, he takes the time to explain clearly to us, to give us advice, to analyze what didn't work... and encourages us! And on top of that he’s super nice!
This experience really made me want to pursue surfing!
My only regret is not staying longer to take more classes!😋
Thanks again 🙏
We originally learned surfing with them years ago their instructors are great!
Redgate would be boring without Margaret River Surf School!!
And I loved the morning chats with MJ, will miss her🩷!
Join Our Surf Community
Our Margaret River Surf School surf coaches are fully qualified through Surfing Australia’s coaching courses. Their accreditations are recognised by the National Sporting Organisation for coaching and the only courses recognised by the Australian Sports Commission’s National Coaching Accreditation Scheme. Surfing Australia and associated State Branches are recognized by the international Surfing Association as the world leader in the development of coaching and judging programs.
Surfing Australia Accredited
As well as being fully qualified Surf coaches, they must also renew their Bronze Medallion (or at minimum Surf Rescue Certificate) every year to ensure they are fit and up to date with first aid and surf rescue techniques. They must also hold a current Senior First Aid Certificate. Every coach obtains a Working with Children Check prior to working for us. This is a comprehensive criminal record check for people in child related work in Western Australia.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
Do you have public Liability Insurance?
Yes, we hold a $20,000,000 Public Liability Insurance policy, covering all operations Australia-wide. Need a copy? Just email us!
What age do you need to be to take lessons?
There’s no age limit when it comes to learning to surf – it’s never too late (or too early) to catch your first wave!
Group lessons: 10 years and up
Private lessons: Any age, recommended from 4 years old. Our oldest surfer so far...73 years old – and they stood up!
How many lessons do I need?
We recommend our 3-lesson package for building a strong foundation and confidence. Not sure yet? Try a 1-lesson intro session and take it from there.
Is learning to surf hard?
Surfing has its challenges, but with expert coaching and quality gear, it’s very achievable. We've been teaching since 1996, and 99% of our students stand up in their first lesson.
What should I bring to my surf lesson?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a water bottle. We provide the board, wetsuit, rash vest, and all necessary equipment.
What if the weather is bad?
We run lessons in most weather, including light rain. If conditions are unsafe, like strong winds or lightning, we’ll reschedule or offer a refund.
How fit do I need to be to learn to surf?
You don’t need to be super fit. Beginner lessons are in waist-to-chest deep water, and there’s no need to paddle out unless you’re ready.
Private sessions may include more advanced options based on your comfort.
What if I am not a strong swimmer?
That’s totally fine. Let us know and we’ll tailor your session. Beginner lessons are held in shallow water, and you can stay close to shore if preferred.
Do you run Lessons all year round?
We run regular lessons from September through June. In July and August, we pause public lessons due to winter conditions but remain available for school and corporate groups.
What if I’m late or unable to attend my lesson?
We require at least 24 hours notice for cancellations or rebooking. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Late arrivals may forfeit their lesson with no refund.
Where do we meet for the lesson?
Most lessons are held at Redgate Beach. Meet in the Redgate Beach carpark 15 minutes before your session. We’ll contact you if the location changes due to surf conditions.
