Beach surf lessons and courses

Holidaymakers, families, school and youth groups, stag and hen groups, and locals wanting to learn or improve.

Price per person per session, with discounts for courses, block bookings and groups. Private coaching and kids' holiday courses earn more per hour.

• Strong surfing and water confidence
• Clear, patient teaching
• Reading tides, waves and conditions
• Looking after groups safely

• Check whether the council or landowner needs to give permission or a licence to run lessons on your beach
• Public liability insurance that specifically covers surf instruction
• Check first aid training, risk assessments and emergency procedures, as water safety is the biggest risk
• Child safeguarding checks if you teach under-18s, such as a DBS check
• Business is seasonal and weather dependent, so plan for cancelled sessions and quiet winters
• Boards and wetsuits wear out quickly and need regular replacing

Startup costs are typically around £2,500 to £12,000, depending on how many boards and wetsuits you buy and what other kit you need. Boards and wetsuits wear out quickly, so budget for regular replacements.

Monthly revenue is typically around £800 to £4,500, depending on the season, the weather and how many lessons or courses you run. The business is seasonal and weather dependent, so plan for cancelled sessions and quiet winters.

Check whether the council or landowner needs to give permission or a licence for lessons on your beach. Also check public liability cover for surf instruction, first aid training, risk assessments, and DBS checks if you teach under-18s.