FAQ
I’VE NEVER SURFED BEFORE, HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO LEARN?
Most people pick up surfing with in their first surf lesson. From what we have seen the majority of our students stand up for the first time right around the one hour mark of the lesson. We always suggest the two hour surf lesson over the one hour lesson simply because the majority of our students make the most progress during the second hour. Depending on your goals…a minimum of 3 surfing lessons is a good start if you plan on taking up the sport. If you just want to get the feel for it, just take one lesson. You’ll have a blast and be able to check it off the good ol’ bucket list!
DO YOU SUPPLY THE SURFBOARD FOR THE SURF LESSON?
Yes we do! Each surf lesson comes with the surfboard for the duration of the lesson at no extra charge.
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING
Make sure to bring your swimsuit, towel, sunblock, and a drink to stay hydrated. Oh, don’t forget a positive attitude and be prepared to experience the best in Myrtle Beach surf lessons!
Can I USE MY OWN SURFBOARD?
Yes, but if this is your first time taking a surfing lesson we suggest you use the boards that we provide. Our boards have soft tops so they are safe and are perfect for catching lots of waves.
HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD I RESERVE OUR SURF LESSON OR PADDLEBOARD/KAYAK TOUR?
We get very booked up in the summer season. We suggest booking anywhere from 24 hours out to as far as 4 weeks in advance during our busiest months (July and August). We do sell out so it’s always good to book in advance to keep this from happening. As always, feel free to call us at (888) 546-1130 for more information!
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I GET SEASICK EASILY?
Taking Dramamine 30 minutes prior has worked really well for some of our past students who are prone to seasickness and is available over the counter (Note: please consult a doctor before taking any medications).
CAN WE TIP OUR SURF INSTRUCTOR AND PADDLEBOARD/KAYAK GUIDES?
Absolutely! Our instructors and guides work hard to keep you safe and provide an experience like no other. Nothing says “thank you” quite like a tip. Generally, gratuity for our instructors and guides is anywhere from 10-25% of the bill, just like how you would tip at a restaurant.
WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
We accept all major credit cards, cash, gift certificates, and trade dollars from either Bartercard or Premier Barter Exchange and their affiliates. The easiest way to book is by going to our Book Now page, or by calling us anytime at 888-546-1130. If we don’t pick up, leave a message and we will return the call ASAP. To book on barter dollars call (843)-997-5408.
WHAT IF IT IS RAINING?
We go rain or shine. We will reschedule or postpone if it’s thunder and lightning in our area or if we have any obvious extreme weather like hail, high winds, or rough ocean conditions.
WHAT IF WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE BAD AND WE NEED TO CANCEL?
We are constantly monitoring all the weather factors that could affect your surf lesson, paddleboard tour or kayak tour. If at any time we need to cancel your activity due to unfavorable conditions, Jack’s Surf Lessons will contact you immediately to either reschedule or fully refund your lesson or tour. If we do not call you to cancel, then your activity will go on as scheduled, and our regular cancellation policies will apply.
WHAT IS YOUR CANCELLATION POLICY?
Because a lot of planning, time, energy and cost goes into providing a five star experience you will cherish for a lifetime, we ask that you are understanding of our cancellation policies on our lessons and tours. For a full refund, you must cancel via phone (888-546-1130) prior to 48 hours of the activity scheduled. For a partial refund, (half of the total purchase) you must cancel within 24 to 48 hours prior to the event. No refund will be given for any cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled event or activity. Thank you for your cooperation.
DO I NEED TO BE ABLE TO SWIM TO TAKE A SURF/SUP/OR KAYAK LESSON?
Our lessons generally take place in water shallow enough that you can stand the entire time if you wanted to. We recommend that you know how to swim however we do not require it of you. After all, we believe that one of the safest ways to get in the ocean is with a surfboard because it floats.
WHAT’S THE BEST EXERCISE TO DO TO PREPARE ME FOR SURFING?
Swimming. You can’t beat swimming as a preparation for surfing. Swimming will exercise many of the muscles you will use to paddle your board, it will improve your aerobic fitness, and it will increase your water confidence. In addition, if you do not have a pool or place to swim, some moderate back, shoulder, and core resistance training would greatly benefit your stamina in the water.
HOW MANY LESSONS SHOULD I TAKE BEFORE I CAN SURF ON MY OWN?
That really depends on you. Most people are able to catch waves and get up on their own after one lesson, but surfing is much more than just standing up on a board. In successive lessons, our students learn how to turn, how to read and select waves, techniques to paddle out through the break, how to best maneuver the board, timing, etiquette, tides and other factors affecting wave quality, and more. Of course, everybody is different, and some will pick up on some techniques quicker than others. However, in general, most people get a solid basic intro in a 3 lesson package, and have a good foundation for catching waves and standing on their own. In a 5 lesson package, most are able to turn fairly consistently after catching a wave. After a 7 lesson package, many are able to identify a rideable open-face wave, and have moderate success at maneuvering themselves into position to catch it. Again, success is relative, and everyone has their own learning curve. Surfing requires technique and is relatively difficult, though a very rewarding experience. The basics are easily learned, but you can only improve through repetition. With instructed lessons, you have trained eyes on you that can help you avoid bad habits and guide you past some of the pitfalls that could otherwise hold you back for months or even years. To schedule 3, 5, and 7 lesson packages call 888-546-1130 to customize a schedule of planned lessons that works with you.