If you’re eyeing a fun, beginner-friendly surf experience during your trip to New South Wales, the One Mile Beach Group Surf Lesson might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally tried it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for those wanting to catch their first wave in a relaxed, supportive environment.
What we really like about this experience is its focus on learning with expert guidance and the inclusive atmosphere that encourages both kids and adults to step into the surf. Plus, the fact that all the gear is provided means you can focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about what to bring. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the lesson only runs if there are at least four participants, which might affect your planning if you’re traveling solo or in a small group.
This tour works best for those who are genuinely interested in learning how to surf and enjoy being outdoors in a beach setting. It’s also a solid pick for families with kids over 5 years old, or anyone who’s eager to try something new without a huge commitment.
Key Points
- Ideal for beginners: No prior experience needed, and most students surf after just one lesson.
- Expert instructors: Guides focus on safety, technique, and catching waves, with personalized attention in a group of up to 16.
- All gear included: Surfboard, wetsuit, and rashie are provided, so you just need to bring swimwear and a towel.
- Flexible scheduling: Runs daily rain or shine, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Family-friendly: Suitable for kids 5 and over, making it a great activity for family outings.
- Small group size: Ensures a more personalized and relaxed experience.
Getting a Feel for the Experience
The 1.5-hour group lesson at One Mile Beach aims to get you riding waves as soon as possible—most people do after just one session, according to reviews. The lesson begins in waist-deep water, where instructors teach the basics of paddling, balance, and wave selection. From there, you’ll progress to catching white water waves, with guidance tailored to your comfort level and skills.
We loved the way the reviews highlight the expert guidance. Jeanne from Australia remarked that the trainers are really focused on helping you “navigate the different types of surf,” which is essential for building confidence. Isabell from Switzerland raved about how Troy, their instructor, gave thorough safety instructions, dry land practice, and personalized feedback that helped them stand on their first try.
This hands-on approach, combined with small group sizes, makes it more likely you’ll get the attention you need, especially if you’re feeling nervous or unsure about your abilities.
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The Importance of the Location: One Mile Beach
One Mile Beach itself offers a classic Australian surf experience. Its gentle, manageable waves are perfect for beginners, and the setting is scenic without being overwhelming. The wide, sandy shoreline provides plenty of space to spread out and practice without feeling crowded, which is a real plus if you’re a nervous first-timer or traveling with kids.
The beach’s natural beauty and spaciousness make it a comfortable environment to learn, especially when you’re just starting out. The fact that lessons are held rain or shine means you’ll be assured of a memorable day, regardless of the weather.
What the Lesson Looks Like
While the experience is focused on simple, effective instruction, it’s also designed to be fun. You’ll start with dry land demonstrations to understand the basics—paddling, standing, and safety signals—then move into waist-deep water to practice those skills.
Most students are able to stand on their first wave, which is a big confidence boost. The reviews consistently mention the high success rate, which speaks to the quality of instruction and the manageable conditions of One Mile Beach. The instructor will push you just enough to challenge you but not so much that you feel overwhelmed.
Throughout the lesson, you’ll get all the gear you need—surfboards, wetsuits, rashies—so there’s no need to rent or bring your own equipment. This is especially convenient for travelers who want a hassle-free experience.
Group Size and Atmosphere
The maximum group size is 16 participants, making it a more intimate setting than large, impersonal classes. According to reviews, this size allows for personalized feedback and a supportive environment where everyone feels encouraged.
The reviews also praise Troy and the other instructors for their knowledge and friendly approach. Jeanne mentioned that they appreciated how focused the trainers were on helping them “get good waves,” and Isabell’s feedback underscores how instructors can gauge your level and tailor lessons accordingly.
More Great Tours NearbyPrice and Value
While the exact cost isn’t listed here, the all-inclusive nature—gear, instruction, and small group size—means you’re paying for a well-organized, quality introductory experience. Given that many participants surf after just one lesson, the value for beginners eager to get a taste of surfing is high.
You might find that compared to private lessons, this group option provides a great balance of affordability and quality, especially if you’re traveling with others.
Practical Considerations
One important thing to note is that if the group has fewer than four people, the lesson duration may be shortened or the session might not run. So, if you’re traveling solo or with just a small group, it’s worth booking in advance or checking availability.
Children under 5 are not suitable for this activity, so it’s best suited for kids 5 and older and for adults of all ages. The experience is designed for beginners, so it’s perfect if you’re looking to try surfing for the first time in a safe environment.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This is a fantastic choice if you’re new to surfing and prefer a structured, supportive introduction. Families with kids over five, couples, or solo travelers looking for a low-pressure, fun activity will find this particularly appealing. Since the focus is on learning and enjoying the process, it’s ideal for those who want to build confidence, learn proper technique, and experience the thrill of riding their first waves.
If you’re after a quick, memorable intro to surfing in a gorgeous beach setting, this lesson ticks all the boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the lesson suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The lesson is designed for beginners, with most students surfing after just one session.
Can kids participate in this lesson?
Yes, children 5 years and older are welcome, making it a family-friendly activity.
What should I bring?
Just swimwear and a towel. The instructor provides all the surfing gear.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The lessons run rain or shine, so you’ll get to surf even if it’s cloudy or drizzly.
How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 16 participants ensures a personalized experience.
What if there are fewer than 4 people booked?
The lesson might be shortened or canceled if group size drops below four.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.
Port Stephen: One Mile Beach Group Surf Lesson
Final Thoughts
The Port Stephens One Mile Beach Group Surf Lesson offers a friendly, expert-guided introduction to surfing in a stunning location. Its focus on safety, personalized attention, and fun makes it a strong choice for beginners eager to get their feet wet. The inclusive gear, small group sizes, and flexible scheduling make it both practical and enjoyable.
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or flying solo, this experience is likely to leave you with a lasting memory—and perhaps a new hobby. If you’re looking for a way to connect with the ocean and learn a new skill in a relaxed setting, this lesson is definitely worth considering.
Remember, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out, especially since the lesson depends on minimum group sizes. So, if the idea of catching your first wave appeals to you, go ahead and reserve your spot for a day of fun, learning, and a good dose of surfside satisfaction.
You can check availability for your dates here: