Surf Lessons on Topsail Island
Topsail’s gentle summer waves are a good place to learn. Three surf schools teach here, two in Surf City and one in North Topsail Beach, with group and private lessons for kids and adults and summer camps for young surfers.
Most lessons start with a short session on the sand, then about an hour in the water with an instructor close by.
At a glance
| Provider | Based in | Where lessons meet | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surf City Surf School | Surf City, on the island | Meet at the shop, then walk to the beach | Small group lessons, private lessons, summer camp ages 7 to 17 |
| Topsail Island Surf School | Surf City, Beach Access #18 | Teaches at other Topsail beaches for an added fee | Young and shy kids; summer camp; rentals |
| Brett Clow Surf School | North Topsail Beach | Mainly the beach near the St. Regis Resort; confirm the spot if you stay elsewhere | Private and small-group lessons, ages 8 and up |
| Drop In Surf Shop | North Topsail Beach | Lessons from the shop area | Private lessons for your party only |
Photo: Surf City Surf School Surf City Surf School
Teaching since 2013: small group and private lessons from a Surf City shop, plus a summer camp for ages 7 to 17.
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Photo: Topsail Island Surf School Topsail Island Surf School
Patient, kid-friendly surf lessons at Surf City’s Roland Avenue access, a summer camp, and lessons at other Topsail beaches on request.
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Photo: Brett Clow Surf School Brett Clow Surf School
Private and small-group surf lessons in North Topsail Beach with a year-round local who’s a teacher by training. Ages 8 and up.
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Photo: Drop In Surf Shop Drop In Surf Shop
North Topsail’s family-owned surf shop: kayaks, SUPs, bikes, boards and beach gear, plus private surf lessons. Free delivery on 3+ day rentals.
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How to choose
Group or private?
Group sessions keep two or three students per instructor and are the best value. Private lessons suit nervous beginners, adults who want focused coaching, or families who want the instructor to themselves.
Where you are staying
Surf City guests can walk to the two Surf City schools. North Topsail guests are closest to Brett Clow and Drop In. Topsail Island Surf School will teach at other Topsail beaches for an extra fee.
Camps for kids
Surf City Surf School and Topsail Island Surf School both run weekday morning camps in summer. Book early for July.
Before you book
No school publishes a swim requirement, so ask about one when you book. Lessons depend on the waves and weather; ask how unsafe conditions affect rescheduling and refunds. Of the three schools, Brett Clow publishes a policy: unsafe days he cancels are rescheduled or fully refunded.
Questions guests ask
What age can kids start surf lessons?
It depends on the school. Brett Clow teaches ages 8 and up, considering younger kids case by case, and Surf City Surf School says it teaches everyone from toddlers to grandparents. Ask about your child.
Do I need my own board?
No. Lessons include a board. Bring sunscreen, water and a towel.
Can adults take surf lessons?
Yes. All three schools teach adults, and parents often learn alongside their teenagers.
Plan the rest of your stay
Businesses listed here are independent and not affiliated with Treasure Rentals; book directly and check each company’s terms. Checked October 2026. Services, seasons and policies change, so confirm details when you book.