What a gem of a surf shop (read: surf compound). Keith and Kerry are welcoming to surfing locals and tourists alike. Current offer is $45 CAD for a day rental of wetsuit, booties, gloves and a board (per their website). The surf was so flat I didn't have the chance to hand them my CC but rest assured I'll be paddling out in the brisk Nova Scotia water very soon thanks in no small part to their efforts. I can't speak to the cuisine offered at the Happy Dudes Taco truck, but after burning some serious calories in the cold water I am right sure that whenever they are serving is something that I'd want in my belly. Swing by and be ready for some surf recommendations, a fresh set of floppy floppies and some wonderful attitudes. Can't miss! read more

I was really impressed with the expertise of Rob, the 'Happy Dude's' employee who I tracked down at this out of the way surf shop and school. I had taken lessons in Tofino, BC this summer and had grand intentions of becoming an east coast surfer chick! Sadly, I found out I had neither the $2000 required to get equipped or the necessary transport to get myself to Lawrencetown, or to go hunting for other hidden surf spots. Rob definitely knew a lot about surfing and also made a point of assessing my skill level etc, before recommending any of the equipment to me. Ie- He didn't just try to sell me the most expensive thing in the shop. Definitely head to Happy Dudes for your surf related needs! They have everything including wet suits for rent and purchase, wax, leashes, boots, and gloves! read more

Angry Dudes. You can always count on an awkward, rude experience at Angry Dude's surf shop. Curt, impatient and not very knowledgeable. If you need surf gear, keep driving to Kannon Beach shop. read more

A large group of us were looking to take some surf lessons. After talking it over with staff for a couple weeks prior, we decided to sign up. The surf instructor stated that his lessons were great, great value and really taught you how to surf. From the moment we arrived, the instructor had negative energy. Everyone just wanted to surf. We were put in a room, where we watched videos (one of them pointless) for well over and hour. 30 minutes later...we arrived at the beach where the instructor brought us in the water. He began drilling orders at us and seemed very annoyed when people were not performing his tasks to his liking. He eventually got fed up, left us and did his own thing, refusing to answer any questions about surfing directed at him. Bottom line - Not a fun lesson at all however the instructor was VERY SERIOUS about teaching surfing. If you are looking to get wet, have fun, and get some tips on how to begin surfing, this is not the place. As a side note, the support staff (not the instructor) were great. read more

I came here looking for wetsuit gear. There was nobody running the shop when I arrived so I waited. A few minutes later the owner running the shop arrived. He first went into his trailer without saying hi or hello. After waiting 4-5 minutes he came out and walked right past me again, now at the entrance of the shop and onward behind his desk, again without saying a word. So spoke up and said I was looking for boots for kiteboarding, 3-5mm thinkness. He said, "All we have is 7/8mm boots. Try Costco." Nothing more! Mean while Kannon Beach is 2 minutes down the road and does carry them. I was at KB earlier price shopping and they gave me directions to his shop, but this guy won't return the favour to KB that's for sure. Not sure why he was pissy and don't really care. I'll never shop here again, and after telling this story to 3 others, everyone one of them told me similar stories about his attitude to customers. He's a grumpy and moody old man who runs a beat up shop. They call it "Grumpy Dudes Surf Emporium" around there. Don't waste your time if you expect good friendly service. Kannon Beach is the only place I'll shop in Lawrencetown for any gear now. read more