Surfing is the source. It will change your life! Locals is the source of surfing! They will change your life! Good people at a great spot. Throw on a 5mm and go year round! read more

I really wanted to like this school but after thinking on everything that's happened, it's really not great. My first session, we did basic stance on sand then we were in the water with an instructor who was pushing me onto waves. He just kept talking with other instructors and wasn't really teaching me anything. When I asked questions on form or technique he'd give me short answers in an agro tone. During one of the wave rides I fell off the board and it hit me in the throat and I was under water for a little. No one noticed lol not one instructor. Maybe because they were too busy talking about the surf spots like to go to. Second time my session ended up being on a day of a storm and the waves were insanely big. They still got us out into the water - I was scared since it was my second timer ever. I think it was stupid for them to hold the session instead of offering to come back another time. I could barely get over the waves and was flipped over multiple times. When I come out to Rockaways I always see that instructor I had my first session with and he acts super agro still. Maybe he doesn't like women bc he seems to get on with the guys. Don't know what the deal is but I'd recommend doing a session with a private instructor in the area instead of this school. read more

IG: Eringilbertmd_derm Locals Surf School Awesome school. Just do it! And they're FAB with kids. ‍ read more

First impression: They seemed a bit fast--curt. NEGATIVE: That Mike dude double charged me, which made me have to do my diligence in continuing to check my fucking bank account to see if it was double charged, and then reach out to his ass to get it rectified. Other than that, it was okay. Guy, the instructor at 1:30 PM gave us $90 lessons which included pushing you onto a wave or two or giving you a boost. It definitely got me confident in going out on my own after just one lesson. Note: I use to skateboard. read more

Lesson was good. The instructors we had were helpful and friendly - Vinny, Ellington and Adam. I took a lesson with my two boys and returned the following weekend for the three of us again. My older son wasn't feeling well in the morning the second time and he wasn't able to make the lesson. I understand the 24 hour cancellation policy, but I booked the lesson within 24 hours and I also didn't know that my son wouldn't be feeling well until that morning. I tried to get a credit for a future lesson, likely for the three of us again, but James refused. I wasn't asking for a refund. It's not an extravagant amount, but for a family it's a bit of a luxury to take these lessons on an ongoing basis. Instead of keeping a happy, ongoing customer for $100, Locals Surf School lost a customer. I'll look elsewhere when looking for a surf lesson. read more

I had great experience surfing and i really enjoyed my first lesson and i would recommend it if you are a beginner.

Took a private lesson with Adam on a Monday morning Their tents are really easy to spot on the beach - checking in and getting situated with a wetsuit was real easy. Everyone was super nice and really friendly. The lesson with Adam was awesome! Great attitude and very encouraging. He didn't overcomplicate the process and got me up on a wave in no time. You really can't get a better experience than Locals. You'll see me back on a board soon! read more

I've now taken 3 group lessons at Locals, starting as a total beginner. All three lessons were in different conditions (some really rough and cold) but every lesson I felt the instructors went above and beyond to make sure I had a fulfilling experience. Even though the lessons are for "groups" the instructor to student ratio is so great that it often feels like a private lesson, especially if you come in with a bit more experience. They let you skip the basics and maximize your time in the water. My most recent lesson was with one of the Mikes (non-owner mike) and he was SO attentive and helpful in his instruction. He's clearly a natural teacher. He watched every wave I attempted to catch and helped me work out ways to improve. He also went into the details of how to pick and time your wave, something I totally struggle with. I am definitely going to take another lesson to hone my skills and try to request him again. But really every instructor is great! read more

This place is great! I've always wanted to learn to surf. So I finally signed up for group lessons. They supply the gear and the expertise. So all I had to do was show up. At Locals, they made me feel so welcome as soon as I got there. Everyone is knowledgeable, positive & passionate! On my first lesson, I was able to stand up on the board & on the second lesson I rode my first wave in. I'm hooked & can't wait to be back for more! If you've ever wanted to try surfing, Locals is the place! Get in there and give it a try! you'll leave a happier (and cooler) person because, lets face it, surfing is downright cool! read more

Locals Surf School - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

The instructor didn't help me very much. The waves were too big for a complete beginner andf I was being completely pummelled. It wasn't until the very end when he held the board to help me get on. I signed up for a small group lession for 2 hours for $100. They got in touch and said they didn't have that available anymore and would give me an upgrade to a 1 hour private lesson for $125. My instructor accidentally handed me a water bottle that looked exactly like mine and I didn't notice. Another instructor help circling around me saying "where'd you get that?" Just a bad vibe. read more

If you're thinking about booking a lesson, do it!! My wife (25yrs) and I (26yrs) took a semi-private lesson with John and had an amazing time! Neither of us had ever surfed before and we both left feeling very excited and exhausted (it's a great workout!). Additionally, they wore masks, took our temperatures, and ensured they could maintain a safe distance. The lesson was about 2hrs and we learned the basics of surfing and even caught a few waves. John was patient, knowledgable, and encouraging with us. We really appreciated his help and instruction. For those people coming from Manhattan, it's well worth the trip. You need only take the ferry from Wall St. or take the subway. When you map it, it may seem like it will take a while but it really flies by and isn't that bad. They will supply a surfboard and wetsuit. Bring water, towel, sunscreen (albeit, I'm sure they'd help out if you forgot one of these items). read more

A+++ surf school - owned by natives with great instructors and they make learning fun for beginners to advanced students.

Father/Son lesson with Vinny was an awesome experience. Great surfer to teach what needs to be done to improve, which my son absolutely did...and great to chat with between waves. Loved it! read more

This surf school is great My 9 did one camp week here and loved. The staff is amazing . I felt my son was safe and in great hands and he already learned how to surf. I wish I had known about this camp sooner because I would have sent my son the entire summer. read more

Locals Surf School - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

Cannot recommend Locals enough! Started taking lessons with them earlier this summer and plan to keep going through the fall. Have had a great experience so far (have been doing group lessons) - each teacher imparts different wisdom and has a different approach to surfing and catching waves. Have been able to build on my basic skills as well as learn valuable wisdom and surf etiquette from them. read more

Had a great time party of 3, Eric our instructor was super helpful and made sure we caught lots of waves. will be coming back and renting a board rock away is a great spot. read more

Had such an epic and positive experience using Locals. Signing up for a lesson was extremely easy using the website and my instructor, Erick, was such a joy and amazing. Erick explained how to read the waves, how to paddle, and just relax when on the water with waves crashing around you. I caught pretty much every wave he pushed me into and I couldn't of had a better first experience surfing! Would highly recommend. read more

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Highly recommended. Our 11 year old son just completed a one week summer camp session. He's never surfed before and was a bit hesitant before we arrived on the first day. All the instructors and fellow surfers were warm and welcoming. He ended up having a blast. They had the kids standing up surfing on the very first day which I found impressive. High instructor to student ratio. All around great experience that we plan on repeating. There's a few other surf camps nearby, but Locals appears to be the most organized/structured. They even have a Locals coffee shop a block away. read more

Locals Surf School - Camp day 1 - already catching waves! - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

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We surf with these guys! We love them!! And want to be them!! They are amazing people and instructors! And that's founders Mike R., Mike K., and all of the instructors we've encountered since beginning to surf with them in the summer of 2015. I've waited a little more than 20 years to begin surfing again. My first experience was disastrous. As a 22 year-old living in Southern California I bought a cool looking wetsuit and a used board that was barely taller than me, but had "thick rails" according to my sister's boyfriend at the time. I looked like a pro on land, but got my ass kicked in the spring Malibu surf! I mean KICKED!!! One Malibu local snorted, "are you from New Jersey?" I responded rather enthusiastically, "yeah, exit 4! Which exit are you?" The look on his face said it all. I needed to leave. But first I had to find my way off of the rocks where I landed with my first effort to flee. Fast forward 22 years, and after years of living in foreign countries with zero surf, I was finally back in the NY/CT area and learned about Locals Surf School. Once my son was comfortable in the water I called Locals. My wife was a bit nervous as our son had just turned 6 and had limited ocean experience, but the two Mikes assured me that they'd taught kids his age and experience before. "Bring a towel" wetsuits and surfboards were provided. Arriving on the beach that first day we were immediately impressed when we met the two Mikes and the Locals instructors. We were welcomed like old friends. Their openness, friendliness and professionalism was clearly evident. I went off with one instructor and my son with another. My wife watched our son from a distance for a little while, but mostly out of pride as he took to surfing immediately. She was more than confident with him being in the water with a Local's instructor; another Mike. Mike taught to my son's level, and didn't put him in any situations that were above him. Me on the other hand finally had success!! We all had an awesome first experience!! Since that first day we have surfed with Locals as much as we can, and love surfing with them more and more after each session!! Sadly I've continued alone this winter without my son as I can't find a proper 5/4 wetsuit for him anywhere; he's too small. But he'll be back with Locals in the spring, and will attend their summer camp after getting a taste last summer. And he can't wait! He had such an amazing experience with Locals last summer, it ranks high in his camper experience. As parents we were so happy to experience his joy and love for the camp and camp counselors/instructors. With 3 small children ages 6.5 and below, and living in Connecticut, I sadly don't have the hours to spend in the water learning the ocean. Fortunately I've been able to surf regularly with Locals own Jedi instructor Dillon. My time with him in the water is better than spending hours figuring it out alone; I'm progressing faster. I dream of shredding and getting barreled one day. And Locals is getting me there step-by step. Surfing seems easy once you get up on a board. But surfing is so much more than standing on a board. Right now for me its wave selection, position, paddle technique and speed to name a few. And that's just catching a wave!! Then its turning and trimming, which is an addiction after you're able to do it for the first time. Without Dillion, or a Locals instructor in the water with me I'd surely not be where I currently am skill wise. Even when the waves are few and far between we've worked on so much, minus the bad habits you're bound to learn on your own. And then there's the swell and wind direction, coastline, etc. So much that we talk about and I learn from. Its endless. The ocean is powerful! I was handed a fitness reality check the first time I surfed with Locals. Since then I'm getting in the best shape of my life, and they're helping. They're all lifeguards, amazing swimmers and swim instructors. We've discussed specific training techniques, and the love I've developed for surfing has pushed me to be stronger and fitter. I recently bought another wetsuit and surfboard. This time I consulted with Locals, and not a love interest of my sister's. The time they've given me out of the water as unpaid surf consultants is amazing. They are always a simple text message away, and very responsive. They have canceled lessons due to declining surf, and rough weather conditions. And never put making a dollar $$ before my fun and learning experience. We've been treated exceptionally well by Locals. Not to mention how accommodating and flexible they've been on scheduling very early morning surf sessions with me. The entire Locals crew are genuine "Good People". The best you'd ever want to know! We're apart of their extended family now. A family who surfs together! Many businesses should study them and follow their example. These guys are true Locals, but are also the Pros, and the Real Deal!! read more

Locals Surf School - Winter surf session with Locals own Jedi Surf Master! - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

Most people don't wake up on a rainy day in April and decide to go surfing.... unless you're me. I contacted Locals and immediately got a response. Where other schools in NY and NJ refused to teach beginners in cold water conditions, the guys at locals encouraged it. It was an amazing experience and I've been hooked ever since. If you're truly interested in learning, buy a package, it's well worth it! Every instructor is great. Mike and Mike always make sure their students are safe, having fun and comfortable in the water even on the worst days or unfavorable conditions. Great people, great vibe and great instructors. read more

Locals Surf School - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

These guys are the best! I bought a 15 pack of lessons in June and never looked back. I caught my first wave on the first day. Now I've got the bug. If you are looking for lessons at the Rockaways these guys are the best. Super friendly instructors who know their stuff. Thanks Mike, Mike, Greg, Eric, and Will for a great summer. Looking forward to catch many more waves with the Locals crew! read more

Locals Surf School - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

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Your Blue Crush dreams have finally come true in New York City's own backyard, Locals Surf School in Rockaway Beach. My first time making the worthwhile trip out to Rockaway, 2 summers ago, left me with not only with my hidden surfing abilities come to life, thanks to the professional and supportive instructors, but also left me with a new community outside of the city, new memories, and new good-hearted friends; the mikes! On or off shore, The locals team ensures your safety first and entertainment second. These boys make you feel right at home whether you are beginning or advanced. Their genuine personalities and fun spirits will only want to make you come back for more lessons, without killing your wallet. Not only is it great to experience the surf, but Rockaway always has more fun waiting when the sun goes down. In past summers, I've hit up Rippers Bar dance parties, Playland Motel's Tiki Disco, and Locals Surf launch parties and hang outs at the Surf Club. Locals Surf School truly brings the adventure into your life when your soul starts to feel a bit too cooped up in the steamy city and nostalgic for days & weekends spent surfing at the beach. By far, some of the best people, memories and experiences that have come into my life the past 4 years in NYC, thanks to Locals Surf. read more

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Best surf school! Everyone is so nice. I've taken a handful of lessons with Locals with different instructors and not one has pushed me too hard and all have been super attentive. And FUN! There's no one else I'd surf with at Rockaway. read more

First time surfing and it was a memorable experience! Mike greeted me and welcomed us (my brother and I) to the Locals Surf School with great enthusiasm. My brother and I took the 11:15am class and it started right on time. We got a lesson and then went in the water for practice. Our instructor Joey was helpful, patient, engaging, supportive and friendly! Highly recommend the school and its staff! read more

Locals Surf School - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

If you are looking for surf lessons in NYC, hit the Local's up. I have had a couple instructors throughout the course but all of them are super nice and genuinely happy when they finally see you riding a wave (shoutout to Pablo, Alexandra, Pat and Erick). Honestly, if you have any questions about everything surfing-related (from actually surfing, surfboards and wet suits and equipments, to the beach and sea), just ask them. Also, they clean up the beach they surf in so that is a triple brownie point for me. If you have seen trash when you are in the water, you will know how disgusting that is and how important it is for us to keep the beach clean. (btw, Pat and Erick are like Big Z and Joe from Surf's Up and I freaking love them.) read more

The Locals are a solid 10! I was totally new to surfing and had the best summer learning from all their instructors. I felt supported the whole time; Mike, Mike and crew are really good at meeting you at the level you are at, while encouraging you to push yourself in a respectful and thoughtful manner. I would recommend The Locals in a heartbeat. read more

Locals Surf School - Hanging 10 with the best ‍ - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

This guys are Amazing! All the instructors are very friendly and professional. They will help you as much as they can and will teach you everything you need to know. Can't wait for my next session with you guys! read more

Had an awesome 1:1 lesson with Kevin. Super helpful insight and got me reading waves more confidently and even turning a bit.

I had a 1:1 surf lesson with Adam. Everyone was so friendly and greeted me when I arrived, and the instructor was so patient. Finally got me standing on the board! Would highly recommend taking lessons through them. read more

I headed out here with some buddies on a cold grey and dirty day, fully expecting to freeze my ass off and wait for them in the car. WRONG. THE DIFFERENCE between misery and joy, Is the perspective offered by a good instructor. Afterwards ... I was so fu*king high from the experience that I left without my Bag . These guys helped me find a way to get my shit together long after the adrenaline faded. Thanks Mike read more

I've taken lots of lessons with Locals, and have never been disappointed. But at times some instructors exceed expectations. John P. was one of those instructors that exceeds expectations. He was great. Totally recommend Locals, and totally recommend John. read more

Perfect place to start surfing. I had no experience when I showed up, but felt safe and like my instructor had my back the entire time. Also just extremely fun! read more

Locals Surf School is the real deal! Mike and Mike have been awesome and it's been very rewarding to go surfing on weekends this summer. It is a great activity to do, you get to workout, meet cool people, get some sun, and have fun at the same time. The instruction level at Locals is unparalleled. Every instructor knows what they're doing, they're very insightful, patient, and will work with you to take your skills to the next level. Thanks Local Surf School! read more

Mike and Mike totally got me hooked on surfing. I never thought that I would have learned to surf after moving to NYC but that's exactly what happened. Surfing with Locals has been an awesome experience. I started with group lessons then moved to private lessons which took the surfing experience to the next level. I've had a bunch of different instructors and they've all been great teachers. Highly recommended... get out there and experience the Rockaway surf scene with Locals! read more

Locals Surf School - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

My daughter and I took our first surf lesson ever here and it was AMAZING! Our instructor was so nice and accommodating. He really kept an eye on us and where we were in the water so we always felt safe. The location was beautiful and the cost was super reasonable. I'm already planning when we can come back for our next lesson! read more

Woohoo ! 5 stars! I had my first surf lesson two summers ago and had a great experience at Locals Surf School. Not only were the Mikes easy on the eyes, they were great instructors too. Despite my hang over from the previous day's debauchery, I was popping up on my board and riding waves by the end of my first session! They also got some awesome footage and photos to prove it. Bummed I didn't get out to Rockaway last summer, but definitely excited to make it back out there this year!!! read more

Locals Surf School - Surf Schools Near Me - Arverne, New York

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Today was awesome! I took the two girls I kid sit for to Locals for a two hour surf lesson. The instructor, Greg from Costa Rica was amazing. So upbeat, encouraging, supportive and engaged. He even waived me over for picture time. The only caution I have for folks w/ small kids is that they might have to share the surf with several other kid surfers of varying levels. It's totally fun, but your little one may not be ready for that. Greg knew that the girls (10 & 11) were, since they are great swimmers and have had a couple lessons before today. It was a fantastic day. All smiles with a HIGH recommendation. read more

I've taken the occasional holiday surf lesson, but learning to surf independently and safely has always been on my bucket list. During the pandemic, I decided it was the perfect time to go for it -- I thought it would be a wonderful way to safely get outside and challenge my body and mind in new ways. It was the BEST decision, and my favorite gift I have given myself. The entire staff is so welcoming and committed to making the most of your time out in the water. I was lucky to surf with many different instructors (special thanks to Danny, Mike, Greg, Erick, Jacques), and each would pick up right where the last lesson left off, so the lessons never felt repetitive. It also never feels like you are being forced into a set curriculum; they are 100% committed to helping you achieve your personal goals. My goal was to be able to paddle out on my own whenever I was near an ocean, without putting myself or others at risk. So they've helped me understand how to assess conditions and waves, paddle out safely and efficiently, and navigate a crowded lineup. And I've had so much fun learning how to do more than just ride straight toward the beach. By the end of the summer, I had the confidence to catch a few waves on my own while on vacation at another beach. Much to my surprise, I was so hooked that I kept taking lessons through chilly November (they have provide all the gear to keep you warm!) I can't say enough great things about Locals. I've since moved to NJ and still drive ~2 hours to take lessons with them. Highly highly recommend giving it a try with them! read more

An experience everyone should try at least once. Great team - patient, nonjudgmental, helpful and fun, especially for first-timers. Christina was our instructor and we couldn't have had better. A great half-day in the Rockaways! read more

Locals Skate + Surf Camp at Rockaway Beach was the highlight of summer for my son 2 years in a row! Highly recommend!