The first time I came across Locals Surf School was during the summer of 2012 (back when they had a white tent). Lost as I was during this first visit to Rockaway Beach, Locals co-owner Mike K. was kind enough to direct me to my first surf lesson with another school along the same shore. I was struck by the fun and friendly vibe from that chance meeting that I kept Locals in mind for future lessons. For many, the novelty of surfing within the boundaries of NYC is just that...an item to check off the bucket list. However for those who have fallen in love with the sport and are looking to progress further, Locals is the school to take you there. They have a very unique hands-on teaching approach for intermediate/advanced students which other Rockaway surf schools seem to lack. Co-owner Mike R., who has a keen eye for technical detail, asked what my short and long term goals were with surfing. This simple question caught me off guard as no other instructor from any other school has asked me this...I've never even thought about it myself! After expressing my recent challenges of transitioning from a 9' longboard to a smaller board, Mike fashioned a set of fun water drills (which I originally thought were silly), but they were so effective that after only a day session, I was quite comfortable with the new board!! The more lessons I took with Locals, the more I appreciated their passion for surfing and for teaching. Most of my lessons have been with both Mike R. and Josh S. who are just phenomenal both on and off shore. They are able to read their students well and adapt their teaching style to fit a student's learning needs. I am the type of student whose hand needs to be held and requires constant validation. I recall at one point I was afraid of paddling for a larger set of waves for fear of being caught inside, however Josh S. kindly deconstructed the wave verbally, and offered to paddle alongside me until I was able to pop up into the wave at which point he then pulled back. Since he was intimately in the wave with me, he was able to provide detailed feedback of how I performed, where most other instructors only see you from a distance. From Josh I learned the most important virtue in surfing...patience. Mike R., on the other hand, challenges me physically and mentally. From physical water drills (think of wax-on wax-off Miyagi style) to critical observation drills of the wind, the water, and surroundings. He will not lecture at you, but make you think critically which is extremely important as I do have to learn to rely on myself while out in the water. He's also taught me the most important lesson in the water - not to forget to have fun! One learns best while having fun Mike K. and Mike R. have built something special in Locals Surf School. Not only do they have a strong arsenal of instructors and an outstanding school, but they have created a fun and supportive community around them. Come to Rockaway this summer, take a lesson and have a drink with the boys! read more

I grew up in Jersey right next to the shore so it may seem surprising that I didn't fall in love with the ocean until I was 20 years old. But when I did fall in love I fell hard. And it was actually on the Rockaway beach where I became obsessed with the ocean. I'd go with my aunt and we'd ride the waves together in Rockaway. I was in my zone the most when the waves were choppy and stormy. Besides Rockaway, I'd also go back home to the Jersey beaches. There I'd watch all the surfers and the windsurfers too. And I knew I was born to surf. Now all I had to do was find a proper school where I would learn. I did lots of research and actually almost began lessons with another school on the Rockaway Beach. But it was frustrating communicating with them. They were hard to reach and they weren't able to accommodate my time frame and schedule. So I looked elsewhere- and I'm happy I did. I found local. The thing I love about local is that it is super simple to book lessons. Their website is appealing and easy to navigate. Booking is easy to do on the website (unlike the other surfing school websites I've been on) if that's the route you wanna go. But if your like me you like talking to a human- someone who you feel is listening and giving you his attention. Mike, the owner, personally books appointments through text. You can also call him- he'll always answer- if not he'll call you right back. There are no "you must call between 11 and 2". People freakin work and I hate when there are crazy restrictive open hours. That will not be your experience with local! Another thing that made me decide to go with local was their lesson packages. It's like a gym membership. You might decide "gym? Na- I can do 30 push-ups at home every day" But somehow no person ever got a 6-pack by saying that. You need the gym membership. You need the Local Package! If your serious about learning to surf you gotta buy a package- you pay up front and it forces you to find the time. You don't get stuck saying "I don't know I just didn't have time" 10 years after you had your dream to surf. No other school here on rockaway offers packages. If your still reading- lol, thanks! This is the last thing- I promise! So the last thing I wanna add is that the owners and all the instructors are super friendly. You get to the beach and mike is there waiting for you and already knows your name. They're all so welcoming and I you feel (I feel) like they are truly invested in giving you the best experience ever!! So- hope this was helpful- and maybe I'll meet you out on the waves:) read more

When I first signed up for Locals Surf back in 2012, I was going through a rough time in my life, but had always wanted to surf. To get my mind off things, I decided to take on a LivingSocial/Groupon deal, and purchase a 3-session package with Mike and Mike. The first day with them still feels like yesterday: I remember going out, all while being taught, very succinctly and assuringly, on the fundamentals of surfing. I went out on my board, wearing a snug wetsuit, all provided by Locals Surf. That's right, just bring your bathing suit, a towel, some sun-screen, and they do the rest. There are some really nice restaurants nearby, and even a grocery store (stop and shop), so if you forget your water bottle, the area has you covered! The people on the beach are awesome, friendly, and supportive, especially if they are surfers themselves. Everyone comes out here to have a good time. You might worry about the WAVES: don't. New York's Rockaway beach is definitely meant for surfing. This isn't Coney Island. You will get your money's worth, or your adventure's worth. However you want to look at it, those waves will come, and sometimes even larger than you expect. Back to my first day: I stared at the sun as I sat on my board, the ocean's horizon on one side, and the barely visible NYC skyline on the other, and said "this is the beginning of my new life, and today I will find myself on my first wave". I found my new life in those days, training with Mike and Mike. It changed my life, and i don't use that lightly. I felt like a surfed my problems away into the ocean, and walked back onto the beach a new man. I'm a fashion photographer, and actor, and surfing gave me a new outlook on life, one of transience, and renewal. Thank you for giving me more than I bargained for, Locals Surf School. I will always enjoy dropping by, and giving you free photoshoots anytime you need it. Now, I feel confident about surfing, and am buying my first surfboard this year. Through hard work and training, I hope to drop by the area to at least say to the students that it was Mike and Mike who got me hooked on this. Surfing is a big part of me, all thanks to a small investment which turned into a life changer. It will change you, surfing always will...but Locals Surf will *start* you. read more

Stoked! That sums it up really well. My surf lessons with Locals were the best part of my trip to New York. When I heard that you could surf in New York City, it was clear that I had to do this. Unfortunately, in March the weather was still quite chilly and I wasn't sure if there are surf lessons during winter. But Mike answered quickly to my mail and two weeks later I was standing on the board. At Locals, they offer warm wetsuits, boots, gloves and hoods during the class - your face is the only part that's exposed. But you forget about this as soon as you catch your first wave. Absolutely hooked! Mike showed me how to pop up on the beach and focused on that until I did the movement right. It's important for them that you understand how to improve your skills. As I am no native speaker he had to repeat sometimes what he explained. But he was always very friendly and patient, never giving up until I completely understood the proper technique. While we focused on how to pop up in my first lesson, Mike wanted me to make a progress in my second lesson. In addition, he taught me how to get out in the ocean on my own and how to paddle, time, and read waves more effectively. Surfing is the best workout and I'm always exhausted after the lessons. BUT more important: I am always happier than words could say. Can't wait for my next lesson! So become happy as well and set up a surf lesson with Locals Surf School! read more

This winter I had the opportunity to get on tropical waters with Locals instructor, Michael Kololyan. In my head I always think that I can do so much more, but on water and real waves the reality and challenge of surfing makes me crazy. All I want is to shred, ha! After seeing me for a couple of days, Mike picked up on all my flaws and gave the few pointers and reminders that I needed to get me in the waves and have fun. Paddling hard is huge, he taught me to dig deep, strong and reach. Also, after looking at what I am doing he said that I am not applying myself on the waves. So true, I have no idea what to do and how to use my body once I catch the wave, I just let the water take me for the ride. When you learn a sport as an adult it is so much harder, as it is not instinctual behavior. I am a pretty athletic girl but surfing kicks my butt. I've been surfing for two years, the more I do it, the more I love it and want to get better. I find surf training through my progress and challenges is huge, every time I get on water with Mike K. or Mike R. I learn something that sticks with me, helps me get better, smarter and makes me smile. This spring/summer we'll be working on the next level, actually riding the waves and yes! extreme paddling :) Rock on!! Thanks Locals for always giving me an awesome surfy makeover. xx read more

I signed up for private lessons with Locals after trying it while on vacation abroad. I'm hooked! Mike & Mike, John and the other Locals guys have been impressive teachers. They are committed to making sure their students learn good surfing technique and etiquette, and that you have fun while doing it. It's really cool how much excitement these guys have for teaching and sharing their waves with people who want to learn. The Locals guys seem to have an endless supply of patience and enthusiasm, which is totally great especially on days when your mojo just isn't' there. Taking private lessons, I've seen how much I can improve when I get some practice & the guys give me feedback to tweak things and prevent bad habits from forming. The Locals guys are also without a doubt some of the friendliest people I've ever met. It's been cool getting to know them and the Rockaway Beach community. I always have a good time going out in the water with them, and I've always felt safe out there. So maybe catching air like Mike and Mike isn't in my future, that's cool. I'm happy doing my beginner thing and pretty certain that the basics I've learned with the Locals guys will serve me well as I progress. Two thumbs up for Locals. Thanks, guys! read more

I've been taking lessons with the Mikes at Locals Surf School off and on for a few months when my schedule allows. Each time, the experience has been outstanding. The Mikes are both great guys and great teachers. They will have you up on the board and riding waves by the end of your first lesson. I know this because if they could get my uncoordinated self up and riding the first time around, they can do the same for you. The two-hour group lessons are a good value and probably the best option for your first time. If you love it after the first time and you want to improve more quickly, one-hour private lessons are available in which the instructor can really work intensively with you on the specific areas where you need the most attention. The private lessons are only an hour but you easily get as much or more riding time than the group lessons just because of the one-on-one nature of the instruction. I can't recommend these guys enough. I'm really happy with the progress I've been making and the lessons are always a great time even when surf conditions aren't quite optimal. read more

5 STARS ARE SIMPLY NOT ENOUGH! I met the Locals 2 years ago and they have been my best kept secret. Having grown up in CA I was always ashamed that I never learned to surf before I moved to NY. On a whim I met up with the Locals for a surf lesson and haven't looked back! These dudes are not only passionate wave riders but insanely talented instructors. Bonus: they spread smiles and laughs as fast as they'll have you catching waves - instantly! I've come to love the Mikes like brothers and find myself looking for any opportunity to get to the beach! So when I got an email from them about a surf camp in Nicaragua I jumped at the opportunity. Mike R. & Josh (another handsome and talented instructor) were just the absolute best. I was up and riding waves front and backside like it was my job. Simply impossible to define the feeling, but sharing those special moments with true friends is what life is all about! I could go on and on but I recommend you book a lesson and find out for yourself. Welcome to your next obsession - surfing with the Locals! read more

I just went out there this weekend on a solo adventure and had a blast. I joined a group lesson, and the instructors were amazing, giving us tons of undivided attention and tips. They maintain a 3:1 student to instructor ratio, which really pays off because I was popping up on my second try. These guys are the nicest, least pretentious, most patient instructors you could ask for, making sure you're comfortable and having fun every single second. These guys get slammed in the face with waves, bitten by crabs, hit with runaway surfboards all day and could not seem to care less, all their attention and focus is on you. My instructor refused to let me go in at the end of the day until I landed the perfect wave on my own, and stayed out with me until I caught it! I would recommend these guys to anyone, I had an AMAZING time and can't wait to go back out with these guys! PS - I joined yelp specifically to review these guys, that's how much I loved my experience with them. read more

I have been surfing with Locals Surf School for over a year and have learned so much about surfing in a safe, supportive and super fun atmosphere. The instructors are highly skilled, supportive and extremely professional. Each lesson has been tailored to my skill level as well as my individual learning goals. Both Mike and Mike, the owners, are available to answer every question I have about all things surfing and do it in a way that is easy for a beginner surfer to understand. They also respond very quickly to emails and texts. All of their equipment, the surfboards, wetsuits, and rash guards are very well-maintained. I have also recommended a number of friends to Locals because I believe that they are the best surf school in NYC! If you want to learn the nuances of this sport in a highly supportive, fun environment you should take lessons at Locals because they are the BEST! read more

Paddle out with the Locals! The slogan Says it all. Ive been paddling out with the Mikes since i was a kid, having grown up in Rockaway. The atmosphere and the attitude that they create and bring are unequaled, not to mention that they will have you up and surfing in no time. These two former NYC lifeguards provide a safe, exciting, fun, and informative environment for any level of surfer. If your a beginner looking to catch your first ride, or are advanced and your looking for some tips to achieve that perfect round house cut back to long barrel ride these are the guys for you. Waves a many, laughs a plenty, and overall just a great time. So if you find yourself heading down to the Rockways for some fun in the sun or on a mission to get some waves Locals Surf School on beach 67th is the place to go! Come on down rain or shine, winter or summer, and Paddle out with the Locals! read more

Before this summer I had surfed a few times on family vacations and thought I had the basics down. Being new to New York, I never visited Rockaway Beach. It had been a few years since I last surfed so I decided to do it right and sign up for a surf lesson (group lesson) with some Locals. Best decision ever. Mike and Mike (owners of Locals) are friendly, professional, and down-to-earth guys who are passionate about surfing and dedicated to teaching others about the sport. They managed to refresh me on the basics and give me simple yet effective advice that I had never been exposed to. The lineup was crowded but my group's instructor (John) managed to carve out a spot for us and had my group (three students) all riding waves in a matter of twenty minutes. If you want to learn how to surf in NYC, there is no better option that Locals Surf School. These guys rock! read more

I just took my first surf lesson today and I must say I was a bit nervous because it was a little chilly and I've never surfed before. However, the instructors made me feel very comfortable. We met on the beach in Rockaway. Pretty easy to get there from the A train. When I got to the beach they were ready with a few other people all in their wetsuits. So once I was ready we began the lesson. We started by going over the basics on the sand and practicing popping up on the surfboard. Then we headed to the water where my instructor, Mike, got in the water with us and helped push us into waves. It took me a few tries but I eventually stood up. Definitely one of the best feelings I've ever had. I really gotta give these guys credit for keeping it fun and organized while handling so many people in and out of the water. I'll definitely be back for more. read more

If you always thought the only time you'd be able to learn how to surf was on vacation off some tropical island, you're wrong. The Locals Surf School offers quality surf lessons right in the NYC beachy playground of Rockaway Beach! These guys are beyond professional, super supportive, and just radiate good energy. They provide everything you need, so you don't have to worry getting anything to and from the beach. You'll learn everything you need to know about etiquette, safety, and having an anxiety-free time in the water. If you're a little uneasy in the ocean, no worries - they're with you the whole time! Most importantly, you can totally tell they love what they do and their focus is completely on you. It's always super inspiring to hang with and learn from people who are having a great time while teaching you how to have a great time!!! read more

Always wanted to learn how to surf, so when I saw the Living Social deal for surf lessons through Locals Surf School offered online, of course I had to buy it! Best decision I made last summer! I went with little to no expectations as having never surfed or been to Rockaway before. I was greeted by both of the Mikes who run Locals on a quiet beach. Both are locals to Rockaway (hence the name) and are extremely experienced and knowledgeable. With their help, I rode my first wave within the first few minutes of the lesson. Overall, I had a blast and would definitely try it again this summer. They also offer board rentals, if you are more experienced and lessons are not essential for you. I definitely recommend this and hope to make my way back to Locals Surf School this summer! read more

I started surfing Rockaway 67th st last year and happened to meet the Mikes of Locals Surf School. I knew my girlfriend wanted to join me but wanted to take some lessons before paddling out on her own. We had bad experiences with other instructors that either showed up really late or not at all. So I booked her a spot with the Mikes and I paddled out to try and catch some waves at the same time. I have to say these guys really know how to explain all of the foundations that newcomers and returning surfers need to build off of. She liked them so much she will be paddling out with them again this Summer season. If you are in the NYC area and looking for quality folk to learn from then you've come to the right place. read more

I found Locals on the beach last summer quite by accident. I happened upon their tent, and on a whim asked if I could take a lesson. They happily accommodated my request, and the rest is history! After I caught my first wave I was hooked! I continued taking lessons from the Mike's and team until October, then was able to venture to Central America in early March to further my new found surfing skills. They are patient and fun and emanate love and respect for the sport as well as the desire for you to have FUN! If you would like to experience surfing just once, or possibly make it a regular hobby or way of life, or already surf but would like to excel, look no further. read more

Your review helps others learn about great local businesses. Please don't review this business if you received a freebie for writing this review, or if you're connected in any way to the owner or employees. I had the best surfing lesson ever! Coming from Vienna to NY, I was completely surprised to find a surfing spot on Far rockaway beach. The one hour trip with the A- train from Mannhattan to FRB was absolutely worth it! Mike gave me so many personal recommendation and I managed to pop up i. This first lesson, having grat fun! It was amazing, only bad thing is that I have to leave today, otherwise I would have booked a class!, Thank you Mike! Gudi read more

Mike & Mike were great. They gave excellent instructions before getting in the water. Once in the water it was as much fun as being in a 10 year old at 6 Flags! We were in a group of six and everyone caught waves within the first 20 minutes. They were pushing you with the wave so you can focus on surfing rather than paddling. By the time you paddled back out, you were already next in line to catch another. Their system was perfect. I'll be going back and soon. BTW: We went on a weekday and the beach was practically ours. Take a day off, it's well worth it. read more