A 10-week surf trip to South Africa is pretty much the dream, right?
Well, it’s not just fun and games (though mostly it is) for the majority of our group, who’ve also signed up to complete their ISA Level 1 Surf Instructor course with us. Many in this group had little to no previous surfing experience or lessons before arriving, so the idea of learning to surf while training to become a Surf Instructor can feel a bit daunting.
The surfing part is the easiest—after all, the trip is all about surfing. We’re in the water with coaches every day, sometimes twice a day, getting guidance and tips. The progression we’re seeing in the current group is impressive. Surfing is unique for everyone; styles and goals differ widely. Some want to be casual weekend surfers, Jenny’s aiming to become a stylish longboarder, and others want to push the sport’s boundaries. Naturally, some progress faster than others, and the friendly competition can sometimes distract from personal goals. That’s why every rider meets regularly with coaches to set and refocus on individual targets. Surfing is intensely personal and tests you in unexpected ways. Frustrations happen, but the rewards are unparalleled—and seriously addictive.
Throughout the trip, we’ve been building toward completing our Surf Instructor qualification in Durban. Here’s what it takes to pass the ISA Level 1 Surf Instructor course:
Surfing Theory:
In Durban, we lead classes covering the full ISA Level 1 theory curriculum. Afterward, you’ll need to teach a beginner lesson to a peer as part of your practical assessment.
Surfing :
You must catch two open-faced left-hand waves and two right-hand waves, demonstrating control over your board—all within a 40-minute window. This requires solid ocean knowledge and surfing skills, which our coaches help develop throughout the 10 weeks.
Life Saving:
You’ll do beach practicals and lifeguard training with Deon Woodley, one of South Africa’s most respected figures in the lifesaving community and our local expert in Durban.
Swimming:
The swimming component is often the toughest, especially for those with limited experience. You must swim 400 meters (8 laps in an Olympic pool) in under 9 minutes, front crawl only. As we travel up the coast, we visit pools to train and improve endurance.
First Aid:
While in Durban, you’ll also complete first aid training with Deon. This includes theory classes and a practical exam done in pairs.
Despite the challenges, the surfing standard in this group is high, and I’m confident everyone will pass.
We recently spent time in Jeffreys Bay, South Africa’s surfing mecca, famous for its endless point breaks and the legendary ‘Supertubes’. But beyond the iconic spots, there are several incredible lesser-known waves perfect for less experienced surfers. Here’s a roundup of the waves we caught at these hidden gems: Kitchen Windows, Lower Point, and Seals Beach (Cape St. Francis).
Any questions on becoming an ISA level 1 Surf Instructor, leave a comment or contact us directly.
Stay tuned for more updates from our crew in South Africa. Yew