Tofino's Most Beginner-Friendly Surf School.

No experience needed. Kids, families, beginners, and all skill levels welcome.

Why Coastal Shred Academy Stands Apart

high five ing after a surf lesson on the west coast vancouver island. good times!

  • With over a decade of surf and youth coaching experience, we’ve helped hundreds of kids, families, and first-time surfers build real confidence in the ocean.

  • Our BCASI-certified instructors lead calm, structured lessons designed to build confidence safely — especially for young surfers and beginners.

  • We keep our Tofino surf lessons intentionally small so you get more waves, more feedback, and more attention in the water.

    With us, you’re coached — not processed.
    That’s the difference.

  • While we welcome all surfers, Coastal Shred Academy specializes in youth and family surf lessons starting at age 6.

    Our sessions are thoughtfully designed for young riders and families learning together — focused on structured progression, confidence-building, and real skill development.

  • CSA grew from youth surf and skate programs in Tofino and Ucluelet. That foundation shapes our supportive, community-first teaching style.

  • We’re proud Tribal Park Allies and donate 30% of Triple Plank Prep Camp profits to Rising Tide Surf Society, supporting Indigenous youth access to surfing in nuučaan̓uł territory.

Book surf lessons now

Don’t take our word for it, here’s what people say about surfing with us

  • CSA branding shown beside a tourist surf lesson review in Tofino.

    Charlotte, Vancouver BC

    '“Aaron is a fantastic teacher who clearly takes pride in his work. He genuinely cares about each and every participant, making sure everyone feels supported and encouraged. His passion and attention to detail really show through in the way he teaches. Highly recommend Coastal Shred Academy!”

  • Coastal Shred Academy logo in a private surf lesson review for Tofino BC.

    Sophia, Vancouver BC

    “We visited from Vancouver and booked a family surf lesson in Tofino with Coastal Shred Academy. So glad we did. Our instructor Daskey was amazing with the kids and adults, patient, encouraging, and made the whole session fun. None of us had surfed before, but by the end we were all catching waves and loving it. One of the highlights of our Tofino trip. Highly recommend Coastal Shred Academy for families looking for fun, safe surf lessons in Tofino.”

  • Coastal Shred Academy branding on a private surf lesson review from Tofino.

    Valentine, Port Alberni BC

    “This is THE best Tofino Surf school! Aaron is the best - patient, encouraging and sincerely passionate. If you’re looking for surf lessons in Tofino this is hands down the best place to go.”

  • CSA surf school logo representing family surf lesson testimonials in Tofino

    Jason, Victoria BC

    “We were visiting from Victoria and booked a surf lesson. It ended up being one of the best parts of our trip. Kye was super chill, patient, and made it easy for us. We caught waves, had tons of fun, and loved the whole vibe. A great memory and we highly recommend Coastal Shred Academy.”

  • Coastal Shred Academy logo used in a beginner surf lesson review on Vancouver Island

    Jess, Tofino BC

    “Our boys have been taking skate lessons with Aaron at Coastal Shred Academy for years and they love it. Every session they learn new skills and gain confidence on their boards. Aaron is amazing with kids, patient, encouraging, and makes every class fun. They’ve also joined his surf lessons and had the same awesome experience. We highly recommend Coastal Shred Academy for youth skate and surf programs.”

  • Coastal Shred Academy surf school branding for a student testimonial.

    Richard, Australia NSW

    “My wife and I booked a private surf lesson with Coastal Shred Academy in Tofino and had such a good time. We’re beginners, but our instructor made it super easy and fun, and we both ended up catching waves. If you want a relaxed private lesson for couples or first-timers, CSA is awesome.”

  • CSA logo for group surf lessons in tofino review

    Cass, Courtney BC

    “I joined a group surf lesson with Coastal Shred Academy and it was awesome. The instructor made everything fun and really safe. Small group of us and everyone was cool! Such a great vibe the whole time. I’d definitely recommend CSA if you’re looking for a fun beginner group surf lesson in Tofino.”

  • “Coastal Shred Academy logo shown on a real student surf lesson review from Tofino BC.”

    Maddison, Montreal Quebec

    “You couldn't get a better instructor than Aaron! He's patient, funny and knows how to make the cold Canadian waters fun.”

  • Coastal Shred Academy surf school logo for a youth surf program review in Tofino BC

    Jenna H, Ucluelet BC

    “We have been bringing our kids to skate with Aaron for a few years now and every time our kids end their lesson they are even more stoked on skateboarding. He is extremely patient and caring and our kids love him. We see progression after each lesson. Can’t say enough good things about the guy. Thanks Aaron”

  • CSA surf school logo in a verified beginner surf lesson testimonial from Vancouver Island.

    Luc, Tofino BC

    “Freshest Surf School in Tofino. Aaron is a highly experienced teacher wether it be on a snowboard, skateboard or on the water. Catch a lesson with him and his team and start living the dream.. 😎🤙”

  • CSA logo displayed in a customer review for group surf lessons in Tofino BC.

    Sophie, Tofino BC

    “Aaron is such a lovely human, enthusiastic and easy to talk to which makes learning to surf a super fun and supportive experience!! If you’re looking for an amazing surf instructor in Tofino, he’s the guy for you:))”

  • Coastal Shred Academy surf school icon used in a family surf lesson testimonial

    Kieran, Australia NSW

    “Coastal Shred Academy is the best surf school in Tofino, I had a great surf lesson and experience learning to surf. I would highly recommend for anyone wanting to learn to surf in Tofino.”

  • Surf lesson review for kids and family tofino

    Jorden, Vancouver

    Wonderful experience for our 10 and 7 year olds. Sam was a gem. Full of energy and great with our kids. Would recommend highly, especially for little ones.

  • review for surf lesson kids tofino

    Jacqui, Vancouver

    Wow wow wow! I can’t say enough about surf instructors Aaron and Sam. The kids had a blast and all were given one on one time throughout the lesson which made for a fun experience. I highly recommend this company for a group family lesson. Thanks Coastal Shared Academy we hope to book with you again!

  • Book Private Surf Lesson x 2 people

    Sarah, Tofino

    “It’s awesome!! The best lessons I’ve ever done in my life. So fun!!” 8yo surfer & skater

  • How do I book a surf lesson with Coastal Shred Academy?

    Cynthia, Tofino

    My son has been going to Coastal Shred Academy for a couple years and has loved every minute of it. I have seen so much improvement in his ability/skills as well as confidence in himself. We are so lucky to have Aaron and all the amazing instructors. 100% recommend!

  • Private 1 on 1 Skate lesson - CSA apparel logo

    Jenny, Tofino

    Best surf and skateboard lessons for kids you could ask for! Coastal Shred Academy creates such a positive and encouraging environment, and Aaron has an amazing way of making every child feel comfortable and confident while learning. Whether they’re complete beginners or already at an intermediate level - the kids love being part of Coastal Shred Academy!