For lovers of the ocean — a group it’s probably safe to say accounts for a majority of regular visitors to the Grand Strand and the Cottages at North Beach Plantation — a common dream is to be able to hop on a surfboard and take a ride on the ocean waves. And for those getting started in the sport, the southern Atlantic coastline provides a great combination of warm waters and approachable breaks — which together make the Grand Strand a near-ideal place to dip your toes into the sport of surfing.
If you’re among those with visions of surfboards, crashing waves and hanging ten dancing in your head, there are few better ways to learn how to surf when visiting the Myrtle Beach area than to take a lesson with local vendor Kokopelli Surf Camp. Offering lessons in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach, this locally owned and operated surf school aims to share its love for water sports with beginners and pros, adults and kids — pretty much anyone with an urge to have some fun on the water.
Each of Kokopelli’s surf instructors boasts a decade or more experience in the sport, and the team’s leader, Brandon Todd, is a veteran of professional surfing contests around the world. Further, all instructors are certified in first aid and CPR, in addition to being well-versed in accident prevention.
To accommodate learners of all types, Kokopelli offers a number of ways to get your start in the sport of surfing, including:
Group Lessons: These two-hour lessons (30 minutes on the beach followed by 90 minutes in the water) are available for as low as $35 per person and feature a teacher-student ratio of 1:3. Your surfboard and all other needed equipment is included, and class size tops out at 15 people. These lessons are scheduled daily in Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach.
Private Lessons: These lessons — available for small groups or as one-on-one sessions — last 1.5 hours and are available for as low as $45. Your surf instructor will meet you (and your crew, if applicable) right on the beach you choose and will bring all needed surfboard(s) and equipment. With this type of lesson, it’s guaranteed that you’ll be standing up and riding waves during your first lesson!
Party Lessons: Got a special occasion t celebrate? Mark it with a surf lesson! This two-hour lesson with a 1:3 teacher to student ratio is held at the beach of your choosing, and it includes all needed equipment, as well as photography and Kokopelli T-shirts.
Surf Camp: Join the surf camp, and you’ll spend three days learning from the pros at some of the area’s best surf spots. You’ll also learn about surf games, engage in some friendly surf competition, and head home with some surf gear.
For those looking for other ways to enjoy the Grand Strand waters, Kokopelli also offers paddleboard rentals and tours, and well as kayak rentals and tours. To learn more about Kokopelli Surf Camp, visit kokopellisurfcamp.com. And when you’re ready to catch some waves, book your beach getaway at The Cottages at North Beach Plantation. The Grand Strand and its beautiful beaches are waiting for you — and the waves are ready for riding!
