Surfing in Long Beach, NY



Season
Year-round, but peak season is September through April
Nearest city
Long Beach is just a short train ride from New York City
Duration
1 – 1.5 hours
Skill level
Beginner to advanced
Long Beach has some of the best surf you’ll find near NYC
Nicknamed “City by the Sea,” it’s no wonder that Long Beach is one of the go-to spots for NY surfers. It holds legendary status among the surf community, and it’s also known to be welcoming to new surfers eager to learn. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at it awhile, a Long Beach surf lesson is a great way to build your skills and confidence while also riding amongst some of the best. Enjoy this action-packed spot and be ready for a fun day on the ocean.
Quote
Why should you surf NYC and its nearby coastal beaches? Proximity to the city, combined with abundant rental shops and experienced instructors, you’ll be up on your board in a day – but hooked for life.
By Viktor Marohnic, 57hours founder
Most Popular Itineraries
Learn to Surf with a Private Lesson
One-on-one lessons are the perfect way to get the hang of things. With a personalized session, you will get familiarized with surf etiquette, learn the right techniques, and gain the confidence to start shredding the waves. With a bit of coaching and practice, you’ll be standing on your board in no time. And from there, the fun is just beginning.
Surf Lesson for Two
Everything’s more fun in good company, so take your loved one or a buddy out for a day on the water! In this semi-private surf lesson, you’ll learn about surfing safety, get some 2:1 time with your instructor to focus on skills development, catch waves, all while making some great memories you’ll both look back on.
Advanced Private Surf Lesson
If you can handle yourself in the ocean, but want to level-up with some pro tips and a bit of coaching from a professional instructor, this is the option for you. Advanced private lessons help you fast-track your progress and give you the knowledge to continue to build on what you learn. Watch your weaknesses turn into strengths, all while enjoying the sun and the waves.
Group Surf Lesson
Regardless of previous experience, you and your partners in crime will receive a surf lesson tailored to the individual needs of your party. Whether learning the ropes or brushing up on existing skills, your surf instructor will ensure that everyone in your group leaves a better surfer than they came. Traveling along but prefer learning in a group environment? No worries.We’ll pair you up with peers who share both your skill and stoke levels.
Things you need to know
Why should I go surfing?
Surfing is more than a sport. When you’re out on the water, you’re a part of the ocean itself. Watch a professional surfer shred, and you can barely tell where the surfer ends and the wave begins. With the right instruction, you can get there, too. Our guides will teach you to be one with nature and have you dancing on the water in no time.
What’s included?
What you get in this adventure:
- An experienced local guide with extensive surfing knowledge
- 1 – 1.5 hour surf lesson
- Surfboard
- Wetsuit
You can continue to use all borrowed gear like surfboards and wetsuits after the lesson for an additional rental fee. Let us know in the booking process, and we’ll make sure you’re set up with the gear you need. Your instructor will call you after the booking to arrange the details.
If you have your own equipment, you are free to use it during lessons.
Permits and fees
From fall to spring, you’re free to surf the waves of Long Beach until your heart’s content. However, during summer, you must be either a resident or pay daily for a $15 pass.
What should I bring to the beach?
Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks and good vibes — we’ll take care of the rest.
What if I’ve never surfed before?
Surf lessons are recommended for anyone new to surfing.
The waves in Long Beach are ideal for first-timers. A surf instructor will teach you how to be safe, have fun and work toward standing up on your board. It’s all worth a bit of practice, we promise!
How many lessons until I learn to surf?
Lessons are completely catered to your goals and experience level.
If this is your first time, an experienced instructor will show you the ropes and teach you how to catch waves safely. It’s harder than in the movies, but you’ll get there. Some students will be able to stand up on their first try, while others will require a few more lessons to do the same. There are many factors at play, your fitness level and stamina, surf conditions, winds and tides. One thing’s for sure, we’ll be with you every step of the way, and you’ll have fun doing it.
What's a typical lesson itinerary?
A typical two-hour beginner lesson involves two components: familiarizing yourself with your board on the beach, and then practicing what you’ve just learned in the ocean.
Advanced lessons will be catered to your goals and objectives, and your instructor will discuss with you the techniques you’d like to cover.
How good of a swimmer do I need to be?
No one expects you to swim like you’re in the Olympics, but you need to be able to keep your head above water and know how to tread.
You’ll feel much more comfortable in the ocean if you’re sure you can swim at least two lengths of a pool. Keep in mind that surfing is physically straining, like any sport, so you should prepare beforehand with stretching and light cardio. This way, you’ll be better equipped to handle what the ocean throws, and in a better position to ride the waves with ease.
For kids who are not very good swimmers, we recommend a one-on-one private lesson. They will be kept in shallow water with the constant and complete attention of an expert surf instructor.
What should I do if I wear contact lenses?
Disposable contact lenses are the best option for surfing. Otherwise, you can wear an old pair and close your eyes tightly when underwater. Either way, consider wearing swimming goggles to avoid losing your contacts.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
If your party has kids younger than age 5, contact us before booking. Otherwise, you’re good to go!
What about group sizes and pricing?
You have four options:
- Private one-hour lesson with a surf instructor for $100
- Advanced one-hour private lesson with a surf instructor for $150
- Semi-private one-hour lesson: up to 3 people per instructor for $100 per person
- Group 1.5 hour lesson: Up to 5 people for $65 per person.
The most common group lesson size is 4-5 people per instructor, but lessons can be arranged for groups of any size, making it the perfect opportunity to get outdoors with friends and family.
If joining alone, you’ll be placed with peers that share a similar level of experience.
What about bad weather?
Surf instructors are prepared for almost anything Mother Nature can throw at them, and you’ll find yourself paddling in most weather conditions. However, if any significant threats to your safety begin to appear, such as thunderstorms or unmanageable waves, your instructor will not hesitate to reschedule your adventure for a more favorable day. Our own 57hours team can confirm that’s rarely the case, though. If you’re really eager, you can get lessons rain or shine, but we have to admit, the beach and sun go hand in hand together, so check the weather forecast!
Cancelation policy
All policies regarding cancellation, rescheduling and trip insurance will be clearly laid out by your guide prior to booking your adventure. Contact us if you’d like more information on a specific adventure.
Getting there
Long Beach’s south shore is split into a few main beach areas, but the most popular beach to surf is Lincoln Beach — a straight shot down to the beach from Lincoln Boulevard.
- To reach Long Beach by train, you can go from Penn or Atlantic Terminal. Take the LIRR Long Beach line to its final stop, Long Beach Station.
- If traveling by car, take I-495E (BQE) to Exit 22A, heading south on I-678/Grand Central Parkway. At Exit 1, merge onto NY-878E/Nassau Expressway. You’ll find free street parking throughout the area.
Be sure to arrive about 15 minutes early, so you can check-in, put on a wetsuit, and start your lesson on time.
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