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Introduce your kid to surfing at Groms Surf Session, a one-hour, small-group lesson in Westerly that emphasizes safety, fun, and confidence-building. With a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio and local instructors who know the best swell windows, it’s an ideal morning activity for families visiting the Rhode Island coast.
Introduce your kid to surfing at Groms Surf Session, a one-hour, small-group lesson in Westerly that emphasizes safety, fun, and confidence-building. With a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio and local instructors who know the best swell windows, it’s an ideal morning activity for families visiting the Rhode Island coast.
Book with Paddle Surf RI
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Operated by Paddle Surf RI · Westerly, Rhode Island
On the eastern edge of Rhode Island’s southwestern shore, Westerly’s sandy beaches and steady Atlantic swells set the stage for Groms Surf Session, a one-hour group surf lesson for kids ages 10 and under. Meeting at 311 Atlantic Ave, Westerly, RI 02891, USA, this program focuses on ocean safety, basic board skills, and wave confidence with a 3:1 student-to-instructor ratio. Book online 24hr in advance; email [email protected] for same-day reservations. The scene is classic New England coast: broad sandy beach, low dunes, and occasional rocky outcrops that shape forgiving surf breaks ideal for beginners. Tides and wind deliver gentle, rideable waves here in summer mornings, and the sand bottom reduces hazard for first-time surfers. Instructors concentrate on paddling, pop-up technique, positioning on the wave, and simple ocean awareness so young surfers can catch their first waves in controlled, encouraging conditions. What sets this session apart is its focus on childhood confidence rather than competitive performance. The small-group format—three surfers per instructor—means attention to individual progress, safety checks, and play-based learning. The operation’s local knowledge of currents and swell windows makes this a reliable choice for families visiting Westerly or nearby Watch Hill and Misquamicut Beach. At $75 per child, the lesson is an accessible way to try surfing without heavy gear or a big time commitment. Safety is front and center: instructors teach rip current recognition, safe paddling, and how to fall away from the board. Sessions run in light rain but are rescheduled in unsafe conditions; same-day bookings may be available via [email protected]. Bring a sun shirt, towel, and a positive attitude—the school supplies boards and instruction suited to small riders. Beyond the lesson, Westerly offers easy beachside strolls, a chance to watch for harbor seals offshore, and family-friendly dining in town. The local coastline supports migrating shorebirds in spring and early summer; visitors should heed temporary nesting closures and respect protected areas. Groms Surf Session is part lesson, part summer rite of passage—a short, concentrated gateway to the ocean that leaves kids energized and proud. Whether your child’s goal is a single memorable morning catching tiny waves or the beginning of a lifelong sport, this program offers the right mix of instruction, supervision, and seaside fun in one of Rhode Island’s most approachable surf spots. Check-in is straightforward: please arrive 10–15 minutes before your scheduled session. Book online at least 24 hours in advance. Email [email protected] for same-day reservations. Sessions typically run in light rain but may be rescheduled in unsafe conditions. For families driving, free or metered parking lines the beachfront; for those staying nearby, the proximity of downtown Westerly keeps this a quick morning outing far easier than long drives to more crowded surf spots elsewhere.
easy.
1 hour.
Suitable for children with basic swimming comfort; no advanced fitness required but comfort in shallow water helps
The program is designed for kids ages 10 and under; the group ratio is three surfers to one instructor.
Sessions are one hour long and are offered at $75 per child.
Book online 24hr in advance; email [email protected] for same-day reservations and availability.
Sessions run in light rain but may be rescheduled in unsafe conditions; the school will notify booked participants.
Yes, the school supplies appropriate beginner boards and instruction; bring a towel, sun protection, and a water bottle.
Children should be comfortable in shallow water; instructors focus on safety but basic water confidence is important.
Westerly has a long maritime and beach-going history; its coastal economy and recreation have shaped local culture for generations.
Respect seasonal shorebird nesting closures, stay off marked dunes, and use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize local ecological impact.
Paddle Surf RI is a coastal recreation provider based in Westerly, Rhode Island, offering surf camps, lessons, and board rentals across the Rhode Island coastline. The company runs age-specific surf camps — the Mini Surf Camp for kids aged 6–11 and Surf Camp for ages 11–18 — focusing on surf training, ocean safety, and rescue skills in beachside settings. Paddle Surf RI also provides private and group surf lessons tailored to beginners and young surfers, with dedicated local instructors and all necessary equipment supplied. For guests seeking independent water time, Paddle Surf RI offers softop foam surfboard rentals available for online reservation and pickup at East Beach, Watch Hill. Paddle board rentals can be delivered to a chosen location with adjustable paddles, life jackets, and optional quick-start instruction. Rental durations include 1-day, 3-day, and 5-day options. Paddle Surf RI emphasizes hands-on teaching, practical ocean safety, and accessible equipment for families and individual visitors. Camps teach rescue skills and ocean awareness alongside surfing fundamentals. Lessons and rentals are designed to support skill development, confidence in the water, and safe use of equipment on Rhode Island beaches. All program and rental descriptions reflect the trips and services offered in Westerly and nearby Watch Hill and East Beach.
Book with Paddle Surf RI