Sawtell Beach’s gentle waves and sandy shores create the perfect setting for Solitary Islands Surf School’s SurfGroms program. Tailored for kids ages 5-12, this six-week course blends surfing skills with vital ocean safety and beach awareness.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–1.5 hours per lesson
Fitness Level
Suitable for children with average fitness and a willingness to be active outdoors
Wildlife
History
Sawtell Beach has been a recreational hub since the early 20th century and hosts indigenous cultural significance tied to the Gumbaynggirr people.
Conservation
Local programs emphasize protecting the native dune vegetation and reducing plastic waste on beaches to sustain Sawtell's natural character.
Solitary Islands Surf School - SurfGroms
Sawtell Beach’s gentle waves and sandy shores create the perfect setting for Solitary Islands Surf School’s SurfGroms program. Tailored for kids ages 5-12, this six-week course blends surfing skills with vital ocean safety and beach awareness.
Solitary Islands Surf School - SurfGroms delivers Woolworths SurfGroms surf and stand-up paddleboarding programs for children aged 5–12 at Sawtell Beach and Woolgoolga Beach. The school runs holiday surf programs and school term surf programs tailored for young learners, combining structured skill development with supervised group play. Lessons focus on core ocean skills, beach safety, surf awareness and practical rescue techniques so children build confidence in and out of the water.
Each SurfGroms session blends surfing and SUP instruction with fun group games to keep learners engaged while reinforcing water safety. Programs teach basic surf techniques, wave selection, paddling and board handling alongside beach safety, surf survival and age-appropriate first aid awareness. The lessons emphasise a supportive environment where instructors guide small groups to develop competence and a lasting appreciation for the ocean.
Solitary Islands Surf School - SurfGroms operates clear program formats: Holiday Surf Program at Sawtell Beach and Woolgoolga Beach, plus School Term Surf Programs at both locations. All programs are designed for ages five to twelve and prioritise safety, supervised skill progression and memorable learning experiences.
Families looking for organised kids’ surf lessons and junior SUP coaching at Sawtell or Woolgoolga can reference the SurfGroms program structure and curriculum to understand what to expect. With a consistent focus on ocean awareness, beach safety and rescue principles, Solitary Islands Surf School - SurfGroms provides accessible, school-aged surf education delivered through age-appropriate activities and games.
Ages
5–12 yrs
Programs designed for school-aged kids
Locations
Sawtell & Woolgoolga
Sawtell and Woolgoolga beaches
Program Types
Holiday & Term
Holiday and school-term schedules
Focus Areas
Safety & Skills
Beach safety, rescue and surf awareness
Secure a spot in holiday or school term surf programs at Sawtell or Woolgoolga — focus on skills, safety, and fun for ages 5–12.
Arrive Early to Secure a Spot
School Term Surf Programs have limited slots; arriving early ensures your child is ready to catch every session.
Sun Protection is a Must
The Mid North Coast sun can be intense—apply waterproof sunscreen liberally and pack a rash guard for UV coverage.
Stay Hydrated Before and After
Bring plenty of water for your kids to stay hydrated through their active lessons in the sun and surf.
Listen Carefully to Instructors
Ocean safety rules and surf tips are explained clearly; paying attention ensures both fun and safety for your child.
Rash Guard
Protects skin from UV rays and board rash during active sessions.
summer
Wetsuit
Keeps kids warm in cooler water to maintain comfort and mobility.
fall|winter|spring
Waterproof Sunscreen
Vital for protecting sensitive skin from prolonged sun exposure on the beach and in water.
summer|spring|fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps children hydrated during active lessons under the sun.