Learn - Grow - Surf

Beginning and Intermediate Surf Lessons for All Ages in Topsail, NC

Certified PE Teacher

Private & Group Lessons

Surfboard Included

All Ages Welcome

Who’s ready to surf?!

Who’s ready to surf?! If you answer that you don’t know how or you want to be a better surfer, Brett Clow Surf School in Topsail, NC, is where you want to be. We work with beginner surfers and intermediate surf enthusiasts ready to increase their skill set. 

If you’re local to Topsail and have always wanted to surf, contact us for one lesson or several lessons, there’s always new things to learn. Just visiting the area and want to attempt the thrill of a lifetime and go home telling everyone about your surfing adventures? We can help you too!

We are here to teach a variety of ages. We will not only teach you the ins and outs of surfing, we will also teach you how to be safe in the ocean and on your board.

It doesn’t matter where you’re from; when you come to Brett Clow Surf School to learn to surf, you will feel like a local.

Also, you can make a day of your lesson.  Want ice cream, coffee, or food before or after your lesson? There are shops on-site! So make your lesson an experience, learn how to surf, grab some food and drinks, and hang out on the beach for a truly amazing day or even better, bring your friends and family to enjoy the day with you!

WHY CHOOSE

Brett Clow Surf School?

Whether you are looking for lessons for yourself or for your kids, or a friend or family member, you want to be confident that you are learning from someone who not only knows how to surf proficiently but also who can teach people of all ages. Brett not only has spent most of his life surfing, he also has a teaching degree and is a certified personal trainer.

What sets us apart:

Certified Teacher

Certified K–12 Physical Education & Health Teacher

ACE Certified Trainer

ACE Certified Personal Trainer with a passion for helping students build confidence, strength, and surfing skills.

All Ages Welcome

Experienced Teaching Students of All Ages and Skill Levels

Local Knowledge

Local Knowledge of Topsail Island and North Topsail Beach

Variety Of Coaching

Private and Small Group Lessons Available

Fun Environment

Relaxed, Fun, and Supportive Learning Environment

Small Groups

Individualized Instruction and Personal Attention

Safety First

Safety-Focused Approach with Beginner-Friendly Coaching

What to Expect

No board? No worries. Brett will provide all of the equipment needed for the lesson, including the surfboard and leash. If you do have your own board, great, you’re welcome to use it for your lesson!

Beginner Surf

Lessons

Learn ocean safety, wave reading, paddling technique, and the pop-up; everything you need to stand up and ride your first whitewater wave on Topsail Beach.

Intermediate Surf Coaching

Already comfortable catching whitewater? Level up with green-wave riding, angle takeoffs, turning, and reading Topsail Island's beach break lineups.

Private & Semi-Private Lessons

One-on-one or small-group coaching for faster progression. This is great for families, couples, or friend groups visiting Topsail Island, Surf City, or Sneads Ferry.

Beginner Surf

Lessons

Learn ocean safety, wave reading, paddling technique, and the pop-up; everything you need to stand up and ride your first whitewater wave on Topsail Beach.

Intermediate Surf Coaching

Already comfortable catching whitewater? Level up with green-wave riding, angle takeoffs, turning, and reading Topsail Island's beach break lineups.

Private & Semi-Private Lessons

One-on-one or small-group coaching for faster progression. This is great for families, couples, or friend groups visiting Topsail Island, Surf City, or Sneads Ferry.

How Much Do Surf Lessons Cost

It doesn’t matter if you are here on vacation or if you are local; pricing is important. We offer competitive pricing for individuals and groups. If you would like to know how much your lessons will cost, contact us.

Private Lesson

1 Person

$75

Total

Semi-Private Lesson

2 People

$120

Total

Group Lesson

3 People

$150

Total

Group Lesson

4 People

$200

Total

All lessons include surfboard rental and instruction. Prices are subject to change without notice. Have a larger group? Contact us for additional pricing options.

Where We Are Located

Located on Topsail Island, North Carolina, our surf school offers beginner and intermediate surf lessons for visitors and locals alike, serving Topsail Beach, Surf City, North Topsail Beach, and nearby Sneads Ferry, and Hampstead. 

 Just a short drive from Wilmington, NC, Topsail Island's gentle, consistent waves make it one of the best spots on the East Coast to learn to surf. 

 Whether you're planning a beach vacation surf lesson, or a weekend of stand-up paddleboarding, Brett Clow will get you riding waves with confidence.

 Contact Us To Get Started

Testimonials 

Nicole Johnson

“Brett gave me the knowledge and encouragement to make my surfing dream a reality."

Janis Ryan 

“Brett was great with my son. Now, Cody spends more time in the water than playing video games.”

Hannah Dever

“These gentlemen went above and beyond to give my 7 kids the confidence and courage to get out there and get after the waves! Brett met me and my kids on the stairs leading down to the ocean and was so welcoming and personable. He worked with all my kids from ages 18 down to 6 years old and they all independently rode some waves! He made them believe surfing was for everyone from German foreign exchange, a child with autism, a wild and free kid, and timidness to the ocean. Seriously, the smiles on their faces were contagious. The vacationers nearby cheering my kids on made their surfing that much better. We had such a phenomenal experience with the lesson I would recommend to anyone interested.. I am thrilled my kids enjoyed this experience with this company so much!!”

Ruthie Cabrera

“We booked a surf lesson with Brett for my son’s birthday, and it was such a great experience. Brett was friendly, professional, and patient. He made learning to surf exciting and easy to understand, and my son had an absolute blast. Couldn’t have asked for a better birthday activity! Thank you, Brett!”

Monica Clow

“Brett Clow is an incredible surf instructor who truly connects with kids. His calm, patient approach builds both skills and confidence in the water. You can tell he genuinely cares about his students and wants them to succeed while having fun. Highly recommend Brett Clow Surf School for any young surfer starting out or wanting to improve!”

Olivia White

“Brett is awesome!! as well as his brother, amazing guys and super knowledgeable in his art. Passionate, talented, and super kind is what I would call these guys!"

Marissa Johnsen

“Brett is so incredibly knowledgeable and kind!!! I have done many surf lessons and he has been my fav instructor by far!”

Jeff Berlin

“Brett is super friendly and outgoing so your lesson will never be boring even if there’s a lack of waves! Go solo, with a group of friends, or with the family and you won’t be disappointed.”

Allisun Hinson

“Brett is awesome! He’s a great guy and a great instructor. If you’re on the fence this is your sign to choose him for your surf lesson 🤙.”

Iris Incitti

“AMAZING GUY! Brett is an amazing instructor and individual! Great energy and instructions. Comes from an educational background as well which is a PLUS!”