Learn to surf and have surfing lessons with Essential Surf School, an ASI accredited surf school, located at Coledale Beach and McCauleys Beach near Wollongong.   Only 1 hours drive south of Sydney.

Essential Surf School is owned and operated by the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, Peter and Fiona Hunt, whose passion for surfing runs deep. Peter began surfing at the tender age of eight and has been involved in swimming, lifesaving nippers, and surfing competitions on and off throughout the years. His love for surfing has taken him to various surf breaks around the world, adding to his extensive experience.

Fiona, on the other hand, started surfing when she was 14 years old. She has competed at local, state, and national levels, amassing an impressive collection of 17 state gold medals and 2 bronze medals for swimming and board paddling.

Both Peter and Fiona are ASI accredited surfing instructors with rescue and first aid qualifications.  They are also active patrolling members of their local surf lifesaving club, with Peter having previously served as a patrol captain.

As seasoned surfers with a deep love for the sport, Peter and Fiona established the surf school to inspire and help others develop their surfing skills. They aim to teach surfing in a safe, fun environment, sharing their extensive knowledge of surfing and ocean awareness.

Since its inception in 2003, Essential Surf School has been a testament to Peter and Fiona's experience and dedication. As long-time locals, they possess an in-depth understanding of the surf breaks and conditions in the area.

They are also assisted in the surf school with experienced ASI accredited surfing instructors.

The Surf School offers group and private surfing lessons from beginner to advanced levels, Surf Wise surfing certificate courses, weekend accommodation surfing packages, surfing guide trips, team building, surfing awareness for kids, adults, parties, school groups and corporates.

Essential Surf School delivers top-notch surfing lessons with expert instruction. With a maximum ofsix students per instructor, they ensure ample personalized attention for each participant. Their commitment to quality has fostered a loyal clientele who return year after year.

Personalised surfing programs can be created to help you progress your skills and surf better up to an advanced level.

Join their "Women on Waves" session, designed for cadet girls and mature women alike. Fiona delivers specially developed programs tailored to ladies looking to learn to surf, return to the waves, or refine their skills.  Surf camps and tours to overseas destinations are also organised.  It's a lot of fun and a fantastic experience!

Essential Surf also specialise in providing sessions for youth groups, primary and high schools sports and colleges from as far away as Canberra.

Check out the Essential Surf & Skate shop.  A local institution since 1999, offering everything you need for both in and out of the water, including surfboards, wetsuits, accessories and clothing.  Beginners and experienced surfers alike will get expert advice on finding the right equipment to suit their goals and abilities.

Lessons are held Coledale Beach and McCauley's Beach.  They are excellent spots for both beginner and advanced surfers due to their diverse and accommodating surf conditions.

These beaches often have smaller, more manageable waves, perfect for beginners learning to catch and ride their first waves. They are also somewhat sheltered, providing a safer environment to surf. With fewer crowds, it's ideal for relaxing and developing your surfing skills.

For intermediate to advanced surfers, the consistent surf conditions offer good waves to ride and plenty of opportunities to hone their skills.

The beaches are beautifully nestled between the rolling blue surf of the Pacific Ocean and the lush green Illawarra escarpment. With white sands, clear waters, and the stunning escarpment as a backdrop, the scenery is incredibly picturesque and relaxing. It's common to see dolphins playing just off the shore and migrating whales, adding to the natural beauty.

Both beaches have public toilets and showers and parking.   Coledale Beach also has picnic and barbeque areas.

They are fantastic spots for a day out, whether you're looking to surf, relax, or enjoy a beachside barbecue.

The Coledale Beach and McCauley's Beach region is a haven of natural beauty, featuring pristine beaches, excellent surf, and scenic views that surround you with nature.

Enjoy scenic Walks with beautiful pathways along the beach provide the perfect setting for a relaxing stroll, while the many beachside and inland parklands are ideal for picnics.

Just a short distance away is the Wollongong Botanic Garden, showcasing a wide variety of plants and stunning landscapes. Additionally, don't miss the Coledale Markets, held on the fourth Sunday of every month, featuring food vendors, clothing stalls, and more.

Visitors can often spot dolphins playing just off the beach and migrating whales during certain seasons, adding to the area's charm.

The Illawarra Escarpment provides a scenic, green backdrop for the beaches.  About 1 hours drive inland, the Illawarra Escarpment is a breathtaking sandstone cliff formation stretching from Stanwell Park to Kiama. Rising up to 803 meters at its highest point, it offers spectacular scenic views, hiking tracks and diverse ecosystems ranging from sub-tropical rainforests to eucalyptus forests.  It is home to various wildlife, has Aboriginal historical sites, remnants colonial logging and coal mining activities, making it a beloved destination for both nature enthusiasts and history buffs.