Learn how to surf and have surfing lessons at Pines Surfing Academy, an ASI accredited surf school located at Wollongong and The Farm in the Killalea Regional Park, approximately 1 hr 20 mins drive south of Sydney, Australia.

Pines Surfing Academy is owned and operated by Vaya Phrachanh.  A surfer from a young age, Vaya has elite level surfing skills and competed in local pro junior competitions. With a background in retail management at surf shops and involvement in local Boardriders clubs, his deep connection to the surfing community is evident.

Vaya is an ASI Level 4 Master Surfing Coach and has personally delivered thousands of hours of coaching, catering to surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to elite competitors. Many of his students have gone on to achieve significant success on the professional surfing circuit.

Established in 2002 with over 20 years expertise, Pines Surfing Academy has become a leader in providing surfing activities within the local area. It also serves as an ASI Instructor Training Centre (ITC), where Vaya is authorised to train aspiring surfing instructors to achieve ASI accreditation.

The surf school has earned widespread recognition, including winning the prestigious "People’s Choice" award at the Illawarra Business Awards and reaching the finals in the Tourism category.

Pines Surfing Academy is supported by a team of highly skilled and accredited surfing instructors.

They are passionate about building relationships and supporting one another in making a life of fun and friendship. It's about sharing the real joy of surfing. The feeling of paddling out on a board into the ocean, being cleansed by the water and relaxing out the back surrounded by nature whilst waiting for the waves to come.

Pines Surfing Academy offers group and private surfing lessons, beginner to advanced level, surfing guide trips, team building, surfing awareness for adults, kids, parties, women’s and girls only, mothers groups, school groups and corporates.

They specialise in schools sports programs that can be customised and include surf awareness programs and surfing skills at various levels.  Accommodation can also be organised.

Pines offer 3 or 5 day holiday programs is the perfect blend of fun and education, offering top-notch surf awareness lessons and building confidence in the ocean.

Competition coaching is offered for aspiring surfing champions. And local surfing competitions are also run by Pines to help you increase your competitions skills, with some notable successes.

Pines also created and runs the annual "Pines Surfing Academy Inter School Challenge".  Since 2015, this competition that attracts high schools from across the region, all competing for the coveted school trophy.

The Pines surf shop stocks a variety of surfboards, softboards, surf accessories, clothing, and skateboards. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, you'll find everything you need and get expert advice from the Pines team.

You can rent surfboards for all levels, making it easy to enjoy the waves without having to bring your own gear.

Pines Surfing Academy operates at 2 locations.

North Wollongong Beach. Pines are located at the North Wollongong Surf Life Saving Club located right on the beach.   With waves all year round, this location is ideal for beginners to advanced levels.   Surrounded by stunning coastal views and close to the city centre.

The Farm at Killalea Regional Park.  is located approximately 30 minutes from Wollongong by car. The Pines Surf School and Shop is conveniently situated within the park, right at the surf break. Nestled in a breathtaking 250-hectare coastal reserve, The Farm combines natural beauty with cultural significance as a National Surfing Reserve. It is renowned for its uncrowded beaches and consistent waves, making it an ideal surfing spot for all skill levels.

North Wollongong: showers, toilets changing facilities. Parking and cafes are nearby.

The Farm (Killalea Regional Park):  offers parking, toilets and changing facilities, picnic spots, BBQ facilities, a nearby café, the Pines Surf Shop for post-surf relaxation.

Wollongong is only 85kms south of Sydney. About 1 hr 20 mins drive by car. 

It’s a fantastic destination for surfing!  The region offers a variety of beaches, coastal beauty, reliable surf conditions, and vibrant surfing community making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced surfers. Winter is particularly ideal, as the southeast swells and offshore winds create excellent surfing conditions.

Wollongong is also home to stunning natural attractions that showcase its coastal beauty and lush landscapes.  The Illawarra Escarpment provides a dramatic backdrop to the city, offering hiking trails, lookouts, and breathtaking views.   Visit the nearby Minnamurra Rainforest a tranquil rainforest with walking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.   Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline from Bald Hill Lookout, also popular for paragliding.  The stunning Lake Illawarra is perfect for kayaking, SUP, fishing and picnics by the water.

In addition, Wollongong offers a rich blend of cultural and historical attractions. Highlights include the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere, and the Wollongong Art Gallery, showcasing Australian and Aboriginal art. The Illawarra Museum provides insights into the region's history, while the HARS Aviation Museum features vintage aircraft. Visitors can also explore the Dharawal Country Experience, which celebrates Indigenous heritage and culture.

Whether you're looking for local cuisine to fine dining or a comfortable stay, Wollongong has plenty to offer!