Learn how to surf and have surfing lessons at Surfest Surf School, an ASI accredited surf school, located at Newcastle, about 170km (2 hour drive) north of Sydney.

Surfest Surf School is owned and operated by Dean Smith, an elite advanced surfer who was raised in a surfing family and has extensive experience in the family surf business. In 2014, he took over the surf school, and it is now recognized as one of the best in the region.

Dean has always had a deep love for surfing. He cherishes everything about it—the sense of freedom and the exhilarating feeling it provides. Once he's in the water, nothing else seems to matter. It's a fantastic way to reconnect with friends on the waves and offers ample opportunities to travel to some amazing surfing spots around the world.

Dean loves running the school, always meeting new faces. For him, teaching and providing instruction is a passion rather than a job.

He is assisted by a team of experienced and qualified surfing instructors.

Surfest Surf School offers group and private surfing lessons, beginner and intermediate surfing certificate courses, elite performance coaching, team building, surfing awareness for kids, adults, parties, school groups and corporates.

Private lessons for ages 5 and above, and group lessons for ages 13 and older.

They also offer various surfing programs, including weekly lessons and excursions for primary and secondary school students, emphasizing ocean safety and awareness.

Kids' programs are held in school holidays and through the year and focus on beach safety and surfing for children aged 5-12.

Free weekly surf lessons for Indigenous youth are available as well as surfboard and wetsuit rentals.

Surfing lessons take place at Nobbys Beach, conveniently located in town.

It's an excellent spot for learning to surf, with soft sand, and a sandbar that breaks the larger waves and creates ideal beginner waves, making it easy for newcomers to stand up and catch waves.

Surfing at Nobbys Beach in Newcastle offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife. As you ride the waves, you might spot a variety of marine life, including fish, crabs, and even dolphins on occasion. The beach is also home to a diverse range of bird species, such as seagulls and pelicans, which can be seen soaring above or scavenging along the shore.

The beach itself is surrounded by stunning natural features, including Nobbys Headland and the historic Macquarie Pier. The breakwall and headland provide a picturesque backdrop, while the distant views of Port Stephens add to the scenic experience. Additionally, the presence of coal ships gliding in and out of Newcastle Harbour offers a unique and memorable sight.

Newcastle features a variety of beaches renowned for their excellent surfing conditions, catering to both beginners and advanced surfers. Surfest Surf School chooses different spots to provide the best possible conditions tailored to your skill level.

The Nobbys Beach foreshore boasts excellent amenities, such as restrooms, showers, and cafés offering delicious coffee and food. Additionally, there is plenty of free parking nearby.

Newcastle offers a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and natural beauty, making Newcastle a great destination for tourists.

Highlights include the Newcastle Museum for insights into the city's history and culture, and the Newcastle Art Gallery for Australian art.

The scenic Bathers Way Walk stretches from Nobbys Beach to Merewether Beach, offering stunning views. Blackbutt Reserve is a nature reserve and zoo showcasing native Australian wildlife.

Nobbys Lighthouse provides panoramic views of the city, while the Newcastle Memorial Walk is a commemorative pathway dedicated to World War I soldiers.

The Hunter Valley is just a short drive (1 hr 45 mins) from Newcastle, this region is famous for its wineries and offers wine tasting tours.