Surf Lessons for Every Level
Never touched a surfboard in your life? Not a problem.
At Dread or Dead, we specialize in surf lessons for absolute beginners but also welcome intermediate and advanced surfers looking to sharpen their performance. Lessons are structured around your skill level and comfort in the water, with small class sizes of no more than four students per instructor, to ensure personal attention and safety.
“Our mission is to ensure that you reap the benefits of the premier surf destination in the Caribbean, right here in Barbados,” says the Dread or Dead crew.
Each surf lesson lasts about two hours, beginning with 10–15 minutes of beach theory covering the basics like paddling, popping up, surf etiquette, and safety. The rest? You’ll be out there on the waves with your instructor giving hands-on, in-the-water guidance.
Surfboards, rashguards, and reef boots (on request) are all included. Prices start at $75 USD per person for group lessons meeting at the Dread or Dead surf shop. Need transport? You can go for the $100 USD lesson, which includes pickup and drop-off. Want the full VIP treatment? Private one-on-one lessons with transportation are $150 USD per person.
A Mobile Surf School Experience
While the school’s home break is the iconic Brandons Beach, the beauty of Dread or Dead is that it’s fully mobile; your lesson will take place at the best surf spot on the island to suit the day's conditions and your ability. Some of the popular breaks are Freights Bay, Dover, Pebbles, and South Point. They each offer different wave profiles, which will help you to learn in the safest and most fun environment.
The flexibility we provide makes sure that you are not just surfing; you’re surfing right, with conditions that empower your learning and enjoyment.
Safety, Equipment & Island Hospitality
Our unwavering focus on safety, quality gear, and personalised instruction is one of the reasons Dread or Dead is considered to be the best surf school Barbados has seen over the decades.
The school uses high-performance hard boards for a true feel of surfing but also offers soft boards on request, which are great for kids or those more cautious in the water. The rashguard protects your skin, and for those rocky beach entries, reef boots are available if needed.
Our staff here is trained to adjust to individual needs in lessons, ensuring that you get the most out of your sessions, even if it's your first paddle or your fiftieth.
Also, let's not forget their Barbadian spirit in spades, friendly, encouraging, patient, and filled with good vibes.
Surfing Champions as Your Instructors
What truly cements Dread or Dead’s reputation as the best surf school in Barbados is the calibre of its instructors. You’re not learning from just any local beach crew. These are Barbadian surfing pioneers who’ve competed internationally and trained youth surfers for World Surfing Championships.
Matthew and Russell, two of the lead instructors, didn’t just teach others to surf; they taught their own children, who have gone on to represent Barbados at the International Surfing Association (ISA) and World Surf League (WSL) championships. Yes, you heard right; when you learn from here, you are learning from the coaches who’ve made world-class surfers.
Our school roots lie in the local surfing community, and that’s what sets it apart. We are not just teaching you a sport; we are welcoming you into a different lifestyle.
Real Reviews from Real Surfers
Let’s hear it straight from those who’ve surfed with Dread or Dead:
"Learned to surf in one day. Matthew was a great professor. He told us that we would learn how to surf from day one. He was right. My girlfriend actually rode the wave on her first try! Yay! Thanks for everything, Matthew. You're a great guy, a good professor, and Dread or Dead surf school is the place you need if you want to learn how to surf."
- Timisoara, Romania
"Meeting Matthew and Russell was one of the highlights of our trip. He took us to an ideal location with plenty of friendly conversation along the way. If you like to surf, look no further!"
- Atlantic Beach, New York
"Axe was super helpful and encouraging. He picked the perfect board and wave height. Getting to surf with turtles was a huge bonus!"
- Beverly, Massachusetts
Family-Friendly and Community-Oriented
Dread or Dead excels at teaching children to surf. The same instructors who have trained their kids for championship-level surfing bring that same gentle patience and attention to every child they teach.
Our welcoming school gives confidence, excitement, and a lifelong love of the ocean, even if you are an adult, you will feel like a child again.
Book Your Surf Adventure Today
Our surf lessons run twice daily at 10 AM and 2 PM. They fill up quickly, especially during peak season; it will be better for you to book a day or two in advance to secure your spot.
Remember to bring:
A beach towel
A water bottle
Sunblock
And your stoke!
Want to chase your first wave or refine your turns for competition? Dread or Dead is the best surf school Barbados has to offer. With decades of experience, professional-level instruction, mobile surf lessons, and heart-driven passion, they’re not just teaching surfing; they're building the next generation of surfers.
So why wait? Come ride with the best.
Let the island vibes carry you, and let Dread or Dead Surf School help you write your own surfing story.
