Want to ride smooth waves and graceful turns and glide down warm Caribbean waves? Longboard surfing in Barbados is calling your name. And there’s no better place to answer that call than at Dread or Dead Surf School, a locally owned and passionately run surf shop and school that has been shaping surfers since 1995.
Some of the best waves in the Caribbean for longboarding are offered by Barbados. The island’s consistent surf waters and scenic beaches create the ideal setting for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
Gentle, peeling waves
Spacious beaches with plenty of room to ride
Year-round warm water (no wetsuit needed!)
Friendly and welcoming local surf culture
Founded in 1995 by lifelong surfer Russell Garrett, Dread or Dead Surf School derived its reputation from the passion, patience and quality surf school experience of people. Focused on small classes that allow for individual attention, Dread or Dead Surf School is one of the most trusted names in longboard surfing that Barbados has to offer.
Why choose Dread or Dead:
Over 25 years of local surf expertise
100% Bajan-owned and operated
Only 4 students per instructor – ensuring personalised guidance
Lessons tailored to your level and learning pace
Whether you’re starting out on your first longboard or looking to refine your style, Dread or Dead offers several lesson options:
2-hour session (including theory & etiquette)
Group lesson (max. 4 students)
The instructor stays in the water with you at all times.
Surf spots: Freights Bay, Dover, Pebbles, Brandons & more
Ideal for newcomers or anyone returning after a break
1-on-1 coaching tailored to your skill level
Focus on reading waves, timing, technique, and style.
Use any board from their extensive selection (or get help choosing the right one).
Flexible locations based on the day’s surf conditions
2–3 hour surf clinic with a pro instructor
Detailed breakdown of your habits and technique
Paddling, positioning, carving, cross-stepping, and nose-riding
Ideal for surfers wanting to elevate their longboarding game
Dread or Dead isn’t just a surf school – it’s a full-service surf shop stocked with everything you need for a day on the water.
Over 200 surfboards, including longboards from 5’5" to 11'
Leashes, wax, board socks, and traction pads are available.
Reef boots, rashguards, sunblock, and repair kits
Dread or Dead branded clothing
Surf wear from Quicksilver, Roxy, Hurley, O’Neill, and more
Repairs? No problem! They have an in-house surfboard repair shop to keep your longboard in top shape.
Hastings Main Road, Christ Church, Barbados
Call | WhatsApp: +1 (246) 826-6672
Whether you're gliding along your first wave or dancing down the line with finesse, longboard surfing in Barbados is pure joy. And at Dread or Dead, you're not just learning how to surf – you're becoming part of a passionate surf family.
So, wax up your board and surf the island’s best longboard waves with Dread or Dead – where it’s always about the stoke.