Your ultimate destination for surf lessons, gear, rentals, and good vibes in Hastings, Barbados
Whether you’re chasing your first wave or already carving the Caribbean like a pro, there’s one place that surfers in Barbados keep coming back to—Dread or Dead Surf Shop. Nestled in the heart of Hastings on the island’s south coast, this is not just a store—it’s the surf shop Barbados locals trust, and the one travelers from around the world rave about.
Established as a family-owned gem, Dread or Dead Surf Shop isn’t your average beachfront shack. It’s the real deal—run by passionate locals who live and breathe the surf lifestyle. The shop’s roots are deeply planted in the local surfing community, and it shows in every detail—from the personalized lessons to the carefully curated gear selection.
At the center of it all is Axe, a local surfing legend whose reputation precedes him. His energetic coaching style, deep knowledge of the local breaks, and contagious love for surfing have made Dread or Dead the go-to surf shop Barbados surfers recommend to their friends—and their friends' friends.
New to surfing? No worries. Dread or Dead offers private and group lessons for all skill levels—kids, adults, families, couples, you name it. Whether you’re standing up for the first time or refining your cutbacks, their instructors meet you where you are and take you further.
All instructors are trained not just in surfing, but in handling different weather conditions and experience levels, making it one of the most beginner-friendly surf schools on the island.
Don’t take our word for it—just listen to the surfers themselves:
Charles Paul Robinson
“Terrific family-owned business. I booked a private session with Axe (see photo) who is a local surfing legend in his own right. He made the whole experience such fun with his infectious energy and charm. All of us caught countless waves thanks to his excellent coaching. Definitely returning for more fun in the future.”
Cristian Iulian Dragota
“We had an amazing experience! From the moment we arrived, the staff was super friendly and welcoming. Our instructor Axe was fantastic—super patient, positive, and full of good vibes. The surf spot they chose was perfect for learning—safe, scenic, and with just the right waves.”
If you’re wondering where to pick up top-tier surf gear in Barbados, look no further. Dread or Dead Surf Shop Barbados is packed with over 200 surfboards for rent, ranging in size from 5'5 to 11 ft. Whether you need a shortboard, longboard, funboard, hybrid, or twin fin—they’ve got you covered, with both new and used options available.
Their gear list includes:
Soft tops and performance boards
Rash guards, board bags, socks, fins (FCS & Futures), leashes
Surf wax, traction pads, tie-downs, reef boots
Sunblock, wetsuit tops, soft racks, repair kits
Dread or Dead branded hats, tees, and rashguards
Beachwear from Quiksilver, Roxy, Hurley, Dakine, Ripcurl, and O’Neill
Bodyboards (BZ, Morey, Hydro, Custom X, Hubbard) and Skimboards (Zapp)
Churchill, Hydro & Custom X fins
And yes—they have their own in-house surfboard repair shop, so if you ding your board on the reef, they’ve got you sorted.
Why Hastings? Because it’s one of the best year-round surf spots in Barbados. The waves here are great for beginners and intermediates, with a safe reef break that delivers rideable, clean waves without overwhelming the newcomer.
The south coast of Barbados is known for its consistent swell, and with a bit of coaching and the right gear, you’re practically guaranteed to ride a wave your first session.
Dread or Dead Surf Shop operates year-round, welcoming surfers through every season. No matter when you visit the island, they’re ready to get you geared up and in the water.
Whether you're showing up solo or bringing your surf crew, they’ll help you get the most out of your Barbados surf experience. Even if you're just stopping in for a wax top-up or to grab a new rashguard, you'll be greeted with a smile and some local tips on where to surf that day.
There’s something special about walking into Dread or Dead. The energy is chill but charged, the music’s always good, and the community vibe is undeniable. It’s more than a surf shop—it’s a hangout spot, a local institution, and the beating heart of surfing in Hastings.
Ask any of the regulars, and they’ll tell you the same thing: once you surf with Dread or Dead, you’re part of the crew.
If you're searching for a surf shop in Barbados that blends quality gear, expert coaching, and authentic island hospitality, Dread or Dead Surf Shop is your answer. From surfboard rentals and lessons to stylish surfwear and pro repairs, this is the surf shop Barbados is proud to call its own.
Whether you’re here for a week or a wave-chasing lifetime, make Dread or Dead your first stop.
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