What It’s Really Like to Join a Surf School in Barbados (Spoiler: It’s Amazing)


I didn’t think I’d be the kind of person to surf. But something about the crystal-clear waves in Barbados and the relaxed, “you’ve got this” attitude of everyone I met convinced me to sign up for lessons at a Barbados surf school. Specifically, Dread or Dead Surf School, which came highly recommended.

Here’s what that experience actually looked like – sunburns, sea turtles, wipeouts, and all.

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🌤️ Day 1: Nerves, Nose Dives, and New Friends


The morning started with butterflies. I met my instructor, who immediately made me feel better by saying, “The goal is to fall and laugh; anything more is a bonus.” That broke the ice.

We practised standing up on the sand for a bit, then hit the water. I fell off the board about 10 times, but the waves were gentle, and the instructor was always close by, cheering me on. By the end of the lesson, I had actually stood up (for, like, three seconds—but still)!

I walked back to shore grinning like a maniac.

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🐢 Day 2: Turtles and Tiny Victories


The second day, I knew what to expect, so I was way more relaxed. We paddled out, and I actually rode a wave for more than a few seconds. I also spotted a sea turtle gliding under my board, which made my entire week. I keep on smiling while thinking about that turtle. Sometimes I think that turtle is my spirit animal.

There’s something about being out in the warm ocean, surrounded by nature, that makes everything else melt away. It’s peaceful. Joyful. And wildly addictive.

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🏄‍♂️ Day 3: Surfing Becomes a State of Mind


By day three, I felt like I belonged. I wasn’t just someone trying to surf; I was a surfer, even if I still fell off more than I stood up. I knew how to position myself on the board. I knew how to read the waves a little. And I finally understood what people meant when they said surfing was “meditative". I felt zen; there was only me and the water. It felt like

I have not experienced something quite like that... a rush of catching a wave, even a tiny one, and gliding toward the shore with the wind in your hair.

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💬 What Surprised Me Most


• How kind and encouraging the instructors were

• How fun it was to fall in the water and get back up

• How many people were just like me? nervous beginners

• How much I laughed, even when I messed up

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🎉 Final Takeaway


Joining a Barbados surf school isn’t just about learning a skill; it’s about stepping outside your comfort zone and discovering how much joy there is in trying something new.

And if you’re thinking of learning to surf?

Enrol at Dread or Dead. They made every step feel natural, supportive, and just plain fun.



Location: Hastings Main Rd, Bridgetown, Christ Church Barbados

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