PICK-UP for online orders only, MON to FRI - 11 to 4 (click for detail)
Mike Sandusky, the founder of the Surf ON School, began teaching surfing lessons on the Great Lakes in 2002. Since then, many have learned the art of “popping up”, “riding the nose” and “pulling airs”. Mike has earned the title of best surf coach in Ontario.
Mike’s experience as well as his precise, methodical approach, ensures each student will ride the waves safely and with style. So sign up for the surf’s up notification email in order to learn to surf the right way and get stoked.
Can you surf on the Great Lakes?
Yes. All the Great Lakes can produce rideable waves throughout the year. At times we can even get perfect surf. But don’t take our word for it - book a lesson and see for yourself!
Where are the surfing lessons on the Great Lakes?
Lake Ontario - Oshawa to Burlington
Lake Erie - Port Stanley & Port Colborne area
Lake Huron - Grand Bend & Bayfield area
What is the surf season for lessons?
Lake Ontario – July to October
Lake Erie – June to October
Lake Huron – June to September
Who are the surf lessons for?
Is there an age restriction? If you’re comfortable in the water, then surfing lessons are for you! There is no age restriction or limit.
How many people in each lesson?
For safety and to ensure the most individual attention, surfing classes are limited to 1, 2 or 3 people.
How long are the lessons?
Surf lessons typically take an hour with 30 minutes free time.
How much are the lessons?
$99 +HST
What will I learn during my surfing lesson?
• Safety precautions and lake currents • Surf etiquette • How to wax your board• How to paddle • How to pop up • How to stand and plane on a surf board – SURFING!
What do I need to bring?
I don’t have a surfboard or wetsuit. All equipment is provided. Your surfboard, wax, wetsuit (if needed), and leash is provided. Please bring your waiver, a couple towels, warm clothes and your bathing suit.
What can I expect during the lesson?
• Surf Stoke!
• An exhilarating feeling and adrenaline rush; only a surfer knows the feeling!
• A great workout
• Fun in the sun
What is the process for booking and taking a lesson?
Please follow this link to the surf lessons bookings page where the booking information and process is provided.
I’d like to purchase my own board and wetsuit. What should I get?
The board you purchase depends on your ability, goals, height and weight. If you are learning, a longboard is your best bet for catching the most waves and really learning how to ride. You can progress to shorter more maneuverable boards from there. The wetsuit you decide on depends on when you will be surfing. If you are going to surf all winter, you will need a 6/5/4 with 5mm mitts and 7mm boots. If you are just going to surf in the summer, you will need a 3/2 for Lake Erie and a 4/3 for Lake Ontario.
Where can I get boards and gear?
At Surf Ontario surf shop - www.surfontario.ca. Follow this link to the online store or email for more product information - info@surfontario.com
What is the best time of year to catch waves on the Great Lakes?
The fall and winter provide the best surfing conditions on the lakes.
What are the water conditions like? In Spring? Summer? Fall? Winter?
The water is very cold in the Spring, however the air temperatures provide a more pleasant surfing experience. In the Summer, there are a few weeks or more where you can surf in just board shorts or your bathing suit! In the Fall, the water remains warm, however the air temperatures drop. The surf in the Winter can get very good, however it is as cold as it gets, so you must have all the right equipment and know your abilities.
Still have more questions?
No problem. Send us an email or give us a shout and we will be more than happy to answer any of your questions.
Over the years we have refined the SUP lesson to be the best experience one can get. We’ll show you everything you need to know to be a confident paddler on the flats or in the surf.
Mike pioneered SUP lessons in Ontario and he's been able to pass his knowledge onto students and staff alike. He's able to pick up on technique inefficiencies and offer the correct cues and timing to improve your stroke and ability.
Learn to ‘Walk on Water’ with the fastest growing water sport in the world! Stand Up Paddling is so popular because everyone can do it and it offers such a unique perspective on the water. It is a great workout that challenges your balance, core and all your muscles from your feet to your fingertips!
When can we schedule a Paddleboard lesson?
On weekdays and weekends, anytime from May through October.
Who are SUP lessons for?
If you are comfortable in the water, this is for you.
Bring your friends to share in the fun!How long are the lessons?
SUP lessons are one hour and fifteen minutes. The majority of the time is spent on the water.
What can I expect to learn in a Novice/Beginner lesson? (Ideal in flat water)
• Safety precautions and lake currents
• Surf etiquette
• Dry land – warming up for your SUP session
• How to paddle prone, kneeling, and standing
• Paddling technique for an efficient stroke
• Turning and bracing strokes
• Board and wetsuit recommendations
What can I expect to learn in an Advanced lesson or tour? (In surf & rivers)
• Surf etiquette and lake currents
• Your surfing stance, how to ride, trim & use your paddle to help turns on the wave face
• How to paddle out through the white wash in the surf
• Pivot turns
• Catching waves – wave selection and how to paddle into them
• River tours down and upstream
• Board and wetsuit recommendations
Do I need to bring any equipment?
All equipment is provided by Surf Ontario. Your SUP Surfboard, wax, wetsuit (if needed), and leash is provided by Surf Ontario
What are the benefits of SUPing?
• Surf Stoke!
• An exhilarating feeling and adrenaline rush; only a surfer knows the feeling!
• A great workout
• An unforgettable experience
• Fun in the sun
Can I purchase boards, wetsuits and accessories from Surf Ontario?
Yes – click this link to the online store.
Do you have a group of kids or teens looking to try an exciting water sport for the summer? Surf ON offers just what you need - Stand Up Paddleboarding! Do you have a group of kids or teens looking to try an exciting water sport for the summer? Surf Ontario offers just what you need - Stand Up Paddleboarding!
Stand Up Paddle Boarding to companies and groups looking for a fun and unique way of team building.
No matter what you're looking to do in surf or SUP in Ontario we have you covered.