Adventure brief
NRMA Insurance SurfGrom - Intensive Program
Kombi Surf’s NRMA Insurance SurfGrom program blends play and practical skills for kids 5-12 at Encounter Bay. Learn how this unique surf school builds confidence and ocean awareness in a supportive setting.
Encounter Bay, located on South Australia's picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula, offers an ideal coastal backdrop for young adventurers seeking to embrace the ocean. Kombi Surf - SurfGroms delivers a standout surf education program for children ages 5 to 12, designed to build confidence and skills in the waves under expert guidance from instructors Dan and Meg. The NRMA Insurance SurfGrom - Intensive Program combines hands-on surf training with interactive games that make learning ocean safety and beach awareness engaging for kids.
This program is more than just catching waves—it’s a carefully structured course that develops a child's ability to read surf conditions, understand surf survival techniques, basic first aid, and beach safety essentials. The methodical approach spans five skill levels, ensuring kids progress at their own pace within a supportive group setting. The program’s emphasis on fun helps develop lifelong connections between children and the ocean while encouraging teamwork and resilience.
Encounter Bay’s diverse coastal environment provides gentle, beginner-friendly breaks with sandy bottoms and consistent surf, making it an ideal location for surf schools. The wide beach frontage and natural dune vegetation frame a vibrant marine ecosystem where local seabirds and occasional dolphins add to the immersive experience. What sets Kombi Surf apart is how it cultivates ocean respect and safety from an early age, teaching kids to become confident water users.
Dan and Meg’s hands-on, playful teaching style ensures every session feels like an adventure tailored specifically for young learners. For families in South Australia, especially those based around Adelaide, Kombi Surf - SurfGroms presents a rare opportunity to introduce children to surfing with seasoned pros in a program that balances safety, skill development, and pure enjoyment of the sea.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early to Assess Surf Conditionsessential
Waves and currents can change rapidly; arriving early helps instructors customize lessons to current conditions.
- 02Bring Sunscreen and Rash Guardsessential
Protect young skin from sun exposure during extended sessions on the beach and in the water.
- 03Hydrate Frequentlyinfo
Kids are active and exposed to sun; ensuring regular hydration is key for energy and safety.
- 04Check for Suitable Swimwear and Footwearwarning
Comfortable, quick-drying swimwear and water shoes help children stay comfortable and safe on rocky shorelines.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Rash Guard
Provides sun protection and minimizes irritation from the surfboard and saltwater.
summerEssentialWetsuit (2-3mm)
Keeps young surfers warm during cooler months and extends playtime comfortably.
fall|winter|springEssentialWater Shoes
Protect feet from rocky or uneven beach surfaces when entering and exiting the water.
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated during active sessions is crucial for energy and safety.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Back beach tide pools near Encounter Bay ideal for spotting small marine life, Adjacent coastal walking trails rich in native plants and birdwatching opportunities
Local fauna
Australian pelicans frequent the shorelines, Dolphins occasionally seen riding local breaks
Historic heritage
Encounter Bay is historically significant as one of the landing sites of early European explorers and holds cultural importance to the Ngarrindjeri people.
Mindful exploration
Kombi Surf supports local environmental programs focused on beach dune restoration and clean ocean initiatives.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- From 31 Minke Whale Drive lookout, Near the northern end of the beach, Along the estuary edges nearby
- Subjects
- Kids learning to surf, Rolling ocean waves, Coastal flora and seabirds
- Best times
- Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What ages are suitable for the NRMA Insurance SurfGrom program?
The program is designed specifically for children aged 5 to 12 years.
Do children need to be strong swimmers before joining?
Basic swimming ability is helpful but not mandatory; instructors prioritize safety and support.
What safety measures are in place during lessons?
The program includes ocean safety training, constant supervision, and lessons in surf awareness and first aid basics.
Is equipment provided or do kids need their own boards and wetsuits?
Kombi Surf supplies beginner surfboards and wetsuits, but personal gear can be used if preferred.
How are lessons structured across the 3-5 day programs?
Each day builds upon skills with a mix of fun games and practical surf techniques tailored to the group's level.
Can parents watch or participate in the sessions?
Parents are welcome to observe from the beach; participation is reserved for registered children.