Surf Skills for Kids with Kombi Surf - Encounter Bay

Surf · Encounter Bay

NRMA Insurance SurfGrom - Weekly Program

Kombi Surf - SurfGroms offers children aged 5-12 an immersive surf and paddleboarding program at South Australia’s Encounter Bay, blending skill-building with ocean safety through fun group activities.

View experience
Duration1–2 hours per session
LocationEncounter Bay, South Australia
OperatorKombi Surf - SurfGroms
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

NRMA Insurance SurfGrom - Weekly Program

Kombi Surf - SurfGroms offers children aged 5-12 an immersive surf and paddleboarding program at South Australia’s Encounter Bay, blending skill-building with ocean safety through fun group activities.

Encounter Bay, located on South Australia’s southern coastline, is a dynamic playground where ocean meets sandstone cliffs and rolling surf breaks. At this vibrant shore, Kombi Surf - SurfGroms offers the NRMA Insurance SurfGrom weekly program, a uniquely engaging surf and stand-up paddleboarding initiative tailored for children aged 5 to 12. The program transforms the beach into a lively classroom where fun group games and hands-on skill drills build confident, ocean-savvy young adventurers.

Unlike typical surf schools, SurfGroms emphasizes ocean awareness and beach safety alongside athletic skill development. Kids progress through five skill levels, learning everything from wave reading and paddle techniques to essential surf survival and basic first aid. This dual focus prepares participants not just to ride waves, but to understand and respect the ocean environment they engage with daily.

Encounter Bay itself offers an ideal setting for this kind of program. The beach’s relatively consistent, beginner-friendly waves and wide sandy shores create a safe space for novices to gain experience. The nearby granite headlands and native coastal vegetation enrich the outdoor experience, grounding lessons in a setting as educational as it is inspiring.

The program’s weekly structure encourages steady progression, making it a standout choice for families looking to invest in their child’s outdoor skills over time. Kombi Surf - SurfGroms integrates community and encouragement at its core, fostering positive attitudes about nature and active living alongside skill mastery. For families visiting South Australia, this program offers a hands-on way for young ones to build confidence in the water and develop lifelong respect for the ocean.

Kombi Surf’s dedicated instructors create an approachable, supportive space that turns the local surf culture into a real adventure for rising grommets.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Arrive Early for Low Tide Sessions

    Morning low tides at Encounter Bay reveal wider sandy areas perfect for beginner surfers to practice safely.

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  2. 02
    Use Sunscreen and Protective Clothing

    Kids spend hours in and out of the water, so waterproof sunscreen and rash guards help prevent sunburn.

    essential
  3. 03
    Stay Hydrated

    Bring plenty of water for children to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.

    essential
  4. 04
    Check Weather and Surf Conditions

    Program sessions adapt to surf conditions, so parents should monitor local weather reports for any potential changes.

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DifficultyEasy
Duration1–2 hours per session
FitnessSuitable for children with moderate physical activity tolerance; no advanced stamina required
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Children’s Wetsuit

Keeps young surfers warm in cooler water and protects from abrasions.

fall|winter|springEssential
02

Reef Booties

Provides extra foot protection on rocky shore entries, especially helpful at Encounter Bay.

all
03

Waterproof Sunscreen

Protects skin from prolonged sun exposure during sessions.

summer|spring|fallEssential
04

Rash Guard

Lightweight sun protection and chafe prevention for warmer months.

summer

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Victor Harbor Whale Jetty: Close-up views of migrating whales in season, Granite Island causeway walk: Scenic route with unique coastal wildlife

Wildlife

Local fauna

Australian sea lions, Little penguins

History

Historic heritage

Encounter Bay is historically significant as the site of the first recorded European landing on South Australia’s coast in 1832.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Kombi Surf promotes eco-friendly practices by minimizing plastic use and educating participants on protecting the marine environment.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Cliffs overlooking main beach break, Shoreline near Minke Whale Drive ramps, Granite outcrops along the bay
Subjects
Surfing action shots, Ocean waves and breakers, Coastal wildlife lounging on rocks
Best times
Golden hour, Early morning, Late afternoon

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

What age range does the SurfGrom program cater to?

The program is designed for children aged 5 to 12 years.

Do children need prior surfing experience to join?

No prior experience is required; lessons start at beginner levels and progress gradually.

What safety measures are included in the program?

SurfGroms incorporates ocean awareness, surf survival basics, rescue techniques, and supervised sessions to ensure safety.

Are wetsuits provided or should we bring our own?

Participants are encouraged to bring their own wetsuits, though Kombi Surf can advise on rentals if needed.

How long is each weekly session?

Each session typically lasts between 1 and 2 hours.

Can parents watch the sessions?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe from designated safe viewing areas on the beach.

Kombi Surf - SurfGroms

Surf Skills for Kids with Kombi Surf - Encounter Bay