First Waves: A Safe, Shorebreak Surf Camp for 8–12-Year-Olds in Nags Head

NAGS HEAD SURF FIELD GUIDE

First Waves: A Safe, Shorebreak Surf Camp for 8–12-Year-Olds in Nags Head

A three-day morning camp that teaches beginners to surf in a shaded beach tent with boards, snacks and gradual daily skill building.

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First Waves: A Safe, Shorebreak Surf Camp for 8–12-Year-Olds in Nags Head.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Nags Head
Operator
Kitty Hawk Kites
Category
Surf
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

On the wide, wind-scoured beaches of Nags Head, Kids Camp Nags Head puts 8-to-12-year-olds into the water with a measured, beginner-first approach: morning sessions in a shady beach tent, boards and leashes supplied, and instructors guiding a steady progression from first push-offs to catching small waves.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE LESSON

Beginner-first progression across three mornings

Each camp begins with a dedicated beginner’s lesson before moving into incremental skill development across the following mornings, letting children build confidence and technique at the shoreline.

THE COMFORT

Shaded beach hub with snacks and hydration

Camp runs from a shaded tent on the beach; healthy snacks and water are provided each day, with lunch brought on the final day so kids refuel after the last session.

THE EQUIPMENT

Boards, leashes and parent-friendly logistics

Surfboards and leashes are supplied for every child, and parents may either drop kids off or stay on the beach to watch the sessions.

What the day feels like

What the three mornings feel like

Mornings are short and focused—three hours of guided instruction each day—so kids cycle between brief on-sand coaching under the shade and gentle in-water practice, with instructors escalating challenges as students gain balance and confidence.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this camp suits—and who should look elsewhere.

1
Active families with young kidsWell-suited for families with children aged 8–12 who want supervised, bite-sized morning surf instruction and the option to stay on the beach or drop off.
2
First-time young surfersDesigned for beginners: the program starts with foundational lessons and increases difficulty gradually over the three days.
3
Parents who need drop-off careSuitable for guardians who prefer a drop-off option, as staff supervise sessions and provide snacks and water throughout the camp.
4
Kids who need equipment providedGood fit for children who don’t bring their own gear—surfboards and leashes are supplied by the operator.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Season

Camp runs on three listed three-day blocks in the summer, each morning from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Dates & Price

Sessions are scheduled June 22–24, July 21–23 and August 10–12; price is $350 per kid.

What to Bring / Provided

Surfboard and leash are provided; healthy snacks and water are supplied each day and lunch is provided on the last day.

Where to Meet

Camp is based on the beach at Nags Head in a shaded tent—parents may drop off or stay to observe the sessions.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

What ages does the camp accept?

Camp is for children aged 8–12 years old.

When are sessions scheduled each day?

Each camp session runs from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the scheduled three-day blocks.

Are boards and safety equipment provided?

Yes—surfboards and leashes are provided for campers.

Will my child be fed during camp?

Healthy snacks and water are provided daily; lunch is brought for campers on the final day.

Can parents stay on the beach or do they need to drop kids off?

Parents may either drop children off or stay on the beach to watch the camp sessions.

How much does the camp cost?

The camp rate is $350 per child.