OCEAN GROVE WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Small Feet, Big Waves: A Four-Week Surf Groms Program at Ocean Grove
A progressive 4 x weekly, 1.5-hour program for 5–12 year olds that pairs surfing skills with ocean awareness — this guide explains logistics, what kids need, and what to expect.
Small Feet, Big Waves: A Four-Week Surf Groms Program at Ocean Grove.
Adventure brief
Small Feet, Big Waves: A Four-Week Surf Groms Program at Ocean Grove
SurfGroms at Ocean Grove runs as a four‑week, term‑style program that blends playful group games with structured coaching in surfing technique, beach safety and first aid. The sessions are designed to build confidence in the water while teaching children the fundamentals of ocean awareness in a supportive, lifeguarded environment.
Located along the ruggedly beautiful southern coast of Victoria, Australia, Ocean Grove is well-known for its clean beaches and reliable surf breaks that attract wave riders of all ages. The SurfGroms Weekly Program harnesses this remarkable setting to introduce children aged 5 to 12 to the thrill and discipline of surfing. This four-week course is more than just a series of surf lessons; it's a carefully structured immersion in ocean awareness, surf technique, and beach safety delivered in a playful, group-oriented atmosphere.
Ocean Grove’s beach is favored for its gentle, rolling waves ideal for novice surfers, making it a perfect classroom for young learners. The program combines expert instruction with games designed to develop balance, paddling confidence, and wave reading skills. Each week’s session builds progressively, allowing kids to steadily improve their abilities while cultivating self-reliance and respect for the ocean environment.
SurfGroms stands out because it weaves essential safety education into the curriculum, from understanding rips and tides to first aid basics tailored to beach scenarios. The instructors emphasize awareness and care, encouraging children to not only surf but also appreciate how to navigator safely around water. This emphasis transforms SurfGroms into a community-minded adventure that aligns with Ocean Grove’s reputation as a welcoming seaside town where the ocean is both playground and classroom.
Beyond the waves, Ocean Grove offers a vibrant local scene with its charming cafes and coastal trails that families can explore after lessons. Known historically as a fishing village and evolving into a family-friendly coastal town, it balances natural beauty with accessible amenities. This program is an ideal activity for visiting families wanting active outdoor fun and hands-on ocean education in one memorable experience.
Parents can rest assured that groups are kept small, ensuring personalized coaching and strong supervision at all times. The program runs during the prime surf season when conditions are gentle and consistent—ideal for learning without overwhelming young adventurers.
If you’re traveling to Victoria and want your kids to develop surf skills, ocean literacy, and newfound confidence, SurfGroms Weekly Program in Ocean Grove provides an authentic introduction to the sport in a stunning, safe environment. From initial paddle-outs to catching their first wave, children come away with stories, skills, and enthusiasm to keep riding.
Route Schematic
Session Flow — Arrival to Finish
A typical session follows a straightforward flow: arrive early for fitting, participate in the coached water session using provided equipment, then change and debrief using on‑site facilities.
Early Arrival & Gear Fitting
Arrive about 15 minutes before the lesson so instructors can fit the child with the correctly sized wetsuit and surfboard.
Lesson Time — Beach to Waist‑Depth Water
After gearing up, the lesson proceeds with group activities and coached practice in safe, waist‑deep water where instructors can always stand.
Post‑Lesson Change & Facilities
Public change rooms and bathroom facilities are available for use after the lesson to rinse off and change.
If a child has special needs or concerns, contact the operator in advance; lesson structure and location may be adapted for safety and accessibility. Instructors remain in waist‑deep water and use soft boards to minimise risk.
What the day feels like
What a Week in SurfGroms Feels Like
Each 1.5‑hour session mixes games and progressive coaching to keep children engaged while they learn board control, wave selection and basic first aid and beach safety. The group format encourages peer learning and confidence — small, structured steps across the four weeks aim to leave groms more comfortable in the ocean and excited to surf again.
THE TEAM
Qualified Lifeguard Instructors
Lessons are delivered by highly trained, fully qualified lifeguards whose priority is safe progression in the water. The team’s qualifications underpin a structured, secure environment for young learners.
THE KIT
All Learn‑to‑Surf Equipment Supplied
Go Ride A Wave provides soft beginner boards, leg‑ropes and full‑length wetsuits so families don’t need to bring bulky gear — instructors match children to the right equipment during the pre‑lesson fitting.
THE FOCUS
Ocean Awareness and Beach Safety
Beyond surfing technique, the program places strong emphasis on ocean awareness and surf safety so participants leave with practical knowledge that lasts beyond the lessons.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this program is for — and when to seek alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Each SurfGroms session runs for 1.5 hours.
Children need their own swimsuit, towel and a bag for belongings. Apply sunscreen before the lesson and leave valuables at home or secure them in a bag.
Meet at the Go Ride A Wave trailer — located 200 metres past the Surf Life Saving Club, near the toilet block.
The operator provides all learn‑to‑surf equipment including soft beginner boards, leg‑ropes and full‑length wetsuits; arrive 15 minutes early for fitting, and use public change rooms before and after the lesson.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Which lesson is right for my child?
Go Ride A Wave offers multiple options: the Surf Experience (a 2‑hour beginner option), a progressive Surf Course, private lessons for individual attention, Kids Only Surf Lessons (90 minutes during school holidays) and SurfGroms — Surfing Australia’s 4 x 1.5‑hour national program for children focused on fun, ocean awareness and surfing development.
Is learning to surf safe and how deep do you go?
Yes — lessons are overseen by highly trained, fully qualified lifeguards using safe, soft boards. Instruction takes place in waist‑deep water where instructors can always stand; a minimum swimming ability is not required.
What ages do you cater to?
Lessons are offered for ages 5 and up. For SurfGroms specifically, the program caters to children between approximately 5–12 years old, with guidance that children should be comfortable putting their head under a wave and enjoy being in the ocean.
What days or weather are best to learn?
Most days are suitable. If surf is small operators use larger boards; if surf is large they remain closer to shore or move to a more sheltered spot. Avoid strong‑wind days and extremely busy beach days; overcast days can offer a quieter experience.
How do I book for a group (over 10 people)?
Group bookings are handled on request. Visit the operator’s group page or email [email protected] with group details, date/time, activity and location to request discounted group pricing and availability, or call 1300 132 441.
Do I need to pre‑book surfboard hire?
No — surf hire typically does not require bookings as there are plenty of boards in stock, though you can call to check availability. Note seasonal trading hours vary by location; beachfront hire in Ocean Grove is available during the summer school holidays.
Does Go Ride A Wave have insurance?
Yes — the operator holds $20 million Public Liability insurance and $5 million Professional Indemnity. For personal accidental cover, take out individual travel insurance if desired.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-12T12:12:41.188Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.