KALARU WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Tathra’s Little Wave-Makers: A Three-Day Intensive for 5–12-Year-Olds
A focused, three-day SurfGroms program at Tathra Beach that combines surf and SUP instruction with ocean-awareness and beach-safety skills for children.
Tathra’s Little Wave-Makers: A Three-Day Intensive for 5–12-Year-Olds.
Adventure brief
Tathra’s Little Wave-Makers: A Three-Day Intensive for 5–12-Year-Olds
NRMA Insurance SurfGroms at Tathra Beach offers a structured, play-based surf and stand-up paddleboarding program for children, pairing progressive skill development with group games to build confidence in the ocean while teaching surf survival, rescue techniques and basic first aid.
Situated along the pristine coastline of Tathra Beach in New South Wales, Australia, the NRMA Insurance Surfgroms Intensive Surf Program offers young adventurers aged 5 to 12 an immersive introduction to surfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). This three-day program is designed not just to teach basic water skills but to build deep ocean awareness, beach safety understanding, and practical rescue techniques—all within a highly supportive, fun group setting. Tathra Beach, known for its consistent gentle waves and scenic ocean views, provides an ideal learning environment for children new to aquatic sports. As waves lap the sand and the sun warms the shore, kids gain confidence paddling out, catching their first waves, and mastering balance on the board.
What sets Surfgroms apart is its blend of skill development with playful group activities that keep young learners engaged and motivated. Experienced instructors foster a safe, encouraging space where children learn through games, teamwork, and hands-on guidance. The program emphasizes not only physical skills but vital ocean safety lessons—understanding rip currents, surf zone etiquette, and emergency response—that empower children to respect and navigate the marine environment responsibly.
Tathra Beach itself holds a cherished spot along Australia’s South Coast, prized for its clean sands and family-friendly atmosphere. Beyond surfing, the beach’s wide expanse and nearby rock pools offer exploration opportunities rich with marine life and unique coastal flora. This makes Surfgroms a uniquely comprehensive outdoor experience, where kids connect with nature while learning sports that promote fitness, coordination, and resilience.
Parents will appreciate that the program balances expert instruction with a holistic approach, fostering social skills and a lifelong appreciation for the ocean. Whether your child’s goal is to catch a wave or just gain comfort in the water, this surf and SUP camp on Tathra Beach offers a perfect introduction to coastal adventure. The proximity to the town of Kalaru means easy access to accommodations, dining, and local attractions, making it a seamless family getaway.
Booking this program not only supports a respected local surf school but helps introduce the next generation to sustainable ocean recreation and community spirit. For families seeking an engaging, educational, and exhilarating seaside activity, NRMA Insurance Surfgroms at Tathra Beach stands out as an exceptional choice on Australia’s beautiful shore.
Route Schematic
Program Schematic — Three-Day Flow
A compact progression of lessons and activities over the program’s duration, focused on skills, safety and play.
Day 1 — Introduction & Ocean Awareness
Group-based games and introductory sessions introduce core ocean-awareness and beach-safety concepts while settling children into the program’s supportive learning environment.
Day 2 — Skill Progression (Surf & SUP)
Instruction advances through the SurfGroms incremental skill levels with practice in surfing and/or stand-up paddleboarding, emphasizing technique and group drills.
Day 3 — Rescue Techniques & Consolidation
Lessons consolidate learning with beach-safety scenarios, surf survival and rescue technique practice alongside continued surf/SUP coaching.
This program is specifically designed for children and may be adapted by the operator; guardians should ensure participants meet the program’s age requirements and follow operator guidance for safety.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Lessons Built Around Games
SurfGroms uses group-based games to encourage participation and make skill learning enjoyable for children, creating a positive and supportive learning environment throughout the program.
Ocean Awareness and Rescue Skills
Each lesson includes fundamental ocean-awareness and beach-safety instruction, including surf survival and rescue techniques, so kids gain practical skills beyond riding waves.
Progressive Surf & SUP Curriculum
The program teaches core ocean skills across five incremental levels and covers both surfing and stand-up paddleboarding, letting children progress through a structured curriculum over the multi-day course.
What the day feels like
How the Three Days Feel
Across a short, focused program children move through incremental skill levels in a group setting that balances instruction and games; lessons blend surfing and SUP technique with ocean-awareness and beach-safety training so participants build practical competence and confidence in the water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from SurfGroms and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The offering is an intensive multi-day program (3 Day Program). Pricing is listed as From $240 for the program; alternative rate detail is $170.00 per child plus a $25 Surfing Australia administration fee.
Sessions take place at Tathra Beach in Kalaru, New South Wales, operated by Coastlife Adventures - SurfGroms.
Refer to the operator’s booking confirmation or pre-lesson briefing for specific gear and clothing guidance.
The program is for children aged 5–12 and includes ocean-awareness, beach-safety, surf survival and rescue technique instruction as part of its curriculum.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages is SurfGroms intended for?
The program teaches children from 5 to 12 years old.
How long is the intensive program?
This is a three-day intensive program.
What does the price include and how much does it cost?
Rates are shown as From $240 for the program; another listed rate is $170.00 per child plus a $25 Surfing Australia administration fee.
Where are the lessons held and who runs them?
Lessons are held at Tathra Beach in Kalaru and are operated by Coastlife Adventures - SurfGroms under the NRMA Insurance SurfGroms program.
What skills will my child learn?
Children progress through five incremental skill levels covering surf and/or SUP, and receive training in ocean awareness, beach safety, surf survival and rescue techniques, plus basic first aid skills.
How are lessons delivered?
Lessons use group-based games and structured activities to teach skills in a positive, supportive environment.
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: 2026-09-05T19:26:44.243Z
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.