Surfing & Surf lessons FAQ's

Can you surf on the Great Lakes?
Yes. All the Great Lakes can produce rideable waves throughout the year. At times we can even get perfect surf. But don’t take our word for it - book a lesson and see for yourself!

Where are the surfing lessons on the Great Lakes?
Lake Ontario -  Oshawa to Burlington  
Lake Erie -  Port Stanley & Port Colborne area
Lake Huron - Grand Bend & Bayfield area

What is the surf season for lessons?  
Lake Ontario – July to October
Lake Erie – June to October
Lake Huron – June to September

Who are the surf lessons for?  
Is there an age restriction? If you’re comfortable in the water, then surfing lessons are for you! There is no age restriction or limit. How many people in each lesson? For safety and to ensure the most individual attention, surfing classes are limited to 1, 2 or 3 people.How long are the lessons? Surf lessons typically take an hour.  

How much are the lessons?
$99 +HST 

What will I learn during my surfing lesson?
• Safety precautions and lake currents • Surf etiquette • How to wax your board• How to paddle • How to pop up • How to stand and plane on a surf board – SURFING!

What do I need to bring?  
I don’t have a surfboard or wetsuit.All equipment is provided by Surf Ontario. Your surfboard, wax, wetsuit (if needed), and leash is provided by Surf Ontario. Please bring your waiver, a couple towels, warm clothes and your bathing suit.  

What can I expect during the lesson?
• Surf Stoke!
• An exhilarating feeling and adrenaline rush; only a surfer knows the feeling!
• A great workout
• Fun in the sun

What is the process for booking and taking a lesson?
Please follow this link to the surf lessons bookings page where the booking information and process is provided.


I’d like to purchase my own board and wetsuit. What should I get?
The board you purchase depends on your ability, goals, height and weight. If you are learning, a longboard is your best bet for catching the most waves and really learning how to ride.  You can progress to shorter more maneuverable boards from there. The wetsuit you decide on depends on when you will be surfing. If you are going to surf all winter, you will need a 6/5/4 with 5mm mitts and 7mm boots. If you are just going to surf in the summer, you will need a 3/2 for Lake Erie and a 4/3 for Lake Ontario.  

Where can I get boards and gear?
At Surf Ontario surf shop - www.surfontario.ca. Follow this link to the online store or email for more product information - info@surfontario.com 

What is the best time of year to catch waves on the Great Lakes?
The fall and winter provide the best surfing conditions on the lakes.  

What are the water conditions like? In Spring? Summer? Fall? Winter?
The water is very cold in the Spring, however the air temperatures provide a more pleasant surfing experience.  In the Summer, there are a few weeks or more where you can surf in just board shorts or your bathing suit!  In the Fall, the water remains warm, however the air temperatures drop. The surf in the Winter can get very good, however it is as cold as it gets, so you must have all the right equipment and know your abilities.  

Still have more questions?
No problem. Send us an email or give us a shout and we will be more than happy to answer any of your questions.

Contact Mike today



© SurfON the lakes | email: info@surfontario.ca