SurfLife Surf School offers private and small-group surf lessons at Short Sands Beach on the Northern Oregon Coast. We specialize in cold-water surfing year-round, with instruction rooted in real local knowledge, safety, and patience. This is the place we surf, the place we know, and the environment that shapes SurfLife.

Private Surf Lesson — $195
2.5 hours of one-on-one coaching
One-on-one instruction designed around you, the conditions, and your goals. No distractions. Just focused coaching in cold water with a local guide.
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• 1:1 instructor-to-student coaching
• All gear included (board + wetsuit)
• Best for first-timers, cautious learners, or focused progression
• Calm, patient instruction in real ocean conditions
2–3 surfers • Small group focus
2 surfers — $185 per person ($370 total)
3 surfers — $175 per person ($525 total)
A shared session with personal attention. Ideal for friends, couples, or family members who want focused coaching without going fully solo.
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• Personalized feedback for each surfer
• Great for couples, friends, or small family groups
• More interaction and motivation than large group lessons
• Tailored instruction without full private pricing
• All gear included (board + wetsuit)
• ~2.5 hours total (water + beach coaching)
Group Surf Lesson — $165 per person
4–10 surfers • 2.5 hours
A shared surf experience designed for groups who want to learn together while staying safe, supported, and organized in real ocean conditions.
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• Multiple instructors for proper group supervision
• Structured coaching tailored to group size and conditions
• Great for families, friends, reunions, or group adventures
• Emphasis on safety, confidence, and shared progression
• All gear included (boards + wetsuits)
• ~2.5 hours total (water + beach coaching)
Team-Building Surf Event — $1,000–$2,500 per event
4–10 participants • ~3 hours
A guided surf experience designed to bring teams together through shared challenge, communication, and time in the ocean. Structured, supportive, and adaptable to your group’s goals.
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• Surf instruction combined with ocean-based team challenges
• Emphasis on communication, trust, and shared problem-solving
• Facilitated reflection to connect the water experience back to work
• Multiple instructors for safety and group support
• Custom options available (paddleboarding, catering, branded apparel)
• Hosted by SurfLife-certified instructors
• Locations: Short Sands Beach & North Fork Nehalem
$165 (1 person) • $300 (2 people) • $450 (3 people)
~2.5 hours
A guided paddleboarding experience on the calm waters of the Nehalem River. Designed for beginners and anyone looking for a relaxed, scenic way to explore the North Coast with steady instruction and local knowledge.
Lesson Details Read More...
• Beginner-friendly instruction at an easy, comfortable pace
• Calm river conditions ideal for balance and confidence
• Scenic river paddling in a relaxed, natural setting
• Great for individuals, couples, or small groups
• All gear included (board + paddle + PFD)
• ~2.5 hours total (on-water instruction)
Make It a Two-Day Experience
Build confidence, refine technique, and settle into the rhythm with a discounted two-day package.
Local Love & Repeat Rider Rewards
Return Surfer Loyalty
Returning students receive preferred booking and a thank-you rate of 10–15%, based on lesson type and availability.
Discounts apply automatically at booking.

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SurfLife Surf School offers beginner-focused surf lessons rooted in the realities of the Northern Oregon Coast. Based minutes from Short Sands Beach, we teach in cold water, shifting conditions, and a rugged coastal environment shaped by cliffs, tides, and wind.
Our lessons are designed for individuals, families, and small groups, with options for private and semi-private instruction. We focus on safety, fundamentals, and building confidence in the ocean, meeting students where they are and progressing at a steady, supportive pace.
Whether it’s your first time in the water or your first time surfing this coast, SurfLife provides a grounded, local approach to learning how to surf at Short Sands Beach.
