Ten levels.
One ladder.
We're with you.
Surfing is one of the most rewarding things you can learn as an adult. We built a ten level system to make that journey feel clear and achievable, so you always know where you are, what you’re working on, and what it takes to move forward. We’ll be there with you at every step.
BUILT AROUND CLARITY, NOT GUESSWORK.
A lot of surf coaching can feel vague, you get in the water, have a great time, and leave wondering if you actually got better. We wanted something more honest than that.
Every BSA level has a clear set of skills to work on and simple pass criteria your coach watches for in the water. When you’re consistently doing those things, you move up. It’s never a surprise, and it’s always a celebration.
The system was built by a professional educator with eleven years of surf coaching experience and thousands of students taught, across every age, fitness level, and background. We’ve helped people catch their first wave at 70. Wherever you’re starting from, there’s a clear path forward and someone to walk it with you.
You always know where you stand
Every level has clear, specific criteria your coach watches for. Honest, encouraging guidance, never vague.
We meet you where you are
Each level comes with a mindset description, how it actually feels to be at that stage. You’ll recognize yourself, and your coach will meet you there.
Focus on skills, not pressure
The emphasis is on the skills list, things to explore each session. The pass criteria take care of themselves when the skills are there.
Every level is within reach
Level 9 isn’t just for professionals. We have members working toward it right now. The ladder is built to be climbed, at your pace, with support.
Every level, laid out.
Tap any level in the slider above to read the full skills list. Every step of the journey is mapped out — from your very first wave to the peak.
- Paddle into waist-deep water confidently
- Pop up on land with correct form
- Catch and ride whitewater to shore with help
- Name the parts of a surfboard
- Catch whitewater waves without assistance
- Pop up consistently and ride to the beach
- Steer left or right by shifting weight
- Follow basic etiquette and right-of-way
- Catch small green waves or reforms
- Paddle into waves under your own power
- Identify the left/right direction of a wave
- Fall safely away from your board in deeper water
- Paddle out through small to moderate whitewater
- Duck dive or turtle roll (board-dependent)
- Paddle into small green waves independently
- Maintain board control in crowds
- Perform angled takeoffs or cobra turns
- Catch green waves consistently in various conditions
- Stay high on the wave and trim both frontside and backside
- Read sets and paddle to the peak with intention
- Link at least 2 functional maneuvers on a wave
- Pump for speed
- Ride head-high waves confidently
- Navigate different wave types (beach, point, reef)
- Execute several intermediate maneuvers
- Surf confidently in crowded conditions
- Select the right board for the day's conditions
- Surf overhead waves
- Execute advanced maneuvers with control
- Perform tight snaps and controlled fin releases
- Surf powerful waves with confidence and flow
- Recover from wipeouts calmly and quickly
- Get barreled and exit cleanly
- Paddle into double-overhead waves
- Ride advanced crafts (twin fin, step-up, etc.)
- Handle long hold-downs and heavy wipeouts
- Adapt to any wave, any board, any condition
- Combine performance with artistry
- Teach others with empathy and mastery
- Never! Surfing is a lifelong journey with no end.
How we help you move up.
There’s no test to schedule, no pressure moment. Your coach watches you surf, notices when things are clicking, and celebrates with you when you’re ready. Here’s what that looks like.
Your coach is always in your corner
Every session, your coach is in the water alongside you, noticing the things from your current level’s skills list. You don’t need to perform — just surf, and we’ll see the progress happening.
Clear criteria, honest feedback
Each level has a simple pass criteria list. When your coach has seen you doing those things consistently over a few sessions, they’ll let you know you’re ready. No surprises — just clarity and encouragement.
A milestone worth celebrating
Level promotions are logged in your BSA record and celebrated. Membership members get a written report card. Everyone gets a personal debrief from their coach — and leaves knowing exactly what’s next.
Everyone begins
at Level 0.
No experience needed. No special fitness. No expectations beyond showing up. Every BSA coach started at Level 0 too — we know exactly how it feels, and we’re genuinely excited to help you get going.