Learn with a local
in Tofino
with Nancy — one student (or two) at a time
Gentle lessons, from your very first wave
Nancy teaches all skill levels and ages, and is especially good with shy or nervous first-timers. A teacher, coach and school counsellor for over twenty years, she learned to surf at 45 — and has lived ten years in Tofino, where she knows the quiet stretches of Long Beach the crowds don't find.
I believe surfing should feel fun, welcoming, and inspiring — not rushed or intimidating.
I discovered surfing at 45, and now, at 55, I still find joy every time I paddle out. Learning later in life taught me that everyone progresses differently and that the best learning happens when you feel relaxed, supported, and encouraged. It's also shown me that it's never too late to discover a passion that can change your life.
I'm an ISA-certified surf instructor with over 20 years of teaching and coaching experience, along with a Master's degree in Education. Throughout my career as a teacher, fitness trainer, and sports coach, I've learned that people thrive when they feel safe, supported, and understood. I bring that same approach to every surf lesson, combining clear instruction, patience, and plenty of encouragement to help you build confidence in the waves.
I offer private lessons for just you (and a friend if you want) at a carefully chosen beginner-friendly location away from the busiest crowds whenever conditions allow. My goal is to create a calm, personalized experience where you can learn at your own pace, ask questions, laugh, and celebrate every success along the way.
My lessons are perfect for first-time surfers, adults learning later in life, anyone returning to surfing after a long break, or anyone who simply prefers a quieter, more personal learning experience over large group lessons.
There's no pressure to perform — just expert guidance, a beautiful beach, and the joy of catching waves.
I can't wait to share the ocean with you.
Most of Nancy's clients have never surfed before — don't worry if this is your very first time. The lesson takes about 2.5 hours in and around the water. Budget 3.5 hours including travel.
Before
Nancy provides the surfboard; you bring a wetsuit (~$30, Tofino or Ucluelet — the 6-hour rental is perfect; ask for booties and gloves if you get cold). Bring a bathing suit to wear under it, a towel, warm clothes for after, water and a snack, sunscreen for your face, a hair tie, and your glasses case if you wear glasses.
During
Meet at Long Beach, Parking Lot 5 — Look for the little blue car covered in waves! Nancy shows you the change rooms, stows your keys and phone in her waterproof backpack, and starts on the beach: ocean safety, etiquette, carrying your board, paddling, popping up. Then into the water together — every wave gets coached. Meeting point map.
After
You'll leave with new skills, a better understanding of the ocean, and — of course — a huge smile. Return your wetsuit, find hot coffee, eat well, relax.
Safety first: lessons are planned around ocean conditions, tides, and your comfort level. If conditions aren't suitable, Nancy reschedules — that's why every booking is personally confirmed. See CoastSmart for ocean-safety basics.
- 9:00 am – 12:00 pm, Monday – Saturday — a few lessons a week, on purpose
- Wetsuit rental ~$30 · Tofino or Ucluelet
- Pacific Rim National Park day-use pass needed for parking
- Every booking confirmed personally within 24 hours
Pick your morning
- Request an open morning below.
- Nancy confirms personally within 24 hours.
- Your spot is held for 24 hours once confirmed — the confirmation email carries the payment link.
- Meet at Long Beach, Parking Lot 5 — Look for the little blue car covered in waves!
Questions before you book? Email isurfwithnancy@gmail.com — Nancy's happy to help.