How we rank: Google rating, weighted so a 5.0 from six reviews doesn't outrank a 4.9 from a thousand. Schools can't pay to move up this list; a paid placement is labelled as one. Listings that share a phone number or website are marked as the same team.
// Packing list
Most schools provide the board and wetsuit, so you can arrive with very little. These are the small things worth packing.
We may earn a small commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We only recommend gear we'd ride ourselves.
Rash guard (UV surf shirt)
Stops the wetsuit and board rubbing your chest raw, and covers your shoulders if the water is warm enough to skip the wetsuit.
See options on Amazon →Mineral (zinc) sunscreen
You will spend a couple of hours on open water. Zinc stays on your face better than spray and is easier on the reef.
See options on Amazon →Changing poncho or hooded towel
Gets you out of a wet wetsuit in a beach parking lot without the towel dance.
See options on Amazon →Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
Keeps your phone, keys and car fob dry and sand-free while you are in the water.
See options on Amazon →Reef booties or water shoes
Only where the entry is rocky or reefy. Sandy beaches rarely need them, so ask the school first.
See options on Amazon →Surf hat with a chin strap
Shades your face during the beach briefing and in the water; the strap keeps it on when you fall off.
See options on Amazon →Full checklist, including what to leave at home: What to bring to surf lessons
Seasonal averages for New Jersey — not a live surf report for this beach. New Jersey surf seasons in full
// 4 Surf schools listed
Local instructors, real reviews, and how to reach each school direct.
Highest rated
Jason Reagan Surf School5.0 from 51 reviews
Lowest published group price
Jason Reagan Surf Schoolfrom $70 per person
Kids-friendly
Jason Reagan Surf SchoolTagged kid-friendly from student reviews
// The Lineup
Ranked by rating confidence — review volume counts, not just the score.
// Free Surf Guide
The Beginner's Surf Guide
Wave basics, gear checklist, lesson tips — all free, delivered instantly.
4 schools on the map
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// The price check
Based on prices published by 3 of 4 schools · checked October 2026
The other 1 don't list prices on their websites, so they are not in these figures. Rates change with season, group size and what's included. Confirm with the school before you book.
What the schools say about their lessons
From each school's own website. Schools that don't say aren't counted as a no; confirm when you book.
// Side by side
| School | Rating | Group | Private | Kids | Lesson | Phone | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jason Reagan Surf School | 5.0 (51) | $70–$80/person | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Board + wetsuit included | +1 609-464-6438 | — |
| EcoVentures Cape May Surf School | 5.0 (37) | $75/person | $125/lesson | $75/person | 1 hour · 3:1 ratio or less · ages 8+Board + wetsuit included | +1 609-742-5656 | — |
| Southend Surf Shop | 4.4 (16) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | —Not stated | +1 609-898-0988 | — |
| RANDAZZO SURF SCHOOL | 5.0 (4) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | ages 6+ | +1 732-825-7873 | Book RANDAZZO SURF SCHOOL on their website (opens in a new tab) |
Ask = not published on the school's website, so call or message to get a quote. Prices are the lowest each school lists. Lesson details are what each school states on its own website; a dash means not stated.
// Know before you book
Group lessons are the usual starting point: they cost less per person, and you share an instructor with typically 4 to 8 other students. Private lessons give you one-on-one attention and a faster start, which suits nervous beginners, anyone short on time, or surfers working on a specific skill, at a higher price per person. Semi-private sits in between, for two to three people who want to learn together. Class size and what is included vary by school, so confirm when you book.
You share an instructor with other students, typically 4 to 8 per instructor, for around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Best for: First-timers on a budget and anyone who likes learning alongside others.
Published by Jason Reagan Surf School: “Groups of 4 people or more.”
A small group of two to three people with one instructor, often friends or family booking together.
Best for: Couples, friends and families who want more attention than a group without the private price.
One instructor, one student (or one family). The pace and focus are yours to set.
Best for: Nervous beginners, short trips, and surfers working on a specific skill.
Published by EcoVentures Cape May Surf School: “1-Hour Lesson; additional surfers are $105/each. All equipment included.”
Lessons run for younger surfers, usually in smaller groups with a lower instructor-to-student ratio. Minimum ages vary by school.
Best for: Children and teens. Ask the school about age limits and whether parents can stay on the beach.
Published by EcoVentures Cape May Surf School: “Kids must be at least 8 years old to participate.”
Multi-day programs, from a few days to a week or more, mixing lessons, practice sessions and surf theory.
Best for: Visitors staying a while and anyone who wants to progress past the first stand-up.
Published by RANDAZZO SURF SCHOOL: “7 DAY CAMP FROM MARCH 14/15 - MARCH 21/22 /2020 $1,495.00, 3 DAY CAMP $795.00, 10 DAY CAMP $1,895.00”
Board and wetsuit are usually included in a lesson price. Confirm when booking, because policies differ between schools. In Cape May, 2 of 4 schools say board and wetsuit are included on their own websites.
// The Local Report
Here, Victorian charm blends with laid-back beach culture, creating an uniquely welcoming atmosphere for first-time surfers. Unlike the intense surf scenes of other coastal towns, Cape May's peaceful beaches and patient instructors help you focus on what matters: your personal journey into surfing.
Queen Street Beach provides consistent small waves and plenty of space to practice. Both spots feature wide beaches, gradual sandbars, and dedicated areas for surf lessons away from other water activities.
Full wetsuits (3/2mm) needed in early summer and fall, while peak summer often only requires a rashguard. Morning sessions typically provide cleanest waves with light winds.
You'll find a refreshingly supportive atmosphere where no one judges beginners. Local surf schools provide all necessary equipment and focus on safety first. Beaches are well-maintained with lifeguards present during summer months. Morning lessons offer smaller crowds and calmer conditions. The National Weather Service's advice applies here: only swim at a beach with lifeguards, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard before going in, and remember that rip currents often form on calm, sunny days. If one catches you, don't fight it: relax and float, wave and yell for help, or swim parallel to the beach until you're out of the pull.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Jason for his patience, knowledge, and encouragement, creating fun and successful surfing experiences for all ages and skill levels.
Group lessons from
$70/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the encouraging and knowledgeable instructors for providing fun, personalized surf lessons that create a positive and memorable experience for all skill levels.
Group lessons from
$75/person
Surf camp · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers generally appreciate the helpful and knowledgeable staff, though some have experienced issues with product quality and inconsistent customer service.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
