Thompson Surf School

If you’ve always dreamed of surfing as an individual, group, or family, visit Thompson Surf School in Jacksonville. 

The main instructors at Thompson Surf School, Evan and Tristan Thompson, have impressive resumes, ensuring you receive top-notch, focused lessons.  Their expertise and passion are the reason the school is one of the top things to do at Jacksonville Beach.

Evan, a Jacksonville native, learned to surf with his family in the same waters you’ll be in. He has over 25 years of experience and is a four-time USA Surf Team Member, a two-time NSSA East Coast Champion, and a two-time Red Bull Night Riders Champion. With this pedigree, Evan opened Thompson Surf School in 2013.

Younger brother Tristan has over 15 years of surfing experience, during which time he became the 2014 Red Bull Night Riders Champion and the 2016 Huck & Hack Pro Champion. He is also the two-time Amateur East Coast Champion.

Rest assured, your safety is paramount at Thompson Surf School. Evan is a Certified Emergency Medical Technician, while Tristan is CPR Certified. 

Thompson Surf School offers private and group instruction for their Surf Lessons or Surf Coaching. We’ll explore each later, but suffice it to say that beginners sign up for Surf Lessons while experienced surfers opt for Surf Coaching. 

Another perk about the school is its location, which puts you close to landmarks like the Jacksonville Beach Pier. 

So, grab your sunscreen, beach blanket, and water bottles and head to the Thompson Surf School for the perfect activity on your getaway.

Thompson Surf School: Fun Facts & Cool Features 

As promised, let’s unpack what you get with Surf and Coach Lessons.

If you’re a beginner or a novice, your best bet is signing up for Surf Lessons. These 60-minute classes involve 10-15 minutes of instruction on the beach, followed by 45-50 minutes of in-water training with an instructor at your side. Your cost includes a soft top surfboard that is easier to maneuver for beginners and rash guards if necessary.  

Surf Coaching will appeal to seasoned surfers who want to improve their technique and skills. With professional video cameras and playback, the instructor can record your surfing and unpack what went well and what needs improving. Surf Coaching can delve into topics like competition strategy, wave selection, and improving surfing technique. 

When vacationing in the summer, consider signing your children up for the Summer Surf Camp. The camp is Monday through Thursday from 9 AM until noon, making it perfect for dropping off the little ones while the adults tee off at the Jacksonville Beach Golf Club. With its 3:1 instructor-to-student ratio, you know your kids will have a safe and fun experience.

Another outstanding feature is the proximity to restaurants like Eleven South, where you can have a meal after hitting the surf. When you need a calorie-rich breakfast before your lesson, visit Maple Street Biscuit Company. 

Adding Thompson Surf School to your Jacksonville vacation will be a rewarding and safe experience. Whether it’s your first time on a board or seeking tips to go pro, visit and find out why they are one of the best attractions in Jacksonville Beach!

Getting There 

Here are step-by-step driving directions to Thompson Surf School from Jacksonville: 

• Start by heading south on I-95 S. 
• Take exit 358A toward I-295 S. 
• Merge onto I-295 S and continue for about 8 miles. 
• Take exit 41B to merge onto FL-105 E/J. Turner Butler Blvd toward the beach. 
• Continue straight onto Beach Blvd. 
• Turn right onto 1st St N and head toward the ocean. 
• Address: 2121 1st St N, Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250 

Cost 

Here are the costs associated with visiting Thompson Surf School: 

• Surf Lesson for one: $80
• Surf Lesson for two: $60 per person
• Surf Lesson for three or more: $50 per person
• Surf Coaching (1 hour private): $75
• Surf Coaching (2 hour private): $120
• Surf Coaching (3-4 surfers; 1.5 hours): $35 per surfer
• Summer Surf Camp: $250 per person; $10 sibling discount.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.