About
Online Surf Academy is Australia's leading online surf training platform, designed for both recreational surfers and competitors looking to elevate their performance. The platform offers a comprehensive tutorial library covering everything from the basics — like the pop-up — all the way through to advanced manoeuvres such as airs and rotations. Each lesson is delivered through high-quality video instruction featuring professional coaching voice-overs, digital pencil annotations, and pro tips from experienced high-performance coaches. A standout feature is the Split Screen Comparison Tool, which allows surfers to upload their own video and compare it frame-by-frame against professional athletes and coaches, providing clear visual feedback on technique. The platform also includes Land & Skate Simulations, enabling surfers to practise movements on a skateboard when the ocean isn't available. Progress is tracked through comprehensive self-testing questionnaires, private note-taking, and personal goal-setting. A stance toggle lets users customise the experience to their regular or goofy stance. Coaching is accessible via laptop or smartphone, making it ideal for studying at home or reviewing on the beach. A 24-hour free trial is available, with paid subscription plans unlocking the full library. Online Surf Academy is suited for beginner surfers wanting structured learning through to competitive surfers seeking a performance edge.
Key Features
- Surf Tutorial Library: An extensive encyclopedia of surfing technique videos covering all skill levels, from beginner pop-ups to advanced airs and rotations.
- Split Screen Comparison Tool: Upload your own surf, land, or skate video and compare it frame-by-frame against professional athletes and coaches to identify areas for improvement.
- Land & Skate Simulations: Practice surf manoeuvres on a skateboard using guided video tutorials, removing ocean unpredictability from the learning process.
- Self-Testing Questionnaires: Interactive knowledge quizzes for every manoeuvre to verify understanding before taking new skills to the water.
- Progress Tracking & Private Notes: Set personal goals, track milestones, and write private notes to monitor improvement over time within the platform.
Use Cases
- A beginner surfer learns fundamental technique — from paddling and pop-ups to reading waves — through structured video tutorials before heading to the beach.
- A competitive junior surfer uploads contest footage to the Split Screen Comparison Tool to identify technique flaws compared to top-ranked professionals.
- An intermediate surfer living far from the coast maintains and improves their skills during flat spells using land and skate simulation tutorials.
- A surf coach recommends the platform to their students as a supplementary self-study resource between in-water coaching sessions.
- A recreational surfer uses the self-testing questionnaires and goal-tracking tools to stay motivated and measure progress over a season.
Pros
- Learn at Your Own Pace: Content is available on-demand via laptop or smartphone, letting surfers study at home or review technique directly on the beach.
- Covers All Skill Levels: From absolute beginners learning to stand up to competitive surfers refining advanced aerials, the platform caters to every ability level.
- Unique Split Screen Video Analysis: The ability to compare your footage side-by-side with pros provides rare, personalised visual feedback not available in most online courses.
- Free Trial Available: A 24-hour free trial lets prospective members explore the platform risk-free before committing to a subscription.
Cons
- Single Sport Focus: The platform is exclusively dedicated to surfing, making it irrelevant to anyone interested in other sports or activities.
- Subscription Required for Full Access: Beyond the 24-hour trial, the complete tutorial library and tools are locked behind a paid membership plan.
- No Live Coaching: While an 'Ask A Coach' feature exists, there is no real-time live coaching or video call option for immediate personalised feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Online Surf Academy suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. The platform covers every level from absolute beginners learning the pop-up all the way through to advanced competitive surfers practising airs and rotations.
Can I try Online Surf Academy before paying?
Yes. Online Surf Academy offers a free 24-hour trial so you can explore the platform and its features before subscribing.
How does the Split Screen Comparison Tool work?
You upload a video of yourself surfing, skating, or doing land drills, and the tool displays it side-by-side with professional athlete footage for frame-by-frame technique comparison.
Can I access the academy on my phone?
Yes. The platform is accessible on both laptop and smartphone, so you can watch tutorials at home or review them on the beach before paddling out.
What are Land & Skate Simulations?
These are guided video tutorials that teach you to replicate surf manoeuvres on a skateboard on dry land, allowing consistent practice without needing waves.
