Surf school in Yangyang: first take-off at Ingu Beach with Surf High

I finally got to cross surfing off my bucket list. I took the beginner lesson at Surf High, a surf school right on Ingu Beach in Yangyang, and I was so happy with it that I had to write a review. 😊

For anyone planning a summer trip or trying to decide on a surf outfit in Yangyang, here's everything about Surf High's location, facilities, the lesson itself, and how to book!

It's fine even if it's your very first time! <Want to actually learn properly even though surfing is new to you?>

Where Surf High is and how to visit

Surf High sits right in front of Ingu Beach, one of Yangyang's hot spots. It's just a one-minute walk to the water, so getting there was really convenient.

• 📍 Location: 10 Inguhang-gil, Hyeonnam-myeon, Yangyang-gun, Gangwon-do, South Korea, 1st floor and 3rd floor
• 🅿️ Parking: On-site parking available (nearby public lots if full)
• ⏰ Hours: Daily 08:00–21:00 (may vary by season, best to check ahead)
• 🗓️ Reservation: Available via Naver Reservations

What are the facilities like at Surf High?

The clean interior and friendly owner made a strong impression. The first thing I noticed when I arrived was the vibe of the place.

Surf High is decorated in a really hip, stylish way, too. 📸 As soon as I walked in, the owner greeted me so warmly. I was nervous since it was my first time surfing, but that bright welcome put me at ease right away.

The interior (3rd floor, women's shower area) was neatly kept, and the showers were pleasant. Showers and changing rooms can be a sensitive spot for a lot of people, and these were kept clean, which made the whole visit feel good.

Facility highlights at Surf High

• Cute, pretty interior (great for photos!)
• Clean showers with reliably hot water (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hair dryer provided)
• Lockers available for storing your things

How does the Surf High beginner lesson work? (and how I beat my fear of water)

I signed up for Surf High's 'beginner lesson' that day. The class followed a systematic curriculum — theory, then ground simulation, then the real water session — and even someone like me who's afraid of water managed to safely enjoy the waves!

1) Theory class on land

First we learned the basics of surfing in the indoor classroom (or on the rooftop). The owner drew diagrams on a whiteboard and explained things clearly using YouTube clips too. Wave mechanics, surfing rules, board terminology, and — most importantly — safety guidelines. We covered it all thoroughly.

2) Ground simulation on the sand, including safety training

After the theory session, before heading into the water, we practiced the actual movements — paddling, the push-up, take-off — on the sand. The instructor corrected every single posture in detail. We especially repeated the take-off, the move where you stand up on the board, over and over until it became second nature.

3) Into the water: catching the first waves

Finally, into the water! I paddled to the instructor's count and tried to take off with the waves. Balance was tough at first, but thanks to the instructor's constant pushes and feedback... I stood up! 🌊

It wasn't a long ride, but that brief moment standing on the board, cutting through the wave, was a thrilling experience I'll never forget. It was fun enough that even falling into the water made me laugh.

How to book Surf High and what to bring

You can easily sign up for Surf High's beginner lesson through Naver Reservations. Just pick the date and time you want and pay — booking done!

Why a weekday lesson at Ingu Beach is better

Ingu Beach can get crowded on weekends, so if you want to learn at a relaxed pace, weekdays are recommended. That said, I went at 5pm on a Saturday and somehow lucked out with great timing — it was surprisingly relaxed! Honestly it's case by case, so leaving it to luck can work out too.

What to bring to a surf lesson in Yangyang

Swimsuit (or rash guard), sunscreen, aqua shoes (optional), personal toiletries. Towels are provided, but bringing your own is fine too!

Free surfing after the Surf High lesson

Even after the lesson ends, they let you keep the board and suit a little longer at no extra charge so you can surf freely. If you have the stamina, staying at the beach all day is great too! Even better — come back the next day and try again before you forget what you learned!

Is a Surf High lesson at Ingu Beach worth it?

I was worried going into my first-ever surf attempt, but thanks to the Surf High owner and instructors, I had the best experience. Friendly instruction, clean facilities, and the hip vibe of Ingu Beach — everything was perfect.

If you're looking for a special activity this summer, I strongly recommend Surf High at Ingu Beach in Yangyang! I'm planning to come back with friends next time. 🏄 Everyone should go catch the wave of a lifetime at Surf High!