How to Find a Job as a Surfing or SUP Instructor

Travel the World and Follow the Seasons

Working as a surfing or stand up paddleboarding (SUP) instructor can open the door to incredible travel and lifestyle opportunities. From beach towns and surf camps to inland waterways and coastal resorts, qualified instructors are in demand around the world.

Summer is typically the busiest period for surf and SUP schools, creating strong demand for instructors across many countries. Depending on the school and location, work may include private lessons, group sessions, school programmes, tours, camps, or equipment hire support.

Many schools offer flexible and seasonal work, ranging from part-time hours to full summer contracts. Some schools and surf camps may also provide accommodation or staff housing as part of the role, particularly in popular seasonal destinations.

When one hemisphere moves into winter, many instructors travel abroad to continue working in warmer climates - allowing them to follow the seasons, gain international experience, and continue building their skills year-round.

Prepare Your Resume

Having a professional resume ready makes it easier to apply for jobs quickly when opportunities arise.

What to Include in Your Instructor CV   

·       A short introduction about yourself

·       Your surfing or SUP experience and skill level

·       Locations where you have surfed or paddled

·       Relevant instructor qualifications and certificates

·       First aid and rescue qualifications

·       Previous work experience (especially customer service, sports, tourism, or coaching)

·       Photos of you surfing or paddling (optional but useful)

·       Languages spoken

If you’re travelling internationally, include details such as:

·       Arrival dates

·       Visa type

·       How long you can legally work

·       Driver’s licence or transport access (if relevant)

Get Qualified

Having recognised qualifications is essential when applying for instructor jobs.

ASI instructor qualifications are internationally recognised and designed to prepare instructors to teach safely and professionally in real-world conditions.

Explore ASI courses:

Surfing Instructor Courses

www.academyofsurfing.com/surf-courses

SUP Instructor Courses

www.academyofsurfing.com/sup-courses

Bodyboarding Instructor courses

www.academyofsurfing.com/bodyboard-courses-1

Portugal

Many regions in Portugal require instructors to hold the government-endorsed surfing instructor qualification.

ASI is the only international training company approved to deliver this course in Portugal.

If you are already an ASI instructor, you pay a discounted fee.

Find out more about working in Portugal at:

www.academyofsurfing.com/news/working-as-a-surfing-instructor-in-portugal

For more info, contact the ASI Portugal office: pt@academyofsurfing.com

Rescue and First Aid Qualifications

First Aid

Most schools require instructors to hold current water rescue and first aid qualifications.

First Aid certificates that cover a range of injuries that can occur when delivering lessons are required.   They are usually valid for 2 years
See ASI list of recommended first aid topics as a minimum at: www.academyofsurfing.com/first-aid-certificates

Generally, your first aid certification can be used in other countries around the world. 

However, Australia requires you to complete the local Australian first aid certification. Which is valid for 3 years.

For rescue courses, ASI offers:

Surf Rescue Water Safety Award

www.academyofsurfing.com/courses/surf-safety-water-rescue-award

SUP Water Safety Rescue Award

www.academyofsurfing.com/courses/sup-water-safety-rescue-award-flat-water

Rescue certifications generally have a maximum 2 years validity and can be used in other countries around the world.  

However, in Australia, surf rescue certificates are only valid for 12 months, regardless of the expiry date of your rescue certificate 

As countries may have different first aid, rescue certification requirements or additional government requirements, always check local regulations before travelling or contact a local school owner to find out what is required.

Working Overseas

Visas

Every country has different visa and employment requirements.

Make sure you check all the requirements based on your nationality and the country you are travelling to.

Always check official government immigration websites for the latest information.

Working visa’s for under 30 or 35 years old are generally easy to apply for.

Working With Children Checks

Some countries require instructors to complete working with children or background checks before employment.

For example:

·       UK schools may require DBS checks

·       Australia requires state-based Working With Children Checks

Requirements vary depending on the country and employer.

The school owner will be able to guide you in this regard

Finding Surf and SUP Schools

A great place to start your search is the ASI Accredited School network.

ASI Accredited Schools meet recognised training and operational standards, helping instructors connect with reputable schools worldwide.

Find schools here:

www.academyofsurfing.com/schools/search

ASI also regularly posts current instructor job opportunities from around the world, including surf schools, SUP schools, surf camps, and seasonal positions.

View the latest jobs here:

www.academyofsurfing.com/news/jobs-surfing-sup-instructors-wanted

Many schools advertise seasonal roles directly through their websites or social media channels. Surf camps and activity centres may also offer combined work-and-accommodation opportunities, especially during busy summer periods.

Build Experience and Stay Connected

The more experience you gain, the more opportunities become available. Working across different locations, conditions, and student groups helps develop your confidence and teaching ability.

Networking within the industry is also valuable. Instructor retreats, workshops, and training courses are great ways to meet schools, trainers, and other instructors.

ASI AIR Retreats are held throughout the year in different locations around the world, bringing instructors and others in the watersports industry together for networking, professional development, guest speakers, and activities. These events are a great way to build industry connections, share experiences, and stay engaged with the global ASI community.

Check the ASI News page for upcoming AIR Retreats and events:

https://www.academyofsurfing.com/news

Adventure Awaits

Working as a surfing or SUP instructor is more than just a job - it’s an opportunity to travel, meet people from around the world, and spend your days in the ocean and outdoors.

Whether you dream of teaching at a surf school in Portugal, leading SUP tours in Asia, or working seasonal summers by the beach, the journey starts with the right training and preparation.

Explore ASI instructor courses and start building your pathway into the watersports industry.

About ASI 

ASI is a global leader in training and accrediting instructors, coaches, and schools for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, and bodyboarding.  ASI instructors and schools ensure world-class training, safety and operational standards. Whether you're learning for personal enjoyment or to establish a career in the industry, ASI opens the door to new skills, global opportunities, and adventure.