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Bali - Indonesia

ISA Surf Instructor Course Bali | Train in Paradise with Outer Reef Academy

Train with Outer Reef around the world, where the waves are fun and the vibe is real. Jump into epic surf trips across Bali, Java, and the Mentawai Islands. Our 4, 8, and 12-week courses are fully ISA and ILS backed - so you can surf, travel, and teach anywhere across the globe.

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ISA Surf Instructor Course Bali | Turn Your Passion Into Your Career

Ready to swap the ordinary for ocean sunrises and a life spent chasing waves?
At Outer Reef Surf Instructor Academy Bali, it's not just about learning, it's about living. Train in the legendary waves of Canggu, learn from world-class Indonesian surf coaches, and join a community of wave riders who've made paradise their office.
This isn't just a course - it's your gateway to turning passion into purpose in one of the world's most epic surf destinations.

Why Outer Reef Surf Academy Is Dominates In Bali


 

Ready to swap the ordinary for ocean sunrises and a life spent chasing waves?
At Outer Reef Surf Instructor Academy Bali, it's not just about learning, it's about living. Train in the legendary waves of Canggu, learn from world-class Indonesian surf coaches, and join a community of wave riders who've made paradise their office.
While local surf schools offer basic lessons at one beach, Outer Reef Academy operates across 10 premium destinations with international training locations, global career placement, and Rip Curl partnership backing.
We're able to offer a Global Network of 10 Premium Destinations including...
Wales, France, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Sri Lanka, Bali, Java, Mentawai Islands, Canary Islands

Starting From £300

Complete Certification Pathways

What's Included In Your Investment

ISA Level 1 or 2 Surf Instructor - Internationally recognised

ILS Lifeguard Certification - Ocean safety expertise

SUP Instructor Qualification - Expand your teaching range

Premium Accommodation - Included at all locations

Professional Equipment - Powered by Rip Curl 

Career Placement Support - Guaranteed job opportunities


Program Options

1-week Intensive Surf & Lifesaver instructor course UK £525

3-Week Intensive Surf, Paddle board & Lifesaver instructor course UK £1995

4-Week Intensive - Surf development coaching & Fast-track to professional status Bali £2500

8-Week Comprehensive - Complete skill mastery + cultural immersion Bali £3500

12-Week Comprehensive - Complete skill mastery + cultural immersion Bali £5695

Flexible Start Dates - 12 programs per year across all locations

Special Locations


WALES

Pembrokeshire


Pembrokeshire's premium beaches are where Outer Reef began in 1999, offering a perfect learning environment with consistent waves and safe conditions. In partnership with the RNLI, it provides outstanding beach lifeguard training and serves as an ideal UK base, particularly suited for European students.

Indonesia

Bali


Bali and trips to Java's hidden gems, including G-Land and the South Coast, offer advanced wave training to challenge and elevate your skills. With pristine, untouched surf breaks and exclusive, limited training opportunities, this environment provides the perfect setting for professional development along the elite instructor pathway.

Indonesia

Mentawai Islands


The Mentawai Islands offer the ultimate experience with a 10-day luxury boat trip, providing access to some of the world’s best waves and perfect daily barrels. With premium accommodation on a luxury boat charter and small groups limited to just 10 students, this is a once-in-a-lifetime exclusive training opportunity that leads to elite certification and advanced instructor status.


Exclusive Rip Curl Partnership Benefits

Premium Brand Backing

Professional Equipment Included 

Industry Recognition - ISA certified instructor status

Global Network Access - Exclusive job opportunities

Ongoing Support - Continued brand partnership benefits

Elite Instructor Status

Premium Positioning - Stand out from basic instructors

Higher Earning Potential - Command premium rates

Brand Recognition - Instant credibility worldwide

Career Advancement - Fast-track to management roles

Guaranteed Job Placement & How We Can Do It

Proven Track Record

25+ years training excellence since 1999

7,500+ graduates working globally

Global network of resort partnerships

Industry recognition and Rip Curl backing

Comprehensive Support

CV development and portfolio creation

Interview preparation and placement assistance

3-month placement guarantee period

Ongoing career support throughout your journey

Multiple Career Pathways

Resort Instructor - £25-35/hour + accommodation

Private Coach - £40-60/hour premium rates

Surf Camp Manager - £25k annual + benefits

Academy Trainer - £20k + international travel

LIMITED SPACES

4 Programs Per Year

2025 Program Dates

  • Sat, 15 Feb 2025 - Sun, 16 Feb 2025 fully booked
  • Sat, 12 Apr 2025 - Sun, 13 Apr 2025 fully booked
  • Sat, 17 May 2025 - Sun, 18 May 2025 fully booked
  • Sat, 21 Jun 2025 - Sun, 22 Jun 2025 fully booked
  • Sat, 16 Aug 2025 - Sun, 17 Aug 2025 2 spaces available
  • Sat, 18 Oct 2025 - Sun, 19 Oct 2025

 

2026 Program Dates

  • Sat, 19 Feb 2026 - 25 Feb 2026
  • Sat, 19 May 2026 - 25 Feb 2026
  • Sat, 19 Aug 2026 - Sun, 25 Aug 2026
  • Sat, 19 Nov 2024 - Sun, 26 Nov 2026

 

Only 14 spaces per location per program - Book now to secure your spot.

Affordability

Investment & Payment Options

Complete Program From - £2,500 

Everything included - No hidden costs

4-Week Intensive From £2,500 - ISA Level 1 Surf Instructor Certification - Accommodation & All Equipment Included - Perfect for starting their surf career Premium professional development pathway

8-Week Professional From £3,500 - ISA Level 1 & 2 Certifications - ILS Beach Lifeguard Training - Complete instructor development package

12-Week Ultimate Experience From £5,695 - All certifications + SUP qualification - International destinations available - Perfect for beginners starting their surf career, with premium professional development pathway

 

Flexible Payment Plans

Contact Us For Mor Info 

Early Bird Special: Book 60 days in advance - Save £300

Surf Instructor Academy Frequently Asked Questions

Here at Outer Reef, we have been running surf lessons and professional development courses for over 25 years both in our home county of Pembrokeshire and worldwide. 

We still love teaching the next generation of surfers, paddle boarders and beach lifeguards, whether it’s on a windswept beach in Wales, or on the beaches of France or Bali. 

Our fearless leader, Dean, is a true waterman and has represented the GB in competitive surfing. He is a surf ambassador for UK/Europe, Indonesia and Sri Lanka, helping national governing bodies create a clear pathway for the sports development. With 25 years of experience in Surf, Sup and Lifesaving development to all ages and abilities, Dean is also very proud to work together with Disability Sport Wales, local community organisations, junior and secondary schools, National Trust and Pembrokeshire County Council, as well as global governing bodies.

We often employ people, especially locals, who have completed courses with us, so be sure to ask if you are looking for employment and we can let you know if we have any availability.

Yes we are. We have £10 million public liability insurance and all instructors & surf crew are fully qualified & members of the NGB.

SURF INSTRUCTOR COURSE COST

COURSE FEES will vary on the venue

There are no hidden costs you will have to keep up-to-date with your membership to the ISA, which is the international governing body.

The ISA Introduction to Surf Instructing E-Learning Course is now live on the ISA Source and available to complete at any time. As announced, the ISA Surf Level 1 Certification Pathway now requires all instructors to complete the course as a prerequisite to participating in the Surf Level 1 course. Course Fees is $50 after booking the ISA Level 1 with Oute Reef. Please read our FAQ's on E-Learning for more information.

UK

France

Spain

Portugal

Morocco

Canary Islands

Bali

East Java

Sri Lanka

ment's  

Maldives

Live, Learn & Surf Together in Paradise

Accommodation Included - Essential for Your Bali Experience
Unlike our UK courses where accommodation is optional, our Bali program includes shared accommodation because that's where the magic happens! Living together in our Canggu surf house isn't just practical - it's essential for the full experience.

Yes! You must be able to show and understand the rules of priority, be able to negotiate the line up and show confidence in turning left and right.

This is specific to each of the different courses we offer, and more details can be found on each of our individual course pages. We do require you to be swim fit and a confident and competent swimmer.

ISA Level 1 - 20 Hours

ISA Level 2 - 10 Hours

ISA Level 1 FW SUP - 10 Hours

Once you have completed your assisting hours all information will be sent to the relevant governing body who will then process your certification

Yes, all ISA courses require an up to date lifesaving qualification too which can be completed before or after your course. If you are interested in doing your lifesaving course with us please let us know upon booking.

Introduction: (for anyone booking an ISA Level 1 Course)
The ISA Introduction to Surf Instructing E-Learning Course is designed to introduce surfers to the knowledge and skills needed to deliver safe, quality learn-to-surf lessons for beginners and early intermediate level surfers. The course can be completed online at any time and is the first step on the pathway to achieving an ISA Surf Level 1 Certification.

When you book the ISA Level 1 with Outer Reef you'll be sent an email containing a discount code for 50% off the course and instructions on how to register. You'll be responsible for registering and paying the E-Learning fee directly to the ISA. This will begin your surf instructor education journey through the ISA’s globally recognized Coaching and Instructing Program.

Fee: $50 after discount code is applied

This course is the first step to becoming an ISA Certified Instructor. Participants who complete the course will receive a Certificate of Completion upon finishing all eight modules. Finishing this course alone does not qualify the participant as an ISA Certified Instructor. After completing this course, participants must participate in an ISA Surf Level 1 Instructor Course with an ISA Course Presenter to become certified 

Prerequisites: None

Length of Course: Approximately 8-10 Hours (can be completed at your own pace and over multiple sessions)

Languages Available: English, Spanish, Portuguese

Outline:
Module 1: Instructor Attributes
Module 2: Safety Guidelines
Module 3: Risk Management
Module 4: Equipment for Beginner Surfers
Module 5: Coaching Methods
Module 6: Skill Development
Module 7: Program Planning
Module 8: ISA Coaching and Instructing Pathway

 

  • The role of the surfing Coach.
  • Identifying the duty of care regulations that apply to conducting surfing lessons.
  • Risk management & safety.
  • Identifying surfing lesson  hazards.
  • Emergency Action Processes.
  • Lesson plans for surfing courses.
  • surf boards courses, equipment
  • Communication skills for the surf course environment.
  • Instruction Surf course coaching methods.
  • Surf lesson plans.
  • Assessing students performance.
  • Evaluating surf course outcomes.
  • Minimising environmental impacts
  • Abide by student lesson & Surf instructor courses ratios: Surf Course Accredited Instructor.

Not only do you get to spend every day on the beach, but you can also manage it so you work during summers and escape the winters traveling. You can also get jobs abroad, or in surf camps right across the globe. On top all that you get the rewards of seeing the faces of super stoked pupils who you have helped get to their feet. It’s the perfect job for students at college or university or during their gap year.

Outer Reef Surf Academy

Testimonials

8-week Isa Program At Outer Reef

"Six months ago I was stuck in a London office dreaming of waves. Now I'm teaching surf in paradise and earning more per hour than my corporate job! The Outer Reef Bali program didn't just teach me to instruct - it gave me a complete life makeover. Living in the Canggu surf house with my course mates was incredible, and the Indonesian coaches taught me wave knowledge I never would have learned elsewhere. Best £3,500 I've ever spent - I'm literally living my dream!"

The Outer Reef Team

What sets Outer Reef Academy apart is the international experience. Training across Wales, Bali, and now with opportunities in Morocco and Sri Lanka - you're not just getting certified, you're building a global network. The ILS Lifeguard certification included in the program opened doors I never expected. I've worked in five countries since graduating, and the Outer Reef name is recognised everywhere.

James Thompson, Graduate 2023, Currently in Mentawai Islands

25 Years Of Experience

"I came to Bali nervous about training abroad, but the Outer Reef family made everything seamless. From airport pickup to job placement, they had my back every step. Learning alongside other passionate surfers in that beautiful Canggu house created friendships for life. The cultural immersion was amazing - I can now speak basic Indonesian and understand the local surf etiquette perfectly. Three months post-graduation and I'm still here, teaching at a beachfront school and loving every sunrise session!"
- Jake Thompson, 24, Australia, 

The 10-day Mentawai boat trip

"The Outer Reef Bali program is pure gold for anyone serious about surf instruction. 25 days of intensive training in perfect waves, world-class coaching, and immediate job connections. I graduated on a Friday and started teaching the following Monday! The accommodation setup was perfect - studying together in the evenings really accelerated our learning. My earning potential has tripled, and I wake up every day in paradise. This course literally changed my life trajectory."
- Emma Rodriguez, 31, Former Teacher from Spain, Now Running Private Surf Coaching in Uluwatu

Join The Elite - Outer Reef Academy Alumni

At Outer Reef Bali, you're not just getting certified - you're stepping into Indonesia's most exclusive network of professional surf instructors working across the archipelago's legendary breaks. This is your pathway to a surf career in paradise.
You'll train in the heart of Canggu's world-famous surf scene, where perfect barrels meet vibrant Indonesian culture. Our Bali program puts you at the epicentre of Southeast Asia's booming surf tourism industry - the perfect environment to build your skills and confidence.
We're proud to offer:
Indonesian Surf Mastery Master tropical reef breaks, warm water techniques, and local surf etiquette that opens doors across Indonesia's surf industry.
Industry Recognition Our exclusive partnership with Rip Curl and established connections with Bali's top surf schools give you qualifications respected across Southeast Asia.
Immediate Career Placement We don't just train you in paradise - we connect you directly with Canggu, Uluwatu, and Bingin's premier surf schools for guaranteed employment.
Premium Indonesian Earning Potential As a qualified surf instructor, you can enjoy Indonesia where your money goes three times further.
Cultural Immersion Experience Learn Indonesian language basics, understand local customs, and build relationships that'll serve your entire surf career in Southeast Asia.
Proven Track Record With over 25 years of experience, Outer Reef has helped thousands of surf instructors launch successful careers across Indonesia's islands.
From the reefs of Canggu to the barrels of the Mentawais, your Indonesian surf career starts here.
Turn your passion into a profession and join Outer Reef Surf Academy Bali today.

Your New Career Awaits

Ready To Transform Your Life?

Your Next Steps

Choose your dream destination from 10 global locations

Select your program length (4 or 8 weeks)

Secure your spot with instant booking

Start your global surf career with 100% job guarantee


Book Your Academy Experience

To book, visit: Indonesia Surf Academy

UK Programs: UK Academy

European Programs: UK & Europe Link


Have A Question?

Email: contact@outerreefsurfschool.com

Speak To Academy Director: +44 7769903653

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