Learn to Surf

The water temperature is definitely not tropical, but the summer months in Maine make up for those long winters and relentless springs. Maine is great place to learn how to surf for more reasons than one, it’s a joy that you’ll have to discover for yourself this summer!

Arlberg Surf Tip: Surf movies and surf videos are great to learn to get to advanced surfing levels. From the take off to the aerial landing, it’s always interesting to watch and try yourself. Movies are available at Arlberg Surf Shops in Freeport and Scarborough or book a lesson with one of their instructors. Certified instructors, group or private lessons, they will travel to meet you and all equipment is provided!

If your looking for a full body workout try a SUP. You will be amazed at the unique view you have because you stand at your full height and can see the life that is underneath your board as well as what is on the horizon.

Maine Surfers Union is Portland’s only surf shop located at 36 Market Street in Portland’s Old Port. It is a year-round surf and lifestyle shop that was the recipient of two Portland Buy Local Indie Biz Awards 1st Best New Business in 2013 and Portland’s Best Kept Secret in 2014. Maine Surfers Union (MSU) has what you need to get in the water any time of year, from winter and summer wetsuits, glove, booties and a very impressive selection of hand shaped, 100% made in the USA surfboards that you will not find anywhere else in New England.

They offer individual and group surf lessons for beginners, plus refresher lessons for more advanced skill levels, and a Buoy Local special – if you buy one lesson with your Buoy Local Card you can add a second person for free.

MUS has product for the non-surfers in the family with clothing and accessories for men and women from O’Neill, Poler Stuff, Patagonia, LiveME, FlowFold and many more. The store carries a wide range of urban and beachwear including bikinis, board shorts, button downs, dresses, pants, hats, and sunglasses.

MSU also has an in house head shaper, stop by and watch Nick of Neto Shapes design and shape a surfboard from start to finish in the shop shaping bay. They also make custom surfboards for all ages and skill levels; you dream it up, they will build it, along with surfboard building classes where you can build your own board from start to finish with MSU head shaper Nick guiding you along.

Events at the shop this summer: First Friday of the month Art Walk with local artists displays, live music, beer tasting & live surfboard shaping demonstrations. Every third Thursday if the Month is free movie night, bring a beach chair and hang out and watch a funs surf movie with a good group of people.

Blackpoint Surf Shop in Scarborough is just minutes away from Higgins and Scarborough Beach. They offer kids ages 6+, to adults the chance to get comfortable in the water. While the main focus is on having fun, they structure lessons to encourage your individual ability to balance and paddle, while working towards standing, riding and reading a wave. With 12 years of experience following their apprenticeships in California, shop owners and board builders, Andy and Ryan of McDermott Shapes, are experts in ding repair, board restoration, and custom board creation. Black Point Surf Shop is ready for the summer season and excited to add to Maine’s growing surf culture.