Sister Jo's Surf School — Local services in Indian Rocks Beach

I was so looking forward to my first surfing lesson at Sister Jo’s Surf School, but was sorely disappointed after encountering poor customer service. The company offered a private surf lesson for 60 minutes for $210. A $105 deposit was due before the lesson and an additional $105 was due following the lesson. Although my instructor was very knowledgeable in describing safety precautions and correct positioning, my lesson was cut short by 30 minutes. The fact that the lesson would be cut in half was not communicated via voicemail, email or text before the session. Shortly after my lesson ended, someone from the company contacted me via text requesting that I pay the final $105. I responded letting her know that my instructor did a nice job, but the lesson was 30 minuets and I asked if the initial $105 plus tip would cover the services. She responded letting me know that the price will remain the same and the payment is due the day of the lesson regardless of what happened. I had to pay the price of a full hour for a 30 minute session.

To end this negative review on a positive note, my instructor seemed passionate and well informed about surfing and made sure that I was understanding the information that was being presented. I wish the best of luck to the company and I hope that future customers have positive surfing...

I was really hoping for a positive experience but unfortunately that did not happen. I booked a 1-hour private surf lesson for my two children ages 8 and 9 that cost $315. Yes, $315. Our instructor was nice and the kids had fun BUT the owner was shockingly rude. She sent an electronic invoice that was incorrect, with no link to click to select the correct payment, then verbally attacked me for not paying it right away. Mind you I had already paid 50% upfront and tipped the instructor an extra $20. And I tried to pay the remaining invoice as I was leaving the lesson but couldn’t due to errors in her system. She sent me messages defending her invoice multiple times and telling me I’m “ghosting her” before finally admitting she had an error in her system. Her language was so accusatory, defensive and outright immature that I could not imagine doing business with her again, let alone entrusting her with the safety of my children. I strongly recommend hiring a private instructor NOT associated with Sister Jo’s. You’ll spend half the money and save...

I can’t say enough great things about Sister Jo Surf School! My son had an incredible experience learning to surf, and a huge part of that was thanks to our fantastic instructor, Brett. He is truly awesome – a great teacher who made my son feel completely comfortable in the water. Brett’s teaching style is patient and encouraging, perfect for beginners.

The location of the surf school is ideal. It’s not crowded, which allowed for plenty of space to practice and catch waves. The waves themselves were just right for a beginner, providing the perfect environment to build confidence and skills.

Additionally, the school is very punctual and organized, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable. We couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to surfing, and we highly recommend Sister Jo Surf School to anyone...