ABOUT US
Dee Why Salty Surf School is run by Dan and Conrad, lifelong surfers with deep roots in the Northern Beaches surf community. With years of hands-on surf coaching experience, they created Salty Surf School to offer lessons that are safe, supportive, and genuinely focused on helping people progress — not just stand up once and tick a box.
Both Dan and Conrad are passionate about teaching surfing the right way, with a strong emphasis on ocean awareness, confidence-building, and creating a relaxed environment where everyone feels comfortable in the water. They’re supported by a team of fully qualified instructors who share the same values and love for the ocean.
Together, they’ve built Dee Why Salty Surf School to be a place where kids, adults, beginners, and progressing surfers can learn, improve, and fall in love with surfing — one wave at a time.
YOUR SURF COACHES
At Dee Why Salty Surf School, we’re passionate about sharing the joy of surfing in a fun, safe, and welcoming environment. As a locally run surf school, we’ve helped thousands of surfers — from first-timers to confident intermediates — experience the thrill of riding waves at one of Sydney’s most loved beaches.
Our experienced team of local coaches are not only skilled surfers, but confident water people who genuinely care about helping you feel comfortable in the ocean. Every lesson is designed to be supportive, encouraging, and tailored to your ability, so you can progress at your own pace while having a great time.
Beyond surf lessons, we’re all about creating memorable beach experiences. From private coaching and group sessions to kids programs, school groups, and special events, we cater to surfers of all ages and backgrounds. With quality equipment, qualified coaches, and a strong focus on safety, Saltys is here to help you build confidence, catch waves, and fall in love with surfing — one session at a time.
HEAD COACH
DAN O'CONNELL
Dan O’Connell grew up with the ocean as his playground, developing a passion for surfing and adventure at an early age. With over 15 years of surf coaching. His love for surfing is contagious, making every tour a personal, interactive experience tailored to each group’s skill level and interests.
Beyond his role as a tour leader, Dan ensures that every Salty Safaris expedition is safe, educational, and packed with fun. His surf expertise and local knowledge guarantee that beginners and advanced surfers alike find waves that suit their level, while his easy-going personality ensures every participant feels welcome and at ease.
HEAD COACH
Will Brian
Will Brian is an adventurer at heart, with a wealth of experience guiding travelers through some of Australia’s most stunning coastal regions. As a seasoned surfer and outdoor enthusiast, Willbrings unparalleled expertise to Salty Safaris, ensuring every journey is as immersive as it is unforgettable. His passion lies in crafting adventures that go beyond the typical tourist experience, helping guests explore hidden beaches, scenic trails, and untouched surf breaks known only to locals.
Dee Why Salty Surf School & Surf Hire
Dee Why Salty Surf School specialises in beginner-friendly surf lessons, running regular group sessions alongside private coaching for those wanting a more personalised experience. Whether it’s your very first wave or you’re looking to build confidence and progress your skills, our lessons are designed to suit all abilities and conditions.
Conveniently located just moments from the sand at Dee Why Beach, we make getting in the water easy. It’s a short walk from our base to the shoreline, so you can spend less time organising and more time surfing.
Our facilities include showers, toilets, and change rooms, with a dedicated wet entry to keep things practical and comfortable for surfers coming straight out of the ocean. We also offer a range of quality surf hire, including soft beginner boards, performance boards for intermediate and advanced surfers, and warm wetsuits for cooler conditions — so you’re covered year-round.
Everything you need, right by the beach, with friendly local surfers ready to get you started.
Book Your Dee Why Surf Lesson Today
Your first surf lesson at Dee Why Salty Surf School is all about building confidence and having fun in the ocean. You’ll learn the fundamentals of surfing, from paddling and popping up to catching and riding your first waves with clear, supportive guidance every step of the way.
Our experienced local coaches create a relaxed, encouraging environment where you can learn at your own pace. Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can continue progressing with regular lessons or choose private coaching for more personalised instruction tailored to your goals.
Book your surf lesson today and experience the joy of surfing at Dee Why Beach.
Why surf with Saltys:
- Learn from experienced, qualified local surf coaches
- Enjoy a safe, supportive learning environment
- All equipment provided, including soft beginner boards and wetsuits
- Fun, confidence-building lessons at one of Sydney’s best beginner beaches