THE ORIGINALSURF SCHOOL
Gary's Surf School isn't just the oldest surf school in South Africa — it's where the South African surf culture began. And 35 years later, we're still on the same beach with the same stoke.
Gary's Story
IT STARTED WITH
ONE WAVE
Gary Kleynhans started surfing in 1976. He fell in love with the ocean and spent the next 13 years developing his skills, his understanding of the sea, and his passion for sharing it with others.
In 1989, Gary opened the first dedicated surf school in South Africa — right here on Muizenberg beachfront. His vision was simple: share the stoke, teach it properly, and make the ocean accessible to everyone.
More than 35 years later, that's still exactly what we do. While other schools have come and gone, Gary's remains — because we genuinely care about every person who walks through our doors. Whether you're 5 or 75, a beginner or a progression surfer, you'll be in the best hands on the beach.
"Surfing is growing at a rapid pace since people are realising what a fun way to stay in shape it is. It clears your head, removes all stress and puts a smile on your dial. To stay stoked — just go surfing!" — Gary Kleynhans
Community Impact
MORE THAN JUST
A SURF SCHOOL
Gary's has always been about more than lessons. One of our most beloved stories is that of Kwezi Qika — a young kid from an underprivileged background who walked up to Gary on the beach one day with no money and no board, and simply said he wanted to get involved.
Gary took him in, taught him to swim, gave him a wetsuit and board, and Kwezi went on to become a beloved instructor and mentor to dozens of underprivileged kids from the townships around Cape Town. Stories like Kwezi's are why Gary started this school — and why we've never stopped.
Meet Our TeamOur History
35 YEARS OF WAVES
A young Gary catches his first wave — and is hooked for life.
South Africa's first dedicated surf school opens on Muizenberg beachfront.
Hundreds of Cape Town families learn to surf. Kwezi and many others get their start.
Tourists begin returning year after year. Tripadvisor reviews pour in from across the globe.
Matthew expands the school's reach with transported lessons, day trips, and Garden Route surf trips.
35+ years on — same beach, same energy, same guarantee. The original is still the best.
BE PART OF THE STORY
35 years of waves, smiles, and stoke — and plenty more to come. Come join us on the beach.