This course is designed for individuals looking to start a career in surf instruction. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to teach basic surfing techniques, safety procedures and surf awareness
Surf Instructor Academy Sumba Indonesia
ISA Surf Instructor Courses Sumba Indonesia
Become a Surf Instructor In The Maldives & Train In World-Class Waves
Swap the ordinary for pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and some of Indonesia’s most consistent and world-class waves. Train as a surf instructor or gain Level 1 & 2 lifeguard certifications with the Outer Reef Surf Instructor Academy at our Sumba eco-retreat, and build a career that lets you travel, work in incredible surf destinations, and spend your days in the ocean doing what you love.
Our ISA-endorsed programmes are designed around real surf school delivery in genuine conditions, covering coaching methodology, water safety, risk management, lesson planning, and hands-on instruction. With daily guidance from experienced instructors, you’ll progress fast, gaining confidence and practical skills you can apply immediately in professional surf settings.
Set in a quietly luxurious, nature-rooted retreat, our Sumba base combines nourishing local cuisine, thoughtfully designed accommodations, and a flexible daily rhythm for surfing, yoga, recovery, and immersive island experiences. Perfect for solo travellers, couples, or small groups, it’s a calm and supportive environment to train, unwind, and grow.
Join us in Sumba and leave with internationally recognised qualifications, real teaching confidence, and the expertise employers look for in surf schools worldwide.
Join us in Sumba
International Surf Instructor Courses Sumba
Surf Instructor Courses Sumba
ISA L 2 Surf Instructor Courses Sumba
Surf Instructor Courses Sumba
Surf Instructor Courses Sumba
Join Our ISA Approved Surf Instructor Courses
Transform Your Passion Into A Career
Outer Reef has been training surf instructors for over 25 years, delivering professional, real-world coaching in destinations we know inside out, now including Sumba, Indonesia. Our academy programmes are designed to take you from training to certification with clear progression, hands-on coaching, and the practical experience you need to become a confident, work-ready surf instructor.
Training in Sumba means warm tropical waters, uncrowded reef and beach breaks, and a range of waves that allow you to learn in varied conditions while maintaining a surf-first daily rhythm of sessions, coaching, and recovery. The island’s consistent surf and stunning surroundings make it an inspiring place to develop your skills both in and out of the water.
Depending on your chosen pathway, you can earn ISA Level 1 and Level 2 Surf Instructor qualifications, alongside international water safety training such as ISA/ILS Aquatic Rescue and Safety (surf and SUP). Additional options include SUP instructor awards and advanced lifeguard or rescue courses for those looking to take on higher-responsibility roles.
What sets Outer Reef apart is experience and structure: thousands of instructors trained worldwide, ISA-qualified educators with extensive teaching backgrounds, and programmes that combine coaching, safety training, and real teaching practice. With flexible 1 + 2 week pathways, you can choose the format that suits your goals and leave Sumba with internationally recognised qualifications and the confidence to teach anywhere in the world.
Sumba is a quietly luxurious eco-resort in Sumba, Indonesia, designed for travellers seeking a blend of surf, wellness, and slow island living. Nestled in harmony with the natural landscape, it offers easy access to Sumba’s world-class reef and beach breaks, making it an ideal base for surfers, surf courses, or anyone wanting a relaxed, boutique retreat.
The resort features private rooms in twin, double, or shared layouts, each with an en-suite bathroom, air conditioning, and daily housekeeping. Full board is included, with fresh, locally sourced meals and options for vegetarians or specific dietary needs.
Days can be shaped around surfing, yoga, movement, or recovery, with open-air spaces designed for stretching, mindfulness, and sunset or sunrise sessions. Thoughtful design, personalised service, and a tranquil island setting make it the perfect sanctuary to recharge, connect with nature, and enjoy Sumba at your own pace.
Discover Our Courses
ISA Level 1 Surf Instructor course
ISA Level 2 Surf Instructor Course
This advanced course is for individuals looking to improve their teaching skills and gain a deeper understanding of surf instruction. It covers more advanced teaching techniques, as well as assessment and analysis of student progress
ISA/ILS International Surf and SUP Instructor Aquatic Rescue and Safety Course
This course provides the knowledge and skills needed to perform rescues and emergency procedures in a surf or SUP environment. It is essential for anyone looking to work as a surf or SUP instructor
ISA Flat Water SUP Instructor Course
This course is designed for individuals who want to teach Stand-up Paddleboarding on flat water, like lakes and rivers. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to teach basic techniques, safety procedures, and equipment usage
ISA Open Water SUP Instructor Course
This course is designed for individuals who want to teach Stand-up Paddleboarding on open water, like the ocean. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to teach advanced techniques, safety procedures, and equipment usage
SLSGB Surf Coach Rescue & Safety courses
This course is designed for individuals who want to become surf coaches. It covers the knowledge and skills needed to teach surf techniques, safety procedures and surf awareness
This course is designed for individuals who want to work as a beach lifeguard. It provides the knowledge and skills needed to perform rescues and emergency procedures in a surf and beach environment
Start Your Journey Today
Don't hesitate to contact us today with any questions or to book your spot. We look forward to helping you advance your surf and paddle boarding instruction career!
Turn your passion into a rewarding career
Become a Certified Surf Instructor In Sumba
Outer Reef has been delivering surf instructor training for over 25 years and offers internationally recognised ISA certification courses in carefully selected destinations worldwide. In the Maldives, our instructor training programmes are delivered in warm-water, reef-break environments that provide consistent waves and an ideal setting for focused learning.
Training in the Sumba allows you to develop your teaching, safety and surf skills in real-world tropical conditions. Our courses combine expert coaching, water safety qualifications, teaching methodology and hands-on experience, giving you the confidence to instruct across a wide range of surf environments. Designed for aspiring instructors at different stages of their journey, these programmes offer a supportive and structured pathway into professional surf instruction.
Backed by decades of surf education experience and a global network of partner surf schools, our Sumba surf instructor courses provide internationally respected qualifications and ongoing support beyond certification. It’s an opportunity to train, progress and qualify in one of the most iconic surf destinations in the world.
A Brighter Future Through Surfing
Surf Instructor Academy Courses Sumba
The Surf Instructor Training programme is the ultimate pathway to a rewarding career teaching surf worldwide.
A brighter future through Surfing
Surf Instructor Academy Courses Sumba
The ISA Instructor Academy is the ultimate surf adventure combining certification, travel, and career launch.
A brighter life through Surfing
Surf Instructor Courses Sumba
The Surf Instructor Course is the ultimate journey from passionate surfer to certified professional instructor.
A brighter future through Surfing
Surf Instructor Academy Courses Sumba
The Instructor Training package is the ultimate blend of world-class coaching, certification, and global opportunity.
A brighter future through Surfing
Surf Instructor Courses Sumba
The ISA Surf Academy is the ultimate experience of skill development, qualification, and joining our global instructor family.
A brighter future through Surfing
Surf Instructor courses Sumba
The ISA Surf Academy is the ultimate experience of skill development, qualification, and joining our global instructor family.
OUTER REEF SURF INSTRUCTOR ACADEMY
Course Dates
Unlock your potential and join us for our ISA certified Surf and Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) Instructor courses, paired with our essential lifeguard training. Our ILS and SLSGB Surf Coach and Beach Lifeguard certificates are internationally recognised. Dive into the details below to discover upcoming course dates and embark on a journey to become a certified water sports instructor and lifeguard with Outer Reef.
OUTER REEF SURF PACK 1
Duration
7 nights / 8 days
per person
Dates
COMING SOON
Includes
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7 nights accommodation
-
Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, unlimited water, coffee)
-
Group airport to hotel transfers
-
2 daily surf trips with surf guide to nearby spots
-
Unlimited free-surf sessions
-
ISA Level 1 course
-
Lifesaving course
Does not include
-
Extra drinks (beers, juices, soft drinks, etc.)
-
Tips
-
Flights
-
Travel assistance insurance
-
Trip cancellation insurance
OUTER REEF SURF PACK 2
Outer Reef Surf Pack 2
Duration
7 nights / 8 days
per person
Dates
COMING SOON
Includes
-
7 nights accommodation in boutique hotel
-
Full board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, unlimited water, coffee)
-
Group airport to hotel transfers
-
2 daily surf trips with surf guide to nearby spots
-
Unlimited free-surf sessions
-
All local taxes included
-
ISA Level 2 course
-
Lifeguard course
Does not include
-
Extra drinks (beers, juices, soft drinks, etc.)
-
Tips
-
Flights
-
Travel assistance insurance
-
Trip cancellation insurance
Testimonials
James, Level 2 ISA Instructor
"Completing my ISA Level 1 & 2 with Outer Reef Academy in the Maldives was the best decision I ever made! The 4 week program was intense but incredible from learning wave theory in the tropical classroom to practicing rescue techniques in perfect Indonesian barrels. The instructors' 25+ years of experience really showed they didn't just teach us to surf, they taught us to read conditions, manage groups, and handle any situation safely. Six months later, I'm now head instructor at a resort in the Maldives earning more than I ever did in my office job. The international recognition of ISA certification opened doors I never imagined. Outer Reef didn't just give me qualifications they gave me a lifestyle!"
★★★★★
Zoe, ISA/ILS Instructor & Lifeguard (Trained in Maldives)
"Starting my instructor journey at Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire was perfect for building solid foundations. The Welsh conditions taught me to handle everything from gentle rollers to powerful winter swells. What sets Outer Reef Academy apart is their comprehensive approach I left with ISA Level 1 & 2, SLSGB Lifeguard certification, and SUP instructor qualifications all in one program in the Maldives was epic. The support didn't end at graduation either. Within two weeks, I was placed at a surf school in Portugal, and now I'm running my own surf camps across Europe. The academy's 100% job placement rate isn't just a statistic - it's a promise they deliver on. Best investment I ever made in myself!"
★★★★★
Mark, Professional Surf Coach (Trained in Maldives)
"After 10 years as a recreational surfer, I wanted to turn my passion professional. Outer Reef Academy's Maldives program exceeded every expectation. Training along the Northern Atols consistent breaks with world-class instructors was incredible, but what impressed me most was the business side - they taught us marketing, customer service, and how to actually build a career in surfing. The Rip Curl sponsorship and industry connections opened doors immediately. I'm now coaching at three different surf schools, running private lessons, and just launched my own surf photography business. The academy didn't just certify me as an instructor - they equipped me with everything needed to succeed in the surf industry. Five years later, I'm still part of the Outer Reef family!"
★★★★★
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