Last Updated on June 23, 2026 by Ellen Christian
South End Surf ‘N Paddle is a full-service surf and paddle school. It is a favorite among families and beginners because it combines experienced local instructors, beginner-friendly lessons, kid-focused programs, unique paddle experiences, strong community values, and a customer-first approach that makes learning on the water easy and enjoyable.
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Long Beach Island stretches along the New Jersey coastline and is one of the most popular summer destinations on the East Coast. Beach Haven sits at the southern tip of the island and offers calm bay waters alongside Atlantic Ocean surf. The island enjoys warm summers with consistent swells that suit learners at every stage.
South End Surf ‘N Paddle operates in one of the region’s most popular coastal destinations. Booking an LBI surf and paddle school experience with South End means choosing a team with deep roots in the local surf community. The level of local knowledge and community focus here is hard to find anywhere else on the island.
Here are six reasons why families and beginners continue to choose South End Surf ‘N Paddle School:
1. Deep Community Roots and Local Ownership
South End was founded by Ken Gallant, who grew up on LBI and started surfing in 1965. He traveled through Australia, Latin America, the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Europe before returning to share his passion. In 2023, he passed ownership to Matt and Kristen Bekelja, a local couple raising their family on the South End.
Kristen attended Beach Haven Elementary, and both are active in the PTA and the Beach Haven Art Walk. Their roots in the community make the South End far more than just a surf shop.
2. Surf Lessons Designed for Every Skill Level
South End offers 90-minute private surf lessons tailored to each student’s ability. Lessons cover ocean reading, surfboard handling, paddling, popping up, wave catching, safety, and surf etiquette. Every session begins with beach instruction before students head into the water.
Group lessons are also available for friends and families learning together. Wetsuit and surfboard are included with every lesson booked.
3. Programs Built Specifically for Kids
South End runs two dedicated surf camps for younger learners on LBI. Each program builds water confidence in a safe and enjoyable setting.
Lil Grom Surf ‘N Paddle Camp
Designed for kids aged 6 to 10, this camp introduces surfing and paddleboarding in a beginner-friendly format. It focuses on building confidence while keeping every session fun and age-appropriate.
Big Grom Surf Camp
Built for kids aged 11 to 16, this high-energy camp suits both beginners and returning campers. It offers a more immersive surf experience that challenges students while keeping sessions encouraging.
4. Stand-Up Paddleboard Tours and Yoga on the Bay
South End offers a range of paddle experiences that go well beyond standard surf lessons. Every option suits different group types, skill levels, and occasions.
- SUP tours run along the Beach Haven waterfront and Bayview Park on Barnegat Bay
- The Beach Haven SUP tour is popular for families, birthday parties, and bachelorette outings
- Sunset paddle tours let guests glide across the bay as the evening sky changes color
- SUP yoga classes are held on the calm waters of Barnegat Bay
5. Free Lessons for Veterans and First Responders
As a Long Beach Island surf school deeply tied to its community, South End offers complimentary experiences every day of the week for those who serve. The free offerings include:
- Surf lessons at no cost for veterans and first responders
- Paddleboard ecotours and sunset paddle tours are included free
- Surfboard, kayak, and paddleboard rentals provided at no charge
- Family and friends accompanying them pay the regular price
6. A Satisfaction Guarantee Backed by Hundreds of Reviews
South End stands behind every experience with a clear satisfaction guarantee. If a session does not feel like the best part of a guest’s LBI trip, the team will make it right or offer a full refund. This promise is backed by hundreds of five-star Google reviews from families, beginners, and returning visitors.
The shop is at 220 S Bay Ave in Beach Haven and is open Monday through Sunday from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Key Takeaways
- South End Surf ‘N Paddle is located at 220 S Bay Ave in Beach Haven on Long Beach Island.
- The school was founded by Ken Gallant and is now owned by local couple Matt and Kristen Bekelja.
- Private surf lessons run 90 minutes and include a wetsuit, surfboard, and personalized Paddle coaching.
- Kids camps are available for ages 6 to 10 and 11 to 16, with beginner and returning camper formats.
- SUP tours, sunset paddle tours, and SUP yoga classes are offered on Barnegat Bay.
- Veterans and first responders receive free lessons and rentals every day of the week.
- A satisfaction guarantee and hundreds of five-star reviews back every experience at South End.
Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
