Special Surf (Surfing Life Club)

Special Surf

Confidence, safety, and fun for children, teenagers, and people with disabilities

Surf Special supports people with disabilities through adapted lessons and comprehensive guidance. Both are built around joy, progress, and connection.

Special Surf - For people with disabilities

Special Surf opens the ocean to adults and young people with autism or intellectual disabilities. In partnership with AAJUDE, RUMO À VIDA, APPC, and APPDA, this adapted program uses step-by-step surf lessons to build confidence, connection, and joy. It starts in the pool. Then it moves to the sea. And each student is supported by trained instructors, a therapy team, and the right equipment to feel safe and capable in the water.

What to know

• Designed for people with autism and intellectual disabilities
• Supported by certified surf coaches and therapy assistants
• Awarded the BPI training prize in partnership with AAJUDE
• Starts in the pool before progressing to ocean sessions
• All equipment is provided, including wetsuits and boards
• Focused on safety, personal progress, and positive experiences

What students learn

• Comfort and safety in the water
• Basic surfing and balance skills
• Body awareness and coordination
• Confidence through personal achievement
• Respect for the ocean and others
• Joy, concentration, and social connection