![Surf Center: how to post engaging content [content idea list]](http://onlineyougrow.com/cdn/shop/articles/cov-marketing-plan-1_9b215535-4920-49d9-a0c1-e0d1ca0b6de4.png?v=1715865702&width=1100)
Facebook and Instagram are not just for likes and fun—they're powerful tools that the best surf centers in the world use strategically to attract surfers and enthusiasts.
We know you're busy running your surf center and the thought of managing social media might feel like another wave to ride.
But here's the deal: you don't need to be a marketing expert or spend a fortune to make it work. Just a few minutes a day can bring a couple of new surfers to your beach.
To help you out, we have built a free list of content ideas - also, for a full action plan, please check our strategy pack for surf center owners.
Get the content idea list made for surf center owners
A lot of surf centers manage to post engaging content on social media. Here is a free tool to to get you started.
Content that always work well for a surf center
We have studied dozens of surf centers’ social media accounts when building strategy pack for surf centers - here is what seems to always work.
| Content Type | Why It Works to Get New Customers in Your Surf Center |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Surf Photos | Visually stunning images of surfers catching waves can inspire potential customers to experience the thrill themselves. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Videos | Showcasing the surf instructors, equipment, and preparation processes builds trust and creates a connection with the audience. |
| Customer Testimonials | Positive reviews and testimonials from real customers provide social proof and encourage others to try the surf center. |
| Specials and Promotions | Announcing limited-time offers, discounts, and package deals can attract new customers looking for a great deal. |
| User-Generated Content | Sharing content created by customers (photos, videos) engages the community and adds authenticity. |
| Local Collaborations | Partnering with local influencers or businesses can introduce the surf center to a broader, local audience. |
| Event Announcements | Promoting upcoming events, surf competitions, or special workshops can attract new visitors interested in unique experiences. |
| Seasonal and Holiday Posts | Highlighting seasonal surf conditions or holiday packages can attract customers looking for special experiences during those times. |
| Interactive Content | Polls, quizzes, and Q&A sessions engage followers and create a sense of community, encouraging them to visit. |
| Surf Tips and Tricks | Sharing tips and tricks from experienced surfers can engage followers who are surf enthusiasts and beginners alike. |
| Daily Surf Reports | Regularly updating followers with daily surf conditions keeps the surf center top-of-mind and encourages spontaneous visits. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Staff Stories | Featuring stories about the instructors and staff members creates a personal connection and humanizes the brand. |
| Equipment Maintenance Tips | Sharing tips on how to maintain surfboards and gear can engage followers who are surf enthusiasts and gearheads. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Highlighting sustainable practices or eco-friendly equipment appeals to environmentally conscious consumers. |
| Customer Spotlights | Featuring regular customers creates a sense of community and makes others want to be part of that group. |
| Contests and Giveaways | Running contests and giveaways can increase engagement and attract new followers, many of whom may convert into customers. |
Some surf centers make 5x more profit than you!
We have studied the strategies of the best surf centers in the world. Replicate them now!
How can surf center owners make great content on social media?
What to Prioritize
You probably know it already, but high-quality photos and videos of your surf sessions and equipment are essential.
People surf with their eyes first. Make sure the lighting is good, the waves look inviting, and the equipment is showcased well.
Also, post regularly to keep your audience engaged. It doesn’t have to be daily, but find a schedule that works for you and stick to it. We have prepared a free social media planner for you.
Of course, respond to comments and messages quickly. People appreciate interaction and it makes them feel valued. Don’t just be another “bland” account.
Show the real side of your surf center. Behind-the-scenes photos, instructor stories, and customer shoutouts can create a personal connection with your audience.
If you want to keep your potential customers excited, highlight any special offers, events, or seasonal surf conditions. Make sure your followers know what’s new and exciting.
Finally, share positive reviews and testimonials. Social proof is powerful and can help attract new customers.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much
Overly polished content does not really matter. Your posts don’t need to be perfect. Authenticity can be more engaging than highly produced content.
Also, don’t feel pressured to jump on every social media trend. Focus on what fits your surf center’s “image” and what your audience likes.
If you have a low budget to conduct marketing for your surf center, don’t immediately go for paid Ads. Organic reach can still be effective with good content and engagement. You will find tons of tactics and strategies in our strategy pack for surf center owners.
How to Do It Fast and Efficient
First, spend a few hours once a week taking photos, recording videos, and drafting posts. This way, you’re not scrambling daily.
Use Scheduling Tools - tools like Buffer or Hootsuite can schedule posts in advance, saving you time.
Repurpose and use the same content across different platforms. A photo on Instagram can be a post on Facebook or a tweet on Twitter.
Encourage customers to share their own photos and tag your surf center. This is what we call “User-Generated Content”. Reposting these can save you time and build community.
Use apps like Canva for quick and easy graphic design, or Lightroom for photo editing. These tools can make your content look professional with minimal effort.
Low-budget content ideas for surf centers on social media
Our team has crafted this list featuring highly specific, low-budget content ideas tailored for surf centers, with practical tips to keep costs down and effectively use social media.
You might want to incorporate some of these ideas in the marketing plan of your surf center.
| Content Type | Tips to Make It More Affordable |
|---|---|
| Smartphone Surf Photos | Capture action shots during golden hours (early morning or late afternoon) for the best natural light. Enhance photos with free apps like Snapseed or VSCO. |
| Customer Testimonials | Ask satisfied surfers to leave a quick video testimonial on their phone. Offer a free surfboard wax or a discount on their next lesson as a thank-you. |
| User-Generated Content | Encourage customers to share their surf photos by offering a monthly raffle for those who tag your surf center on Instagram. |
| DIY Surf Tips Videos | Film short, simple surf tips or tutorials using a smartphone and a basic tripod. Use free editing software like iMovie or OpenShot. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Stories | Use Instagram Stories or Facebook Live to give a real-time look at your daily surf prep or introduce the team during slow hours. |
| Daily Surf Conditions Posts | Design simple, eye-catching graphics for daily surf conditions using free tools like Canva. Include a brief description and a stunning photo of the waves. |
| Instructor Spotlights | Feature surf instructors with a casual photo and fun facts about them. Use your smartphone and a natural setting on the beach. |
| Simple Polls and Questions | Engage followers with free Instagram or Facebook polls about their favorite surf spots or suggestions for new classes. |
| Local Event Promotions | Collaborate with local events by offering a small discount or coupon. Cross-promote each other's content to reach a wider audience. |
| Community Involvement Posts | Post photos and short stories about your participation in local beach clean-ups or partnerships with community organizations. |
| Customer Spotlights | Highlight loyal customers with their favorite surfboards or techniques. Take a quick photo and share a short story about their experience at your surf center. |
| Surf Gear Photos | Create attractive settings using inexpensive items like beach towels, surfboard wax, and props from dollar stores. |
| Sustainability Tips | Share eco-friendly practices such as using biodegradable wax or organizing beach clean-ups. Create simple infographics with free tools like Canva. |
| Behind-the-Scenes Prep | Record short clips of surfboard maintenance or wetsuit care. Compile them into a quick video using free tools. |
| Simple Contests and Giveaways | Run social media contests where participants like, share, or tag friends to win a free surf lesson. Use prizes that are cost-effective like a free surfboard wax. |
| Seasonal Surf Posts | Highlight seasonal surf conditions and tips using natural light and your smartphone camera. Share the story behind the best times to surf to add interest. |
Copy the tactics of the best surf centers in the world!
There are surf centers that make way more money than you do. We have studied their tactics. Get them now!
Exceptionally creative and innovative content ideas specifically for surf centers
Investing in top-notch social media content for your surf center might be worth it because many other places won't bother, giving you a chance to really stand out, grab people's attention, and build a loyal crowd.
| Content Type | Why It Could Bring a LOT of Customers |
|---|---|
| Live Surfing Lessons | Hosting live or recorded surfing lessons where your instructors teach viewers the basics or advanced techniques can create a sense of community and attract a global audience. |
| Interactive 360° Surf Center Tours | Offering virtual 360° tours of your surf center, including the equipment room and training areas, can provide a unique behind-the-scenes experience and entice people to visit in person. |
| Limited Edition Surf Gear | Creating buzz with limited edition or seasonal surf gear available for a short time can generate excitement and urgency, attracting new and repeat customers. |
| Pro Surfer Experience | Offering an exclusive experience where customers can surf with a professional surfer and get personalized tips can create a memorable experience and word-of-mouth. |
| AR Surfboard Customization | Implementing augmented reality (AR) technology in your surfboard customization process where customers can see a 3D representation of their designs can enhance the buying experience and attract tech-savvy customers. |
| Themed Surfing Events | Hosting themed surfing events, such as a retro surf day or a night surf session, can provide a unique and immersive experience, attracting groups and special occasions. |
| Surf Challenge Contests | Organizing surf challenge contests (e.g., longest ride or best trick) can create viral moments, attracting competitive surfers and spectators. |
| Collaborative Pop-Up Surf Sessions | Partnering with other local surf schools or brands to host pop-up surf sessions can introduce your surf center to new audiences and create a buzz in the community. |
| Story-Driven Social Media Posts | Sharing in-depth stories about the origins of your surf center, the local surf culture, or the personal journey of your instructors can create an emotional connection with customers. |
| Interactive Wave Forecasts | Allowing customers to vote on the best times for surf sessions via social media polls can make them feel involved and eager to join the sessions they helped schedule. |
| Eco-Friendly Initiatives | Launching and promoting eco-friendly initiatives, such as beach clean-ups or sustainable surf gear, can attract environmentally conscious consumers and media attention. |
| Mobile Surf Clinics | Operating a mobile surf clinic in different locations or at local events can expand your reach and attract new customers who may visit your main surf center later. |
| Surf Gear Subscription Service | Offering a subscription service where customers receive monthly surf gear and accessories can create a loyal customer base. |
| Immersive Surf Workshops | Hosting workshops where customers can learn advanced surfing techniques from your instructors can attract surf enthusiasts and create a sense of exclusivity. |
| Flash Mob Surf Sessions | Organizing flash mob surf sessions in unexpected locations can create viral content and attract adventurous surfers looking for unique experiences. |
Content that never works well for surf centers on social media
Don't waste your time and resources on these ideas. We've seen many surf center owners make these mistakes, and they won't help you stand out from the crowd or bring in new bookings for your surf lessons and rentals.
| Content Type | Why It Never Works for Surf Centers | Do This Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Generic Stock Photos | They lack authenticity and can make the surf center appear unoriginal or untrustworthy. | Use real photos of your surf instructors, students, and the local surf spots to create a genuine connection with your audience. |
| Overly Promotional Posts | Constantly pushing promotions can feel spammy and turn off followers. | Mix in engaging content like surf tips, behind-the-scenes stories, customer testimonials, and interactive posts to keep your audience interested. |
| Unrelated Content | Posting content that has nothing to do with surfing or the surf center confuses followers and dilutes your brand. | Keep your content focused on surfing, surf gear, events, and related topics to maintain relevance and interest. |
| Low-Quality Videos | Poorly shot or edited videos can reflect badly on your surf center's quality and professionalism. | Invest in basic video equipment or hire a local videographer to produce high-quality videos that showcase your surf center positively. |
| Political or Controversial Posts | These can alienate parts of your audience and lead to negative backlash. | Stick to neutral, positive content that focuses on surfing, community, and your surf center's unique offerings. |
| Too Many Hashtags | Overusing hashtags can look desperate and reduce engagement by making posts look cluttered. | Use a few relevant, targeted hashtags to increase visibility without overwhelming your audience. |
| Automated Replies and Messages | They can come off as impersonal and frustrate customers looking for genuine interaction. | Respond personally to comments and messages to show that you care about your customers and value their feedback. |
| Overly Staged Photos | Photos that look too perfect can seem inauthentic and less relatable. | Use natural lighting and casual settings to make your photos feel more genuine and inviting. |
| Constant Self-Promotion | Only talking about your surf center can bore followers and reduce engagement. | Share user-generated content, collaborate with local businesses, and highlight community involvement to diversify your content. |
| Negative or Defensive Responses | Responding poorly to criticism can damage your reputation and discourage potential customers. | Address negative feedback calmly and constructively, showing that you are willing to improve and value customer input. |
| Ignoring Social Media Trends | Being out of touch with current trends can make your surf center seem outdated and unappealing. | Stay updated with social media trends and incorporate them creatively into your content strategy to keep your audience engaged and excited. |
| Excessive Posting | Posting too frequently can overwhelm your followers and lead to unfollows. | Maintain a consistent but moderate posting schedule, ensuring each post adds value and keeps your audience looking forward to your updates. |
| Complex or Confusing Promotions | Promotions that are hard to understand can frustrate customers and deter participation. | Offer simple, clear, and straightforward promotions that are easy for customers to grasp and engage with. |
| Ignoring Comments and Messages | Not engaging with your audience can make them feel undervalued and reduce their loyalty. | Regularly respond to comments and messages to build a strong, interactive community around your surf center. |
Make your surf center more profitable
We have studied the strategies of the best surf centers in the world. All their tactics are explained in our pack!
Why social media can be a big pay-off for your surf center
We understand that as a hypnotherapist, you might feel hesitant about diving into social media marketing.
The world of social media can seem foreign and filled with confusing jargon. You might believe that it's more suited for big corporations rather than small practices like yours.
The day-to-day demands of running a hypnotherapy practice are already overwhelming, leaving little time for additional tasks like social media.
It's common to think that social media marketing is an expensive endeavor, one that your tight profit margins can't support. Plus, the sheer number of social media platforms can lead to indecision and skepticism, especially if previous efforts haven't yielded the results you hoped for.
That's why we've created a "marketing pack" specifically tailored for hypnotherapists like you.
Our pack addresses all the issues you might face, offering simple, cost-effective strategies that don't require a marketing expert or a big budget for your practice. These documents are straightforward and easy to understand, cutting through the jargon and focusing on what really works for small hypnotherapy practices on social media.
We provide clear, actionable steps for creating engaging posts, building a loyal following, and boosting your practice's visibility online.
With our marketing pack, you can invest in your practice's growth without feeling overwhelmed or uncertain.
Your surf center could make more money!
Most surf center owners don't know how to grow their business. Let us teach you the right strategies.
