Reviews

March 2017 Ryan is awesome! We have been in town for 2 days from Tennessee and Ryan has my 9 year old up and surfing. Can't wait to see how he does tomorrow. Highly recommend him.

March 2017 When I first decided on a lesson with Ryan I was very nervous, but I quickly learned what a great teacher he is! He was very attentive and placed great emphasis on being safe which I very much respected. All in all it was a great learning experience and am really looking forward to another session. Thanks again

March 2017 The best surfing session I'v ever had! Ryan Ragan is not only teaching, he is inspiring as well. I can't beleive that surfer with sooo much sport achievements can be so greate teacher as well. He improved my surfing technique significantly just in one session! Many thanks for Ryan and his school !!! Max Chuev

March 2017 I had my first surfing lesson there and i cant say more than it is soooo great. Ryan is so nice and just the best surfing teacher!!!

March 2017 Absolutely amazing! I was flying into Daytona Beach on a Sunday afternoon, and on a whim, I emailed a couple shops from the airplane to see if anyone could possibly fit me in that afternoon. I was hoping I could get in that afternoon because I was going to be busy with work the rest of the week. Ryan got back with me before I landed and was happy to say he'd fit me in a couple hours after I landed. He said he's been at it all day, but wanted to fit me in (we ended up going to 6.30 or so). I had read around at some lesson reviews in the area, and I saw numerous ones that gave me the idea that I probably wouldn't even be standing up on the board that day -- but hey, I was gonna get in what I could. To my amazement, Ryan had me up on a board and riding within the hour. I was ecstatic since I wasn't even expecting to get up on the board at all. At the end of the set, he was sure to push me to get a good one in so I could end it on a smile instead of a fall. Killer lesson, had a blast and I'm hooked now. Really wish I could've made it back for more that week. Anyway -- super personable and nice guy. Thanks Ryan! I'll definitely swing in again the next time I'm through there.

February 2017 What a great experience for my daughter. Ryan is a perfect instructor. High energy lesson and he knows how to work with teens. Recommended highly!!

February 2017 Ryan was the absolute best. Spent Thurs-Sun surfing with him every day. His instruction brought my surf skill to a new level. He was attentive, encouraging and enthusiastic. Not only did we surf the whole weekend, but he spent time showing me around the city, all the best places to go! Just a 5 star experience on all levels, don't waste time looking anywhere else for a surf lesson!

January 2017 Had an amazing day with my sister, and Ryan. Hes absolutly amazing. Anyone who wants to learn to surf should really come by and see him. Hes friendly and just an awesome teacher. Thanks dude, for such a steller time.

January 2017 This guy Ryan and I met on the beach and no crazy waivers fees or nothing, great price for three hours with a board, and he ended up letting me keep if for another hour if I wanted! Then he stepped out, and shot me a text saying, keep it for another hour! Ended up getting a killer shred when the lifeguards said I needed a board, and good ol' Ryan Ragan came through. Mad respect.

January 2017 Ryan is a wicked chill dude and is very knowledgeable when it comes to surfing. Great motivator, great person, and great store; I would highly recommend anyone learning to surf in Daytona to go learn from Ryan.

January 2017 Best experience ever. I Traveled from TN & came across Vast Oceans Surf & SUP, while exploring the Daytona Beach area. Taking my first surfing lesson with Ryan Ragan was the best decision. I highly recommend him to anyone wanting to learn or wanting to have an unforgettable experience on a surf board. He is very knowledgeable and professional with expert skills & technique to match. Anyone will be ready to catch a wave after just one lesson with Ryan. I give Vast Oceans Surf and SUP 6 stars on a 5 star scale!

January 2017 My wife and I took a couples surfing lesson, and he had us standing up and dropping in within the first hour. If you want to learn to surf, go see Ryan--he's the man.

January 2017 Ryan was such an awesome instructor. He has vast knowledge and experience in surfing, and he was so encouraging to my husband and I as we learned to surf for the first time. We both got up a bunch of times in the waves during our first hour of surfing! If you don't have a bunch of time but want a quality lesson, you've got to book here!!

January 2017 Ryan was so amazing and great at what he does . He is a very knowledgeable surf instructor. He was very patient and passionate surf instructor. If we lived closer we would take weekly lessons . Very happy with our surf lesson and Aaron was beaming after he rode a bunch of waves .

December 2016 Was so much fun! Ryan was kind & is an awesome human! The boards were great. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Thanks for a fun time! God bless!

December 2016 We arrived at the shop in the late afternoon and our daughter wanted to surf. We called the number on the door and the owner came in from his day off. He gave us a great price and set her up with a wet suit. He shared some great experiences with our children. It was a highlight of her trip! We would definitely recommend this shop. What an amazing experience, and a genuinely nice person!

November 2016 Highly recommend Ryan and his surf school. My son had a blast. Ryan is great with all ages and the whole class had a blast. We will be sure to come back every year.

November 2016 Had a lesson last week with Ryan, brilliant experience, very friendly, professional & patient !, good clear instruction on the beach covering technique & safety in the water, best place to learn and great fun, highly recommend

November 2016 Had a surf lesson with Ryan. Had the best day got standing up on first attempt. Great instruction on the beach for safety and how to get surfing. If you want to learn to surf this is the place to go at Daytona Beach florida.

November 2016 Me and my brother came to Daytona beach looking for fun and we found it at vast oceans. We rented surf boards and the owner actually came out and pushed us out on waves. I never have been treated more nicely and supported while we were learning. Thanks Ryan we will definitely be back! Safety was first and we liked that. Surfs up from buffalo ny

November 2016 Best place to learn to surf by far. Ryan covers everything, from proper techniques, safety issues, favorable conditions, you name it. Really made me feel excited about trying something I've always wanted to learn, and encouraged me throughout the entire process. He's passionate about what he does and instills that in his students. Great value also for the knowledge you gain. I'm definitely going back... next week.

September 2016 Excellent surf shop with great service and knowledgeable lessons. Instructor was patient and helpful!! Love it and will be back when we come to the area again!! Thank you!

September 2016 Such a great experience. Ryan had us all standing up on the first lesson. He's high energy, positive, encouraging. The equipment is top notch. I'm 49 years old, and was afraid that I'd feel uncomfortable because of my age. Not at all! Group lesson had ages from 13 to 49, and he was able to make it work for all of us. I highly recommend Vast Oceans.

September 2016 It was amazing. Me and my buddy Daniel were looking to have a great surf day and he gave it to us. We came here September 4th and this will be a day him and I won't forget. We're apart of the team now😛 -Eric

September 2016 My sister, daughter, and I had a fantastic surf lesson with Ryan Ragan today in Daytona Beach! Ryan is so passionate about teaching and his enthusiasm is contagious! The lesson was great fun while still focused on safety. I recently tried surfing on my own for the first time without a lesson and after today realize that was a mistake. Rather than beating myself up today I was able to ride waves and enjoy it! Thanks Ryan for a wonderful experience!

September 2016 My sister, daughter, and I had a fantastic surf lesson with Ryan Ragan today in Daytona Beach! Ryan is so passionate about teaching and his enthusiasm is contagious! The lesson was great fun while still focused on safety. I recently tried surfing on my own for the first time without a lesson and after today realize that was a mistake. Rather than beating myself up today I was able to ride waves and enjoy it! Thanks Ryan for a wonderful experience!

August 2016 Ryan was great with my son made him feel very confident before even hitting the water. Gave him lots of tips and even a free board rental the next day!! Thanks

August 2016 The owner and instructor Ryan Ragan's surf knowledge, skill, and enthusiasm is off the chain.  He is patient and helpful to address individual concerns.  I rate his surf school a big 6 out of 5 stars!

August 2016 If you want to learn to surf,this is the place. I am 55 years old and have always wanted to surf. Pro surfer Ryan Ragan was our instructor. He teaches technique and safety on the beach first. When he sees that your ready,he takes you out to the waves. I got up on my first try. Ryan is a great guy and can teach people of any age to surf. Check it out you'll be glad you did.

August 2016 I want to give Ryan Ragan a SIX!!!  Ok I'm ...well let's say, a senior chick with too many pounds on me, yet with his patient instruction and awesome equipment, I actually got UP on my first lesson OMG!  I'm def going back to HIM for more lessons!  Who wants to join me?  Thanks Ryan - you ROCK!

July 2016 Ryan is awesome! Best choice I could've done for my first time surfing experience. Not your typical huge shop trying to sell something. He is a really good instructor (has lots of patience and explain you step by step) and really good person! If I were you I would stop looking and go there for your surfing lessons

June 2016 Ryan was very accommodating and knowledgeable, our entire family had a wonderful experience. Would definitely recommend!

June 2016 It was awesome! Ryan and josh were super friendly and helpful! Feel like a pro now

June 2016 Ryan did an excellent job teaching my daughters about safety and technique before getting in the water. We had a nice small group of 4 and he made sure that everyone knew how to stand up on the board before hitting the waves. This really helped my youngest be successful once she got on the water. Thank you Ryan for letting them play with the boards after the lesson. It will be a day that we will never forget!!! 🙂

June 2016 Ryan Ragan is awesome!!! such a cool guy,, really helped me out with a bike rental! I'm from Australia and he was super keen to help me learn about the area! would totally recommend!! very helpful- 5 star

June 2016 Life changing. Surfing is something I've dreamed about doing for years. I truly didn't expect to be able to stand up the first time or even be decent at it, but with Ryan's help I exceeded my expectations. 5 stars not just for an amazing experience, but for inspiring confidence in myself and helping me fulfill a dream.

June 2016 An EPIC experience. Although learning to Surf was on the Bucket List, never really thought it would happen. Ryan GUARANTEED he could get me up on a board despite my 52 yrs and almost as many extra pounds. Very positive coaching, motivation and in-water instruction got this old fatty up and surfing DUDE! Thanks Ryan, CHEERS!

June 2016 I signed up for surf lessons as a birthday present for my 12 year old son and I to take together.  Neither of us had ever surfed.  We had a wonderful time.   Both my son and I were able to surf after one lesson with Ryan! We highly recommend Ryan for lessons!!

June 2016 This guy is good, he got me up on my first wave ever.

June 2016 This was an amazing place to learn how to surf. Ryan showed us how to pop up on the board a few times on the sand and then we went out in the water and because of his coaching I was able to get up on the first try and ride a wave! Josh was also very helpful and helped me drag my board through many of the big waves to get out farther. Overall it was a great experience! I would HIGHLY recommend it 🙂

June 2016 They were amazing! Great customer service, great teaching. Very small store but the environment was very good. I'll definitely be back

June 2016 An unassuming storefront on International Blvd., right at the entrance to the beach. Ryan is an awesome instructor getting both our kids up on the board right away! My wife did great, it took me a little longer, but Ryan was both patient and encouraging. Josh and Wyatt were great help too! We highly recommend Vast Oceans and their world class service!

May 2016 My son got lessons from Ryan and he is great with kids and treats my son like if my was his. and he is a great person glad to meet him

May 2016 Ryan was an awesome surfing instructor. I can't wait to go back and rent a board from him!

May 2016 I took two lessons last year at another surf school in Daytona and was not able to get up and ride a wave. Ryan got my friend and I in the water and we both stood up and rode out waves on our first try!! Ryan was very informative and placed us on the best boards to learn on, can't wait to take another lesson! If you live in the Daytona Beach area or are here on vacation and want to try surfing, Vast Oceans is the place to go!

May 2016 Ryan is an excellent instructor, and very patient. I was surfing on my first attempt, and now I am hooked and buying a board! He is truly passionate about what he does and it showed from start to finish.

May 2016 Love this place, best place to rent from, and everyone is super kind!! Such good vibes there!! Can't wait to go back in the morning!! 🙂

May 2016 Such a great experience! Ryan was very helpful with our group. He gave a quick lesson before to ease our nervousness because it was our first time. He helped the entire group enter the water safely. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a great time! His staff was very helpful and assisted me in the water. Thanks so much Ryan! Best of luck 🙂

May 2016 Great lesson and super friendly staff. Easy for beginners. Up close experience with dolphins in their natural habitat.

May 2016 The people are really nice, had such a fun time paddle boarding. I would recommend to anyone!

May 2016 Just got back from an awesome vacation in Daytona and the definite highlight of that vacation was surfing with Ryan. Took my first lessons with him last year without any surfing experience at all, and was nearly able to stand up a couple waves in but didn't quite manage it. The next time I went up Ryan put me on a long board and by the tenth wave was finally able to stand up which I was pretty stoked at before promptly falling on my bum. Lol, this past weekend Ryan put me on a surf-paddle board combo and on the seventh wave I was able to not only stand up,  but ride the wave all the way through. Which made me happier than words can say. It's so much fun learning to surf with Ryan, he is super encouraging, a total goofball which makes surfing with him even more fun. Couldn't be happier about my experience with Ryan and look forward to going back for more lessons soon. 🙂

May 2016 My kids and several of their friends and I took a lesson in early April.  The instructor was great with the kids.  His class was great; everyone learned to surf.

April 2016 Ryan is an incredible instructor. His high energy and encouraging approach made it easy to learn and love surfing! I couldn't believe I was actually able to surf after just one lesson, and he makes you look good doing it! He is also one of nicest people in Daytona. I highly recommend taking lessons from Ryan. He can make anyone able to surf with style.

April 2016 Ryan just gave my 9 year old son, his first surf lesson and he was awesome!  He is an amazing teacher and my son is so excited to be surfing!  I would highly recommend him, for children and adults!  We will be going back for the summer camp!

April 2016 Ryan is an outstanding surf instructor. I never thought it would be something I could do, and he created a surfing addict after one lesson. He made me confident in the water and can do the same for you. I highly recommend Ryan. If you are in Daytona this is a must!

April 2016 Ryan was one of the best instructors I have ever had. In a matter of minutes he had me surfing like a pro! I have a bunch of friends that surf and after one lesson from Ryan I can keep up with them. I was fortunate enough to learn on the best day of waves in months! Bryan is a very professional instructor who makes surfing an experience of a lifetime. I would definitely go back there and do business with Vast Oceans Surf Shop!

April 2016 I took surf lessons from Ryan and he was amazing, taught me a lot for my first lesson.

March 2016 Today my 5 year old had a great lesson w/ Ryan. Ryan was a great teacher and made it super fun for him. Ryan was right there with him the whole time and I am so glad we went with vast oceans! Thanks, Ryan!

March 2016 The Instructor was great! He knew what he was doing. He knew how to instruct and I actually got up this time because of him.

March 2016 Ryan was a great instructor! My 14 year old and I had a great time. Ryan was great encouraging us even with a strong current. And it was great having the surf shop right by the beach!

February 2016 While I can't speak of any lessons in the water, as a person whose life was touched by Ryan Ragan following a bad during accident, I'll speak volumes of Ryan's character and lessons he offers on living life as a decent man of character . In 2005, I broke my back surfing. As a parent of two young girls and husband and pretty athletic person, I was devastated by the potential of facing possible paralysis and a loss of an active lifestyle. Drowning in self pity and hopelessness, I was sinking into massive depression. Out of the blue I received a phone call from a young professional surfer named Ryan, who had also faced similar circumstances after a near career ending accident of similar proportions. Ryan gave me hope and really lifted my spirits during that dark time, bringing hope and support to a complete stranger. I'm up on my board again, I've run a marathon, climbed mountains and dove in many places in the world's beautiful oceans. Each day I say a prayer of thanksgiving for physical recovery and for a most kind soul who reached out and helped pull me from that sea of uncertainty in which I felt like I was drowning. You and your kids will certainly learn how to surf in his surf camp, but more importantly, we can all learn much from this man's examples of kindness and the lessons he brings in being a good-looking decent human being. I'm most grateful for Ryan Ragan, and happy to see his dreams of teaching people to surf coming to fruition. More importantly, I'm grateful to now call this man a friend. Best wishes, Ryan! Ron Wooten Galveston, Texas

May 2016 I had a great surfing lesson with Ryan at Vast Oceans. Ryan offered great instruction and encouragement in a positive, effective and incredibly enthusiastic way. I look forward to returning with my family for more lessons.