Time on the beach isn’t just enjoyable; It can also be deeply therapeutic. In Virginia Beach, we believe everyone should have the chance to experience that feeling.
Across our three beaches,thoughtful accessibility featureshelp make time by the water more welcoming for all. Beach access ramps and mobility mats create smoother paths onto the sand, while beach wheelchairs help visitors get closer to the shoreline. At the Oceanfront, spaces like JT’s Grommet Island Park for EveryBODY offer a fully accessible place to relax and play right on the shore.
That same spirit carries into the surf community, where local schools and organizations are helping make the sport more inclusive for individuals of all abilities. Whether you’re a first-time surfer or returning to the water, you’ll find experienced instructors, a welcoming community and a lesson designed around you.
Here’s where to start your surf therapy journey in Virginia Beach.
Life Rolls On
Each summer, Virginia Beach welcomes Life Rolls On, a nationally recognized nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality of life for people living with physical disabilities and paralysis. Through its “They Will Surf Again” tour, the organization brings adaptive surf experiences to the Oceanfront, right at Grommet Island Park.
The event brings together participants, volunteers and families for a high-energy day in the water, using adaptive surfboards, beach wheelchairs and one-on-one support to create an environment where safety, confidence and fun go hand in hand. From first-time surfers to returning participants, everyone is welcomed with the same message: you belong here.
Surfers Healing
Few organizations embody the spirit of surf therapy quite like Surfers Healing. This internationally recognized nonprofit hosts special events in Virginia Beach focused on providing free surf experiences for children with autism.
Held at the Oceanfront in August, these events bring together experienced surfers, volunteers and families for a day that’s equal parts uplifting and unforgettable. Each participant gets one-on-one attention, and the emphasis is always on creating a calm, supportive environment where kids can connect with the ocean in their own way.
Wave Warriors
The Wave Warriors group continues its mission of connecting wounded veterans, active-duty service members and their families with the healing power of the ocean, right at the Oceanfront. While the organization no longer hosts its annual large-scale camp, it still provides free surf lessons and experiences for injured service members and their dependents through its partnership with the 17th Street/Billabong Surf Camp.
These personalized sessions offer the same spirit Wave Warriors was built on, with a focus on support, encouragement and time in the water. Experienced instructors guide participants in a way that feels approachable, empowering and fun.
VB Surf Sessions
VB Surf Sessions takes a flexible, personalized approach to helping more people experience the waves. While they don’t offer a formal adaptive surf program, their team at the Oceanfront has extensive experience working with individuals of all abilities and is committed to making each lesson as supportive and accessible as possible.
Instructors regularly work with guests who have physical, cognitive and sensory disabilities, adapting their teaching style to meet each individual’s needs. Much of that experience comes through partnerships with organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project, Operation Healing Forces and Higher Ground USA, where they’ve supported veterans navigating a wide range of physical and mental health challenges.
Rather than relying on specialized equipment, the team focuses on hands-on instruction and thoughtful adjustments. A variety of soft-top surfboards with wider, more stable designs help create a more comfortable experience, especially for beginners or those looking for added support. Combined with attentive coaching and, when needed, additional staff in the water, each session is designed to build confidence and make time in the ocean feel approachable and enjoyable.
Higher Ground USA (CRU Surf Sessions)
Through its Community Resiliency Unit (CRU), Higher Ground USA offers seasonal surf therapy sessions in Croatan Beach designed for veterans and first responders, typically running from July through September. Organizers work closely with trained instructors, volunteers and community partners to create a safe, inclusive environment where participants can engage at their own pace, with accommodations tailored to both visible and invisible disabilities.
The goal is consistent across every session: to provide meaningful outdoor recreation and therapeutic time on the water in a supportive space where participants can recharge, connect and experience the restorative power of the ocean. Additional details and registration information will be available soon.
Surf & Adventure Co.
Located in Sandbridge, this local surf school takes a personalized approach to making time on the water more accessible. While not affiliated with a specific adaptive surf program, the team has experience working with individuals with both physical and cognitive disabilities, offering lessons that are flexible and tailored to each participant.
Most sessions at Surf & Adventure Co. are arranged on an individual basis, often with participants accompanied by a caregiver or support person. Instructors focus on creating a comfortable, encouraging environment, adapting their approach as needed to help each surfer feel safe and supported in the water.
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Written by Nicole Partis
From coastlines to city streets, Nicole is always in search of great food, new experiences and the next place to take a dip in the sea. She holds a B.A. in English Literature from the University of Southern California and has traveled to over 20 countries, always on the move. Passionate about travel writing, she is constantly on the lookout for destinations and experiences worth sharing.