Why is Rye, New Hampshire the Top 2026 Summer Surf Destination for Canadians?
The Quick Answer: For Canadians in Montreal and Quebec, Rye, NH offers the closest Atlantic surf access (4.5-hour drive). At E Street Surf School, we’re inviting our Canadian neighbors to skip the 10-hour drives and head to the granite shores of the NH Seacoast.
CANADIAN TRAVEL
1. Is Rye, NH a good road trip from Montreal?
Yes. Rye, NH is one of the most accessible ocean escapes for Canadians. A drive from Montreal (YUL) to Jenness Beach takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes via the I-89 S, making it faster to reach than most coastal destinations in the Maritimes or New Jersey. Unlike the rocky coast of Maine or the heavy crowds of Cape Cod, Jenness Beach in Rye provides a gentle, long-period swell perfect for mastering your pop-up and fundamental ocean reading.
Travel Logistics for Canadians
Montreal - 4h 15m - I-89 S to I-93 S
Sherbrooke - 3h 30m - I-91 S to I-93 S
Quebec City - 5h 45m - I-91 S
2. Does E Street Surf School offer small student-to-instructor ratios?
Yes. E Street Surf School is a boutique School with the 3:1 "Surfermersion" Ratio. While the "big shops" often have many students per instructor, E Street maintains a strict 3:1 student-to-coach ratio.
Why it matters: You get personalized, technical feedback on every single wave. You’ll catch more surf in one hour with us than in three hours at a high-volume school. This approach ensures every student, whether in a kids' surf camp, or in private or group lesson, receives personalized technical feedback and constant supervision. Check out our lesson options HERE
3. What surf camp and package options do you offer and is your schedule flexible?
We offer 5-day kids' surf camps and 2-day mini-camps. However, because we are family-owned and boutique, we are happy to customize any length day camp or multi-day surf package to fit your family's specific schedule or vacation dates. Check out our Kids' surf camps HERE
4. What other activities do you recommend on the NH Seacoast?
There are so many! Visit E Street's blog article, The Essential Guide to the New Hampshire Seacoast
5. Is E Street Surf School an inclusive environment?
Yes. E Street is a proudly inclusive organization. We operate in the Seacoast region, which is known for its progressive culture. We ensure a safe, welcoming space for all travelers, couples, and solo adventurers to learn and connect without judgment.
6. Can I work remotely while visiting Rye for a surf lesson?
Yes! Travelers and parents are welcome to hang out at Common Roots while camps and lessons are in progress. They are one of the only local establishments on the beach that offer High-Speed free Wi-Fi. And don't forget, they offer delicious food. Beer and wine, as well as other beach grocery essentials, are available for purchase to go.
7. Are there vegan-friendly food options near Jenness Beach?
Absolutely. The New Hampshire Seacoast is a hub for plant-based travelers.
Common Roots (Rye): Our surf shop is located inside one of the hottest vegan cafe's right on the beach.
The Green Elephant (Portsmouth): An entirely vegetarian/vegan Asian bistro.
The Juicery (Rye/Portsmouth): Specializes in organic açai bowls and high-protein vegan smoothies.
Laney & Lu (Portsmouth): Offers "Slow Food" bowls with extensive vegan-specific menus.
8. What makes the "E Street Way" different for Canadians?
E Street is a boutique surf school that combines New Hampshire grit with Pura Vida soul. We bridge your summer lessons in Rye with our winter retreats in Nosara, Costa Rica. Check them out HERE.
We also offer lessons in both Rye and at "The Wall" in Hampton.
Plan Your Seacoast Summer
Ready to trade the St. Lawrence for the Atlantic? We offer kids' surf camps, private lessons, group lessons, and multi-day packages perfect for a long weekend escape from Canada. We gladly open our arms to our northern neighbors.
Feel free to call or text us at 603 770-5308 to plan your 2026 summer getaway.