Our Story

More Than a Surf School.

Saltwater Souls was born from a simple dream—to build a life around the ocean and share the incredible experience of surfing with people from all over the world.

After spending more than 10 years coaching at one of Cape Town’s leading surf schools, I knew it was time to create something of my own. I wanted to build a surf school where every guest feels welcome, every lesson is personal, and every wave becomes part of a memorable Cape Town experience.

Saltwater Souls branded car with a surfboard on the roof, parked in front of a colourful street mural with Lion's Head mountain behind.
Henri, founder and lead instructor of Saltwater Souls, smiling with fellow surfers in wetsuits in front of colourful beach huts.

Meet Henri

Born-and-raised Cape Town surfer, and certified surf instructor with over 10  years of coaching experience - someone who genuinely has a passion for introducing people to the  ocean.  

Over the years I've been fortunate enough to coach surfers from all over the world. One of the  greatest compliments I receive is when guests return to Cape Town and choose to surf with  me again. Those returning faces remind me that great surf lessons are about more than  standing up on a board—they're about creating an experience people want to relive.  

For me, the ocean has always been more than just a place to surf.  

It's where I find perspective, peace, and purpose.  

The sea has a way of humbling you while reminding you to stay present. It challenges you,  rewards you, and teaches lessons that reach far beyond the beach. Saltwater Souls was  inspired by that feeling—the connection we build with the ocean and the way it leaves every  person just a little different than before.

A Unique Approach

No two surfers are the same.  

Some guests arrive excited, while others arrive nervous and unsure if they'll even catch a wave. My job is to understand each person, meet them where they are, and help them build confidence at their own pace.  

I believe the best lessons are built on:  

  • Patience  

  • Encouragement  

  • Safety  

  • Respect for the ocean  

  • Having fun 

I always tell my students not to overthink surfing. Relax, enjoy the moment, and let the ocean teach you one wave at a time.  

A surf instructor coaches a small group of students sitting on the sand, with colourful Muizenberg beach huts in the background.

Our Promise

When you surf with Saltwater Souls, you can expect:  

  • Professional, qualified coaching  

  • A safe and supportive environment  

  • Local knowledge of Cape Town's best beginner surf beaches  

  • Patience and personal attention  

  • A genuine appreciation for the ocean  

  • A sense of achievement you'll remember long after your holiday ends  

Whether you're visiting Cape Town for a few days or you're lucky enough to call it home, I hope you leave with more than just photos.  

I hope you leave with confidence, unforgettable memories, and a little piece of the ocean that stays with you forever. 

Four surfers cheering and holding surfboards aloft in front of the colourful Muizenberg beach huts.

Contact us

Have a question about the tides, our gear, or which lesson is right for you? Drop us a message below and we’ll get back to you.