Gnome Surf is a surf therapy nonprofit with roughly seventy trained instructors, and Little Legends is its fully inclusive wave fest, designed so neurodivergent kids from age two upward, their siblings and their parents all get in the water together with no judgment and no prerequisite. The Rockaway edition brings that to the city's own Atlantic beach. If you have a kid who has been told they cannot do this, come down.
What to expect
A staffed beach session with instructors paired to participants, boards supplied, and families spread along the sand cheering. Expect land instruction before anyone paddles out, small waves and shallow water work rather than competition surfing, siblings included in the water, and a celebratory, loud, unhurried atmosphere across the afternoon.
Good to know
- Held on the Rockaway beachfront in Queens; A to Broad Channel then the S shuttle, or the NYC Ferry Rockaway route
- Registration is handled in advance through Gnome Surf's event page
- No surf experience is needed and boards are provided by the organization
- Built for neurodivergent kids aged two and up, plus siblings and families
- Bring sunscreen, towels, a change of clothes and water; there is little shade on the sand
- Beach access points have ramps, but sand transfer chairs should be arranged ahead
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Common questions
Who is it for?
Neurodivergent athletes aged two and up, along with their siblings and families; everyone is welcome and no surf experience is required.
What is Gnome Surf?
A 501(c)(3) surf therapy nonprofit founded by Chris Anteo, now with around 70 trained instructors, focused on inclusion for kids of all abilities.
Do we need our own board?
No. Equipment and instruction are provided at the event.
