Santa Monica makes learning to surf feel close up. This private 2-hour lesson pairs you with a dedicated instructor, with personalized guidance on land and in the water for the full session. You’ll ride LA’s classic Venice Beach energy while learning the basics (or leveling up).

I also like that the setup is practical: surfboards and wetsuits are included, so you’re not spending your vacation shopping for gear. Instructors such as Cat, Pepe, Jonathan, and Eden show up again and again in great reviews for being patient and focused on you, not just the group.

One consideration: conditions can be cold, and sometimes the surf is rough. If you tend to run cold or you’re not comfortable with choppy water, plan to dress warm and be ready for coaching adjustments like extra wetsuit layering.

Quick Take: Key Things That Make This Lesson Worth It

• True private attention: one instructor training you in the same session, on land and in the water
• Gear included: surfboard plus wetsuit means you arrive ready to go
• Instructors with strong first-timer skills: many learners report standing up quickly with the right cues
• Built for kids and teens (7+): patient teaching style for younger surfers
• Cold-weather know-how: instructors adapt, including layering tips like double wetsuits
• You set the pace: the lesson is based on your skill level and what you can do

Private Surf Lesson in Santa Monica: Why One-on-One Changes Everything

Surf lessons can be hit or miss when you’re one of many. Here’s the difference: this is a private lesson, so your instructor can watch your form, correct your timing, and adjust the practice without waiting for the slowest person in the group. That matters most when you’re learning how to pop up, paddle efficiently, and read what the wave is doing.

You’ll also benefit from the “skill-based” part of the plan. This lesson isn’t stuck on one rigid script. If you’re a total beginner, you get focused basics. If you already surf a little, you can work on the next step instead of repeating day-one drills.

And yes, you’re doing it in one of LA’s most iconic settings. Santa Monica and Venice Beach put you in front of ocean views and that unmistakable SoCal surf vibe—without turning your lesson into a crowded tourist spectacle.

From Meet-Up to Board-Ready: Your 2 Hours, Step by Step

The session runs about 2 hours total, and it starts at 20 Bicknell Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401. You’ll finish back at the same meeting point, so you don’t have to think about getting anywhere between land coaching and the water.

A typical flow for a private surf lesson like this looks like:

• Gear up first: wetsuit on, surfboard in hand, and a quick fit check so you’re comfortable and not fighting your suit once you’re in the water
• Land instruction: you’ll get movement coaching on shore before you go out, the kind of guidance that helps your body remember what to do when you’re paddling and timing a wave
• In-water practice: your instructor then guides you in the water for the rest of the session, not just a short “try it” moment

One thing I really like is that your instructor stays with you through the whole lesson. Many group lessons feel like you’re passed along. This one aims to keep you learning continuously—land practice into real wave attempts—so you don’t lose momentum.

Also keep in mind the lesson depends on conditions. If the day is too rough or the weather doesn’t cooperate, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund. That’s important in a place where ocean days can change fast.

The Coaching You’ll Actually Feel: What You Practice in the Water

In a private lesson, the goal isn’t to just watch you fall a few times. It’s to help you start succeeding more often during the same session.

Based on what you’ll experience here, expect coaching that focuses on:

• Pop-up timing and body position: the cue that gets you from paddling to standing without overthinking
• How to catch waves safely: learning what to look for and when to go
• Paddle technique basics: not complicated, just the moves that reduce wasted effort
• Adjusting to real conditions: if it’s choppier or harder, your instructor will change the approach

Many of the strongest reviews point to quick progress—people describing being up on the board fast, sometimes during their first real attempts. That’s usually a sign the instructor is good at spotting what’s stopping you and giving a simple correction you can repeat.

In rougher surf, the lesson still works because your instructor can shift expectations. One reviewer mentioned rough conditions but being able to pop up a few times with solid coaching. Translation for you: even if waves aren’t perfect, you can still learn something useful and feel progress.

Who Should Take This: Beginners, Teens, and the 7+ Crowd

This lesson is suitable for beginners and also those who have some experience. The lesson being private makes it easier to match your level in real time—your instructor can slow down and add repetition for brand-new surfers, or focus on technique refinements if you’ve already stood up before.

The minimum age is 7 years old, and the reviews repeatedly mention strong results with kids and teens. If you’re bringing a younger surfer, look for patience and hands-on attention. Instructors like Jonathan and Johnathan are described as super patient with kids, and others are praised for staying close while kids were surfing.

If you’re a parent, this is also one of those “everyone leaves smiling” activities. Teens often like the direct attention, and adults tend to appreciate how quickly the lesson clarifies what they’re doing wrong.

One practical note: the tour says you should have a moderate physical fitness level. Surf is fun, but it’s still paddling, balance, and getting in and out of the water. If you’re recovering from an injury, or you’re unsure about cold-water endurance, it’s worth considering beforehand.

Gear and Water-Temperature Reality: Wetsuits, Cold, and Safety

Good news: surfboards and wetsuits are included. That takes two big vacation headaches off your plate. You won’t need to rent separate gear or worry about whether you picked the right board size. You show up, you get suited up, and you start practicing.

Cold water is the part you can’t control. Several reviews mention it being cold at the time of year, and one pointed out instructors doubling up on wetsuits to help. That’s exactly the kind of detail you’ll appreciate when your hands are numb but you still need to learn paddle-to-pop-up timing.

Water safety matters in Santa Monica and Venice. One review raised a concern about seeing water pollution readings only after the fact. I can’t promise how any readings are presented day-of, so your best move is simple: check any local ocean advisories before you go out and ask your instructor if there’s anything you should know about the specific conditions that day.

Also, photos aren’t included. Still, you may find your instructor is willing to take personal snapshots during the session, but that’s not guaranteed in the formal offering. If you want guaranteed photos, plan to bring your own camera in a waterproof case, or accept that this is mainly about learning, not documentation.

Price and Value: Is $125 for 2 Hours Reasonable?

The price is $125 per person for about 2 hours, and the lesson includes surfboard and wetsuit. That makes the value easier to judge than many “cheap but extra costs later” activities.

Here’s why it can be worth it:

• You’re paying for one-on-one coaching time, not a shared group session
• Gear is included, which removes rental hassle
• A good instructor can compress learning time so you get meaningful practice in the same afternoon

If you’re a group, check whether group discounts apply. The info notes group discounts, which can make this far more attractive if you’re splitting costs with friends or booking multiple private lessons close together.

If you’re traveling solo, $125 can feel like a splurge. But many people choose this because it’s the fastest route to standing up and enjoying the ocean without wandering through random “surf school” confusion. When you’re paying for attention, the lesson should feel focused.

Venice Beach Energy Without the Chaos: What the Setting Adds

Part of the charm here is that you learn near LA’s iconic Venice Beach surf scene. That matters in subtle ways.

First, you get the visual motivation. Seeing other surfers, the beach vibe, and the coastline helps make the ocean feel real and achievable, especially when you’re nervous. Second, you get a classic LA memory. You’re not just doing an activity—you’re doing it in a place people come to specifically for the surf culture.

Also, the meeting point is easy and specific: 20 Bicknell Ave. That helps on a busy beach day. If you’re prone to arriving late, this structure helps you get into the lesson without stressing.

Booking Smart: When to Reserve and How to Show Up

Booking averages come out to about 32 days in advance, which tells you this isn’t always a “walk-in whenever” kind of plan. If you’re traveling in peak season or you have a tight schedule, reserve early. A mobile ticket is provided, so you can keep everything simple on your phone.

Here are a few smart, practical prep tips:

• Bring a change of clothes for after the lesson (you’ll want dry fast)
• Plan for cold even if the sun is out. Ocean temps can surprise you.
• Wear simple swimwear you can comfortably move in
• If you’re anxious, tell your instructor early. Many reviews highlight how instructors keep learners confident, calm, and focused.

Instructors are repeatedly described as supportive and encouraging—so if you’re worried you’ll be terrible, you’re not alone. The best part of a private session is that you can learn without feeling rushed.

Should You Book This Santa Monica Private Surf Lesson?

If you want the best chance to learn in one session, I’d lean yes. This is built around private attention, gear included, and coaching on land plus in-water practice. It’s also a solid pick for families because the lesson is designed for 7+ and the teaching style is repeatedly praised for being patient with kids.

You might pause if you know cold water is your weakness, or if you’re not comfortable with moderate physical exertion. In that case, ask questions about how the instructor will handle cold conditions and whether additional wetsuit layering is available or recommended for your comfort.

One more reason to book: you’ll be surfing in a place people dream about. You get technique, ocean time, and a Santa Monica/Venice Beach memory all in the same 2 hours.

FAQ

How long is the private surfing lesson in Santa Monica?

It lasts about 2 hours.

What’s included in the price?

Surfboards and wetsuits are included.

What ages can participate?

The minimum age is 7 years old, and both adults and children aged seven and above can join.

Is this a private lesson or a group class?

It’s private. Only your group participates.

Where do you meet for the lesson?

You meet at 20 Bicknell Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, and the activity ends back at the meeting point.

Are photos included?

Photos are not included.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the cancellation deadline for a full refund?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience start time for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before the start time, the amount paid is not refunded.