Learn to Surf LA has been helping guests catch their first waves since 2002. This permitted, licensed, and insured surf school offers welcoming private and small-group lessons for ages 5 and up across Santa Monica, Venice, Manhatt...
Learn to Surf LA has been helping guests catch their first waves since 2002. This permitted, licensed, and insured surf school offers welcoming private and small-group lessons for ages 5 and up across Santa Monica, Venice, Manhatt...
Beginners consistently leave thrilled after their lessons here, with instructors like Mike, Angie, Chuck, and Jared earning high praise for their patience and teaching skills. People love how the instructors tailor lessons to individual comfort levels and sizes, helping complete novices stand up and ride waves within their first session. The booking process is straightforward, equipment fits well, and the Santa Monica location near the pier makes it convenient for visitors using public transit. The team genuinely seems to care about getting people comfortable in the water and having fun. Several reviewers mention the encouraging, welcoming atmosphere that puts nervous first-timers at ease. They handle groups well too, from families to corporate events of 14+ people. A couple reviews mention mixed experiences with instructor attentiveness, so it's worth being clear about your comfort level and expectations when booking. Optional photos are available after lessons if you want to capture the memories.
Booked a private 2-hour father-and-son surf lesson with Learn To Surf LA at Santa Monica State Beach on August 4, 2026, and it was the absolute highlight of our trip.From the moment we arrived, the process was seamless. All equipment—including properly fitted wetsuits and beginner-friendly soft-top surfboards—was included and ready on the sand. Our instructor, Arthur, was incredible with my son. He balanced a fun, high-energy attitude with strict ocean safety and clear wave-dynamics education during the initial 30-minute beach instruction.Once in the water, the gentle sandy-bottom break of Santa Monica made it a perfectly safe environment to learn. Thanks to Arthur's hands-on coaching, precise feedback, and perfect wave selection, both my son and I were successfully popping up and riding waves by the end of the session.If you want a professional, safe, and unforgettable family surfing experience in Southern California, book with Learn To Surf LA and ask for Arthur! Highly recommended for kids and adults alike.
Jonathan Bradshaw
August 5, 2026
Booked a private 2-hour father-and-son surf lesson with Learn To Surf LA at Santa Monica State Beach on August 4, 2026, and it was the absolute highlight of our trip.From the moment we arrived, the process was seamless. All equipment—including properly fitted wetsuits and beginner-friendly soft-top surfboards—was included and ready on the sand. Our instructor, Arthur, was incredible with my son. He balanced a fun, high-energy attitude with strict ocean safety and clear wave-dynamics education during the initial 30-minute beach instruction.Once in the water, the gentle sandy-bottom break of Santa Monica made it a perfectly safe environment to learn. Thanks to Arthur's hands-on coaching, precise feedback, and perfect wave selection, both my son and I were successfully popping up and riding waves by the end of the session.If you want a professional, safe, and unforgettable family surfing experience in Southern California, book with Learn To Surf LA and ask for Arthur! Highly recommended for kids and adults alike.
Jonathan Bradshaw
August 5, 2026