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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Santa Cruz…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Surfing Lessons
    5. /Private Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz
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    Private Surf Lesson in Santa Cruz

    Build surf skills with one-on-one coaching at Pleasure Point

    4.9 stars• 270 reviews

    Duration

    2 hrs

    Includes

    Wetsuit, surfboard, instruction

    Highlights

    Learn at your own pace with private instruction from professional surfer Bud Freitas. Develop foundational skills or refine your technique with guidance tailored to your goals.

    • Learn paddling, popping up, positioning, ocean awareness, and wave etiquette
    • Receive immediate feedback as you refine your technique
    • Build confidence in the water with one-on-one instruction
    • Explore surfing at Pleasure Point with coaching matched to your experience

    Itinerary

    1.Meet at the surf shop and introduce ourselves.

    2.Get sized for the right wetsuit.

    3.Do an on-land tutorial of the basics (10–15 minutes).

    4.Shuttle to the beach at Pleasure Point and surf for the remainder of the lesson.

    1. After the session, get picked up in the shuttle, return to the surf shop, and head home happy.

    What's Included

    • Wetsuit
    • Surfboard matched to your skill level
    • Private surf instruction

    Important details

    • Arrive 15 minutes before your lesson
    • Bring a bathing suit and towel
    • Sign the required digital waiver before the lesson; participants without a signed waiver cannot take part
    • Expect a Santa Cruz Parks and Recs fee; the amount is not specified

    Cancellation Policy

    Cancel or reschedule at least 48 hours before the scheduled start time. Rescheduling carries a $50 rebooking fee. Cancellations within 48 hours are charged 50% of the lesson cost. Same-day cancellations and no-shows are charged the full lesson price.

    FAQs

    Arrive wearing your bathing suit, and bring a towel and sandals for before and after your lesson.

    Changing areas are not always available, so come dressed in your bathing suit.

    Your lesson includes a wetsuit and surfboard. Booties, towels, gloves, and hoods are not included.

    Meeting details

    Surf School Santa Cruz, 3548 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062

    Experience provided by Surf School Santa Cruz

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Reference #Q2FUFC

    Surfer

    $233.20

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    270 reviews•Google Maps
    255
    4
    1
    0
    2

    This surf school has clearly figured out the formula for getting first-timers standing on their boards fast. Instructors like Sam, Dane, Ryan, and Cooper get consistent shoutouts for being patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely fun to learn from. Reviewers mention getting up on waves within their first few attempts, with many total beginners riding multiple waves in a single two-hour session. The instructors do something unique by "towing" students out to the waves using their feet, which saves energy and maximizes time actually surfing. Families seem especially happy here. Multiple reviews mention kids as young as three having a blast, with instructors skilled at adapting their approach for different ages and experience levels. Parents appreciate how instructors build confidence in nervous kids while keeping everyone safe and out of the impact zone. The booking process is straightforward, and they handle all the logistics including boards, wetsuits, and beach transportation. The overall vibe is welcoming and encouraging, making it an excellent choice for anyone curious about learning to surf in Santa Cruz.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    Better experience than we could have imagined. Our kids had the best time.

    Photo of Samantha Evans

    Samantha Evans

    June 24, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Better experience than we could have imagined. Our kids had the best time.

    Photo of Samantha Evans

    Samantha Evans

    June 24, 2026

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