




Build surf skills with one-on-one coaching at Pleasure Point
2 hrs
Wetsuit, surfboard, instruction
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.
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.
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.
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.
Surf School Santa Cruz, 3548 Portola Dr, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
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.
Better experience than we could have imagined. Our kids had the best time.
Samantha Evans
June 24, 2026
Better experience than we could have imagined. Our kids had the best time.
Samantha Evans
June 24, 2026
Build surf skills together with focused private instruction
Build surf skills with professional instruction at Pleasure Point
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