San Diego isn’t just about gorgeous beaches or fantastic weather—it’s also a city filled with opportunities to learn new skills, get active, and experience local culture through hands-on workshops and classes. Whether you want to ride the water on a Onewheel electric hoverboard, craft delicious pasta, or master the art of sushi, San Diego offers options for every interest. We’re particularly fond of the Onewheel ride near Liberty Station for its combination of fun, speed, and scenic water views, and the Wild Clay Pottery Workshop in Julian for a peaceful artistic escape. These experiences give you a taste of local life and creativity, all with expert instructors guiding the way.
If you’re looking to get out and move, water sports dominate the list with stand-up paddleboarding, surfing lessons, and even eFoil flying lessons. For those more interested in food and craft, San Diego’s culinary classes—like pasta and ravioli-making, or sushi workshops at local breweries—offer delicious ways to spend a few hours. Each option provides a chance to learn, have fun, and come away with a new skill or hobby. Dive into the list below to find your perfect fit.
1. Onewheel Electric Hoverboard Lesson and Bay Ride
At number 1, the Onewheel electric hoverboard lesson and bay ride offers a thrilling way to explore San Diego’s water’s edge. For about $69, you get a 1.5-hour small-group lesson that covers control, acceleration, braking, and stability on the Onewheel XR, which can reach speeds of 18 mph. After learning the basics on land, you’ll ride along a scenic bike path near Liberty Station, with helmets and safety gear included. This activity is perfect for those who want an unusual adventure that combines tech, skill, and nature. Reviewers praise the instructor’s patience and the overall fun of learning something new in a beautiful setting.
Bottom line: Great for thrill-seekers and families eager to try something different on the water, with excellent value and memorable scenery.
2. Stand up Paddle Board Lesson on The San Diego Bay
Number 2 on our list is the Stand up Paddle Board Lesson on The San Diego Bay. For just $25, you’ll spend about 90 minutes with your guide in Chula Vista, learning to paddleboard or kayak in calm, sunny waters. Gear such as life jackets is provided, so all you need to bring is a swimsuit and a sense of adventure. Many reviews highlight how accessible and beginner-friendly the lessons are, with instructors like Michael making sure everyone feels confident on the water.
This experience is ideal if you want a relaxed, fun way to enjoy San Diego’s iconic bay. The calm water and friendly guides make it suitable for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends. You’ll get plenty of time to practice, take breaks, and soak in the scenery.
Bottom line: An affordable, easy, and scenic introduction to paddle sports perfect for first-timers.
3. Semi-Private Surf Lesson
Number 3 is the Semi-Private Surf Lesson, costing $125.28 per person. Taught on a beach with gentle waves, this class offers personalized attention from experienced instructors like Cody or Tom. The lesson begins on the sand, covering safety, paddling, standing up, and wave etiquette, then moves into the water to practice surfing skills. With a small student-to-instructor ratio, you get tailored feedback and plenty of hands-on time.
Reviewers mention how well the instructors adapt to different skill levels, making it suitable for beginners or those with some experience. It’s a great choice for families or friends who want an intimate, supportive environment to learn surfing.
Bottom line: Personalized, effective, and ideal for those who prefer a small-group setting with expert guidance.
4. Private Surf Lesson
Number 4 is the Private Surf Lesson, at $162.40. This half-hour private session offers focused attention from a dedicated instructor, perfect for quickly picking up surfing fundamentals. The instructor customizes the lesson based on your age and experience, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the beach. Rental gear like wetsuits and surfboards are included.
Most review comments highlight how helpful and patient the instructors are, with many guests noting rapid progress. It’s especially suited for families or smaller groups wanting a tailored, intensive experience.
Bottom line: Excellent value for personalized coaching that accelerates your surfing skills.
5. Group Surf Lesson
The Group Surf Lesson costs $113.68 per person and takes place on Cass St. With a 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio, this class balances affordable pricing with good personalized attention. All gear is included, so just bring your swimsuit and enthusiasm. The lesson covers the basics, and after just 90 minutes, many beginners find themselves riding small waves.
Reviewers note the instructors’ clarity and patience, making it a popular choice for first-timers. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a fun, social environment to learn to surf without breaking the bank.
Bottom line: Great value for first-time surfers seeking quality instruction in a small-group setting.
6. Intro to Wild Clay/Earthenware Pottery Workshop
Number 6 is the Intro to Wild Clay/Earthenware Pottery Workshop, priced at $65 for about 3 hours. Held amidst Julian’s rolling hills and apple orchards, this workshop guides you through molding and shaping local clay under Becky Sangha’s expert eye. You don’t need any prior experience—just a willingness to get your hands dirty and create something beautiful. The natural materials and scenic surroundings make it a calming, inspiring activity.
Participants rave about Becky’s authenticity and the quality of their finished pots. The experience suits artsy travelers or anyone wanting a relaxing, hands-on craft adventure outside the city.
Bottom line: A peaceful, creative escape into pottery with expert guidance and stunning scenery.
7. San Diego: Private Group Surf Lesson
Number 7 offers the Private Group Surf Lesson, ideal for friends or family traveling together. Up to 2 people can enjoy a tailored 2-hour session for $289 total, with a dedicated instructor focusing solely on your group. You’ll learn surfing techniques and ocean safety, with plenty of hands-on practice.
This option is perfect for small groups wanting an exclusive experience that’s more personalized than a crowded class. Reviewers mention the value of the focused attention and the fun of riding waves with loved ones.
Bottom line: Best for groups seeking a private, intensive surfing experience.
8. San Diego: Learn to Fly eFoil Lessons
Number 8 is the Learn to Fly eFoil Lessons, costing $135 for 2.5 hours. This is the ultimate experience for thrill-seekers who want to glide and fly above the water. No experience is needed, thanks to expert instruction, and you’ll get a full hour of riding time on top-of-the-line eFoil boards.
The instructor will guide you through safety and technique, making this a safe way to experience the sensation of flying across the water. The activity tends to be very popular among adventure travelers.
Bottom line: An unforgettable, high-tech water activity perfect for those who want to push their limits.
9. Fly Over Water: Lift5 eFoil Lesson with Videography
Number 9 is the Lift5 eFoil Lesson with Videography. Priced at $295, it offers not just a lesson but also professional videos and exclusive discounts on your own eFoil. You’ll learn to fly on the latest Lift5 eFoil in a 2-hour session with personalized coaching.
This experience is perfect for tech lovers or those wanting a keepsake of their ride. Reviewers appreciate the professional videography that captures their moment of flight.
Bottom line: A premium, memorable eFoil experience with added value through videos and discounts, suited for dedicated water sports fans.
$295 per person
10. San Diego: 2-Hour Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Brewery
Number 10 features the 2-Hour Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Brewery. For $75, you’ll learn to mix, knead, and shape fresh pasta while enjoying locally brewed beers. Led by a talented chef, this class provides practical skills in a relaxed setting, making it ideal for food lovers and casual cooks alike.
Guests rave about the hands-on approach and the pairing of good food with craft beer. It’s perfect for a date night or a small group looking to combine culinary skills with local flavor.
Bottom line: Delicious, interactive, and a fun way to spend a couple of hours learning pasta making with great beer.
$75 per person
11. San Diego: 2-Hour Ravioli Cooking Class With Local Chef
Another culinary favorite is the 2-Hour Ravioli Cooking Class, also priced at $75. Focusing on mushroom-stuffed ravioli, you’ll learn to make dough, prepare the filling, and fold your ravioli. The use of a truffle cream sauce elevates the dish, making it a gourmet experience.
The instructor’s step-by-step guidance and the communal atmosphere make it suitable for all skill levels. Many reviewers mention how quickly they learned and how satisfying the finished product is.
Bottom line: A flavorful, hands-on pasta lesson that leaves you with a restaurant-quality dish to impress at home.
$75 per person
12. San Diego: Jetboard Lessons For Beginners or Advanced
Number 12 is the Jetboard Lessons, costing $135. This activity combines high-speed jetboard riding with scenic boat rides. Whether you’re a newbie or experienced rider, the instructor will help you learn to control this powerful watercraft safely.
The scenic boat ride to your riding spot adds an extra touch of adventure. It’s perfect for adrenaline junkies or water sports lovers who want to try something different.
Bottom line: A fun, dynamic activity that blends boating, jetboarding, and scenic views for a memorable day.
$135 per person
13. San Diego: Sushi Making Class at a Local Wine Bar
Number 13 is the Sushi Making Class at a Local Wine Bar. For $75, you’ll learn how to roll sushi from a talented chef while sipping on local and international wines. The class covers the basics of sushi rice, rolling techniques, and filling options.
Ideal as a romantic date or a fun group activity, reviews praise the clear instructions and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a hands-on experience that’s as much about tasting as it is about making sushi.
Bottom line: Entertaining, educational, and delicious—perfect for foodies wanting a taste of Japan in San Diego.
$75 per person
14. Italian Pasta Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in San Diego
Number 14 offers an Italian Pasta Cooking Class costing $75. Led by a local chef, you’ll knead, roll, and shape fresh pasta, then cook a flavorful marinara with Calabrian chiles. Paired with craft beer, this session combines Italian culinary tradition with San Diego’s vibrant brewery scene.
Reviewers appreciate the hands-on approach and the fun atmosphere, making it ideal for those interested in Italian cuisine or craft beer.
Bottom line: A tasty, practical class that combines pasta skills with local brewing culture.
$75.00 per person
15. 2-Hour Ravioli Cooking Class With Local Chef in San Diego
Number 15 is the Ravioli Making Class. Focused on mushroom ravioli, this class teaches dough making, filling preparation, and shaping, finished with a truffle oil drizzle. It’s an excellent choice for pasta enthusiasts wanting a gourmet touch.
Participants rave about how quickly they learn and how rewarding the process is. It’s well-suited for beginners and those who want to impress with homemade Italian dishes.
Bottom line: An indulgent, hands-on culinary experience ideal for pasta lovers.
$75.00 per person
16. Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Brewery in San Diego
The final entry, the Sushi Making Class at a Local Brewery, costs $75 and offers a relaxed, step-by-step approach. You’ll learn how to prepare seasoned rice, roll a California-style sushi, and make a refreshing cucumber and ginger salad.
Perfect for beginners or groups looking for a fun, interactive experience with great food and beer. Reviewers enjoy the friendly guidance and practical skills gained.
Bottom line: A flavorful, hands-on way to learn sushi making without previous experience needed.
$75.00 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop or Class in San Diego
Picking the best experience depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If water sports are your thing, the Onewheel ride and eFoil lessons offer adrenaline and scenic views. For those interested in culinary arts, the pasta and ravioli classes provide hands-on cooking with local flair, especially at breweries or wine bars. If art appeals, the Wild Clay Pottery Workshop in Julian offers a peaceful creative outlet, perfect for a relaxed day outside the city.
Budget travelers might prefer the paddleboarding or group surf lessons for affordable fun, while those wanting a tailored experience should consider the private lessons. Booking early is wise, especially for popular water activities during peak season, and always check if gear rental or other extras are included.
Final Thoughts
San Diego’s variety of workshops and classes ensures there’s something for all—whether you want to learn a new sport, craft delicious food, or express your creativity. For a fun water adventure, the Onewheel ride or surf lessons are excellent choices. Food lovers will appreciate the pasta and sushi classes that combine learning with tasting.
If you prefer a slow, artistic pace, the Wild Clay Pottery Workshop offers a peaceful retreat. For thrill-seekers and tech enthusiasts, the eFoil and Jetboard lessons deliver a memorable adrenaline rush. No matter your style, booking early guarantees you a spot in these popular classes. Dive into these experiences and bring home new skills—or just great stories—and enjoy all that San Diego has to offer.