Santa Monica is renowned for its iconic beachfront and lively coastal vibe, but it’s also a hub for hands-on workshops and classes that let you learn about local culture, learn new skills, or simply have fun. Whether you’re eager to catch your first wave, improve your photography, or master a new skateboarding trick, Santa Monica offers a variety of engaging experiences. We’re especially fans of the surf lessons—they perfectly blend outdoor adventure with the friendly California spirit—and the photography class, which offers a chance to sharpen your skills with expert guidance. Because these classes are held in familiar, welcoming environments like Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier, they’re accessible and perfect for travelers of all ages.
If you’re looking for a unique, active way to spend your time in Santa Monica, this list covers the best workshops and classes we’ve found. From beginner surf lessons to private coaching and creative photo tours, there’s something to suit nearly every interest and skill level. Ready to get started? Here’s a detailed look at each top pick.
1. Surf Lesson 1.5 Hr Kapowui Santa Monica
This 1.5-hour surf lesson in Santa Monica’s Venice Beach is a standout for its friendly, laid-back approach. Kapowui, a family-run operation, has earned a 5.0/5 based on 146 reviews, thanks to their patient teaching style and comprehensive approach. You’ll start by learning about board design, ocean safety, surf etiquette, and pop-up technique on dry land. Then, it’s into the water with all equipment included—surfboard and wetsuit—ensuring you’re ready to ride waves in no time.
What makes this lesson exceptional is their focus on beginners, with a guarantee that you’ll be riding a wave by the session’s end. It’s also family-friendly, making it a great choice for groups or first-timers. The instructors’ friendly attitude and experience create a calm atmosphere, perfect for both kids and adults.
Bottom Line: If you want a quick, friendly intro to surfing with a guarantee of success, this is your best bet. It’s about fun, safety, and making sure you leave with a smile—and hopefully a wave.
2. Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica
At number 2, this small group surf lesson offers a more affordable (just $85 per person) yet equally effective way to learn at Venice Beach, one of California’s most famous surf spots. Perfect for all levels, this class begins with beach training, focusing on technique and safety, before heading into the Pacific for in-water instruction. The session lasts around 2 hours, with multiple time slots available, giving flexibility to suit your schedule.
Rated 5.0/5 by 140 reviews, instructors like Nico and Melanie are praised for their patience and clear teaching style. Many guests have learned to surf their first wave, with some noting the encouragement helped them succeed. It’s an ideal choice for beginners or those looking to build confidence in a relaxed environment.
Bottom Line: If you want a friendly, well-rated lesson in a lively, iconic beach setting, this group class offers great value and a relaxed vibe—perfect for first-timers and those eager to improve.
3. Surf Lesson 2 Hr. Santa Monica
This 2-hour surf lesson from Kapowui, a well-established surf school, is a fantastic option for those wanting a more in-depth experience. Kapowui, awarded best surf school in Venice Beach for five consecutive years, emphasizes sharing their love of surfing with enthusiastic, supportive instruction. Their team, many of whom live in surf vans and surf daily, brings authentic Southern California stoke to the lesson.
Starting with fundamental beach training, then progressing into the waves, instructors like Dale help students of all ages and skill levels. The reviews highlight their patience and supportive approach, making it ideal for beginners or those looking to refine their skills. You’ll learn about reading waves, popping up, and wave riding techniques in a relaxed, encouraging atmosphere.
Bottom Line: For serious beginners or those wanting a more comprehensive surf lesson from passionate local instructors, this 2-hour class offers excellent value and authentic California surf culture.
4. Private Surfing Lesson in Santa Monica
If you’re after personalized coaching, this private surfing lesson is hard to beat. Starting right on Venice Beach, your instructor will tailor the session to your skill level, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen technique. With one-on-one guidance, you’ll receive detailed tips on how to catch waves, improve your stance, and read the ocean.
Rated 5.0/5 with glowing reviews, many guests appreciate the personalized attention and flexible scheduling. Adults and children over seven are welcome, making it a good option for families or individuals seeking a customized experience. The scenery of Venice Beach adds a relaxed, fun backdrop to your learning process.
Bottom Line: For those who want the most tailored, effective instruction possible, this private lesson offers personalized coaching with a friendly instructor in a scenic setting.
5. 2h of Private Surf Lesson for Beginners in Santa Monica
This two-hour private lesson focuses not just on getting you to stand up but on understanding how to read and ride waves — essential skills for becoming a confident surfer. The instructor aims to foster ocean knowledge and wave judgement, turning beginners into more capable surfers.
Rated highly, with a price of $285 per person, this course is best suited for those serious about learning the deeper aspects of surfing. It’s ideal for travelers who want a thorough, personalized experience rather than just quick tips. Some reviews note that the real value lies in the instructor’s focus on reading waves and understanding ocean dynamics.
Bottom Line: If you’re committed to truly learning how to surf rather than just standing up, this lesson offers expert guidance that can elevate your skills significantly.
6. 2-Hours Private Surfing Lesson in Venice Beach
This private lesson at Venice Beach emphasizes customized instruction tailored to your skill level. Certified instructors with extensive experience will guide beginners through land training, then into the waves. For more experienced surfers, the focus can shift to advanced tips and lineup strategy.
Rated highly by those who want dedicated attention, this lesson is perfect for individuals or small groups. Many guests commend the instructors’ patience and knowledge, particularly noting Jonathan’s ability to help students drop in and catch waves more confidently. The scenic Venice Beach backdrop makes the experience memorable.
Bottom Line: For personalized coaching in a iconic California setting, this lesson is a top pick—especially if you’re eager to improve your technique or get more comfortable in the water.
7. Shared 2 Hours Group Surf Lesson in Venice Beach
This group lesson offers a social, fun way to learn to surf on Venice Beach for just $69 per person. It starts with beach training, then moves into the water, giving you about an hour of supervised practice. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers or locals while sharing the stoke of catching your first wave.
Rated 5/5 by six reviews, guests love the friendly, encouraging instructors and the chance to practice in a lively environment. It’s ideal if you prefer group dynamics and want a more affordable option compared to private lessons. The instructor’s patience and supportive style make it accessible for novices.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, social way to learn surfing with experienced instructors, perfect for travelers who enjoy shared experiences.
8. Santa Monica: Group Surf Lesson
This group surf lesson in Santa Monica offers a supportive environment for beginners, with a lower-cost alternative to private coaching. It lasts about 1.5 hours and is perfect for those who want to try surfing in a relaxed, friendly setting. Participants work together, supporting each other’s progress as they learn the basics of paddling and catching waves.
Rated 5/5 by four reviews, it’s a practical choice for travelers looking for affordable, communal learning. The focus on building confidence in a group setting helps reduce nerves and encourages fun.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prefer a group atmosphere and want to experience surfing without breaking the bank.
9. Shared 2 Hours Regular Group Surf Lesson at Santa Monica
This shared 2-hour class at Santa Monica is similar to others, with beach training and ocean practice. Many of the reviews highlight the down-to-earth teaching style of instructors like Nico, who help beginners gaining confidence in the water. The class is designed to give you a taste of surfing and improve basic skills through guided practice.
At a competitive $69, it offers great value for travelers on a budget who still want an authentic surf experience with professional guidance.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, well-rated choice for anyone eager to get a start in surfing without private lessons.
10. Santa Monica Walking Photo Class
For those interested in camera techniques, this photography class takes you around Santa Monica’s iconic spots like the pier and Camera Obscura Building. Over 2.5 hours, a professional photographer will teach you about DSLR operation, composition, and visual theory. You’ll practice your new skills with real-world shooting, receiving personalized feedback along the way.
Rated 3/5 by two reviews, it appeals to travelers wanting to improve their photography and add fresh skills. This class is perfect for beginners or those wanting to make the most of their camera gear in a beautiful setting.
Bottom Line: If capturing Santa Monica’s scenery with better photos interests you, this class offers practical, hands-on instruction in a scenic locale.
$50.00 per person
11. Santa Monica / Venice / Los Angeles: Surf Lesson
This flexible surf lesson covers Santa Monica, Venice, and Los Angeles, giving you the chance to surf at different beaches. With options from 1 to 2 hours, all lessons include full equipment and a beach intro for beginners. The focus is on learning to surf at iconic locations and enjoying the California surf scene.
While reviews are not available, the variety of locations and flexible timing make it suitable for travelers wanting multiple experiences or a customized schedule. It’s ideal if you’re staying longer and want to explore different beaches.
Bottom Line: For flexible, location-varied surf lessons, this option caters to those wanting to sample multiple beaches with expert guidance.
$75 per person
12. Private Surf Lesson in Santa Monica Bay St
Sunrise Surf Academy offers this private, flexible lesson tailored to your goals, whether you’re a beginner or more experienced. The instructors focus on building confidence, technique, and ocean safety in a supportive environment. The lessons can be booked at your convenience, ensuring a personalized experience.
Rated with no reviews yet, this is a good choice for travelers who want customized coaching and a relaxed pace. The instructors’ elite surf background and passion for teaching promise quality instruction.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a completely personalized lesson tailored to your goals, this private option offers flexibility and professional guidance.
$97.50 per person
13. Venice Beach / Santa Monica: Skateboarding Lesson
Finally, for a different kind of California cool, check out this skateboarding lesson in Venice Beach, the birthplace of skateboarding. The lesson, lasting around one hour, is tailored to your level, from beginner to intermediate, and led by experienced instructors like Clay, River, or Claudio.
Rated anonymously, it’s perfect for travelers wanting to try skateboarding or combine it with surf or yoga sessions. The lesson offers a fun, active way to explore Venice’s Dogtown roots.
Bottom Line: For anyone wanting to experience skateboarding in the city where it all began, this lesson is a lively, engaging choice.
$95 per person
How to Choose
When selecting a workshop or class in Santa Monica, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. For a quick intro, the Surf Lesson 1.5 Hr Kapowui offers guaranteed waves and a friendly vibe. If you prefer personalized instruction, options like the Private Surfing Lessons or 2h Private Lesson for Beginners provide more tailored guidance, ideal for those serious about improving. Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the group lessons at Venice and Santa Monica, offering good value and social fun. For creative types, the photo class presents a chance to improve your photography skills around Santa Monica’s sights.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak summer months when classes fill quickly. Whether you’re eager to ride your first wave, capture stunning photos, or learn to skate, Santa Monica’s workshops and classes make it easy to turn a visit into an active, memorable experience.
By exploring these options, you’ll find something that matches your skill level, interest, and budget—so don’t hesitate to book your spot today and make the most of your California coast adventure.