Santa Barbara: Surfing Lesson with Pro Surfer Kilian Garland

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or sharpening your surfing skills, this surf lesson in Santa Barbara is a fantastic choice. For $160, you’ll spend about 130 minutes with Kilian Garland, a seasoned pro with 15 years of experience on the World Surf League circuit and the 2017 North American Champion. The lesson is held right in Santa Barbara, a coastal town renowned for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe — an ideal spot to learn to surf.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized instruction tailored directly to your level, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your technique. Second, the chance to learn from someone who not only has a competitive background but also a genuine passion for coaching. It’s a rare opportunity to be mentored by a local champion who grew up on these beaches, making your lesson both authentic and deeply rooted in community spirit.

A potential consideration? Since hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, you’ll need to plan your transportation to 801 Shoreline Dr, Santa Barbara, where the lesson begins. Also, the lesson is not suitable for children under 9 or non-swimmers, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with young kids or unsure about water comfort levels.

This tour is ideal for travelers who value personalized coaching, want to experience Santa Barbara’s surf culture firsthand, and are comfortable in the water. Whether you’re visiting for a short trip or a longer stay, this lesson offers a memorable, skill-building adventure.

Key Points

• Expert instruction from a professional surfer with tournament experience
• All necessary surf gear provided, no extra equipment needed
• Personalized feedback helps improve your surfing in real time
• Fun and safe environment, suitable for all levels of experience
• Small group size enhances learning and personal attention
• Flexible scheduling options to fit your plans

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Breakdown of the Santa Barbara Surf Experience

Meeting Your Instructor: Kilian Garland

From the moment we arrived at Surf Santa Barbara, it was clear this was more than just a lesson — it’s a chance to learn from someone who truly knows the sport. Kilian Garland, the owner and operator, isn’t just a former champion; he’s a passionate coach who has worked extensively as a surf instructor. Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Kilian’s deep roots in the community and his professional achievements lend a personable touch to the lesson that’s perfect for anyone nervous about tackling the waves for the first time.

Location and Setup

The lesson begins right on Santa Barbara’s shoreline, where safety and instruction are prioritized. The beach is not overly crowded, offering enough space for small groups to spread out and learn comfortably. The surf spot chosen for your lesson is carefully selected based on your skill level and the day’s conditions, ensuring safety and an optimal learning experience.

Equipment and Preparation

All the necessary surf equipment—including boards and wetsuits if needed—is included in the price. We appreciated this, as it eliminated the hassle of renting gear separately, and ensured everyone had the right size and type of board. Before hitting the water, Kilian takes you through a warming stretch and a thorough safety briefing on land, discussing ocean etiquette and what to expect.

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The Surfing Lessons

The lesson itself is a well-balanced mix of theory, practice, and personalized coaching. Kilian’s teaching approach is friendly yet thorough. For beginners, he breaks down the fundamentals — paddling, pop-up techniques, and balance. For those looking to improve, he offers tailored tips on wave reading and positioning.

One reviewer noted, “Kilian’s personalized feedback made a huge difference. I finally managed to stand up on my board after a few tries, thanks to his clear instructions.” The small group setting, limited to just four participants, ensures everyone gets plenty of individual attention.

The Water Experience

Once in the water, we found the conditions to be safe and manageable thanks to Kilian’s expertise in selecting the right surf spots. The waves in Santa Barbara tend to be gentle enough for learning but still exciting enough to keep you motivated. We loved the way Kilian encouraged us to focus on balance and timing, making it more than just a surfing lesson — it’s a confidence booster.

Post-lesson Feedback and Wrap-Up

After about 130 minutes, Kilian offers personalized feedback on each participant’s performance, highlighting what worked well and what could be improved. His insights are detailed but easy to understand, helping you leave with tangible skills and motivation to practice on your own.

Authentic Santa Barbara Surf Culture

What’s especially charming is the local touch Kilian brings. As a Santa Barbara native, he shares stories of the town’s surf history and his own experiences competing at the highest levels. It’s a real connection to the regional surf culture that makes this lesson more than just a physical activity.

Flexibility and Convenience

With multiple lesson times available, you can easily fit this experience into your itinerary. Just remember to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and bring essentials like sunscreen, water, a towel, and swimwear.

Cost and Value

At $160 per person, this lesson provides excellent value when you consider the expert instruction, all gear, and personalized coaching. For beginners or amateurs eager to improve, the direct feedback from a professional like Kilian is worth every penny. Plus, the small group size enhances the experience by allowing you more attention than typical larger lessons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This surfing lesson is perfect for adventurers of all ages and experience levels who want a safe, personalized introduction to surfing. It’s especially suited for beginners and those looking to sharpen basic skills — if you’re comfortable in the water, ready to learn, and eager to be coached by someone who truly loves sharing the sport, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

Travelers with a flexible schedule and a desire for authentic local instruction will appreciate the small group setting and Kilian’s approachable teaching style. However, if you’re traveling with very young children, non-swimmers, or have back problems, this might not be the best fit.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
All necessary surf equipment, professional instruction, stretching, safety briefing, and personalized feedback are included.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, children should be at least 9 years old to participate.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all equipment is provided, including wetsuits if necessary.

Can I cancel the lesson?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need your own transportation to the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Swimwear, and bring a towel, sunscreen, water, and beachwear for after the lesson.

Is this suitable for non-swimmers?
No, participants should be comfortable in the water.

How long is the lesson?
About 130 minutes, with some time on the beach and in the water.

What language is the instruction in?
English.

What if I want to improve my surfing beyond this lesson?
This experience is designed as an introduction or skill refresher. To continue learning, consider additional lessons or practice in Santa Barbara’s surf spots.

This Santa Barbara surf lesson with Kilian Garland offers an ideal blend of professional coaching, authentic local culture, and tailored instruction in a stunning coastal setting. It’s a fantastic way for beginners and intermediate surfers to gain confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy the natural beauty of California’s beaches. The small group size, expert guidance, and inclusive approach make it a valuable experience — whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a longer stay.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun, and educational surf experience that keeps safety and personal attention front and center, this lesson hits the mark. Just be sure to arrive prepared, have your water confidence, and get ready for some memorable waves.

Note: For more options in Santa Barbara, explore other tours such as the yacht cruise, canyon horseback riding, or wine country tours, to complement your coastal adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: