Learn to Surf in La Jolla

If you’re dreaming about catching your first wave or polishing your skills in a calm, inviting environment, the Learn to Surf in La Jolla tour offers a compelling option. With a price of $129 per person for a 1.5-hour class, this experience combines expert instruction, excellent safety measures, and the chance to enjoy some of California’s most reliable beginner waves. Set in the gentle sands of La Jolla Shores, this tour is a favorite among travelers who want a straightforward, well-organized introduction to surfing without the chaos of crowded beaches or overwhelming waves.

What we love about this experience is how focused it is on small groups, maxing out at five people, which means you get personalized attention from seasoned instructors. Plus, the included rash guard and surfboard rental for after the lesson mean you can keep practicing your newly learned skills without additional hassle or expense. The flexible scheduling options help fit this adventure into most travel plans, whether you’re an early riser or prefer a late afternoon session.

A potential consideration is the walking distance from check-in to the beach, which some guests mention as a bit of a hike. Parking can also be tight in La Jolla, so arriving early or planning for a short walk might save you some stress. This tour suits travelers eager for a fun, relaxed introduction to surfing—great for families, first-timers, or anyone wanting to experience California’s iconic waves in a safe, supportive setting.

Key Points

• Small groups ensure personalized instruction and faster learning.
• All equipment included in the lesson, plus extra rental time to practice.
• Experienced instructors help you feel safe and confident in the water.
• Flexible scheduling options make it convenient to fit into your plans.
• Ideal for beginners and intermediates looking for a stress-free surf experience.
• Proceeds support environmental and community initiatives through partnerships with Greenwave & Urban Surf 4 Kids.

La Jolla Shores is widely regarded as one of California’s best beginner surf spots. Its calm, predictable waves and gentle sandy bottom make it an ideal environment for those just starting out or wanting to improve their skills in a safe, laid-back setting. The tour is designed for a maximum of five participants per instructor, which means plenty of individual feedback and hands-on guidance. This small group approach is a huge plus, especially when you’re trying to get your balance or catch that elusive wave for the first time.

What the Tour Includes and How It Works

You meet at 2261 Avenida De La Playa and begin with a land-based lesson covering fundamentals of surfing and ocean safety. The instructors—Chris, Trevor, Devan, and Brandon, as mentioned in reviews—are praised for their patience and high energy. After some theory, you head into the water with your group and your instructor by your side, making sure everyone feels secure and confident.

The lesson lasts about 90 minutes, during which you’ll learn how to paddle, pop up, and balance on your board. All equipment, including a rash guard and surfboard, is provided. Once the lesson ends, you’re welcome to keep the board and practice for up to an extra hour, which many find invaluable for building confidence and refining their skills.

The Waves and Environment

One of the biggest draws of La Jolla Shores is its regular, gentle surf—ideal for novices. Several reviewers highlight the predictability of the waves, which allows beginners to get up and ride multiple times in a single session. The calm waters also mean fewer worries about dangerous currents or large, intimidating surf, making it a safe choice for kids and adults alike.

The Instructor Experience

The instructors are consistently praised for their patience, energy, and professionalism. Creshanna_T described Chris and Trevor as “amazing instructors, high energy and very patient,” and noted they do everything possible to help students catch and ride waves. Such enthusiastic guidance ensures even nervous beginners feel supported, turning what could be a daunting experience into pure fun.

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Many reviews emphasize how quickly participants start feeling like surfers, sometimes after just one session. One review from Leticia_R notes, “We went to San Diego to get the full beach experience and this was amazing,” highlighting the tour’s ability to deliver a genuine beach adventure. Kids, in particular, seem to love the experience, with Heather_O mentioning, “The instructor was very sweet and helped my kids with the basics and made them feel very comfortable for their first time ever surfing.”

However, a few reviewers raised concerns about the walk from check-in to the beach and parking challenges, which are typical for La Jolla during peak times. Planning ahead with early arrival or a short drive can mitigate this.

Pricing and Value

At $129, this tour offers great value considering the included equipment, small group size, and expert instruction. Several reviews highlight how much participants learned and how confident they felt afterward. For families or solo travelers wanting a stress-free introduction to surfing, the combination of personalized attention and post-lesson practice makes this a worthwhile investment.

Who Should Book This?

This experience is perfect for beginners and intermediates who want a safe, supportive environment. Families with kids often praise how well the instructors handle young beginners, and solo travelers or couples looking to try surfing without the hassle of large lessons will appreciate the small size and flexible scheduling.

This La Jolla surfing tour offers a balanced, friendly, and professional way to step into the world of surfing. From the calm, predictable waves of La Jolla Shores to the small group setting and top-notch instruction, it provides a genuine, enjoyable introduction to an iconic California activity. You’ll leave with not just new skills but also a sense of achievement—something that’s hard to beat after just a 90-minute lesson.

If your goal is to learn the basics in a safe environment while enjoying stunning ocean views and excellent value, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for families, first-time surfers, or anyone looking to make their trip a little more memorable with an active, fun experience.

And remember, it’s not just about the waves. With a portion of proceeds supporting environmental and community projects, your purchase also helps protect this beautiful coastline. So grab your wetsuit (or rent one), and get ready for some surfside fun in La Jolla.

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed for those with no prior experience, with instructors teaching fundamentals on land before hitting the water.

How long is the lesson?
The main lesson lasts approximately 90 minutes, with the option to keep the board and practice for an additional hour afterward.

What equipment is included?
All participants receive a rash guard and a surfboard for the lesson. Wetsuits are also included and can be used during the session.

Can I practice more after the lesson?
Yes, you can keep the board and practice for an extra hour to improve your skills and build confidence.

What should I wear?
Wear a swimsuit under the provided rash guard, and bring a towel. Wetsuits are available if you want extra warmth or protection.

Is there any physical fitness required?
Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level, as the activity involves paddling and balancing in the water.

Where do we meet?
Meet at 2261 Avenida De La Playa, La Jolla. Expect a short walk to the beach, so plan accordingly.

Is parking available nearby?
Parking can be challenging, especially during peak times. Arriving early or considering nearby parking options is recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed review should help you decide whether learning to surf in La Jolla is right for you. Whether you’re after a fun, beginner-friendly introduction or a relaxed way to enjoy California’s coastline, this tour manages to strike a fine balance of instruction, environment, and value.