Los Angeles: Private Surfing Lesson with Equipment Rental

Discover the Joy of Surfing in Los Angeles with a Private Lesson

Imagine catching your first wave in Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach, two of LA’s most iconic surf spots. For $149 per person, you can enjoy a two-hour private surf lesson that includes all the gear you need—surfboard, wetsuit, and leash—at a relaxed pace tailored just for you. Whether you’re a complete beginner, a family, or someone looking to refine your skills, this experience offers a fantastic introduction to surfing in Southern California.

What we love about this tour is how personalized it is. You’ll get personalized attention from a dedicated instructor who can adapt the lesson to your skill level, making sure you get the most out of your time in the water. Plus, the inclusion of top-notch gear means you won’t have to worry about lugging your own equipment or worrying about what to wear.

One small consideration is that the meeting points can vary, so it’s best to confirm ahead of time where you’ll connect. Also, transportation to the beach is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride and parking. This adventure suits travelers who want a hands-on, authentic surf experience with professional guidance, especially those new to the sport or families eager to share a memorable day at the beach.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Private Instruction: Personalized lessons ensure you receive individual coaching tailored to your skill level.
All Equipment Included: Surfboards, wetsuits, and leashes are provided, eliminating the hassle of bringing your own gear.
Flexible Scheduling: Lessons are available from dawn to dusk, fitting easily into any LA sightseeing day.
Ideal for All Ages: Suitable for children aged 4 and up, perfect for families or solo travelers eager to learn.
Location Choices: Available at Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, and Redondo Beach—iconic spots with great surf and scenery.
Cancellation Policy: Full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

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An In-Depth Look at the Private Surfing Lesson Experience

The Setting: Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach

Starting with the locations, Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach are among the most recognizable beaches in LA, known for their wide sandy shores and consistent surf. Santa Monica offers a lively, iconic boardwalk vibe combined with excellent waves suitable for beginners, while Manhattan Beach provides a slightly calmer, family-friendly atmosphere. Choosing between these two depends on your preference: vibrant city energy or a quieter, more relaxed beach scene.

Booking and Meeting Arrangements

The lesson begins with a meeting at a designated spot that can vary depending on your choice. You’ll meet your instructor—whose first language is English—and get fitted with your wetsuit and surfboard. The rental equipment is suitable for all sizes, with thicker wetsuits available outside of summer months for added warmth. Expect the instructor to go over safety tips and basic techniques on the sand before heading into the water.

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What to Bring and Wear

To make your experience as comfortable as possible, bring a hat, sunscreen, towel, water, and your swimsuit—which you’ll wear beneath the wetsuit. The full-body wetsuits provided are designed for maximum comfort, especially when spending time in cooler months. Since the instructor will teach you how to paddle, “pop-up,” and balance, wearing something comfortable and easy to move in enhances your learning.

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The Lesson Breakdown

Once in the water, your instructor will guide you through the fundamentals of surfing. You’ll learn how to safely approach the ocean, paddle efficiently, and perform the iconic “pop-up” move. Expect individual feedback on your technique, with plenty of encouragement to keep you motivated. As you catch waves, the instructor will give tips on how to ride them and improve your form.

The Experience: Riding Waves

Many reviews highlight how knowledgeable and patient the instructors are. Kathy from France appreciated how his instructor was “very pedagogical and very kind with my children,” emphasizing that even young kids can have a positive, safe experience. Andrew from the UK praised the “fantastic coaching and tuition,” confirming that you’re in good hands.

End of Session and Tips

As the lesson wraps up, don’t forget to ask your instructor how to “throw a shaka,” a classic way to spread the surfing stoke. You’ll leave with a sense of achievement—and possibly a newfound love for surfing. Remember, gratuities are optional but appreciated if you’ve enjoyed your time.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience is perfect for beginners, families, solo travelers, or small groups who want a personalized, safe, and fun introduction to surfing. The small group size (up to six people) ensures individual attention and allows the instructor to tailor the lesson to your pace. Since lessons are available from sunrise to sunset, you can choose a time that fits your schedule, whether you’re an early bird or prefer a sunset session.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $149, you receive a comprehensive, thoroughly guided surfing experience—equipment, instruction, and the opportunity to learn in some of LA’s most scenic beaches. Its focus on safety, personal attention, and flexible scheduling makes it stand out among other activities. The positive reviews underscore how well the instructors educate and motivate, making it an ideal choice for those new to surfing or looking to build confidence.

On top of that, the location choices provide scenic beauty and excellent surf conditions, enhancing your overall experience. While transportation isn’t included, the convenience of having all gear and expert guidance makes this a hassle-free option that offers excellent value for the money.

The Sum Up

This private surfing lesson in Los Angeles offers a genuine, hands-on way to enjoy the city’s famous beaches. Whether you’re looking to try surfing for the first time or want a private coaching session to refine your skills, this experience delivers a friendly, professional approach that’s perfect for all ages and skill levels. The inclusion of equipment and flexible scheduling makes it a convenient choice for travelers who want to make the most of their time in LA.

If you’re eager to learn in a safe, supportive environment with expert guidance and scenic ocean views, this tour ticks all the boxes. Families, couples, or solo adventurers will find this a memorable way to dip their toes into the surfing world, with plenty of encouragement from passionate instructors.

FAQ

Is this lesson suitable for children?
Yes, children as young as 4 years old can participate, making it a great family activity. The instructor tailors the lesson to suit younger participants.

What should I wear for the lesson?
Bring a swimsuit to wear under the wetsuit, along with a hat, sunscreen, towel, and water. The wetsuit will keep you warm and comfortable in the water.

Are the surfboards and wetsuits included?
Yes, all necessary equipment, including surfboards and wetsuits, are provided as part of the lesson.

Can I choose the time of my lesson?
Absolutely. Lessons are available from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, allowing you to pick a time that fits your schedule.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning your LA trip.

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the instructor will cover all the basics and ensure you feel comfortable before entering the water, making it ideal for beginners.

Will I get feedback during the lesson?
Yes, your instructor provides tips after each wave to help you improve your technique and maximize fun.

Do I need my own transportation?
Yes, you are responsible for getting to and from the beach. Parking is not included, so consider this when planning your day.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is optional but appreciated if you feel you received excellent instruction and service.

This private surfing lesson in Los Angeles offers a perfect blend of fun, learning, and breathtaking scenery—an experience that truly captures the spirit of SoCal surfing. Whether you’re looking to stand up for the first time or just enjoy a day in the ocean, this tour is well worth considering.