This experience made our article of 16 Of The Best 2-Hour Tours In Los Angeles.
A Friendly Surf Introduction on California’s Coast

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or sharpening your surfing skills without breaking the bank, this shared 2-hour surf lesson in Redondo/Torrance offers an inviting way to dip your toes into California’s surf scene. Priced at just $69 per person, this lesson is based on Venice Beach, one of Los Angeles’ most famous and vibrant beaches, but takes place in the calmer waters of Redondo or Torrance — providing a perfect balance of lively cultural backdrop and manageable surf conditions.
What we love about this experience is the balanced approach: it begins with a 30 to 40-minute beach training session that covers the essentials, making sure you understand safety and technique before hitting the water. Then, you get about an hour in the ocean with your instructor, giving you plenty of time to practice and get a feel for surfing under supervision. Plus, the remaining time is yours to enjoy riding the provided foam surfboards and soaking up the seaside atmosphere. It’s a relaxed, beginner-friendly setup that emphasizes fun over challenge, with enough guidance to keep everyone safe and confident.
One thing to consider is that this is a group lesson, which means you’ll be sharing instructor attention with up to five other learners. If you prefer a more tailored experience, private lessons are available, though at a different price point. Also, because safety is prioritized, only foam surfboards are used, which might feel different if you’re accustomed to fiberglass boards.
This experience is especially suitable for beginners and intermediate surfers aged 12 and up. If you’re looking for a casual, fun introduction to surfing—perhaps on a family trip or with friends—this lesson will fit the bill nicely.
Key Points

- Affordable and Fun: At $69, it offers a cost-effective way to try surfing with professional guidance.
- Balanced Schedule: Combines beach training with in-water practice, ensuring foundational skills are covered.
- Suitable for All Ages: Minimum age is 12, making it ideal for teens and adults alike.
- Group Setting: Up to 6 participants, fostering a social, relaxed atmosphere.
- Safety First: Foam surfboards are used to keep everyone safe, especially beginners.
- Authentic California Vibe: Surfing on Venice Beach’s legendary shores adds a cultural element to your experience.
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A Detailed Look at the Surf Lesson Experience

Meeting Point and Logistics
The lesson kicks off at 387 Paseo De La Playa in Redondo Beach, a convenient spot accessible by public transit and close to local amenities. The activity lasts around 2 hours, which is generous for beginners who might be nervous or unsure about their first waves. Being a mobile ticket activity, it makes planning flexible, and confirming your spot is straightforward.
The Learning Phase: Beach Training
The first 30 to 40 minutes are dedicated to beach instruction. Your instructor, whose patience and clarity earn praise (as Lena R. noted, “Very patient teacher”), will demonstrate how to paddle, pop up on your board, and understand surf safety. This segment is crucial because it sets the foundation for success in the water. The use of foam boards during this time ensures stability and security, especially for those who are less confident swimmers or new to the sport.
Ocean Time: Practicing in the Water
After the initial training, it’s time for the main event—about 50 to 60 minutes in the ocean with your instructor. Here, you’ll get to apply what you’ve just learned, catching waves with guidance and support. The environment is designed to be approachable for beginner to intermediate surfers, but the focus remains on fun and safety rather than advanced techniques.
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Your Free Practice Time
Once in the water, the remaining time is yours to practice independently with the provided foam boards. This is where the real magic happens; the feeling of standing up on a wave or even just catching one is exhilarating, especially when shared with fellow learners. You’ll love the relaxed vibe and the chance to build confidence in a supportive setting.
What Participants Say
Feedback from previous participants highlights the friendly guidance and approachable atmosphere. Lena R. mentioned, “Good instruction. Suitable for all ages. Just be in your playful mood and give it a go.” She also appreciated the instructor’s patience—something that can make or break a beginner’s experience. The small group size ensures each person gets enough attention, making the learning process smoother and more personal.
Additional Aspects and Safety
The lesson’s use of foam boards is a smart choice, especially for safety-minded beginners. Fiberglass boards are off-limits for group lessons to reduce risk, but foam boards are easier to handle and more forgiving. The activity is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and basic swimming skills, so it’s accessible for many. It’s also near public transit, making travel logistics easier.
Weather and Refund Policy
The lesson is weather-dependent, but cancellations due to poor conditions are fully refundable or can be rescheduled. Plus, if your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind and flexibility.
Who Should Consider This Surf Lesson?

This experience is perfect for families with teenagers, first-time surfers, or anyone wanting a lighthearted introduction to the sport. If you’re curious but not sure about committing to a full-day or private lesson, this compact, well-structured experience is a good starting point. The emphasis on safety, fun, and social interaction makes it ideal for those who want to enjoy California’s coast without too much pressure.
The Sum Up

This shared 2-hour surf lesson in Redondo/Torrance offers a practical, affordable way to get a taste of California surfing. With professional instruction, a balanced schedule of beach and water time, and an emphasis on safety and fun, it provides an authentic and accessible experience. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone looking to improve your skills in a relaxed environment, you’ll find value here.
The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the use of foam boards makes safety a priority. Plus, the cultural backdrop of Venice Beach adds a touch of California’s iconic surf vibe, even if you’re actually in Redondo or Torrance. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to try surfing with no fuss and lots of laughs.
If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and want a memorable, hands-on experience with the ocean, this lesson fits the bill. It’s fun, safe, and provides a genuine taste of the California surf lifestyle—perfect for creating stories to tell for years to come.
FAQs

Is this surf lesson suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for beginner to intermediate levels. The session starts with beach training to ensure everyone has the basics before hitting the water.
What age do participants need to be?
The minimum age is 12 years old, making it suitable for teenagers and adults.
How long is the entire experience?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, with the bulk of the time in the water, plus safety briefing and practice.
What type of surfboard is used?
Foam top surfboards, 8 and 9 feet long, are used to ensure safety and stability during the lesson.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours are not refunded, but weather-related cancellations are fully refundable or reschedulable.
Is the lesson suitable for people with limited swimming skills?
Basic swimming skills are required, and moderate physical fitness is recommended.
Where exactly does the lesson start?
At 387 Paseo De La Playa in Redondo Beach, a convenient meeting point accessible by public transportation.
Will I have time to practice after the lesson?
Yes, the remaining time after in-water instruction is yours to practice and enjoy riding the surfboards provided.
What should I bring?
While the tour provides surfboards and instruction, bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and a sense of playful adventure.
Is there an option for private lessons?
Yes, private lessons are available, though they are at a different price and booking process.
This surf lesson blends the laid-back California vibe with practical, safety-first instruction, making it a terrific introduction for anyone eager to experience the thrill of riding waves without the fuss. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a family, or a group of friends, you’ll likely walk away with not just a new skill but a memorable story of your California coast adventure.
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