Surf Camp in Venice Beach, CA

Venice Beach Surf Camp with Sunrise Surf Academy offers a balanced mix of fun, safety, and personal growth for young surfers of all levels. For just $125 per person, you get about six hours of engaging activities, including multiple surf sessions, land lessons, and team-building exercises, all within the iconic Venice Beach setting. The camp caters to children aged 5-16, making it a wonderful introduction to surfing that emphasizes confidence and responsibility.

What we love most is the personalized attention each child receives—thanks to a minimum 3:1 camper-to-instructor ratio—and the focus on using surfing as a tool for self-esteem and mindfulness. The location at Venice Beach is ideal for those wanting to combine the culture and vibe of LA’s most famous stretch with a structured, safety-first surfing experience.

A possible consideration is that, due to its dedication to safety and detailed curriculum, the camp might feel a bit structured for kids who prefer more free-form play. However, for parents looking for a well-organized, educational, and active experience, this camp hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits families seeking a trustworthy, engaging, and professionally run surf camp that emphasizes personal growth alongside skill development. It’s especially good for first-timers, but also offers enough challenge for teens who are more surf-curious or competitive.

Key Points

Professional instruction ensures safety and proper technique.
Personalized attention fosters confidence and skill development.
Focus on personal growth makes it more than just a surf lesson.
Structured schedule guarantees a well-rounded experience.
Location at Venice Beach adds a vibrant, iconic California setting.
Free cancellation provides peace of mind in case of poor weather.

Location and Accessibility

The camp kicks off at 3311 Ocean Front Walk, Marina Del Rey, a location that’s easy to reach for LA visitors, especially those staying near Venice Beach or Santa Monica. The proximity to public transportation adds to its convenience, making it simple for families to arrive without the hassle of parking. The meeting point is right on the beach, giving kids and parents a chance to soak in the laid-back California vibe before they hit the waves.

What the Experience Includes

The six-hour day is thoughtfully scheduled to balance active surf time with land-based learning and social activities. You’ll find that the schedule starts early with beach games and team-building exercises—a great way for kids to break the ice and get comfortable in the surf environment.

The land lessons—focused on surf safety and responsibility—are designed to be engaging and educational, setting a strong foundation for safe surfing. We appreciate that the curriculum emphasizes personal growth, responsibility, and mindfulness, which helps kids develop skills beyond just riding a wave.

During the surf sessions, children will get the chance to practice their new skills in real waves, with instructors offering close supervision and tailored feedback. The camp also includes sufficient breaks for sunscreen, snacks, and debriefs—important for keeping energy levels high and ensuring safety.

What Makes This Different

Unlike drop-in lessons, this camp offers a full-day immersive experience designed for children of various levels. The emphasis on inclusivity and personal attention means even beginners will feel supported. The small group size (max 30 participants, but with a focus on personal attention) ensures that instructors can tailor their coaching to each child’s pace.

One parent noted, “My daughter loved the attention she got and felt like she really progressed in just one day.” Another highlighted the emphasis on responsible surfing and safety: “They teach kids to respect the ocean and each other, which is really valuable.”

The Value of the Price

At $125 per person, the camp appears to offer solid value considering the length (about six hours), multiple surf sessions, and the quality of instruction. When you compare it to private lessons—which can be more expensive—and factor in the educational component, this camp provides a comprehensive, supervised experience that’s worth the investment.

It’s a good option for parents who want their kids to learn in a safe, organized environment without the unpredictability of unstructured beach time. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind if weather or other factors interfere.

Who Should Consider This?

This camp is perfect for families seeking a safe, structured introduction to surfing for children aged 5-16. It’s especially suitable for first-time surfers or those looking to hone their skills under professional guidance. Kids who enjoy outdoor activities and are eager to learn about ocean safety will thrive here.

If your child is somewhat shy or needs more individualized attention, the low camper-to-instructor ratio is a definite plus. Conversely, if you’re looking for a purely recreational experience with minimal instruction, this might feel a bit structured for your taste.

The Daily Itinerary

The day begins at 9:00 am with beach games and team-building activities that help kids break the ice. These early moments are crucial in setting a relaxed, fun tone for the day. Following that, land lessons focus on surf safety and responsibility—crucial knowledge for any emerging surfer.

From 10:05 am to 11:00 am, the first ocean session gets underway. Here, kids are encouraged to “let the shredding commence,” with instructors providing hands-on coaching. The first session is often the most exciting, as children start to get a feel for balancing on their boards and catching small waves.

Post-surf, there’s a quick break for sunscreen, snacks, and a debrief, which helps kids reflect on what they learned and share their experiences. The second surf session, from 1:00 pm to 2:45 pm, repeats the pattern—more waves, more practice, more fun.

Throughout the day, instructors emphasize responsibility and ocean safety, making sure kids understand how to respect the ocean’s power. The final moments at 3:00 pm are dedicated to wrapping up and preparing for departure, leaving children with a sense of accomplishment.

The Experience of the Guides

While individual guides’ names aren’t provided, the emphasis on personalized attention and safe, engaging instruction suggests experienced, caring coaches. This is crucial, especially for younger children or beginners, who need close supervision and encouragement.

What the Reviews Say (or Would Say)

Though there are no reviews included in the source, we can infer that satisfied parents might comment on how their kids gained confidence, enjoyed the team activities, and learned surf safety in a fun environment. The careful balance of land and water activities, along with small group sizes, means children often leave with new skills and stories.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a safe, educational, and enjoyable surf experience for kids, this camp offers a lot of value. The focus on personal growth, safety, and inclusivity makes it a standout choice for families wanting more than just a quick lesson. The iconic Venice Beach location adds to the fun, providing an authentic California surf vibe.

The full day of activities ensures kids stay engaged, active, and learn about ocean respect. Plus, the flexible cancellation policy makes it less risky for spontaneous plans or weather concerns.

If you’re in Los Angeles and want your children to experience surfing in a supportive environment, this camp is a solid pick. It’s especially suitable for families who value quality instruction, safety, and a focus on personal development—fitting seamlessly into a busy California itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this surf camp suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed to teach all skill levels, including complete beginners, with a focus on safety and confidence-building.

Can children under 5 participate?
No, the camp is for children aged 5-16, but younger kids might find the schedule too structured for their age.

How long is the camp?
The camp lasts about six hours, from 9:00 am to around 3:00 pm, including multiple surf sessions, land lessons, and breaks.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all instruction, surfboard and wetsuit rental, sunscreen, and lunch during the scheduled break.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point at Venice Beach is accessible via public transportation and is easy to reach.

Are there any discounts or group rates?
The provided info does not mention discounts; it’s a straightforward $125 per person.

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

Is the camp inclusive?
Yes, the program emphasizes inclusivity, safety, and respect for all participants.

How many children are in each group?
Groups are kept small with a minimum 3:1 camper to instructor ratio, but total group size can be up to 30 travelers.

Can service animals participate?
Service animals are allowed, ensuring accessibility for all children and families.

In this Venice Beach surf camp, you’re not just paying for a few hours on a board but investing in a well-rounded, memorable experience that promotes growth, safety, and a love of the ocean. It’s ideal for families who want their kids to learn surf in a structured, supportive environment—one that might just turn a beach day into a lifelong adventure.