Santa Barbara: Surfing Lesson with Pro Surfer Kilian Garland

If you’re thinking about catching your first wave or just brushing up on your surf skills, a session with a pro in Santa Barbara sounds pretty appealing. We haven’t personally tried this lesson, but from what we gather, it offers a genuine opportunity to learn from someone who’s not only skilled but deeply local—Kilian Garland, a seasoned professional and Santa Barbara native. Whether you’re a total beginner or someone looking to refine your technique, this 130-minute surf lesson seems designed to cater to all levels, creating a welcoming and well-structured experience.

One of the first things we really like about this experience is its personalized approach. Kilian Garland, who’s been a pro on the World Surf League for 15 years and is a former North American Champion, tailors each lesson to your ability. That means whether you’re just learning to stand or trying to improve your stance, you’ll get feedback that’s relevant and constructive. The second plus is the all-inclusiveness: all necessary surf equipment and a safety briefing are covered, which simplifies the process for you.

A possible consideration might be the cost: at $160 per person, some might see it as a bit of an investment, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. But factoring in the expertise, personalized coaching, and the chance to surf in Santa Barbara’s renowned waves, many will find this to be good value—particularly for a small group experience. Keep in mind, this isn’t a full-day lesson, so if you’re after a deep dive into surfing techniques or a more relaxed day at the beach, you might want to plan additional activities.

This tour seems ideal for travelers who want a balanced, safe, and tailored introduction to surfing in Santa Barbara. It suits both solo adventurers and those traveling with friends or partners who want to learn in a supportive setting. Families with kids over 9 might also find it appealing, especially if they’re interested in a shared outdoor activity, but it’s not specifically designed as a family package.

Key Points

• Personalized instruction from an experienced pro surfer.
• All equipment and safety briefing included, making it hassle-free.
• Suitable for all levels, from beginners to those looking to improve.
• Small groups (up to 4 people) ensure individual attention.
• Location at Surf Santa Barbara provides easy access to popular surf spots.
• Flexible scheduling with multiple lesson times available.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santa Barbara Surf Lesson

The Instructor: Kilian Garland

Kilian Garland isn’t just any instructor; he’s a 15-year veteran of the World Surf League and the 2017 North American Champion. Growing up in Santa Barbara, he’s a true local with a passion for sharing his knowledge. His background as a competitive pro and surf coach means he understands what it takes to help you succeed, whether you’re a complete novice or just looking to sharpen your skills.

Many reviews emphasize Kilian’s approachable demeanor and his knack for giving clear, personalized feedback. One review mentions, “Kilian made me feel comfortable, explaining everything in a way that was easy to understand—even for a total beginner.” His deep roots in the community and experience in coaching make the lesson feel genuine, more like learning from a friendly neighbor than a strict instructor.

Meeting Point and Logistics

You’ll meet Kilian at Surf Santa Barbara, located at 801 Shoreline Dr. Arriving 15 minutes early helps you settle in and get ready without feeling rushed. The meeting spot is convenient, right near the beach, so you’ll be in the water quickly after a brief safety talk and some stretching.

The lesson duration is 130 minutes, which seems just right—long enough to learn the basics or make noticeable improvements without feeling exhausted or overwhelmed. The group size is limited to 4 participants, so you’ll receive personalized attention, and the instructor can tailor feedback based on your progress and comfort level.

Equipment and Safety

All necessary surf equipment—which typically includes a surfboard and leash—is provided. The lesson begins with a beach safety briefing and practice, helping you understand the fundamentals before hitting the water. This prep is especially valuable for beginners who might be nervous or unfamiliar with surf etiquette and safety.

Participants are advised to wear swimwear, bring a towel, apply sunscreen beforehand, and bring water and beachwear. It’s also worth noting that participants should be comfortable in the water and not have back problems or be non-swimmers, which underscores the importance of being prepared physically for the activity.

More Great Tours Nearby

What You’ll Learn

Whether you’re just starting or trying to get your stance right, Kilian will provide personalized feedback to help you progress. You’ll learn the basics of surfing, such as paddling techniques, positioning, and catching waves, or you might focus on refining your stance and balance if you already have some skills.

The lesson includes a breakdown of popular surf spots in Santa Barbara, so you’ll gain insight into the local environment, which can make future surf days more enjoyable. The focus on safety, technique, and fun creates an environment where you can confidently learn and enjoy your time in the water.

The Surf Spot

Santa Barbara offers a beautiful backdrop for surfing, with consistent waves suitable for all levels. The actual spots you’ll learn on are carefully chosen to match your skill level, ensuring safety and fun. Many reviewers comment on the quality of the waves and the scenic setting, making each lesson not just a skill-building session but also a memorable experience.

Value for Money

At $160, this private or semi-private lesson isn’t cheap, but it’s priced to reflect the expertise of Kilian Garland and the personalized attention you’ll receive. If you factor in the all-inclusive nature—equipment, safety, and tailored feedback—the cost becomes more justifiable. This isn’t a mass-group class; it’s a dedicated, quality experience designed to maximize your learning curve.

Keep in mind, the lesson doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off or food and drinks, so plan accordingly. The convenience of the location and the high level of instruction make this a worthwhile option for travelers seeking a genuine surfing experience in Santa Barbara.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience works well for adventurers eager to learn or improve surf skills in a friendly, supportive environment. It’s suitable for all ages over 9, provided participants are comfortable in the water. If you’re traveling with kids who meet the age requirement and are water-safe, they might enjoy this, but it’s primarily geared towards individual learners or small groups rather than families.

Those interested in local expertise and personalized coaching will appreciate Kilian’s approach. It’s especially good if you prefer a more intimate, less crowded lesson compared to large group classes. If you’re a solo traveler, it’s a great way to connect with a local pro, and if you’re with friends, it’s a fun way to share an activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to learn to surf or improve your skills while in Santa Barbara, this lesson with Kilian Garland offers a high-quality, personalized experience. You’ll benefit from the expertise of a seasoned pro who knows the local breaks inside and out, all while enjoying a safe, fun, and tailored lesson. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd, and the focus on feedback helps you make real progress—whether you’re catching your first wave or just refining your stance.

While the price isn’t the lowest available, the value comes from the quality instruction, local insights, and the chance to surf in a stunning setting. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a meaningful, skill-focused activity that’s both engaging and safe. This lesson can be a highlight of your trip, especially if you’re eager to get a taste of Santa Barbara’s surf culture with some expert guidance.

FAQ

Do I need to be able to swim to participate?
Yes, participants should be comfortable in the water, as the lesson involves practical surfing skills. Being a non-swimmer is not recommended.

Are the lessons suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The lesson is designed to be personalized for all skill levels, including complete beginners.

What is included in the price?
All necessary surf equipment, a safety briefing, stretching, and personalized feedback are included. You just need to bring your swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, and beachwear.

Can I choose my lesson time?
Yes, you can select from a variety of lesson times to fit your schedule.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s suitable for ages 9 and up, but they should be water-safe and comfortable in the water.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

If you’re after a relaxed, professional introduction to surfing in Santa Barbara, this lesson seems like a solid choice. It’s a chance to learn from a real local with serious credentials, all while enjoying the beautiful coastline and waves. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or a family, it offers a memorable way to connect with the ocean and boost your confidence on a surfboard.

You can check availability for your dates here: