Santa Monica: Group Surf Lesson

If you’re dreaming of catching waves in sunny California, a group surf lesson in Santa Monica might just be the perfect way to start. We haven’t personally taken this particular tour, but based on reviews and details from offshore Vibes Surf School, it seems like a solid choice for those wanting a fun, social intro to surfing without breaking the bank.

What really caught our eye? First, the cost-effectiveness—at just $85 per group, it’s accessible and offers a great way to dip your toes into surfing without splurging on private lessons. Second, the supportive, social environment sounds like a good motivator, especially if you’re new to water sports or prefer learning alongside others.

One thing to consider is that this tour isn’t suited for non-swimmers, so if you’re not comfortable in the water, it might not be the best fit. This experience seems ideal for beginners and casual surfers looking for a relaxed, social introduction to the sport in a famous beach setting.

Key Points

• Affordable group pricing makes learning to surf accessible for most budgets
• Supportive group environment encourages camaraderie and motivation
• Expert instruction tailored to different skill levels at various spots
• Includes wetsuit and surfboard—so no need to rent gear separately
• Duration of 1.5 hours provides a good balance of instruction and practical wave time
• Limited group size (up to 4 participants) ensures personalized attention

When you sign up for this surf session, you’re in for a well-structured, beginner-friendly experience that balances instruction with hands-on practice. The lesson kicks off on the beach with a 30-minute introductory segment. Here, your instructor explains the essentials—how to handle a surfboard, understanding wave patterns, tides, and most importantly, water safety. This foundational knowledge sets the tone for a confident surf session.

After the basics, you’ll move into the water with your group, ready to try catching waves. The remaining hour is dedicated to actual surfing, where you’ll get plenty of chances to practice popping up and riding, with guidance tailored to your skill level. Depending on how you’re doing and the conditions, your instructor might take you to different surf spots around Santa Monica, making the experience flexible and adaptable.

The group size is small, limited to four participants, which means you’ll get more individual feedback than in larger classes. Plus, the social environment encourages mutual support and maybe a little friendly competition—perfect for boosting confidence and making the learning process fun.

The Gear and What You Need to Bring

All necessary gear—wetsuits and surfboards—are included, so you don’t need to worry about renting or bringing your own. Just remember to come prepared with a swimsuit, sunscreen, and a bottle of water. With Santa Monica’s sunny climate, sun protection is a must, and staying hydrated is key when you’re out in the water for an hour and a half.

From the few reviews available, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive. One reviewer from Switzerland called it “spitze,” which translates to “great” or “awesome,” emphasizing how much they enjoyed the experience. Another from the US mentioned the staff as “very friendly and helpful,” highlighting the approachable nature of the instructors and the supportive environment.

This small-group setup, combined with the expert guidance, makes it especially appealing for beginners who might feel a little nervous about surfing. The friendly vibe helps newcomers feel at ease, and the fact that the lesson is in a well-known surf spot adds to the overall appeal.

Duration & Timing: The lesson lasts 1.5 hours and is typically available in the morning or afternoon, which offers flexibility depending on your schedule. This length strikes a good balance—long enough to get a decent amount of ride time, but not so lengthy that it becomes exhausting.

Price & Value: At $85, this is an attractive price point, especially considering it includes gear and instruction. Private lessons are usually pricier and offer more personalized coaching, but for those new to surfing or traveling with friends, this group lesson provides a cost-effective, social way to give it a try.

Group Size: Limited to 4 participants, which ensures personalized attention. If you’re traveling solo or with a small group, you’ll likely find it easy to bond and learn together.

Instructor & Language: The lessons are conducted in English, with instructors who are knowledgeable, friendly, and supportive. The small group setting means you’ll get tailored feedback, which is especially helpful if you’re new to water sports.

Location & Spots: Depending on your skill level, you might be taken to various surf spots along Santa Monica—each with its own charm and wave conditions. This flexibility is good because it means the instructor can adapt to your progress and the day’s conditions.

This tour is best suited for beginners and casual surfers who want to get a feel for surfing without committing to private lessons. It’s perfect if you’re looking to meet new people, enjoy a social experience, and learn the basics in a relaxed setting.

Since non-swimmers aren’t recommended, if you’re not comfortable in the water, this might not be the best fit. Also, if you’re traveling with older children or teens who are confident swimmers, it could work well for them too.

This Santa Monica group surf lesson offers a well-rounded, budget-friendly way to get into surfing. The combination of supportive instruction, small group size, and inclusive gear makes it particularly appealing for beginners or those wanting a gentle, social introduction to riding waves. The friendly reviews highlight that participants often leave feeling accomplished and motivated to keep surfing.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning in a social environment and values a good deal, this experience could be just what you need to dip your toes into the water—and maybe even stand up on your first wave. It’s not a thrill-seeker’s adrenaline rush, but for many, that’s part of the charm. Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, low-pressure surf experience in California.

Is this surf lesson suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the lesson is designed for beginners, with a 30-minute beach instruction to cover basics before hitting the water.

What gear is included?
The lesson includes wetsuits and surfboards, so you just need to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and water.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to four participants, allowing for more personalized guidance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to fit your travel schedule.

What should I bring for the lesson?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and a bottle of water to stay comfortable and protected during the lesson.

Is this experience accessible for non-swimmers?
No, non-swimmers are not suitable for this activity due to water safety requirements.

What are the available times for the lesson?
Usually, lessons are available in the morning and afternoon, giving you options to suit your plans.

Will I be taken to different surf spots based on my skill level?
Yes, depending on your level, instructors may take you to various surf spots around Santa Monica to optimize your learning experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: