Trying out surfing for the first time can sound daunting, but this Laguna Beach surf lesson aims to make it achievable and enjoyable. We’ve looked into this experience, recommended by 100% of reviewers, and it seems to hit the right notes for beginners eager to experience California’s famous waves. Whether you’re visiting solo, with friends, or even as part of a family, this lesson could be a fun way to get wet and learn something new.
What really appeals to us is how personalized the experience appears. With a maximum of three students per instructor, you’re not lost in a crowd. Plus, all equipment is included, so you won’t be left wondering about what to rent or what gear works best. On the flip side, the lesson lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, which might feel a bit short for some looking to get a serious surf fix, but for most first-timers, it’s plenty to get a taste of what surfing’s all about. This tour is best suited for anyone aged 10 and up who’s comfortable swimming and wants to try surfing in warm Pacific waters with professional guidance.
Key Points

- Ideal for beginners: No prior experience needed; all gear included.
- Small groups: Up to three students per instructor for personalized coaching.
- Perfect duration: About 1.5 hours in total, including beach prep and water time.
- Great location: Laguna Beach’s semi-private Thalia St. beach offers ideal surf conditions.
- All equipment provided: Wetsuits and surfboards are included in the price.
- Cancellations: Fully refundable if canceled 24 hours in advance.
What You Can Expect from the Laguna Beach Surf Lesson

Jumping into a beginner surf lesson sounds straightforward, but knowing what to expect can help you prepare and make the most of the experience. This particular tour starts with a simple meeting at 1121 Glenneyre St, Laguna Beach. From there, your instructor provides all the gear — a surfboard and wetsuit — so you can focus entirely on learning rather than worrying about what to bring or rent.
The walk down to Thalia St., a semi-private community beach, feels like stepping into a local secret. This beach is smaller and less crowded than some of Laguna’s more famous spots, which is perfect for beginners. The instructor will kick things off with some beach-based instructions, where you’ll practice on land to understand the basics of paddling, positioning, and popping up. Many first-timers find that they’re able to stand up on the board by the end of the lesson, which is a fantastic boost of confidence and a sign that you’re catching on.
Once in the water, the focus shifts to applying what you’ve learned. Expect around 90 minutes of actual surfing time — plenty of time to try catching waves and improve your balance. Many reviews highlight how much fun it is to actually stand up and ride a wave, even if it’s just for a moment. The waves at Laguna’s Thalia St. are generally suitable for beginners and offer a safe environment to learn.
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The Instructor and Group Size

One of the highlights of this tour is the small group size. With just three students per instructor, you’ll receive tailored feedback and guidance, which makes a significant difference in the learning curve. Reviewers like Alex_K mentioned, “Instructors were fantastic! Got up on a bunch of waves,” emphasizing how effective the personal attention can be.
Having an experienced instructor is crucial, especially for newcomers who might be nervous or unsure about the ocean. The instructor’s role isn’t just technical; they also help you understand surf etiquette, which is important for safety and respecting local surfers. The fact that many guests feel they’ve had an “absolute blast” suggests that the vibe is friendly, supportive, and encouraging.
The Location: Laguna’s Scenic Shores
Laguna Beach is renowned for its stunning coastline, and Thalia St. beach is a perfect spot for beginners. It’s a semi-private community beach, so you’re not fighting crowds, and the waves tend to be manageable for new surfers. This quiet setting is an essential component of a good beginner surf lesson — it’s less intimidating and more conducive to learning.
Many reviews praise the area’s beauty, noting that it’s a wonderful place to spend a day regardless of the surf lesson. The views, the typical sunny weather, and the laid-back California vibe all contribute to making your experience more memorable.
Price and Value

At $128.21 per person, this surf lesson isn’t the cheapest activity in Laguna Beach, but it offers good value considering the all-inclusive setup. You get the full 1.5 hours of instruction, all gear, and a breathtaking coastal location. The small group format and professional guidance mean you’re paying for quality, not just a generic lesson.
If you think about it, the cost covers not only the gear but also the access to expert coaching in a safe environment. For first-timers, catching even a fleeting wave can be a huge achievement, and this experience is structured to maximize those moments.
Flexibility and Cancellations

A major plus is the free cancellation policy — you can cancel up to 24 hours before and get a full refund. Weather can be unpredictable, and surf conditions change quickly, so this flexibility makes it easier to plan without stress. If bad weather cancels your session, you’re offered a different date or a refund, which is reassuring.
Who Should Consider This Tour

This surf lesson is perfect for beginners, especially those who want a safe, guided introduction to surfing. It’s suitable for travelers comfortable in water and with a moderate physical fitness level. Since the minimum age is 10, families with older children might find it a great activity, but it’s not specifically geared toward children under 10 or complete non-swimmers.
If you’re someone who’s always wanted to try surfing and appreciates small groups and expert instructors, this tour will likely meet your expectations. People who value scenic views, a relaxed vibe, and the chance to learn in a low-pressure environment will find this experience appealing.
FAQs

Do I need any prior surfing experience?
Nope. All equipment is provided, and the lesson is designed for beginners with no prior experience needed.
What should I wear?
You’ll be given a wetsuit, but it’s best to wear swimwear underneath. Bring a towel and some sunscreen.
Is the session suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 10 years, and kids should be comfortable in the water and able to swim.
How long is the lesson?
The total experience lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, including beach prep and water time, with roughly 90 minutes spent in the water.
Can I cancel if the weather isn’t good?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance, and bad weather may lead to a reschedule or full refund.
Are the waves suitable for beginners?
Yes, Laguna’s Thalia St. beach offers waves that are generally manageable for those just starting out.
How many people are in each group?
A maximum of three students per instructor, ensuring personalized attention.
What if I want to do this with friends or family?
You can book for small groups, and the limited group size makes it a nice shared experience.
Surf Lesson in Laguna Beach
“Best afternoon. Instructors were fantastic! Got up on a bunch of waves beautiful beach! Great area to spend the entire day. 2 hours perfect amount …”
Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a splash of adventure to your Laguna Beach visit, this surf lesson offers an excellent introduction to riding the waves. It’s tailored for beginners, with a friendly instructor, all gear included, and stunning scenery. You’ll love the way it combines manageable waves with the chance to learn a new skill in a laid-back setting.
For those who appreciate small groups and personalized coaching, this experience stands out. The only caveat is the duration — if you’re eager to surf for hours, you might wish for a longer session. But for most first-timers, it’s just right to get a taste of what surfing can be. It’s a fantastic option for anyone wanting a memorable, hands-on experience in California’s beautiful coast.
Hope this helps you decide whether to try surfing in Laguna Beach. It’s a gift of a day — fun, scenic, and full of potential for new adventures.
