(831) 428-3647 3548 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz, CA, 95062

The Top 12 Surf Schools in America

Name: Surf School Santa Cruz
Address: 3548 Portola Dr., Santa Cruz, CA, 95062
Telephone: (831) 428-3647

June 23, 2025

https://www.surfer.com/how-to/the-top-12-surf-schools-in-americahttps://www.surfer.com/how-to/the-top-12-surf-schools-in-america

A tour we think you'll love

Private Surf Lessons at Pleasure Point

From $200

View tour >

Duration

2 hours

Group Size

At least 2

Private Two-Person Surf Lessons at Pleasure Point

Enjoy a private two-person surf lesson with someone special, whether it’s a friend, partner, or family member. This two-hour lesson is designed specifically for the two of you, with personalized coaching from experienced instructors who are passionate about helping you progress. Whether you are learning the basics or improving your technique, our private lessons offer focused instruction, expert guidance, and a fun, supportive experience in the water. At Surf School Santa Cruz, we combine safety, progression, and stoke to make sure you leave feeling more confident and connected to the ocean.

from

$150

Book Now LEARN MORE

Duration

2 hours

Group Size

3 to 8

Private Party Group Surf Lesson | Pleasure Point

Surf School Santa Cruz group lessons are for you and your friends or family only, creating a more personal and comfortable experience in the water. We do not mix unrelated guests into groups, so your lesson is always just your own crew. Our lessons are led by professional surfers and certified surf instructors, giving you expert coaching in essential surfing skills like surf etiquette, ocean safety, paddling techniques, surfboard positioning, and proper stand-up form. Whether you’re a beginner catching your first waves or an intermediate surfer looking to refine your style, our Santa Cruz surf lessons are designed to help you improve quickly while having fun in the water. We focus on safety, encouragement, and progression, making sure every student enjoys an unforgettable surfing experience. Our group lessons are private parties only, which means you must bring your own group. Private group lessons accommodate 3 to 8 surfers, with one instructor for every two surfers. For participants under age 13, we provide a dedicated one-on-one instructor to ensure the best and safest experience possible. All equipment, including surfboards and wetsuits, is provided. Come learn to surf in Santa Cruz, ride the waves with confidence, and experience why Surf School Santa Cruz is a top choice for surf lessons in California.

from

$125

Book Now LEARN MORE

Duration

2 hours

Group Size

No limit

Next Level - Private Coaching

Ready to push past the basics and actually level up your surfing? Our Next Level Surf Lessons are designed for surfers of all ages who are ready to refine their technique, fix problem areas, and unlock real progression in the water. You’ll work one-on-one with our professional surfers to break down what’s holding you back, dial in your style, and master more than just the fundamentals. From paddle power to wave strategy, we cover it all—on land and in the lineup. If you’re serious about getting better, this is the session that makes the difference. Join us in Santa Cruz and experience the ultimate surf coaching that takes your surfing where you’ve always wanted it to go.

from

$250

Book Now LEARN MORE

Duration

2 hours

Group Size

No limit

Surf Lessons with Bud Freitas

Get the ultimate surf lesson experience with Bud, a top world-ranking competitor and standout surfer who has excelled in NSSA, WQS, and WSL competitions. With years of expertise riding any surf condition, Bud offers a unique opportunity to surf with a pro. This lesson is open to all ages and is designed to take your surfing to the next level, whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your technique. Don’t miss the chance to learn from one of the best in the industry and ride the waves in Santa Cruz with a professional instructor who truly knows the sport!

from

$300

Book Now LEARN MORE

Duration

2 hours

Group Size

At least 1

Private Party Group Surf Lesson | Cowell Beach

This private party group surf lesson is for your own group of 3 to 8 surfers. It is not an open group lesson, and we do not add solo surfers or unrelated guests to existing groups. Perfect for families, friends, birthday groups, and small private parties, this two-hour surf lesson includes professional instruction, ocean safety, surf etiquette, paddling technique, positioning, and proper pop-up form. Each booking is reserved for your group only. Private party group lessons include one instructor for every two surfers. For participants under age 13, we provide a dedicated one-on-one instructor for the safest and best experience. All surfboards and wetsuits are included.

from

$200

Book Now LEARN MORE

Back to all articles