Next Level - Private Coaching
Trip Highlights
Description
Itinerary
Tour info
Why take this tour?
Ready to take your surfing to the next level? Our surf lesson in Santa Cruz is perfect for surfers of all ages who want to improve their skills and focus on what’s missing from their technique. With the help of our professional instructors, you’ll go beyond the basics—both in and out of the water. We’ll assess your form, refine your paddling, and ensure you’re fully equipped to ride the waves with confidence. This two-hour session includes everything you need for a complete surf experience: safety assessments, equipment guidance, land and water coaching, and personalized feedback. Plus, we offer fitness training, line-up etiquette, and even filming upon request for a deeper breakdown of your progress. Book your lesson today and come ride the waves with the best!
- Safety and proactive condition assessment
- Enter and exiting the water and line up
- Equipment assessment and discussion: pros and cons
- Land lessons, pop up techniques and mechanics breakdowns
- Paddling form, techniques, duck diving
- Dialing in equipment (boards, fins, leashes, wax, suits, booties etc.)
- In water and online coaching with breakdowns
- Available film and photography (upon advanced request) with break down
- Fitness and training plans
- Water security and comfort
- First aid and CPR certified
- Line up etiquette
Included
- Foam longboard
- Full-length wetsuit
- CPR & First Aid Certified Instructor
- Sunblock
- Focused and advanced surfing instructions!
Excluded
- Transportation to Location
- Food and Beverages
- Tips and Gratuities
Frequently asked questions
Things to know
Surf Instructors
Reservation
Age Requirement
What to Bring
Cancellation Policy
Weather Conditions
Surf Instructors
Reservation
Age Requirement
What to Bring
Cancellation Policy
Weather Conditions
Recent Reviews
Ash Sward
February 6, 2026
Ryan was super welcoming and all around good vibes; a stellar instructor. He towed me around the entire session, which gave me the luxury to just focus on standing and cruising. He set me up for the perfect sized baby waves and gave me the pushes I needed to build confidence. Wha…
Katrin
October 28, 2025
Fantastic! I was a complete beginner and took 3 lessons with Surf School Santa Cruz. I especially appreciate the 1:1-2 instructor-to-student ratio - I received constant feedback, felt safe, and got lots of practice. My instructor Dane was fantastic, picked the perfect waves and g…
Ernest Wilkes
October 27, 2025
Surfboard Sam is the man. Epic day. Excellent encouragement and instruction. This guys will make your day - if you don’t like surfing after trying it with Sam, then forget it, make hiking is for you. :).
Check Availability
Why book with us?
- Book instantly directly with provider
- Get the lowest price guarantee
- Worry-free flexible cancellation policy
More Experiences
Private Surf Lessons at Pleasure Point
Learn to surf with confidence with Surf School Santa Cruz through our private surf lesson offering at the iconic Pleasure Point. Designed for all ages and skill levels, our private lessons provide personalized instruction for everyone from first-time surfers to more advanced riders looking to sharpen their skills. Our experienced instructors focus on the fundamentals of surfing, including water safety, wave etiquette, paddling, positioning, and proper pop-up technique, while creating a fun and supportive environment in the water. With one-on-one coaching or instruction tailored to your private group, each lesson is built around your pace, comfort level, and goals. Located in the heart of Santa Cruz, Pleasure Point offers a safe and approachable setting with multiple breaks that work well for a wide range of abilities. Join Surf School Santa Cruz for a private lesson and see why we are a top choice for surf instruction in Northern California.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Private Two-Person Surf Lessons at Cowell Beach
Share the thrill of surfing at Cowell Beach with someone special, a close friend, or a family member in a private two-hour lesson tailored just for you. At Surf School Santa Cruz, we’re proud to offer personalized instruction at this iconic Santa Cruz spot, where calm waters and a welcoming atmosphere make it the perfect place to learn. Whether it’s your first wave or a chance to refine your skills, our experienced instructors provide focused attention and expert guidance to help you feel confident and empowered on the water. With our dedication to safety, fun, and fostering a love for the ocean, you’ll be learning from the best so you can become the best surfer you can be.