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.
Itinerary
1
Meet your instructor and learn about the basics of surfing and water safety.
2
Practice pop-ups and paddling techniques on the beach before hitting the water.
3
Head into the ocean to catch waves with guidance from your instructor.
Ready to ride your first wave or improve your skills? Join Surf School Santa Cruz for a fun, two-hour group lesson led by professional surfers! We’ll cover key skills like safety, paddling, and stand-up techniques, all while ensuring you have a blast. With small groups (3-8 students) and personalized attention for surfers under 13, you’ll get the guidance you need to succeed. Book your lesson today and learn from the best!
Included
Foam longboard
Full-length wetsuit
CPR & First Aid Certified Instructor
Sunblock
Unforgettable Surfing Experience
Excluded
Transportation to Location
Food and Beverages
Tips and Gratuities
Frequently asked questions
No. Our private party group lessons are reserved for people booking together. We do not mix unrelated guests or add individual surfers into private groups. If you are booking for one person, please choose a Private Surf Lesson. If you are booking for two people, please choose a Private Two-Person Surf Lesson.
No, our lessons are designed for all skill levels, including beginners.
All of our lessons run for 2 hours and consist of 15-20 minutes of training on the beach and the remaining time in the water with your instructor.
We will notify you of any weather-related changes to your lesson.
YES. It is necessary that you know how to swim when taking surfing lessons.
Things to know
Age Requirement
Suitable for ages 3 and up.
What to Bring
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Weather Conditions
Lessons are subject to weather conditions; we will notify you of any changes.
Equipment Provided
Wetsuits and surfboards are included.
Age Requirement
Suitable for ages 3 and up.
What to Bring
Bring a towel, sunscreen, and a change of clothes.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be made 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Weather Conditions
Lessons are subject to weather conditions; we will notify you of any changes.
Equipment Provided
Wetsuits and surfboards are included.
Recent Reviews
38 Verified reviews
Jamie Burke
February 10, 2026
We had a double and single lesson with Dane and Sam and they were wonderful! Friendly and informative, towed us out and set us up for each wave, and gave pointers as we went. Highly recommend lessons with these two! We will always remember this awesome experience.
Justina Jong
February 9, 2026
My friends and I took two classes from them. They were very friendly and supportive in our learning process. We had a great time and caught some waves!!
Chris V. Nicholson
September 15, 2025
Three of us signed up for lessons (two parents and our six yo). Sam and Cooper taught us and they were awesome! Sam rode tandem with our son and got him comfortable on the board, and Cooper got both adults up on a board for the first time! It was a great couple hours.
