Los Angeles: Surfing Lesson in Venice Beach

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or improving your surf skills while soaking up the California sun, a Venice Beach surfing lesson might be just the ticket. This 2-hour group experience, run by Cali-Adventures.com, is designed for both beginners and intermediates, offering a perfect mix of instruction, fun, and stunning ocean views. With a high rating of 4.7 from over 300 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this activity both enjoyable and worthwhile.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the quality of the guides — many reviews highlight their patience, friendliness, and deep knowledge. Plus, the chance to learn on well-maintained surfboards (8 and 9 footers, suitable for all sizes) and wetsuits included in the price add excellent value. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the activity is weather-dependent; surf conditions can lead to rescheduling or cancellations, so flexibility is key.

This experience is ideal for those who want a hands-on introduction to surfing in a lively, beachy atmosphere. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for an active way to explore LA’s iconic shoreline. However, it’s less suitable for kids under 12 or travelers seeking a private or Spanish/French/German instruction.

Key Points

• Supportive Instruction: Guides are praised for their friendliness and patience, making learning accessible.
• Inclusive for All Levels: Designed for both beginners and intermediate surfers.
• Value for Money: The comprehensive package—including gear, wetsuits, and guidance—at a reasonable price.
• Ideal Location: Venice Beach offers classic LA scenery and a vibrant, fun atmosphere.
• Flexibility: Options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, with the possibility of rescheduling based on weather.
• Authentic Experience: Small group lessons foster personalized attention and a fun social environment.

An In-Depth Look at the Venice Beach Surfing Lesson

Location and Meeting Details

The activity kicks off at 20 Bicknell Ave, where you’ll find the fun surf school bus or a white van marked with the blue FUN SURF LA logo. Meeting here is straightforward, but travelers should be aware that directions could sometimes be a little tricky, as a few reviews mention difficulty in locating the bus initially. The lesson concludes back at the same spot, making it easy to plan your day after.

What’s Included and What to Bring

For $69 per person, you receive a lesson with an experienced instructor, surfboards (8 and 9 feet), wetsuits, and storage for your belongings. The inclusivity of gear and safety equipment makes this a great deal, especially considering the guidance provided.

Participants are advised to bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. The wetsuits help keep you warm in the water, which is handy even on warm days, and the sunscreen is essential for sun protection during the outdoor activity.

The Itinerary: From Beach to Waves

The lesson is split into two main parts.

First, about 30-40 minutes on land, where you’ll learn the fundamentals—this includes popping up on the board, understanding ocean safety, and getting comfortable with the equipment. Many reviews mention how clear and thorough the land instructions are, with some highlighting guides like Nico, Melanie, Axel, and Juana as particularly helpful and friendly.

Once you’re confident on land, it’s time for the ocean session—approximately 40 minutes of hands-on practice in the waves. This part is where the magic happens, and many reviewers share how quickly they managed to stand or catch their first wave thanks to the attentive coaching.

The remaining time is yours to keep practicing and enjoying the surf. Post-surf, rinsing off at the outdoor public shower is a nice touch, helping you clean off the salt and sand.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The lessons are typically for small groups, which enhances safety and allows guides to give individualized tips. Many reviews mention how guides like Juana, Eden, John, and Francesco take their time with each participant, ensuring everyone feels confident and safe. The group dynamic also adds a social element—perfect for travelers who want to meet others while learning a new skill.

Quality of Instruction and Safety

The reviews consistently praise the knowledge and patience of the instructors. One review mentions, “Nate was fantastic,” especially for first-timers, while another appreciates how “Melanie was very friendly and showed us a lot of things we could do safely.” The focus on safety and technique makes this a trustworthy choice for solo travelers or those new to surfing.

Experience Duration and Flexibility

Clocking in at 2 hours, this activity offers a well-paced introduction that balances theory and practice without feeling rushed. You can check availability for different start times, and the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds a layer of flexibility, especially in unpredictable weather.

The Authentic Surfing Experience

What makes this tour stand out is its authentic LA vibe. Venice Beach is iconic, and learning to surf here means you get a taste of both the lively atmosphere and the breathtaking coastline. Many reviews highlight how friendly guides and the scenic setting contribute to a memorable experience.

The quality of the gear and the supportive environment make beginners feel comfortable, even if they’re nervous at first. Several reviews mention their surprise at how quickly they managed to stand on the board, thanks to the clear instructions and attentive coaching.

What Travelers Say

One first-timer shared, “It was my first time surfing and I can’t imagine a better experience. The on-land instructions were very detailed and helped me a lot in the water.” Others highlight how professional and fun the instructors are, making the learning process enjoyable and relaxing.

Several reviewers also comment on the value for money, noting that the included gear, instruction, and warm wetsuits make this a cost-effective way to try surfing in LA.

Potential Drawbacks

While most feedback is positive, some mention the activity being weather-dependent. For example, surf conditions can vary, leading to possible rescheduling or cancellations, which is common with outdoor water sports. Flexibility in planning is advisable.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This lesson caters mainly to beginners and intermediate surfers looking for a friendly, guided introduction to surfing. It’s perfect if you want a fun, social activity with safety and support at the forefront. Travelers who appreciate authentic coastal experiences and are eager to learn a new skill will find this very rewarding.

It’s less suitable for children under 12, or those seeking a private lesson or instruction in languages other than English. Also, if you have significant water anxiety or mobility issues, you might want to consider the level of physical activity involved.

Final Thoughts

This Venice Beach surfing lesson offers more than just a beginner’s class; it’s an opportunity to embrace the California surf culture with guidance from seasoned instructors who genuinely care about your experience. The inclusive gear, friendly atmosphere, and prime location combine to deliver a memorable, rewarding activity that’s well worth its affordable price.

If you’re visiting Los Angeles and eager to try surfing, this experience is a great starting point. You’ll leave with new skills, fresh confidence, and plenty of stories to tell about your time riding those iconic waves.

Overall, it’s a fun, affordable, and authentic way to add a splash of adventure to your LA trip. Whether you’re a total beginner or somewhat intermediate, the camaraderie, expert guidance, and beachside scenery make this a standout activity.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, this lesson is designed for both beginners and intermediate surfers. Many reviews praise how clear and supportive the instruction is, making it accessible for first-timers.

What should I bring with me?
You should bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water. The wetsuits and surfboards are included, so you don’t need to worry about renting gear separately.

Where do I meet for the lesson?
Meet on the right side of the parking lot off Bicknell Ave. Look for the blue FUN SURF LA logo on the bus or white van. Directions are straightforward, but some reviews mention that finding the bus can be a bit tricky.

How long does the lesson last?
The total activity duration is 2 hours. The breakdown includes 30-40 minutes on land and about 40 minutes in the water, with time at the beginning and end for preparation and rinsing.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity for a full refund. The activity may be rescheduled or canceled based on surf and weather conditions, and you’ll be contacted the day before if that happens.

Is it suitable for children?
This lesson is not recommended for children under 12 years old. It’s aimed at older kids, teens, and adults who are comfortable in the water.

In summary, this Venice Beach surfing lesson blends professional guidance, genuine fun, and a scenic setting—an ideal choice for anyone looking to dip their toes into surfing while exploring the iconic California coast.