Shared 2 Hours Regular Group Surf Lesson at Santa Monica

A Practical, Fun-Filled Intro to Surfing in Santa Monica

Getting into surfing can feel intimidating, especially for first-timers. That’s why a shared 2-hour group lesson at Santa Monica with Fun Surf LA is an excellent way to dip your toes into the sport without feeling overwhelmed. This experience is designed for beginners and those at an intermediate level, offering a good balance of instruction and free practice time in the water.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its affordable price point ($69) combined with the quality of the instruction—Nico, one of the instructors, was praised for being down-to-earth and approachable. The lesson is paced well, with about 30-40 minutes of beach training followed by an hour in the surf. However, one thing to consider is that it’s a group affair, which might mean less personalized coaching. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers who want to learn the basics, enjoy some fun in the surf, and soak up Venice Beach’s iconic vibe.

Key Points:
– Ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers aged 12 and up.
– Group size capped at 6 people for a more engaging experience.
– Includes equipment (8- to 9-foot foam surfboards) for safety and ease of use.
– Flexible and transparent cancellation policy—full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
– A chance to explore Venice Beach’s unique cultural scene after your lesson.
– Good value for quality instruction and practice time.

An In-Depth Look at the Santa Monica Surf Lesson Experience

How the Itinerary Breaks Down

This 2-hour session offers a well-structured introduction to surfing, making it approachable even for absolute beginners. The lesson begins with 30-40 minutes of onshore training. Here, instructors focus on safety, basic techniques, and how to position yourself on the board. This warm-up is vital for building confidence before hitting the waves, especially given the importance of understanding ocean safety and surf etiquette.

Following this, you move into 60 minutes of in-water instruction. This is the core of the experience, where you’ll practice paddling, catching small waves, and standing up with guidance from your instructor. The reviews mention instructors like Nico as being approachable and genuinely helpful, emphasizing a relaxed, fun, and supportive environment.

The remaining time—roughly 30 minutes—is yours to practice independently. With the surfboards provided, you’ll have ample opportunity to refine your new skills or simply enjoy catching waves at your own pace, while having a safety net of instructor supervision.

The Location and Its Charm

Set at Venice Beach, this surf school leverages one of California’s most iconic beaches. Venice Beach is known for its eccentric vibe and colorful street art, giving you more than just a surfing lesson—it’s an immersion into a lively cultural scene. The meeting point at 20 Bicknell Ave in Santa Monica is conveniently near public transportation, making it accessible whether you’re staying downtown or in nearby areas.

Equipment and Safety Measures

The use of 8- and 9-foot foam top surfboards ensures a safe and stable experience ideal for learners. The choice of foam boards over fiberglass models reduces the risk of injury and fire hazards, especially in a group setting. While fiberglass boards aren’t used here, the foam boards are generally easier to handle for beginners, allowing for quicker progress.

Thanks to the small group size, instructors can give more personalized feedback, often a big plus for beginners who may need more encouragement or demonstration. As one reviewer noted, Nico’s approachability made the lesson enjoyable and accessible, which is critical when you’re learning something as challenging as surfing.

The Practical Side: Duration, Group Size, and Price

At just $69 per person, this surf lesson provides good value considering it includes equipment, professional instruction, and dedicated practice time. The small group cap of 6 participants ensures that everyone gets enough attention from the instructor, making it a more effective learning experience.

Timing-wise, the 2-hour window is manageable even for day-trippers or travelers with tight schedules. The lesson is scheduled in the late morning or early afternoon, aligning well with other sightseeing plans around Venice Beach and Santa Monica.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

One of the standout elements of this tour is the setting. Apart from learning to surf, you’ll get to experience the quirky, free-spirited atmosphere of Venice Beach. After your lesson, you can stroll along the boardwalk, watch street performers, or grab a smoothie from a local vendor. The vibrant surroundings add to the fun, making the entire experience feel more like an adventure rather than just a lesson.

Review Highlights and Insights

Based on the reviews, Nico received high praise for his straightforward, friendly teaching style. One reviewer noted that it was a “good value for the lesson,” emphasizing the quality of instruction received. Such positive feedback suggests that the instructors genuinely want their students to succeed and enjoy their time in the water.

Plus, the flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance—is a practical benefit, especially for travelers with unpredictable plans.

Why This Surf Lesson Is a Great Choice

This experience strikes a good balance between affordability, quality, and fun. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a supportive environment to learn the basics of surfing, and for intermediate surfers who want some practice and confidence-building in a lively setting. The large draw is its location at Venice Beach, where you can combine your surf lesson with exploring one of California’s most colorful neighborhoods.

While it’s a group lesson, the small class sizes and friendly instructors create an environment where everyone feels comfortable. The use of foam boards minimizes safety concerns, making it accessible even for those with moderate swimming skills.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for an affordable, beginner-friendly way to try surfing in California, this is a solid choice. It’s ideal for adventure seekers, travel groups, and solo travelers who enjoy vibrant cultural scenes after their lesson. However, if you’re after a highly personalized or advanced surf experience, you might find this offering a bit basic. Still, for most visitors wanting a fun, supportive introduction to surfing, it hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The shared 2-hour surf lesson at Santa Monica by Fun Surf LA offers a practical and authentic introduction to surfing in one of California’s most famous beaches. With friendly instructors like Nico, equipment suited for beginners, and the lively backdrop of Venice Beach, it’s a fun, accessible way to start your surfing journey.

The cost is reasonable given the experience and the included gear, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in the crowd. Plus, the location allows you to soak up the unique Venice Beach vibe before or after your lesson, making it more than just a surf class—it’s an introduction to California’s free-spirited coastal lifestyle.

This tour is best suited for first-timers, casual learners, and travelers eager to enjoy Venice Beach’s eclectic charm. If you value good instruction, a supportive environment, and a fun atmosphere, this is a worthwhile investment in your California trip.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers the instruction, use of foam surfboards (8- to 9-foot), and practice time in the water.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 12 years old, making it suitable for teenagers and up.

How long is the lesson?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, with approximately 30-40 minutes of beach training and 60 minutes of water practice.

Where does the lesson take place?
The lesson begins at 20 Bicknell Ave in Santa Monica and takes place at Venice Beach, one of California’s most iconic beaches.

What should I wear or bring?
Wearing a swimsuit and bringing some water and sunscreen is recommended. The lesson provides surfboards and likely rash guards for comfort.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance. Last-minute cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

What if the weather is bad?
If poor weather causes cancellation, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

This Santa Monica surf lesson offers a great starting point for those wanting to have fun in the waves with expert guidance, in a lively beach town full of character.