Where Can Beginners Surf in Santa Monica?

Will Ermish
Jul 3
4 min read

So, you’ve been binge-watching surf videos, daydreaming of gliding down waves with the sun on your back, and now you’re wondering: Where can beginners surf in Santa Monica? First of all, congrats on choosing one of the best spots in California to get started! With its mellow beach breaks, vibrant surf community, and year-round sunshine, Santa Monica is a beginner surfer’s paradise.

At Coyote Skate & Surf Lessons in Venice Beach, we help new surfers learn to ride their first wave safely and confidently. This guide will walk you through the best beginner-friendly surf spots in Santa Monica, what to expect as a new surfer, how to prep for your first session, and why you don’t need to look any further than us for surf lessons that actually work.

Why Santa Monica Is Great for Beginner Surfers

Santa Monica’s long, sandy beaches and mostly mellow waves make it one of the most accessible spots for beginners in Southern California. Whether you’re a total newbie or looking to refine your whitewater skills, this coastline offers:

Gentle wave conditions year-round
Lifeguard supervision across major beach access points
Easy beach access and parking
Warm weather most of the year
A thriving surf culture with welcoming vibes

Best Beginner Surf Spots in Santa Monica

1. Santa Monica Beach (Near Tower 20-26)

This stretch is ideal for first-timers. It offers consistent soft waves, especially in the summer. Plus, the sandy bottom means softer wipeouts (which will happen—don’t worry).

Wave Type: Rolling whitewater
Best Tides: Mid to high
Vibe: Family-friendly, lots of surf schools

Check out our beginner surf lessons

2. Bay Street (Technically in Santa Monica)

Also known as “Bae Street” by locals, this spot is popular with both beginners and longboarders. It breaks well year-round, with especially gentle surf in the warmer months.

Wave Type: Soft beach break
Best Tides: Mid tide
Vibe: Chill, slightly more experienced crowd

3. Venice Breakwater (Just South of Santa Monica)

Okay, technically this isn’t Santa Monica, but we’d be doing you a disservice not to mention our home break. It’s justdown the coast and offers a fun environment for progressing beginners. The added bonus? You can take a lesson with Coyote Surf Lessons right here.

Wave Type: Beach break with defined peaks
Best Tides: Low to mid
Vibe: Local, artsy, super photogenic

Book a surf lesson with us today

What to Expect as a Beginner Surfer

Let’s be real: surfing is harder than it looks—but also way more fun than it looks. Here’s what most first-time surfers can expect:

1. Lots of Falling (and Laughing)

Falling is part of the process. You’ll bellyflop, faceplant, and occasionally ride backward. It’s all part of the fun.

2. A Huge Workout

Paddling alone can feel like a gym session. But it’s also one of the best full-body workouts around.

3. Fast Progress with the Right Coach

A good surf instructor can shave months off your learning curve. Our instructors at Coyote Surf Lessons specialize in helping beginners feel safe, supported, and stoked.

When’s the Best Time to Learn to Surf in Santa Monica?

Santa Monica surf is relatively beginner-friendly all year, but some seasons are better than others:

Summer (June – August): Warm water, mellow waves, and small crowds in the mornings.
Fall (September – November): Still warm, better wave quality, but can get crowded.
Winter (December – February): Colder water and bigger waves—not ideal unless you're working with an experienced instructor.
Spring (March – May): Unpredictable weather but quieter beaches.

What You Need for Your First Surf Session

Here’s a checklist of essentials for your first paddle out:

Soft-top surfboard (8–9 ft for stability)
Wetsuit (thickness depending on the season)
Sunscreen (reef-safe!)
Towel & water bottle
Patience and sense of humor

Want to avoid the hassle of gear? We’ve got you covered.

Why Take a Lesson Instead of Going Solo?

You could watch a few YouTube videos, grab a Costco board, and go flailing into the Pacific solo. But here’s what you won’t get:

Safety tips that prevent injury
Technique guidance that helps you pop up quicker
Feedback that keeps you improving
Local knowledge of tides, currents, and where to avoid

Our beginner surf lessons in Venice Beach are just 10 minutes from Santa Monica and customized to your comfort level. We offer:

1-on-1 instruction
Small group lessons
All equipment provided
Lifeguard-certified instructors

Tips to Progress Faster as a Beginner Surfer

Practice Popping Up at Home – Muscle memory matters.
Watch the Ocean Before You Paddle Out – Learn wave timing and sets.
Take Multiple Lessons – Repetition with coaching speeds up learning.
Film Yourself – It’s awkward, but wildly helpful.
Celebrate the Small Wins – Every stand-up counts!

Other Beginner-Friendly Activities in Santa Monica

Need a break from surfing? Santa Monica has plenty to offer:

Skateboarding – Take a lesson with us! Skate lessons in Venice Beach
Bike the Marvin Braude Trail
Explore the Santa Monica Pier
Hike in Topanga Canyon
Shop on the Third Street Promenade

Ready to Learn to Surf Near Santa Monica?

Whether you're visiting L.A. or finally acting on your dream to surf, Santa Monica is one of the best places to start. And with Coyote Surf Lessons, you’re not just signing up for a lesson—you’re joining a crew that’s passionate about making surfing accessible, safe, and seriously fun.

We're based just south of Santa Monica in Venice Beach, and we’d love to help you catch your first wave.