Where to Learn to Surf in Los Angeles?

A Local’s Guide to Catching Waves in Style

If you’re wondering where to learn to surf in Los Angeles, you’ve landed in the right lineup. Whether you're visiting LA with salty dreams of hanging ten or you're a local who's finally giving in to the call of the Pacific, this guide will walk (and paddle) you through the best places, schools, and insider tips to get started — all from the sandy, sun-soaked perspective of Venice Beach's favorite local surf crew: Coyote Surf Lessons.

Why Learn to Surf in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles isn’t just a city — it’s a vibe. And surfing is a big part of that vibe. From sunrise sessions in Malibu to sunset longboard cruises in Venice, LA offers year-round waves, epic scenery, and a surf culture that's as iconic as In-N-Out burgers and palm trees.

What makes LA one of the best places in the world to learn to surf?

• Consistent beginner-friendly waves (especially in Venice and Santa Monica)

• Warm weather and water (okay, the water's “LA cold,” but you’ll survive)

• World-class instructors and surf schools

• An inclusive surf culture that welcomes groms, grownups, and everyone in between

The Best Place to Learn to Surf in Los Angeles? Venice Beach, Hands Down.

So, where should you learn to surf in LA? Spoiler: Venice Beach.

Here’s why:

• The waves are mellow, ideal for first-timers and intermediate surfers looking to level up

• It’s central, easily accessible from Santa Monica, Culver City, and West LA

• The beach has a wide sandy break, giving beginners space to spread out

• It’s home to Coyote Surf Lessons, where learning to surf is as fun as it is effective

Book a lesson today with Coyote Surf Lessons and discover why Venice Beach is the ultimate launchpad for your surf journey.

What to Look for in a Los Angeles Surf School

Before you paddle out, make sure your surf school checks these boxes:

1. Certified Instructors – You want CPR-certified, ocean-savvy instructors who know LA’s beach breaks better than their own living rooms.

2. Soft-top boards for beginners – These boards are safe, stable, and perfect for learning.

3. Small group or private lessons – Smaller class sizes mean more attention and faster progression.

4. Local knowledge – Instructors who know the tides, winds, and the moods of the ocean are priceless.

At Coyote Surf Lessons in Venice Beach, we offer all of the above, plus a few secret sauce ingredients: humor, hype, and a healthy dose of California chill.

Why Coyote Surf Lessons is LA’s Favorite Surf School

Alright, we’re biased — but ask around Venice and you'll hear the same: Coyote Surf Lessons is where beginners become surfers.

Here’s what sets us apart:

🏄‍♂️ Local, Passionate Instructors

Our instructors aren’t just surfers — they’re LA locals who live and breathe the surf lifestyle. Many have surfed competitively, and all of them are certified, experienced, and genuinely stoked to teach.

🌊 Beginner-Focused, Progress-Driven

Whether it’s your first time on a board or your tenth wipeout this morning, we meet you where you’re at. We specialize in:

• Absolute beginners

• Nervous swimmers

• People who’ve tried surfing once and swore never again (we’ll change your mind)

🤙 Lessons in the Heart of Venice Beach

We run our surf lessons right in Venice Beach, one of the most consistent and forgiving beginner surf spots in Los Angeles.

Check out our surf lesson packages for private, semi-private, and group options — all just steps from the Venice Boardwalk.

Other Great Places to Learn to Surf in LA (But We’re Still #1)

While Venice Beach is our go-to, here are some other solid spots in LA for beginner surfers:

1. Santa Monica Beach

• Gentle, rolling waves

• Close to tourist hubs

• Great for kids and families

Looking for surf lessons in Santa Monica? We also offer lessons there — just ask when booking!

2. El Porto (Manhattan Beach)

• Consistent waves, sometimes punchier

• Great for progressing surfers

• A bit more advanced, but still accessible

3. Malibu (Surfrider Beach)

• Legendary longboard wave

• Often crowded, but iconic

• Best for stylish cruisers who want to soak up the classic SoCal vibe

Still, for convenience, vibe, and wave quality — Venice Beach wins for first-timers.

What Will You Learn in Your First Surf Lesson?

At Coyote Surf Lessons, your first session includes:

✅ Ocean Safety 101

We’ll cover:

• How to avoid rip currents

• When and where to paddle out

• Basic surf etiquette (yes, there are rules — and breaking them is not cool)

✅ Popping Up Like a Pro

You’ll learn:

• The three-step (or two-step) pop-up

• How to position your feet

• Balance tricks for staying upright

✅ Wave Reading for Rookies

We’ll show you:

• Which waves to paddle for

• How to avoid “closeouts”

• The difference between whitewash and green waves

✅ Confidence and Stoke

More than anything, we teach you how to enjoy surfing without worrying about looking silly (spoiler: everyone falls — it’s part of the fun).

Tips for Beginner Surfers in Los Angeles

Here are a few local surf hacks that’ll make your LA surfing experience smoother:

1. Go Early

Crowds get heavy after 9 AM. The earlier you hit the water, the more waves (and fewer tourists) you’ll score.

2. Wear a Wetsuit

Even in summer, LA water temps can dip below 68°F. Rent or bring a wetsuit — trust us.

3. Stretch Before You Paddle

Your shoulders and lower back will thank you later.

4. Don’t Chase Waves You Can’t Catch

Start small. Ride the whitewash. Master the basics. Surfing is a lifelong journey — no need to rush.

Frequently Asked Questions: Learning to Surf in LA

Is Los Angeles good for beginner surfers?

Absolutely. With forgiving beach breaks, tons of surf schools, and year-round surfable conditions, LA is a beginner’s dream.

How much do surf lessons in Los Angeles cost?

At Coyote Surf Lessons, prices start around $120 for a private lesson and $80 for group lessons — all gear included. See our full pricing here.

Can kids learn to surf in LA?

Totally! We specialize in teaching kids, teens, and families. Surfing is safe and fun for ages 6 and up.

Do I need to be a strong swimmer to surf?

Basic swimming skills are important, but you don’t need to be an Olympian. We teach in shallow water close to shore, and our instructors are always close by.

Is Venice Beach safe for surfing?

Yes! Venice Beach is a mellow beach break with a sandy bottom and lifeguards on duty. Just stay aware and respect surf etiquette.

When’s the Best Time to Learn to Surf in LA?

Short answer: anytime.

Longer answer:

• Summer (June–August): Warmest water and mellow waves

• Fall (September–November): Best conditions — fewer crowds, great surf

• Winter (December–February): Bigger swells, wetsuit required

• Spring (March–May): Unpredictable but beautiful

If you’re learning, late summer through fall is peak season for good vibes and good waves.

What to Bring to Your First Surf Lesson

You won’t need much. At Coyote Surf Lessons, we provide:

• A beginner-friendly surfboard

• A wetsuit

• A leash

• Tons of stoke

All you need to bring is:

• A towel

• Swimsuit

• Water bottle

• Sunscreen (reef-safe, please!)

• A good attitude

Why Learning to Surf Might Change Your Life

Okay, this might sound dramatic — but we’ve seen it happen.

Surfing isn’t just a sport. It’s a mindset. It teaches patience, resilience, and flow. It gets you off your phone, into the ocean, and fully present. You start to crave sunrises. You learn how to wipe out and laugh. You feel stronger, more centered, and more alive.

And it all starts with one wave.

Ready to Ride?

If you’ve been Googling where to learn to surf in Los Angeles, now you know: Venice Beach is the spot, and Coyote Surf Lessons is the crew.

Whether you’re a wide-eyed tourist or a jaded local looking for a new thrill, we’d be stoked to get you in the water. Surfing is easier (and more fun) than you think — especially with the right crew behind you.

Book your surf lesson today and come catch your first wave with us. You bring the stoke. We’ll bring the board.