2-Day Adult Surf Retreat in San Diego: Learn to Ride Waves

Two days of instruction that turns surfing into your favorite thing to do

A 2-day adult surf retreat in San Diego with live instruction in English, Spanish or French, small class sizes, and a 3:1 surfer-to-instructor ratio. You'll learn surfing basics, wave selection, ocean safety and surf etiquette over two three-hour morning sessions (Thursday–Friday or Saturday–Sunday, 9am–12pm). All wetsuits, rash guards and surfboards are included.

The experience

The retreat runs two consecutive mornings, 9am to noon, with sessions on either Thursday and Friday or Saturday and Sunday. Class sizes stay small so each surfer gets personalized attention and the 3:1 instructor ratio the school guarantees. You'll learn the fundamentals (how to read waves, pick the right one to ride, stay safe in the ocean and respect the lineup) with instructors who are there to make surfing stick, not just check off a lesson.

Everything you need is provided: wetsuit, rash guard and surfboard. The school's approach centers on your goals, whether you're getting back into surfing after years away, learning for the first time, or looking to build skills you can take home. The two-day format gives you a chance to apply what you learn on day one when you paddle out on day two, rather than walking away after a single session.

What’s included

• Wetsuit.
• rash guard.
• surfboard.
• live instruction from a certified guide.
• two three-hour sessions over consecutive days.

Before you book

Days and timesSaturdayDeparts at 09:00

Book up to8h before

AgesAdult (18 to 90 years) · Under 18: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and French

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by San Diego Surf School

Is this one for you?The retreat meets at the San Diego Surf School and runs morning sessions, so you don't need a car to get there or coordinate your own transportation to the beach. If you're staying in the city without wheels, public transit options are nearby.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and French.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What will I actually learn over the two days?

Surfing basics, wave selection, ocean safety and awareness, and surf etiquette. The instruction builds across both sessions so you can practice what you learn on day one during day two.

Do I need to bring my own wetsuit and board?

No. Wetsuits, rash guards and surfboards are all included with the retreat.

Can I choose which two days work for my schedule?

The retreat runs either Thursday and Friday or Saturday and Sunday. You pick which pair of days suits your schedule when you book.

What's the instructor-to-student ratio like?

The school maintains a 3:1 surfer-to-instructor ratio, which they say is the best in the industry. Small class sizes mean personalized attention and safety.