1.5 Hour Surf Lesson in Laguna Beach: Learn with a Local

Laguna Beach sits on a marine preserve, which is why the water stays so clear.

A 1.5-hour surf lesson in Laguna Beach with a local expert instructor, wetsuit and surfboard included. You'll learn the fundamentals in the water with hands-on guidance, starting from the basics of paddling and popping up to riding your first waves. The instructor speaks English and welcomes children from age 8 onward.

The experience

Laguna Beach is one of the most iconic surf destinations on the planet, and this lesson puts you in the water with someone who knows it. The instructor provides everything (surfboard, wetsuit and expert instruction), so you show up ready to learn. You'll spend the 1.5 hours in the water itself, not sitting through a classroom talk or watching a demonstration. The focus is on getting you standing on a board and riding waves, which is what "hang ten" actually means.

The lesson works because it's built around what your body needs to learn, not a fixed script. You'll start with the fundamentals (how to paddle, how to pop up from lying flat to standing), and the instructor adjusts the pace based on how you're progressing. Laguna's turquoise waters are part of a marine preserve, which keeps the conditions clean and the environment protected. The beach itself is accessible, and public transportation options are nearby if you're not driving.

What’s included

Wetsuit, surfboard and expert instruction from a local guide who speaks English.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00, 11:00 and 13:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (18 to 54 years) · Senior (55 to 75 years) · Youth (13 to 17 years) · Child (8 to 12 years) · Under 8: can't be booked

GroupUp to 3

Live guideEnglish

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 yesterday

Good to know

Moderate physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Surf and kayak with Laguna Ethos

Is this one for you?Book this if you're learning to surf for the first time and want hands-on instruction from someone who knows Laguna Beach. The small group size and one-on-one attention from a local expert means you'll progress faster than trying to figure it out alone.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 17 years); Child (8 to 12 years). Children under 8 can't be included in the booking.

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 do I need to bring to a surf lesson in Laguna Beach?

Bring a swimsuit and a towel. The lesson includes the wetsuit and surfboard, so you don't need to own or rent either one separately.

Is this lesson suitable for someone who has never surfed before?

Yes. The lesson is designed for beginners, and the instructor teaches the fundamentals from the start: paddling, balance and popping up. No prior experience is required.

What makes Laguna Beach a good place to learn to surf?

Laguna Beach is one of the most iconic surf destinations on the planet and sits on a marine preserve, so the water stays clear and the conditions are well-suited to beginners learning the basics.

How long is the actual time in the water?

The lesson is 1.5 hours total, and you'll spend that time in the water with the instructor rather than on the beach or in a classroom.