Private Surf Lessons in Malibu: Catch Waves at Surfrider Beach

Learn to stand and ride waves at one of California's most famous breaks

Private surf lessons at Surfrider Beach in Malibu teach you paddling, stance and wave-catching in ninety minutes, starting on the sand and moving into the water. The instructor has lived in Malibu his entire life and offers both technique coaching and a local's perspective on the area. Surfboard and wetsuit are included. Children from age 6 are welcome.

The experience

The lesson starts with fifteen to twenty minutes on the sand at Surfrider Beach, where you'll practice paddling and standing on the board before the water. This early work on dry land builds the muscle memory that matters when you're actually catching waves. Once you're in the water, the goal is straightforward: catch as many waves as possible and stand on them.

Surfrider Beach works for first-timers and experienced surfers alike because the waves are gentle and long: the kind that give you time to pop up and find your balance. The beach itself draws surfers from around the world, and your instructor's years living in Malibu mean you get both solid technique coaching and the kind of local knowledge that only comes from surfing the same break for decades.

You'll have a surfboard and wetsuit for the full ninety minutes. Public transit stops are nearby if you're coming from elsewhere in the area. Children can join from age 6 onward.

What’s included

• Surfboard and wetsuit for the full ninety minutes.
• instruction from a guide who speaks English and has lived in Malibu his entire life.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day7 departure times: the first at 07:30, the last at 16:30

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (18 to 65 years) · Youth (13 to 17 years) · Child (6 to 12 years) · Under 6: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

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 17 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Hana Paddle Boards

Is this one for you?The lesson is taught in English by a lifelong Malibu resident, so you get clear instruction and genuine local insight into the break and the area. Children from age 6 can join, though you'll need at least a moderate level of fitness for the paddling and the time in the water.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 17 years); Child (6 to 12 years). Children under 6 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's the first thing we do when we arrive at Surfrider Beach?

The lesson begins on the sand with fifteen to twenty minutes of practice on paddling, standing and surfing etiquette before you enter the water. This foundation work makes the difference when you're actually catching waves.

How many waves will I actually catch during the lesson?

The instructor's goal is to have you catch and stand on as many waves as possible in the time you're in the water. The number depends on the conditions and how quickly you pick up the technique, but the focus stays on getting you up and riding.

Is Surfrider Beach good for someone who's never surfed before?

Surfrider Beach is known for its gentle, long waves and works well for first-time surfers all the way through to experienced ones. The longer waves give you more time to stand and find your balance, which is why it's considered one of the best teaching breaks in California.

What do I need to bring, and what's provided?

Surfboard and wetsuit are included in the lesson. You'll want to bring a towel and a change of clothes. Public transportation options are available nearby if you need them.