Ventura Surf Lesson: Private Instruction for All Levels
Stand up on your first wave with an instructor pushing you into it
A private 90-minute surf lesson in Ventura with an expert instructor teaching balance, technique and ocean safety. All equipment (surfboard, wetsuit) is included. Lessons take place at sandy-bottom beaches south of Santa Barbara and suit all skill levels. You must be able to swim. Choose between a 9:00am or 1:00pm departure.
More experiences you might like
The experience
You'll meet your instructor at the white box truck or blue van marked Santa Barbara Surf School, get suited up in a wetsuit right there, and grab a long board before walking to the sand. The first part of the lesson covers surf safety, etiquette and technique on dry ground: the instructor walks you through stance and balance so you know what to expect. Then you head into the ocean, and that's when the coaching starts: your instructor will be in the water with you, pushing you into waves and calling out adjustments so you actually catch them instead of just paddling.
The lesson runs 90 minutes total, and because it's private, you or your group gets a dedicated instructor and personalized attention the whole time. Most lessons happen at beaches with a sandy bottom and gentle waves, located about 15 miles south of Santa Barbara: the kind of setup that works for first-timers without the intimidation of heavy shore break. Your instructor handles the pushing and timing so you're not fighting the ocean alone. They're reading the waves and putting you in position to succeed.
You can book either the 9:00am or 1:00pm time slot depending on what fits your day. Swimming ability is a requirement. It's a safety precaution, and the instructor needs to know you can handle yourself in the water. Bring a towel and a change of clothes. The wetsuit and board stay with the school.
What’s included
- Surfboard and wetsuit rental.
- 90 minutes of private instruction with an expert instructor.
- beach instruction on surf safety, etiquette and technique.
- personalized coaching in the water as your instructor pushes you into waves.
Options for this experience
2 optionsBefore you book
Prices and times updated yesterday
Operated by Cal Coast Adventures
Is this one for you?Book the private lesson if you want an instructor focused entirely on you or your group: no sharing attention with other students, and no waiting for your turn in the water. The 90-minute window is enough to move from the sand to actually riding waves, which is why most first-timers book this format instead of trying to learn on their own.
Traveler reviews
Top questions
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.
Do I need to know how to surf already to take this lesson?
No. The Ventura Surf Lesson is designed for all skill levels, and the majority of lessons are for first-timers. Your instructor teaches you how to stand up on the board and ride waves from the start, beginning with technique on the sand before you enter the water.
What's included in the 90-minute lesson?
The lesson includes a surfboard, a wetsuit, and 90 minutes of private instruction with an expert instructor. You don't rent equipment separately. It's all part of the lesson.
Where exactly do the lessons take place?
Lessons happen at sandy-bottom beaches located about 15 miles south of Santa Barbara, near Ventura. These beaches have gentle waves that are ideal for learning without the rough conditions you'd find at more exposed breaks.
What do I need to bring or know before I arrive?
You must be able to swim. It's a safety requirement. Bring a towel and a change of clothes for after the lesson. Meet your instructor at the white or blue van marked Santa Barbara Surf School, and wear clothes you don't mind getting wet.
Can I choose what time my lesson starts?
Yes. The Ventura Surf Lesson offers two departure times: 9:00am or 1:00pm. You select your preferred time when you book.
Ventura Surf Lesson: Private Instruction for All Levels
1h 30m · EN
from US$ 85 per person
4.9975 reviewsVerified traveler reviews via our booking provider