Surf Lessons FAQ

Does my lesson include equipment?

Yes every Surf Academy lesson includes the use of a soft surfboard, rash guard and wetsuit. We are happy to teach you on your own equipment if you prefer. If you are planning on bringing a fiberglass board to a group lesson it must have rubber tipped fins and a nose guard. Our instructors will determine if you can control your own board in a group setting.

What do I have to bring?

A rested body that has fuel to burn; make sure you have eaten something in advance.
A bathing suit, beach towel and dry comfortable clothes to change into after. Water and a snack to replenish afterwards , as you will have spent a lot of energy during your lesson.

What different types of lessons are offered?

Group lessons are weekends only from Spring to Fall. Saturdays are for women only and Sundays are coed.
Groups vary in size depending on the dates with a student to instructor ratio of 5-1. Group lessons are 2 hours and cost $60 each.
Private lessons are 7 days a week, year round and it is you and your very own instructor. Private lessons are 1-1/4 hours and cost $75 for one and $215 for three.
Semi Private lessons are 7 days a week, year round and it’s you and up to 3 of your friends with your very own instructor. We do not match up people to make semi private groups. Semi Private lessons are 1-1/4 hours and cost $65 per person for one and $180 per person for three.

How many lessons do I need to be able to surf?

The answer to this question depends totally on you! Every individual is different.
It depends on skill level, confidence, and conditions on the day of the lesson. So many factors make this question a tough one to answer in advance. The best way to find the answer to this question is take a lesson so we can go from there.

Will I stand up the first day?

Surf Academy has proven teaching methods that give you the best possible chance of truly riding the waves the first time out. We give it our all to make this happen for you, as we are as stoked as you are when it happens!

Is it safe?

Our instructors are trained consistently on safety and rescue procedures. We have CPR certified instructors who know how to provide a fun and safe environment. If conditions are unsafe we reschedule lessons to a day that is safe. Unsafe conditions include: high surf, extreme tides, extreme wind , rain, and rain runoff pollution,. We want you to have fun but first of all we want you to be safe.

What is the best location?

All of our locations are perfect for beginner - intermediate surf students. We selected locations with good teaching conditions without out the crowds to intimidate and endanger our students. With locations from Orange County to Santa Monica pick one that is convenient to your home or hotel. Or try them all!

How do I sign up?

The fastest and most efficient way to sign up is on-line at our website www.surfacademy.com. A step by step process take your through the registration, payment and scheduling process. Confirmations are emailed to you. You can also download registration forms on the website and either fax or mail them in.

What if I can’t make my lesson?

Once your surf lesson is confirmed it is up to you to notify Surf Academy 24 hours in advance if you have to reschedule.
Surf lessons can be rescheduled and are also transferable to another person. They are not refundable.
If you do not notify Surf Academy in advance and fail to show up to a confirmed lesson, that lesson cannot be rescheduled and is not refundable.

What if at the end of the year I still have lessons left?

Our surf lessons are good for the year in which they were purchased. You have the entire season to use them or transfer them to someone else. Surf lessons do not carry over year to year. We have lots of classes and instructors available to teach so don’t let your lesson go to waste. Come and surf!

What is your refund policy?

Pre-paid surf lessons are transferable but not refundable. A refund will only be issued if Surf Academy was forced to cancel your lesson and was unable to reschedule a replacement lesson.