FAQ's Private & Semi-Private Surf Lessons
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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.
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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.
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What different types of lessons are offered?
Private lessons are 7 days a week, year round and it is you and your very own instructor. Private lessons with our basic instructors are 1.5 hours (90 minutes) and cost $160 for one, $640 for four, $1,280 for eight, and $1,920 for twelve lessons with a Surf Academy staff. Private lessons with Surf Academy owner, Marion Clark, are 1.5 hours (90 minutes) and cost $200 for one, $800 for four, $2,000 for a ten pack of private lessons.
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Semi Private lessons are 7 days a week, year round and are comprised of (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 of 2 people are 1.5 hours (90 minutes) and cost $240 ($120/person) taught by a Surf Academy instructor. Semi Private lessons of 3 people are 1.5 hours (90 minutes) and cost $300 ($150/person) taught by a Surf Academy instructor.
If you are looking for more in-depth instructions, or have specific injuries, you may prefer a lesson with owner, Marion Clark. Semi Private lessons of 2 people taught by Marion Clark are 1.5 hours (90 minutes) and cost $300 ($150/person). Semi Private lessons of 3 people taught by Marion Clark are 1.5 hours (90 minutes) and cost $420 ($140/person).
Please head over the instructors page to read the bios and choose your teacher.
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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 to take a lesson so we can go from there.
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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!
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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.
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What is the best location?
We teach all beginner lessons in Santa Monica - it is a very welcoming beach break, and where we have operated for decades. When you get to a certain level in your surf journey and reach the intermediate level, we offer lessons at various beaches across Southern California.
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How do I sign up?
Right here through our website through our MindBody scheduler or download the app for your mobile phone.
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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 24 hours in advance and fail to show up to a confirmed lesson, that lesson cannot be rescheduled and is not refundable.
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What if at the end of the year I still have lessons left?
Our surf lessons are good for 1 year from the purchase date. If you don't think you can use them, you can transfer them to someone else.
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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.
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