Surf Lessons at Pismo Beach: Ride Waves Like a Pro
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate physical fitness with basic swimming ability and stamina for continual paddling and standing.
Overview
Ready to catch your first wave? Join Sandbar Surf School for an engaging two-hour group surf lesson at Pismo Beach that suits all skill levels.
$60pp Open Group Lessons
Join an already existing group! • All equipment is included! • 2 hrs
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of surfing with our engaging group lessons! Over two hours, you'll learn essential techniques from expert instructors, tailored to your skill level. Enjoy a mix of land and water training, all while making new friends. Get ready for an unforgettable workout and the excitement of riding waves!
Rates
- Group Lessons: - $60 (or less) per person
Duration
- 2 hours
About
- Join an existing group lesson or bring your own group! Student to instructor ratio is 3/4:1.
- Our surf instructors will teach the group proper techniques for paddling, positioning, standing, and getting through waves.
- Each lesson is a "progressive" surf lesson taught based on the groups collective existing ability level focusing at the start. The beginning surfer. There will be some surfers going faster and some surfers going slower. And yes, surf leashes are mandatory for what we're going to be doing because if you don't have one you'll be exhausted in 10 minutes chasing your surfboard every time you fall. And fall you will! Off of every wave! But you will have the energy to advance properly as a surfer BECAUSE you have a leash. Surf leashes are MANDATORY and yes we provide them GLADLY. Get ready for a workout and to be stoked beyond belief.
- Price does not include instructor gratuity. Even a $5 taco tip is super appreciated (only if you have a great time) and we may share our secret favorite taco places with you! 😎🌮
Itinerary:
**Total time for this adventure is roughly two hours. We do about 15-20 minutes of teaching on land with about 70-90 minutes in the water with about 15-20 minutes of suiting up in the front of the lesson and about 15-20 minutes taking wetsuit off finishing up.
What to Bring
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen
- Towel
- Drinking Water
Adventure Tips
Arrive early to catch the best waves
Pismo Beach’s mornings often offer smoother, less crowded waves perfect for beginners.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin while keeping the ocean healthy with eco-friendly sunscreen options.
Listen carefully to instructor safety tips
Pay close attention to beach and ocean conditions explained by your instructor for a safe experience.
Stay hydrated during your lesson
Bring water or hydrate beforehand to maintain energy throughout your surfing session.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Sea otters
- Brown pelicans
History
Pismo Beach has a rich surf culture dating back to the early 20th century and remains a beloved California surfing destination.
Conservation
Local organizations promote reef-safe sunscreens and beach cleanups to protect marine habitats and maintain water quality.
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Adventure Hotspots in San Luis Obispo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Wetsuit
Keeps you warm and protected in cooler water temperatures during spring and other chilly seasons.
spring specific
Rash guard
Protects against sunburn and skin irritation during sunny, warmer months.
summer specific
Water shoes
Useful for walking on rocky areas near the shore but not required for the lesson.
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Essential for protecting your skin without harming marine life.
summer specific