Do I need any previous paddling experience to join the SUP lesson?

No experience is necessary. The lesson is designed for beginners and will cover all the basics.

What should I wear for a SUP lesson?

Wear a swimsuit with a wetsuit provided depending on water temperature; bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection.

Are children allowed in the group SUP lessons?

Yes, children aged 10 and older are welcome to participate.

What is the instructor to student ratio during lessons?

There are no more than four instructors per student to ensure personalized attention.

Is equipment provided for the lessons?

Yes, wetsuits, boards, and paddles are all included in the class fee.

Can I book a private or group session for events?

Absolutely. They offer group rates for birthday parties, corporate events, and other gatherings.

Stand Up Paddleboarding with Richard Schmidt Surf School in Santa Cruz | SUP

Santa Cruz, California—known for its rugged coastline, diverse marine life, and iconic surf culture—offers more than just waves for seasoned surfers. Richard Schmidt Surf School, Inc. brings an accessible gateway to the ocean through its Group SUP Lessons, an immersive introduction to Stand Up Paddleboarding (SUP) in the protected waters of Monterey Bay Marine Sanctuary. Here, gliding atop the gentle swell affords a unique vantage point on Santa Cruz’s marine ecosystem, with occasional glimpses of harbor seals, sea otters, and pelicans.

What sets Richard Schmidt’s lessons apart is the fusion of local expertise with small, personalized instruction. Richard grew up along this coastline and brings intimate knowledge of the currents, tides, and weather patterns that define safe and rewarding paddling. Group lessons keep the instructor-to-student ratio tight—no more than four instructors per participant—ensuring each paddler gains hands-on coaching in stance, paddle strokes, turning, and recovery. Beginners and groups alike will appreciate the steady progression from equipment setup to confident movement on the water.

Beyond pure technique, the course emphasizes ocean awareness and environmental respect crucial in the Monterey Bay Sanctuary, protecting some of the most vibrant coastal habitats on the Pacific. SUP here isn’t just a workout or a thrill—it’s a way to connect actively and sustainably with a living seascape. Whether you’re looking for a new challenge, a social outing, or a team-building event, Richard Schmidt’s SUP lessons offer an inviting entry point that balances fun and safety.

Santa Cruz itself complements this experience with laid-back beach towns, local surf history, and opportunities to extend your adventure—hiking nearby coastal trails or sampling fresh seafood after your session. Group SUP here is more than a lesson; it’s a hands-on introduction to California’s sea-driven lifestyle.

About Richard Schmidt Surf School, Inc.

Richard Schmidt Surf School, Inc. is a Santa Cruz, California-based surf and paddleboard school that teaches surfing and stand-up paddleboard (SUP) skills for a range of abilities. The school offers Semi-Private Surf Lessons with Staff Instructor, Group Surf Lessons, Group SUP Lessons, Private SUP Lessons with Staff Instructor, and the New 2025 Rolf Gates Costa Rica Yoga Surfing & Adventure Retreats. Lessons and retreats emphasize ocean safety, basic to advanced technique, and etiquette while providing equipment as needed for specific offerings.

Instruction is delivered by staff instructors who guide small groups and individuals through skill development in a controlled beach environment. Semi-private and private options provide more personalized attention, while group lessons are designed for shared learning and community experience. The 2025 Rolf Gates retreat pairs surf instruction with yoga and adventure activities in Costa Rica, offering twice-daily surf sessions to expand participants' abilities.

Richard Schmidt Surf School, Inc. operates from Santa Cruz, a well-known California surf region, and schedules lessons suitable for visitors and local participants. Pricing, booking details, and equipment policies are available through the school’s booking channels. Safety practices focus on swimmer ability, ocean awareness, and instructor-led supervision during time on the water. The business presents itself as a destination for newcomers seeking introductory surf and SUP instruction, as well as for guests pursuing specialized retreats that combine yoga and surfing. Prospective participants are encouraged to review specific trip descriptions and scheduling information before booking. Contact information and dates are posted on the official booking page online.