Learn to Surf and Standup Paddle in Laguna Beach with a Local Champion

Morning light slices across Pacific rollers as you shoulder a board and walk toward Hawkama’s forgiving break. The waves here have a personality — playful at low tide, insistent at swell — and a long-time local instructor who knows when to push you to take one and when to pull you back. Lessons run 90 minutes: surf instruction at Hawkama for longboards, and standup paddleboarding in North Laguna’s Diver’s Cove, where glassy water lets you focus on balance and breath. Laguna Beach sits on uplifted marine terraces carved from Pleistocene sandstone; the cliffs and coves shaped both local surflines and the town’s history as an artists’ colony and fishing community. Indigenous Acjachemen people once navigated these shores; later, painters and surfers made the coves part of a modern cultural identity. Expect an easygoing coastal vibe, friendly beach culture, and art galleries a short walk from the sand. Practically: all equipment is provided — wetsuits, boards, leashes — but you must be able to swim and provide height/weight for gear. Surf sessions emphasize pop-up technique, wave selection, and ocean awareness; SUP focuses on stance, stroke efficiency, and reading wind and current. Water temps vary from cool to mild; a spring or fall suit helps. Plan to arrive early to sign waivers, apply reef-safe sunscreen, and hydrate. Wear a swimsuit under quick-dry layers, bring a towel and a small snack. Lessons are manual-confirmed and cancel for bad weather; cap sizes are limited, so book ahead for weekend surf windows.