Learn to surf with tailored, expert coaching on Capitola’s gentle waves. Enjoy ocean safety lessons, hands-on instruction, and plenty of surf time in a safe, supportive setting.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Appropriate for individuals in moderate physical shape who can swim and tolerate some physical exertion.
Wildlife
History
Capitola was California’s first seaside resort, dating back to the 1870s, with a rich coastal recreation legacy.
Conservation
Local instructors promote catch-and-release ethics and encourage use of reef-safe products to protect marine environments.
Capitola Surf and Paddle
Learn to surf with tailored, expert coaching on Capitola’s gentle waves. Enjoy ocean safety lessons, hands-on instruction, and plenty of surf time in a safe, supportive setting.
Capitola Surf and Paddle is a surf school and rental shop located in Capitola, California, offering lessons, coaching, rentals, and surf photography on Capitola Beach. The business provides a range of experiences including private lessons, semi-private lessons, group lessons, stand up paddle (SUP) surf lessons, ladies clinics, surf coaching, all-day equipment rentals, and surf photo and video packages.
Instructors deliver structured land briefings followed by water sessions. Semi-private surf lessons run with a 2–3:1 client-to-instructor ratio and include a land lesson plus 1.5 hours in the water. Group surf lessons include ocean safety instruction and 1.5 hours of guided surfing. Private surf lessons offer one-on-one coaching for two hours with equipment provided. SUP surf lessons are available in private and semi-private formats, both including 1.5 hours in the water.
Surf coaching focuses on personalized technique, wave reading, and real-time feedback during 1-on-1 sessions. Rentals offer full-day rates for wetsuits, surfboards, and stand-up paddle boards, with delivery to preferred beach locations when requested. Surf photo and video packages capture high-resolution images and footage of sessions for lasting memories.
Safety and skill progression are emphasized across all offerings. The business is featured on The Adventure Collective and highlights structured instruction, tailored coaching, flexible rental options, and surf media services to suit beginners through advanced surfers. Private lessons include necessary equipment and two hours of focused coaching. Semi-private SUP sessions maintain a 2:1 client-to-instructor ratio. Guests can choose surf photo and video packages to preserve highlights to share. Lessons suit beginners to experts.
Tours Offered
9 experiences
Lessons, rentals, coaching, and photo packages
Session Length
1.5–2 hrs
Typical lesson durations on the beach
Instructor Ratio
2–3:1
Semi-private and SUP ratios listed
Photo Packages
High-resolution
Surf photo and video packages available
Book private or group lessons, SUP coaching, or full-day rentals with beach delivery options. Reserve a session or rental today to secure preferred times.
Arrive Early for Calm Conditions
Morning sessions often have smaller, smoother waves, ideal for beginners to practice easily.
Use Provided Wetsuits
Pacific water can be chilly year-round; the wetsuits help retain warmth during your lesson.
Watch the Tide Chart
Optimal surfing conditions in Capitola usually occur near mid-tide – check local tide tables before your lesson.
Hydrate and Wear Sunscreen
Surfing demands physical stamina and exposure to sun, so stay hydrated and apply reef-safe sunscreen.
Wetsuit
spring
Surfboard
Provided by instructor, ideal for learning stability and balance.
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protects skin from UV exposure while respecting marine life.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during and after your lesson.