Improve your surfing skills with expert Ed Guzman offering tailored private lessons in Santa Cruz. Perfect for all ages, with gear included for a hassle-free experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Basic to moderate fitness is needed as paddling and balance require stamina and core strength.
Wildlife
History
Santa Cruz is one of California’s original surf hubs, with a rich surfing legacy dating back to the early 20th century.
Conservation
Local organizations actively work to protect marine habitats and promote sustainable beach practices.
Club Ed International
Improve your surfing skills with expert Ed Guzman offering tailored private lessons in Santa Cruz. Perfect for all ages, with gear included for a hassle-free experience.
Club Ed International is a Watsonville, California–based surf and paddle school offering structured instruction across surfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and multi-day surf camps. Led by Ed Guzman and Master Instructors, Club Ed International runs weeklong Summer Surf Camp at Manresa Uplands State Park that includes daily surf sessions, camping, meals, evening campfires, organized activities, professional surf photos, and a commemorative t-shirt.
The business provides a full range of lessons: private and semi-private surfing instruction, private and semi-private SUP lessons, beginner group SUP lessons, group surfing lessons, and private group lessons. Lessons are tailored to individual skill levels and ages, with instructors choosing the best beach for conditions and tides. Equipment such as surfboards and wetsuits is included for lessons that specify it, and instruction emphasizes safety, paddling fundamentals, wave dynamics, self-rescue, and surf etiquette.
Club Ed International offers one-on-one coaching with unique teaching methods for SUP and surfing, plus semi-private formats for paired learning and small groups with personalized attention. The Summer Surf Camp combines outdoor education and surf coaching in a permitted state park setting. Based in Watsonville, the operation highlights local beach selection and tide-aware scheduling. Parents and participants can expect structured programming, professional documentation of sessions when provided, and trained instructors delivering focused skill development in surfing and paddle sports. Private surfing instruction sessions typically range from one to two hours, giving focused time for technique, safety drills, and immediate feedback. Beginner group SUP lessons are two hours long and include instruction on self-rescue and paddling fundamentals.
Location
Watsonville, CA
Based in Watsonville, California
Tours Offered
11 experiences
Range of camps and lessons
Session Length
1–2 hours
Typical private lesson duration
Camp Location
Manresa Uplands
Summer Surf Camp site
Check availability for Summer Surf Camp, private lessons, and group sessions — book tailored instruction and included equipment for better progress.
Wear a properly fitted wetsuit
Even in California, ocean temperatures can be chilly; a good wetsuit ensures comfort and longer time in the water.
Know the tide schedule
Tides impact wave quality and safety—check local tide charts before your lesson for the best experience.
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, as surfing is physically demanding, especially under the sun.
Respect local surfers
Santa Cruz has a strong surf community; always follow etiquette and avoid dropping in on others’ waves.
Wetsuit
Provides warmth and protection against cold water and abrasions.
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Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays while preserving marine ecosystems.
summer
Surfboard wax
Adds grip on the surfboard deck to improve stability.
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Water bottle
Staying hydrated is important during physical activity in the sun.
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