Learn to surf where Santa Monica meets Venice: a 1.5-hour private lesson with Kapowui that combines on-beach instruction with guided time in forgiving, sandy-bottom waves. Ideal for first-timers seeking fast progress and local surf culture.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The wind tastes like salt and sunscreen as you stand by the retro Kapowui VW van, board under arm, watching the sand flatten beneath a slow incoming set. Santa Monica’s beach here reads like a classroom: mellow, sandy-bottomed waves that rise clean off the shoreline and invite first attempts at getting to your feet.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate—comfortable paddling and basic swimming ability recommended
Wildlife
History
Santa Monica and Venice helped shape modern surf culture with public beach access, lifeguard programs, and early surf clubs that popularized board sports along the Southern California coast.
Conservation
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid leaving gear on dunes; local programs support beach cleanups and protect native dune vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the 1.5-Hour Surf Lesson in Santa Monica today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive 15 minutes early
Meet at the Kapowui VW van in the lot to check gear and cover safety before heading to the beach.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Apply before arrival and carry a small tube for reapplication—sun reflects off water and accelerates burn.
Know your swimming comfort
Be honest about swim ability; lessons stay shallow but require paddling and treading water.
Pick low-wind times
Morning or late afternoon typically offers cleaner waves and a calmer learning environment.
Swimsuit
Worn under the wetsuit or alone in warm months for comfort and mobility.
summer
Wetsuit (provided) or rash guard
Protects against chill, sun, and board rash; Kapowui supplies wetsuits but bring your preferred top if you have one.
spring
Water bottle
Hydration between drills matters—bring a reusable bottle and refill before the lesson.
summer
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protects skin from intense coastal sun; choose a reef-safe formula to protect marine life.
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