Spend a full day learning to surf at Venice Beach with a structured curriculum for ages 5–16. Two surf sessions, land drills, and provided gear make this a hands-on, safety-focused intro to ocean riding.
Spend a full day learning to surf at Venice Beach with a structured curriculum for ages 5–16. Two surf sessions, land drills, and provided gear make this a hands-on, safety-focused intro to ocean riding.
A morning breeze carries salt and skateboard wheels as kids tighten wetsuits at the far south end of the Venice Fishing Pier. Foam boards line the sand; instructors call out basics while the Pacific nudges gently toward shore. Sunrise Surf Academy starts the day with beach games, land drills and two focused surf sessions that let beginners catch first waves and returners refine pop-ups and timing.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Sunrise Surf Academy · Venice, California
A morning breeze carries salt and skateboard wheels as kids tighten wetsuits at the far south end of the Venice Fishing Pier. Foam boards line the sand; instructors call out basics while the Pacific nudges gently toward shore. Sunrise Surf Academy starts the day with beach games, land drills and two focused surf sessions that let beginners catch first waves and returners refine pop-ups and timing.
Venice was built as a seaside attraction in the early 1900s and developed a countercultural surf identity by mid-century. The coastline here sits on a sandy beach backed by low dunes and a broad surf break that reads differently with tide and swell — small, friendly waves most summer mornings; punchier sets on big south swells. Local culture blends lifeguard protocol, board-rental tradition and a strong emphasis on ocean safety.
Expect a structure: morning warm-up and land lesson, first surf block, snacks and sun care, then a longer afternoon session. Instructors provide boards, wetsuits and rashguards; campers should arrive hydrated, sun-protected and ready to move. Footwork on damp sand, reading whitewater, and learning to fall safely are part of the curriculum.
Practically: sunscreen and a full water bottle are non-negotiable, arrive early for drop-off and follow lifeguard flags. For parents, Venice offers coffee, bike paths and the canals to explore while lessons run. This is a day of taught progression rather than fitness testing — kids leave with new skills, confidence in the water, and a clearer respect for coastal conditions.
moderate.
6 hours.
Moderate — campers should be comfortable with basic swimming and active for multiple sessions throughout the day
The camp accepts children ages 5–16 with sessions and instruction scaled to age and skill.
Yes — surfboard, wetsuit and rashguard are supplied by the program.
The operator cancels for unsafe ocean conditions; full refunds are available if cancelled at least 24 hours prior or due to bad weather.
Parents can observe from the beach but should follow instructor guidance for safety and minimal disruption to lessons.
Venice was developed in the early 1900s as a seaside resort; surf culture grew here mid-century and helped shape LA’s coastal identity.
High beach use and wind-driven erosion stress local dunes and wetlands; use refillable containers, avoid trampling dune vegetation, and respect protected areas like Ballona Wetlands.
Sunrise Surf Academy operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




A morning breeze carries salt and skateboard wheels as kids tighten wetsuits at the far south end of the Venice Fishing Pier. Foam boards line the sand; instructors call out basics while the Pacific nudges gently toward shore. Sunrise Surf Academy starts the day with beach games, land drills and two focused surf sessions that let beginners catch first waves and returners refine pop-ups and timing.
A morning breeze carries salt and skateboard wheels as kids tighten wetsuits at the far south end of the Venice Fishing Pier. Foam boards line the sand; instructors call out basics while the Pacific nudges gently toward shore. Sunrise Surf Academy starts the day with beach games, land drills and two focused surf sessions that let beginners catch first waves and returners refine pop-ups and timing.
Venice was built as a seaside attraction in the early 1900s and developed a countercultural surf identity by mid-century. The coastline here sits on a sandy beach backed by low dunes and a broad surf break that reads differently with tide and swell — small, friendly waves most summer mornings; punchier sets on big south swells. Local culture blends lifeguard protocol, board-rental tradition and a strong emphasis on ocean safety.
Expect a structure: morning warm-up and land lesson, first surf block, snacks and sun care, then a longer afternoon session. Instructors provide boards, wetsuits and rashguards; campers should arrive hydrated, sun-protected and ready to move. Footwork on damp sand, reading whitewater, and learning to fall safely are part of the curriculum.
Practically: sunscreen and a full water bottle are non-negotiable, arrive early for drop-off and follow lifeguard flags. For parents, Venice offers coffee, bike paths and the canals to explore while lessons run. This is a day of taught progression rather than fitness testing — kids leave with new skills, confidence in the water, and a clearer respect for coastal conditions.