Surf Lesson Locations in Santa Monica and Malibu
Explore the Best Beaches to Learn to Surf in Los Angeles County
Looking for the perfect place to learn how to surf in Los Angeles County? Calibunga Surf Lessons offers private and group sessions at two of the best beginner-friendly beaches in Southern California: Santa Monica Beach and Sunset Point in Malibu.
Each surf class location offers soft rolling waves, sandy or mellow reef bottoms, and scenic coastlines — perfect for first-time surfers, families, and anyone looking to build confidence in the water.
Surf Lessons in Santa Monica
Located near Lifeguard Tower 26, our Santa Monica location features soft sandy shores, consistent beginner waves, and convenient amenities like restrooms and outdoor showers. It’s the ideal spot for locals and visitors looking to learn in a safe, supportive setting just steps from the Santa Monica Pier.
Learn more about our Santa Monica surf lessons →
Surf Lessons at Sunset Point in Malibu
Sunset Point is one of Malibu’s hidden gems for beginner surfers. Known for its long, gentle waves and laid-back vibe, it’s perfect for students who want a peaceful, uncrowded learning experience. This spot is especially great for kids, first-timers, and anyone who wants a quiet, picturesque surf session.
Learn more about our Malibu surf lessons →
Your Local Surf Lesson Guide for Santa Monica and Venice Beach
Calibunga Surf Lessons offers the best surf lessons in Santa Monica for beginners, families, and tourists looking for a fun, safe, and personalized surfing experience. We’re located near the Santa Monica Pier and Lifeguard Tower 26, just steps from Santa Monica Beach and Ocean Front Walk. If you’re searching for “surf lessons near Santa Monica Pier,” “Santa Monica surf schools,” “private surf lessons in Santa Monica,” or “best beginner surf instructor in LA,” you’ve found the right spot. We’re close to Downtown Santa Monica, Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Place Mall, and just minutes from Venice Beach, Marina del Rey, and Pacific Palisades. Many of our students stay at nearby hotels like Shutters on the Beach, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, or Hotel Casa del Mar, and book lessons as part of their vacation in Los Angeles. We regularly teach guests visiting from Beverly Hills, West LA, Westwood, and Culver City who are looking for the best surf lesson experience on the Westside. Calibunga specializes in private surf lessons, small group surf classes, kids surf lessons, and affordable surf packages for first-time surfers. We’re a top-rated Santa Monica surf school with 5-star reviews from locals and tourists alike, and one of the few schools offering customized lesson plans for beginners. Whether you're visiting LA for the first time or looking for “surf lessons near me,” we’ll help you catch your first wave with confidence.
More to Explore Near Calibunga Surf Lessons in Santa Monica
When you take a surfing lesson in Santa Monica with Calibunga Surf Lessons, you’re not just learning to surf — you’re immersing yourself in one of the most vibrant and walkable beach neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Located just steps from the Santa Monica Pier and along Ocean Front Walk, our surf school is surrounded by some of the best local spots in Southern California. Whether you're here for private surf instruction, family-friendly beginner surf lessons, or affordable group surf classes near Venice Beach, you’ll find tons to explore before and after your session.
We’re within easy walking distance of the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path, Palisades Park, and the shops and street performers at Third Street Promenade. While many of our students book surf lessons from nearby areas like Marina del Rey, Culver City, or Pacific Palisades, others discover us while searching for outdoor activities in Santa Monica or things to do near the Santa Monica Pier. We’re also walkable from the Venice Beach Boardwalk and Main Street Venice — just a scenic stroll south — offering access to even more local culture, dining, and entertainment after your surf session.
Recommended Local Spots Within 2 Miles of Calibunga Surf Lessons:
Dogtown Coffee – Surf history meets Santa Monica’s best cold brew. Just off Main Street and a short walk from our beginner surf lesson area near Tower 26.
Big Dean’s Ocean Front Café – Steps from the Santa Monica Pier and a favorite post-surf burger spot for visitors and locals alike.
Perry’s Café & Beach Rentals – Right on the beach path with bike rentals and quick bites, ideal for visitors enjoying surf lessons by the beach.
Urth Caffé Santa Monica – Organic café just blocks from Santa Monica Beach, perfect for families or couples after a private surf lesson.
The Albright – Iconic seafood spot on the Santa Monica Pier, minutes from where we teach beginner surf classes.
Blue Daisy Café – One of the best breakfast and brunch spots near Ocean Avenue, great before or after learning to surf in Santa Monica.
Venice Beach Boardwalk – A longer but scenic walk south from the Pier; a must-see for anyone getting surf instruction near Venice Beach.
Main Street Venice – Art galleries, taco shops, and indie boutiques, just south of Santa Monica — a hidden gem walkable after your surf lesson.