Surf Lessons in Laguna Beach

Thalia Surf Shop has been teaching people to surf in Laguna Beach since 2001. Our instructors are locals and friends who grew up surfing these breaks, and they meet you right where you are, whether it is your first time standing on a board or you just want a local to show you around the lineup. Every lesson covers ocean safety, surf etiquette, paddling, and popping up, with all the right gear provided. Private and group lessons are available year round for all ages and skill levels.

2 products

Surf Lessons Private/Single
Surf Lessons Private/Single
$125.00
$125.00
Surf Lessons Group 2 or More
Surf Lessons Group 2 or More
$110.00
$110.00

Private and Group Surf Lessons

Two ways to get in the water. Both include a soft top surfboard, a leash, and a wetsuit if you need one, plus instruction from a local who actually surfs here.

Private / Single Lessons

One on one time with your instructor for the fastest progress and the most personal feedback. 125 dollars per person. Great for first timers who want focused attention or surfers working on something specific.

Group Lessons (2 or More)

Bring a friend, a partner, or the whole family. 110 dollars per person for two or more. More social, more affordable, and a fun way to learn together.

Here is how a lesson usually goes: meet up, warm up and run through safety and technique on the sand, then paddle out and start catching waves. Plan on about 1 hour in total.

What You Will Learn

Our lessons are built around the things that actually get you surfing: reading the ocean and staying safe, surf etiquette and right of way, paddling and positioning, and the pop up that gets you to your feet. Most people catch and ride a wave in their very first session, and get the basics down within a handful of lessons.

Where We Surf in Laguna Beach and Beyond

We teach at the best beginner friendly breaks in the area, picking the spot that fits the day and your level.

Thalia Street Beach, Laguna Beach

Our home break, right out front of the shop and the beach we are named after. A gentle, sandy bottom wave with a long, easy peel and a short paddle out, Thalia Street is widely considered the best place to learn in Laguna. On small days it is perfect for first timers on foam boards.

Doheny State Beach, Dana Point

One of the most beginner friendly waves in Southern California. The harbor jetty softens the swell into slow, forgiving shoulders over a sandy, cobblestone bottom, which gives you plenty of time to find your feet. Mellow, family friendly, and easy to get to.

San Onofre State Beach, San Clemente

Often called the Waikiki of California. San O serves up long, slow rolling waves and an easygoing, aloha spirit. Spots like Old Man and Dogpatch are tailor made for longboards and soft tops, which makes it a classic place to learn.

Best Time to Learn

You can take a lesson any time of year. Summer brings the warmest water and the friendliest beginner waves, fall keeps the warm water going with thinner crowds, and protected spots like Doheny stay mellow even when winter swells pick up. Whenever you come, we pick the right beach for the conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need any surfing experience to take a lesson?
No experience needed. Our lessons are built for complete first timers as well as people looking to improve. Your instructor meets you exactly where you are.
What should I bring to my surf lesson?
Just a swimsuit, a towel, sunscreen, and some water. We provide the surfboard, leash, and a wetsuit if you need one.
Is equipment included?
Yes. Every lesson includes a soft top surfboard, a leash, and a wetsuit when the water calls for it. All you bring is yourself.
How long is a lesson?
Plan on about 1 hour, including a warm up and a safety and technique briefing on the sand before you paddle out.
What is the difference between a private and a group lesson?
A private lesson is one on one for the most personal feedback and the fastest progress, at 125 dollars per person. A group lesson is for two or more at 110 dollars per person, which is more social and a great option for families and friends.
How much do surf lessons cost?
Private lessons are 125 dollars per person. Group lessons for two or more are 110 dollars per person. All equipment is included.
Do you offer surf lessons for kids?
Yes, we teach kids and adults alike. For younger groms, give the shop a call and we will match the lesson to their age and comfort in the water.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Beginner lessons stay in waist to chest deep water with your instructor right beside you, so you do not need to be a strong swimmer. If you are not comfortable swimming, just let your instructor know before you start.
Where do lessons take place?
We teach at the best beginner friendly breaks in the area, including Thalia Street Beach in Laguna Beach, Doheny State Beach in Dana Point, and San Onofre. We pick the spot that fits the day and your level.
Is Laguna Beach good for beginners?
Yes. Thalia Street Beach is one of the most reliable learning waves in town, with gentle, sandy bottom surf and an easy paddle out that is ideal for first timers on foam boards.
What is the best time of year to learn?
Lessons run year round. Summer has the warmest water and the friendliest beginner waves, fall stays warm with thinner crowds, and sheltered spots like Doheny stay mellow through the winter.
How do I book a surf lesson?
Book online or call the shop at (949) 497-3292 and we will get you scheduled. You can also stop by Thalia Surf Shop at 915 S. Coast Hwy in Laguna Beach.

Book Your Surf Lesson

Ready to paddle out? Book online above or call the shop at (949) 497-3292 and we will get you set up. Thalia Surf Shop, 915 S. Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651.