How we rank: Google rating, weighted so a 5.0 from six reviews doesn't outrank a 4.9 from a thousand. Schools can't pay to move up this list; a paid placement is labelled as one. Listings that share a phone number or website are marked as the same team.
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Solana Beach · 2 hours
Private surf lesson with board and wetsuit
Private
Check prices →Check prices & dates →Booked and paid on GetYourGuide
// Packing list
Most schools provide the board and wetsuit, so you can arrive with very little. These are the small things worth packing.
We may earn a small commission if you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. We only recommend gear we'd ride ourselves.
Rash guard (UV surf shirt)
Stops the wetsuit and board rubbing your chest raw, and covers your shoulders if the water is warm enough to skip the wetsuit.
See options on Amazon →Mineral (zinc) sunscreen
You will spend a couple of hours on open water. Zinc stays on your face better than spray and is easier on the reef.
See options on Amazon →Changing poncho or hooded towel
Gets you out of a wet wetsuit in a beach parking lot without the towel dance.
See options on Amazon →Waterproof phone pouch or dry bag
Keeps your phone, keys and car fob dry and sand-free while you are in the water.
See options on Amazon →Reef booties or water shoes
Only where the entry is rocky or reefy. Sandy beaches rarely need them, so ask the school first.
See options on Amazon →Surf hat with a chin strap
Shades your face during the beach briefing and in the water; the strap keeps it on when you fall off.
See options on Amazon →Full checklist, including what to leave at home: What to bring to surf lessons
Seasonal averages for California — not a live surf report for this beach. California surf seasons in full
// 1 Surf school listed
Local instructors, real reviews, and how to reach each school direct.
// The Lineup
Ranked by rating confidence — review volume counts, not just the score.
// Free Surf Guide
The Beginner's Surf Guide
Wave basics, gear checklist, lesson tips — all free, delivered instantly.
// The price check
Based on prices published by 1 of 1 school · checked August 2025
The other 0 don't list prices on their websites, so they are not in these figures. Rates change with season, group size and what's included. Confirm with the school before you book.
// Know before you book
Group lessons are the usual starting point: they cost less per person, and you share an instructor with typically 4 to 8 other students. Private lessons give you one-on-one attention and a faster start, which suits nervous beginners, anyone short on time, or surfers working on a specific skill, at a higher price per person. Semi-private sits in between, for two to three people who want to learn together. Class size and what is included vary by school, so confirm when you book.
You share an instructor with other students, typically 4 to 8 per instructor, for around 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Best for: First-timers on a budget and anyone who likes learning alongside others.
A small group of two to three people with one instructor, often friends or family booking together.
Best for: Couples, friends and families who want more attention than a group without the private price.
One instructor, one student (or one family). The pace and focus are yours to set.
Best for: Nervous beginners, short trips, and surfers working on a specific skill.
Published by Del Mar Surf School: “1.5 hour surf lesson for 3-5 people, includes surfboard, wetsuit, and photos.”
Lessons run for younger surfers, usually in smaller groups with a lower instructor-to-student ratio. Minimum ages vary by school.
Best for: Children and teens. Ask the school about age limits and whether parents can stay on the beach.
Published by Del Mar Surf School: “1.5 hour shared lesson for kids 100lbs and under, includes 2 wetsuits and 1 surfboard.”
Multi-day programs, from a few days to a week or more, mixing lessons, practice sessions and surf theory.
Best for: Visitors staying a while and anyone who wants to progress past the first stand-up.
Board and wetsuit are usually included in a lesson price. Confirm when booking, because policies differ between schools.
// The Local Report
Del Mar isn't just another beach town—it's where surfing dreams take root in the gentlest way possible. This stretch of Southern California coastline has been nurturing new surfers for generations, with its unique combination of protected coves and welcoming local culture. Unlike the intense surf spots of Northern California or Hawaii's powerful waves, Del Mar offers a more forgiving introduction to the sport. Here, the ocean seems to understand it's teaching beginners, providing rhythmic, predictable waves that build confidence rather than fear. The community here has preserved that special blend of laid-back atmosphere and professional instruction that makes first-timers feel like they belong in the lineup.
We don't label specific breaks in Del Mar as beginner spots. Whether a spot suits a first lesson depends on the day's waves, tide and wind, and what's under the water varies from spot to spot. Let your school choose, and ask them what the bottom is like before you paddle out.
Late summer through early fall (August-October) brings warm water (68-72°F) and smaller, more manageable waves. A 3/2mm wetsuit works year-round, though spring suits are comfortable during summer months. Morning sessions offer glassy conditions before afternoon winds pick up.
You'll find a supportive atmosphere where nobody judges wobbly first attempts. Local surf schools provide all necessary equipment, from soft-top boards to wetsuits. Morning sessions typically see lighter crowds, especially on weekdays. The beach has ample parking, clean facilities, and lifeguards on duty. The National Weather Service's advice applies here: only swim at a beach with lifeguards, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard before going in, and remember that rip currents often form on calm, sunny days. If one catches you, don't fight it: relax and float, wave and yell for help, or swim parallel to the beach until you're out of the pull.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Jenny for her friendly, patient, and knowledgeable instruction, creating fun and successful surfing experiences for all ages and skill levels in a great location with quality gear.
Private lessons from
$100/lesson
