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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Santa Monica · 2 hours
Group surf lesson with all gear included
Group
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
// 13 Surf schools listed
Local instructors, real reviews, and how to reach each school direct.
Highest rated
Malibu Surfing School5.0 from 192 reviews
Lowest published group price
Malibu Surfing Schoolfrom $90 per person
Kids-friendly
Malibu Surfing SchoolTagged kid-friendly from student reviews
// 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.
13 schools on the map
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// The price check
Based on prices published by 6 of 13 schools · checked October 2026
The other 7 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.
What the schools say about their lessons
From each school's own website. Schools that don't say aren't counted as a no; confirm when you book.
// Side by side
| School | Rating | Group | Private | Kids | Lesson | Phone | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Malibu Surfing School | 5.0 (192) | $90/person | $130/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 1.5 hours · ages 7+Board + wetsuit included | +1 213-446-2674 | Book Malibu Surfing School on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Malibu Surf Experience | 5.0 (186) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | For groups of 7+Board + wetsuit included | +1 310-924-4709 | Book Malibu Surf Experience on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Malibu Surf Coach | 4.8 (107) | Price not published, ask the school | $175–$250/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 1.5 hours · up to eight peopleBoard + wetsuit included | +1 424-781-7174 | Book Malibu Surf Coach on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Always Summer Surf School | 5.0 (80) | $100/person | $150/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 1.5 hoursBoard + wetsuit included | +1 424-465-3118 | Book Always Summer Surf School on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Malibu Makos Surf Club | 4.7 (78) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | 1-hour or 90-minute sessions · ages 5+Board + wetsuit included | +1 310-317-1229 | Book Malibu Makos Surf Club on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Eat Sleep Surf | 5.0 (46) | $90–$105/person | $165/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | 2 hours · Maximum 4 students per instructorBoard + wetsuit included | +1 424-835-1079 | Book Eat Sleep Surf on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| SoCal Surfs Up | 5.0 (41) | Price not published, ask the school | $50/lesson | Price not published, ask the school | ages 8+ | +1 310-695-2492 | Book SoCal Surfs Up on their website (opens in a new tab) |
| Exclusive Surf Coach - Malibu, CA - Tony Z by the Sea | 5.0 (14) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | —Not stated | +1 805-350-8193 | — |
| Heaven On Earth Stand Up Paddle & Surfing School | 4.3 (7) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | —Not stated | +1 310-993-2298 | — |
| Diiscoburger Surf School | 5.0 (5) | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | Price not published, ask the school | —Not stated | — | — |
Ask = not published on the school's website, so call or message to get a quote. Prices are the lowest each school lists. Lesson details are what each school states on its own website; a dash means not stated.
// 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.
Published by Malibu Surfing School: “1 hr 30 min; Groups larger than 6”
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 Malibu Surfing School: “1 hr 30 min; 1 person $130, 2 people $220, 3 people $310, 4 people $400, 5 people $480, 6 people $500”
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.
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.
Published by Malibu Makos Surf Club: “Kids Surf Camp, Ages 5–17, Any Day $165, Any 5 Days $749.00, Any 10 Days $1429.00, Any 15 Days $2,099.00, Any 30 Days $3,960.00”
Board and wetsuit are usually included in a lesson price. Confirm when booking, because policies differ between schools. In Malibu, 6 of 13 schools say board and wetsuit are included on their own websites.
// The Local Report
Malibu isn't just where movie stars live—it's where surfing dreams come alive. This iconic stretch of California coastline has been welcoming new surfers for generations, creating a legacy of 'first waves' that spans decades. Here, you're not just learning to surf; you're becoming part of a storied tradition where legends learned their first pop-ups on the same waves you'll ride. The laid-back vibe and supportive local surf community make it feel less like a lesson and more like being welcomed into a family that shares your newfound passion for the ocean.
Surfrider Beach's inside waves offer perfect whitewash for beginners, especially on the south end. County Line Beach's wide shoreline and predictable wave patterns make it a favorite among surf schools.
A full wetsuit is recommended year-round, though a spring suit works during peak summer months. Morning sessions offer glassy conditions perfect for learning.
You'll find patient instructors who understand Malibu's unique wave patterns and plenty of other beginners sharing your excitement. Morning sessions are less crowded, with water temperatures warming up by mid-morning. Most schools provide soft-top longboards and wetsuits. 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 Dimitri for his exceptional patience, clear instruction, and encouraging attitude, enabling even beginners to quickly learn and enjoy surfing.
Group lessons from
$90/person
Gear included · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the instructors, especially Hugo, Henry, and Lewis, for their exceptional instruction, patience, and friendly service, making surfing fun and accessible for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the knowledgeable and helpful instructors, like Anthony and Steele, for providing fun and successful surfing experiences, often highlighting their ability to get beginners standing up and catching waves.
Group lessons from
$100/person
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Quinn and his team for providing exceptional, fun, and safe experiences, including surfing, rock climbing, and camping, with knowledgeable instruction and a personal touch.
Group lessons from
$90/person
Group lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the instructors, especially Tony and Coleman, for their patience, knowledge, and positive encouragement, creating enjoyable and successful surfing experiences for all skill levels.
Private lessons · Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise Tony for his exceptional surfing instruction, passion for the sport, and ability to connect with students, resulting in…
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Beginner friendly
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Beginner friendly
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Private lessons
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Gear included · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers rave about the magical and unforgettable first-time surfing experience, highlighting the patient, supportive, and passionate instructors…
Private lessons from
$175/lesson
Gear included · Group lessons · Beginner friendly
Auto-summary of reviews
Customers consistently praise the excellent instruction, patient and attentive staff, and fun, safe environment, making for a highly recommended and…
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
Kids welcome · Beginner friendly
Pricing
Not published on their website. Call or message to ask.
