Your guide to catching the best waves in Marina Del Rey, ca. From beginner basics to advanced techniques, find your perfect surf instructor.
Marina Del Rey offers something truly special for beginning surfers - a perfect blend of protected waters and LA's laid-back beach culture. Unlike the intense breaks of Malibu or the crowded shores of Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey's gentle waters create an ideal classroom for your surf journey. Here, you'll find a supportive community where local instructors prioritize building confidence over catching the biggest waves. The marina's unique geography creates predictable, manageable waves that have helped thousands of beginners transform from nervous first-timers into confident surfers. It's where the intimidating world of surfing becomes accessible, and where your connection with the ocean begins.
Mother's Beach provides a sheltered learning environment with minimal wave impact, perfect for mastering the basics. Venice Breakwater, just north of the marina, offers consistent small waves and a wide beach for practice. Dockweiler State Beach presents gentle, rolling waves with plenty of space to spread out and learn without pressure.
Late summer through early fall (August-October) brings the most beginner-friendly conditions with water temperatures around 68°F. You'll need a full wetsuit year-round. Morning sessions offer the calmest conditions and clearest skies, avoiding afternoon winds. Spring can also be excellent but expect cooler waters.
You'll find a welcoming atmosphere with multiple surf schools offering comprehensive beginner packages. Morning sessions typically start with beach instruction before hitting the water. Expect patient instructors who understand LA's unique surf culture. Schools provide everything - boards, wetsuits, and safety instruction. Parking is ample but arrives early on weekends. Water quality is consistently monitored and posted.
Explore the verified surf schools below and contact them directly for current pricing and availability. Our concierge chat will return soon with live expert support.