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Our free Beginner's Surf Guide has the exact gear checklist — what to buy first, what to skip, and how to pick a board and wetsuit that won't hold you back. Free, instant.
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// 1 Surf shop listed
Boards, wetsuits, wax and ding repair — with ratings, phone numbers and directions for each.
Seasonal averages for California — not a live surf report for this beach. California surf seasons in full
// The Lineup
Ranked by rating confidence — review volume counts, not just the score.
From 1 review
20600 Ventura Blvd
Woodland Hills offers a unique surf shopping experience nestled in the San Fernando Valley, just a 30-minute drive from Malibu's legendary breaks. The local surf shop serves as your gateway to Southern California's diverse coastline, providing expert guidance on everything from Zuma Beach's consistent swells to Point Dume's reef breaks. Beyond surf essentials, Woodland Hills delivers excellent dining along Ventura Boulevard, hiking access to the Santa Monica Mountains, and a relaxed Valley vibe that contrasts nicely with the coastal crowds. The shop stocks quality boards, wetsuits, and accessories while offering repair services and local break reports. It's an ideal stop for valley residents and visitors looking to dial in their gear before heading west to catch waves.
Woodland Hills is inland, meaning surf trips require travel, typically 30-45 minutes minimum to reach the closest breaks like Malibu or Leo Carrillo. Since the shop is not beachfront, call ahead to confirm current inventory levels, especially for popular board sizes, as local stock might fluctuate based on recent beach demand. Before going in, check the local beach forecast and talk to the lifeguard on duty (National Weather Service advice).
The single documented shop in Woodland Hills primarily serves as a strong retail hub and expert consultation point rather than a direct rental outpost for immediate water use. Expect comprehensive board sales, wetsuit fittings suitable for the cooler Pacific waters, and high-quality accessories. Inquire specifically about their repair services, as they often coordinate professional ding repair for surfers commuting from the Valley to the coast. Custom shaping inquiries should be directed early, as lead times can extend during peak seasonal ordering periods.
The closest reliable surf breaks, such as those near Malibu or Ventura County line, generally require a 30 to 45-minute drive depending on the specific destination and traffic conditions. Plan for significant weekend travel time, as the 101 corridor can become heavily congested.
Given its inland location, the Woodland Hills shop focuses more on sales and service rather than daily rentals. It is best to call ahead; they may offer longer-term rentals or direct you to partner rental services located closer to the actual beach breaks.
For year-round surfing near the Los Angeles coast, a 3/2mm full suit is standard for spring through fall. During the colder winter months (December through March), a 4/3mm thickness is strongly recommended for comfort and safety.
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.
