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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything You Need to Know About Surf Lessons in Malibu

Ready to ride the waves?

Got questions about learning to surf? We’ve got answers! Whether you’re a total beginner or looking to improve your skills, our Malibu Surf Coach FAQ covers everything from pricing and booking to best surf spots and safety tips.

General Surf Lesson Questions

  • Our surf lesson prices vary depending on whether you choose a private, or a private group lesson. The price is $140 per session for one person. If you want a private group lesson, the more people you add the lower the cost is by $10 per person.  You can also choose from one of our lesson packages to get an even better deal.  Head on over to our surf lesson page for the latest rates and special offers.

  • Malibu offers great surfing conditions year-round! Summer generally provides smaller, beginner-friendly waves, while fall and winter bring larger swells for surfers with more experience.  The semi-private beach we teach at is a swell magnet and always offers wave options for all levels.

  • Not at all! Our lessons are designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners. Our experienced instructors will teach you everything from paddling to catching your first wave.  You don’t even need to know how to swim.

  • Each lesson typically lasts 90 minutes. This includes safety instructions, paddling practice, pop-up techniques, and time in the water.

  • Private lessons offer one-on-one coaching, which helps beginners progress faster. Our Group lessons are still private and offer learning in a fun, social experience which is a great option for families or friends learning together.  You can always add additional instructors to a group lesson for a more personalized experience.

  • When booking with Malibu Surf Coach our students typically stand within the first 15min.  

Equipment & Safety

  • No, we provide all the necessary equipment, including soft-top beginner surfboards (Stormblades with an easy to carry handle) and wetsuit. If you have your own board and/or wetsuit, feel free to bring it!

  • We recommend long, soft-top surfboards (8 to 9 feet) with width for better stability and an easier learning experience.  Our instructors will be happy to recommend a surfboard for your skill level and goals.

  • Yes! We prioritize safety by choosing beginner-friendly waves and teaching proper techniques and ocean awareness. Our instructors are trained in CPR.

  • A wetsuit isn’t always necessary, but we highly recommend and provide wetsuits for warmth and comfort.  If you plan on buying a package or come back frequently and you get cold easily, we do recommend you purchase surf booties.

  • We ensure safety by:

    ·      Choosing calm, beginner-friendly waves

    ·      Teaching ocean awareness and surf etiquette

    ·      Providing soft-top boards to reduce injury risk

    ·      We always go at your pace!

Surf Coaching & Progression

  • Most beginners can catch their first waves in one or two lessons. However, mastering surfing takes multiple sessions and practice.

  • Your first lesson covers:

    ·      Ocean awareness

    ·      Paddling techniques

    ·      The pop-up (standing up on the board)

    ·      Wave selection and timing

    ·      Balancing & riding small waves

  • We teach balance exercises on land and recommend core workouts, yoga, and paddling drills to improve endurance and technique.

  • Some great exercises include:

    • Pop-up drills (practicing your stance on land)

    • Paddling endurance exercises

    • Leg & core workouts for balance

    • Stretching & yoga for flexibility

  • We ensure safety by:

    ·      Choosing calm, beginner-friendly waves

    ·      Teaching ocean awareness and surf etiquette

    ·      Providing soft-top boards to reduce injury risk

    ·      We always go at your pace!

Surfing Lifestyle & Benefits

  • Surfing improves cardio fitness, core strength, balance, and mental health. It’s also a great way to relieve stress and connect with nature.

  • We recommend:

    ·      Starting in shallow water

    ·      Learning about ocean safety

    ·      Practicing floating and breathing techniques

    ·      Taking lessons with an experienced instructor

  • Before: Light carbs & protein (bananas, oatmeal, toast)

    After: Protein & hydration (eggs, smoothies, lean meat, coconut water)

  • ·      Wear a swimsuit or wetsuit

    ·      Apply sunscreen (reef-safe recommended)

    ·      Stay hydrated and eat a light meal

    ·      Arrive early to find parking and get comfortable with the equipment

  • ·      Respect the right of way (don’t drop in on someone’s wave)

    ·      Communicate (let others know your direction)

    ·      Don’t ditch your board (hold onto it for safety)

    ·      Only paddle out to a surf spot that suits your skill level (ask your instructor or local surf shop)

    ·      Be friendly and respect the locals

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