Top surf schools in California and Hawaii for beginner surfers  

Surfing is more than just a sport; it is a community and culture known beyond borders. Surfing sounds thrilling but requires proper training to get in the water, so whether you are a water enthusiast or just someone who wishes to learn to surf on water, we’ve got your back. California and Hawaii are renowned for surfing, but for beginners, finding the proper instruction is the key.   

Whether you want to chase a surfing degree or follow it as a passion, get ready to ride the wave and look no further than these top-rated surf schools in California and Hawaii, specifically designed for beginners.   

CALIFORNIA 

1. Pacific Surf School, San Diego.  

Pacific Surf School was founded in 1997 in Mission Beach, CA. It offers lessons to surfers of all ages, whether experienced or inexperienced. It is one of the most popular schools in California, known for teaching more than 40,000 students since 1997. Their beginner-friendly lessons focus on safety, technique, and fun, which makes it a popular choice for beginners.  

Address: 4121 Ocean Blvd., San Diego, CA 92109  

Phone: (858) 488-2685  

2. Surf school Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz  

Surf School Santa Cruz is one of the best schools on the West Coast. It believes that surfing is not a sport but a therapy for life, helping those heal in ways they weren’t aware was possible—through the water. It teaches surfing to people of all ages and skill levels with proper safety and quality, along with a lot of fun. The school was created out of passion and a desire to share it with the world.  

Address: 3548 Portola Drive, Santa Cruz, CA 95062  

Phone: 831.428.3647  

3. Always Summer Surf School, Malibu  

This school has an exciting story. It was founded while on a two-month-turned-nine-month surf trip throughout the Indonesian archipelago. Always Summer Surf School was established in 2018 and has flourished immensely since. They offer exclusive private surf lessons in Malibu and specialize in beginner and intermediate surf coaching at exclusive locations, providing all the gear you need to get in the water. They are open to all skill levels, starting from zero.  

Address: 26714 Seagull Way Malibu, CA 90265  

Phone: (424) 465-3118  

4. Banzai Surf School, Huntington  

Banzai Surf School is located in Orange County, California, at Pacific Coast Highway and Brookhurst Street, just over the bridge from Newport Beach. It is considered one of the cleanest and most uncrowded stretches of sand and one of the most accessible beginner spots for beginners. You can also often see dolphins just outside the surfing area. They offer weeklong summer surf camps and also 2-hour surf sessions in private or group lessons. They also offer large company parties or group surfing events and never make you stand in lines for rides. Banzai Surf School sums up everything you need to shortlist it.   

Address: PCH and Brookhurst St., Huntington Beach, CA 92646  

Phone: (714) 813-2880   

5. 805 Surf Academy, Santa Barbara  

805 Surf Academy is a surfing school in Santa Barbara with more than 25 years of experience in surfing. They offer private lessons to individuals and groups of all ages and skills. The 805 coastline brags its rich surfing history and beautiful array of waves. It is, without a doubt, one of the best places to learn surfing.   

Address: 2517 West Figueroa St., Unit 2, Santa Barbara, CA 93109  

Phone: (805) 774-1139  

HAWAII 

1. Hawaiian surf adventures, Oahu   

True to its name, Hawaiian Surf Adventures offers an escape from the everyday chaos and a thrilling adventure into the water. Their surf lessons, which include access to uncrowded surf breaks, standup paddle lessons/rentals, and the popular Hawaiian double-hull canoe tour, are designed to ignite your sense of adventure. With a focus on beginners and small, intimate classes, this is the perfect choice for those new to surfing.   

Address: 7192 kalanianaole hwy koko marina ctr Honolulu, HI 96825  

Phone: (808) 396-2324  

2. Maui Surf Academy, Lahaina, Hawaii  

Maui Surf Academy offers private surfing lessons in one of the most beautiful places to learn to surf-Maui. Their lessons cater to individuals and groups of all ages and skill levels, and each lesson includes a free GoPro photo package. But the beauty of Maui is not the only thing that will inspire you-every lesson also includes reef-safe sunscreen, snacks, water, and a shower. All you need to bring is a towel, a bathing suit, and a passion for surfing.  

Address: 505, Lahaina, HI 96761  

Phone: 808-276-7873  

3. Kona mikes surf adventure, big island  

Kona Mikes Surf Adventure School has 20 years of experience at the Kahaluu beach and is a perfect destination for beginners to intermediate surfers. They offer lessons to people of all ages and a maximum of 6 people in a group. They offer all water sports, not just surfing, and it is a beautiful place to learn to surf. The place also meets animal welfare guidelines.   

Address: 75-5995 Kuakini Highway Pottery Ter, Kailua Kona, HI 96740   

Phone: 808-334-0033  

4. North Shore Surf Girls, Oahu  

If you’re a girl looking to learn to surf then look no further, North Shore Surf Girls School is the perfect place for you. This school is dedicated to teaching girls to surf and stand-up paddleboard, with female instructors who understand the unique needs of their students. They teach at both Puaena Point and Chuns Reef, adapting to the size of the waves and your skill level. With their focus on inclusivity and providing all the gear you need; you’ll feel welcomed and ready to dive into the water.   

Address:   

Phone: 808-637-2977  

5. Hans Hedemann Surf School, Honolulu  

Hans Hedemann Surf School was established in 1995 by pro surfer Hans Hedemann. It is, without a doubt, one of the best places to learn surfing. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, they will definitely skill you even more. They offer two-hour lessons every day for surfing, body boarding, and standup paddling at both their south and north shore locations. They also have north shore tours leaving from Waikiki.   

Address: 150 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu 96815  

Phone: 808-924-7778  

Conclusion  

Surfing is thrilling, but one can only surf with proper training. Some follow surfing as a passion, some because they love sports, some because they love water, and some make a career out of it! Once you start surfing, there is no going back as it is more than just a sport; it works as therapy for some and becomes their source of happiness. This article mentions 5 top schools each in Hawaii and California to help you choose the best to start riding on water.