Learning to surf clicks when coaching is tight. This private 2-hour session on Venice Beach gives you individual attention and a plan built around your level. I like that you get detailed land instruction before you go into the water, and I also like that the coach stays with you the whole time, on land and in the waves. One thing to consider: this experience depends on good weather, so you may need flexibility if conditions are rough.

You start at Santa Monica and head to a quieter, remote part of Venice Beach for practice, which helps when you want focus instead of crowd chaos. It is suitable for all skill levels, from true first-timers to people who already surf but want better technique. The minimum age is 7, and the session is best if you have a moderate fitness level.

At $99 per person for about 2 hours, it is not the cheapest way to surf, but it includes the gear you need: surfboard and wetsuit. Photos are not included, so if you want mementos, plan to bring your own phone or camera.

Key highlights you will actually feel in the water

• Private coaching for 2 full hours, on land and in the ocean
• Land drills first, so you are not guessing once you get into the surf
• More privacy at a remote part of Venice Beach, which helps concentration
• Works for beginners through advanced surfers, because the lesson is adjusted to you
• Surfboard and wetsuit included, so you can travel lighter
• Photos not included, so bring your own if memories matter to you

Why private coaching at Venice Beach saves time (and frustration)

If you have ever tried to learn surfing from random tips or self-teaching, you already know the problem. Surfing is not just standing up. It is timing, balance, board control, and reading waves, all at once.

That is exactly why a private lesson like this is worth it. The program is based on your personal skills and abilities, and the instructor trains and helps you both on land and in the water for the entire 2 hours. Instead of repeating generic advice, you get corrections that match what you are doing right now.

I also like the lesson structure because it reduces waste. When you start with land lessons, you can practice the key movements in a controlled way, then bring that muscle memory into the ocean. You spend more of your session on what matters, not fumbling through the basics while tired.

Finally, there is something underrated here: privacy. You practice at a remote part of Venice Beach, and private lessons mean only your group participates. That usually translates into more attention per attempt, faster feedback, and fewer distractions.

Meeting at 20 Bicknell Ave in Santa Monica: arrive ready to learn

The session starts at 20 Bicknell Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, and it ends back at the same meeting point. The experience uses a mobile ticket, and you receive confirmation at booking time, which makes it easier to plan your day.

Because the lesson includes a wetsuit and a surfboard, your job is simple: show up with a body that can handle being active in the ocean. You should have a moderate physical fitness level, which usually means you are comfortable with a workout that includes paddling, standing attempts, and getting back up repeatedly.

Here is how to set yourself up for a smooth start, without overthinking it. Wear something you can change into quickly, bring a towel, and consider bringing a small bag for your phone and keys. If you get cold easily, plan for that too, since the ocean part is the one that determines how you feel for the rest of the day.

What happens in the land lesson, and why it matters

The most important part you should expect is the sequence: detailed land lessons before moving into the water. Even if you already surf a bit, this step can clean up your technique fast.

On land, the instructor focuses on the basics that tend to go wrong when you are new. You work on body position, how you carry your weight, and how you line up your approach. You also practice the fundamentals you need before you attempt standing, so when you are in the surf, your brain has fewer decisions to make.

If you are more experienced, the land portion still helps. Surfing at any level depends on small details, like how you place your feet, how you manage your stance, and how you initiate turns or rides. With one-on-one coaching, you can get specific feedback rather than vague “try harder” advice.

A big theme from sessions with the instructor Jonathan is that he is patient and fun while still being practical. One review noted that he helped straighten out the drop-in and catch waves the real way, which is exactly the kind of land-to-water connection that makes a private lesson feel high value. When the instructor can correct your setup before you paddle out, your time on the water gets more productive.

Heading to the ocean: how you turn practice into actual rides

Once you move into the water, you should expect continuous coaching, not a hands-off “good luck” situation. The instructor helps you both in and out of the surf for the entire class, so you are not waiting for instructions.

A private format is especially helpful here, because your needs change session to session. One attempt might show that you pop up too late. Another attempt might reveal that you are not reading the wave correctly. In a group setting, you might just get a general cue. In a private lesson, you get the cue that matches your pattern.

If you are working on catching waves, pay attention to what the coach emphasizes about timing and positioning. Reviews specifically mention Jonathan helping with dropping in and catching waves more effectively. That points to a core truth about progress: getting the mechanics right is what makes wave catching feel easier, not just better luck.

Also, do not treat the ocean part like a test. Think of it like learning a skill loop. You practice, you get corrected, you try again, you improve. With only your group participating, you get time to repeat without feeling like you are being rushed.

Coaching for every skill level, from first-timers to advanced

One of the best things about this lesson is that it is designed for all skill levels. The same 2-hour session can work if you are brand new, and it can also work if you already know how to stand but want upgrades in technique.

As a beginner, you will likely focus on fundamentals first: wave awareness, paddling rhythm, getting your board position right, and then standing. Land drills help you rehearse the “how” before you face ocean conditions.

If you are intermediate, you will probably spend more time refining. That could mean improving consistency, adjusting timing, or learning how to move from one part of the ride to another. The instructor can shape the session to your goals, because the lesson program is based on your abilities.

Advanced surfers are not the target of a beginner class, but private coaching can still be useful. Even small technique tweaks can lead to big changes in how your board feels under you. You can also get feedback on wave selection and execution, since the instructor can watch and respond in real time.

If you are traveling with family, this can be a strong choice too because the minimum age is 7. A father and son session was highlighted in the reviews, with the coach described as patient, which is a good sign for families who want structured learning rather than chaos.

Privacy at Venice Beach: learning without the crowd pressure

Venice Beach can be busy, and busy beaches can make learning harder. You are managing gear, practicing movements, and thinking about ocean conditions. When the environment is loud or crowded, it is easier to lose focus.

This lesson helps by using a remote part of Venice Beach for practice. The idea is simple: give you a quieter learning environment where you can concentrate on the instructor’s cues. In a private setting, that effect is even stronger because your time is dedicated to you.

If you are the type who learns better when you can slow down and process, this privacy is a real benefit. It also helps reduce the awkwardness that can happen when you are a beginner and people are watching. The goal here is comfort first, progress second.

Is $99 per person good value for a 2-hour private lesson?

Price is always the big question. At $99 per person for about 2 hours, you are paying for private coaching and hands-on feedback. That cost feels more reasonable when you look at what is included: surfboards and wetsuits.

Many “cheap surf lesson” options end up costing more once you add gear rental, which is not included here. By including the board and wetsuit, the lesson lowers friction for travelers. You can pack less and arrive without hunting down rentals.

So what are the tradeoffs? First, you are paying for private time, so it is naturally more expensive than group lessons. Second, photos are not included, so you should not expect a ready-made gallery. If you want pictures, be ready to take your own.

Also, private lessons depend on matching instruction to your level. The best value comes when you show up ready to learn and communicate what you want to improve. If you are hoping for a casual hang with no coaching focus, you may feel the cost more than you should. But if you want corrections and technique changes, $99 for 2 focused hours is a fair deal.

One more practical detail: this is often booked about 21 days in advance on average. If you are traveling in peak season or want a specific time slot, book earlier so you are not scrambling.

Practical tips so you feel confident once you hit the sand

A private lesson will move at a good pace, but you can make it easier on yourself with a few simple moves.

1. Plan for water time

You will be in the ocean for part of the lesson, and you should have a moderate fitness level for paddling and repeated attempts. If you are coming straight from long travel days, stretch first and hydrate.

1. Dress for quick changes

You will need to get into and out of a wetsuit, so wear clothes you can manage quickly. If you hate cold, bring something warm for after.

1. Bring a phone plan if photos matter

Since photos are not included, decide ahead of time whether you will take your own. The lesson is only about 2 hours, so you will want to capture the moments you care about without stopping practice too often.

1. Use the land time

The land lesson is not a warm-up that you can ignore. If you pay attention and practice what the coach asks for, you will usually get better results on your first water attempts.

1. Listen for technique words

A recurring theme from Jonathan’s coaching is that he helps people understand and execute key moves, like drop-ins, not just “stand up and hope.” When you hear technique cues, repeat them in your head before you paddle.

Should you book this private Venice Beach surf lesson?

I think you should book it if you want focused coaching, especially if you have been stuck. Private lessons work best when you want faster progress than solo practice can deliver. The land-to-water structure and the fact that the coach trains you for the full class help you avoid wasting time.

It is also a great fit if you prefer privacy and attention over a crowded group vibe. Practicing at a remote part of Venice Beach makes it easier to focus, and only your group participates, so you are not competing for instructor time.

You might skip it if you are only looking for a quick, casual ocean experience with minimal effort. And if you are expecting professional photos, you will want to manage that expectation, since photos are not included.

FAQ

How long is the private surfing lesson?

The lesson lasts about 2 hours.

Where is the meeting point?

The meeting point is 20 Bicknell Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA, and the activity ends back at the same location.

Is this a private tour or shared group lesson?

It is a private tour/activity, and only your group will participate.

What is included in the lesson?

Surfboards and wetsuits are included.

What is not included?

Photos are not included.

What skill levels and ages is it for?

It is suitable for all skill levels, including total beginners through advanced surfers, and the minimum age is 7 years old.

Is weather required, and what happens if it is poor?

Good weather is required. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund. Free cancellation is allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.