Monterey: Private Surfing Lessons

This experience made our article of 15 Must-Try Tours & Things To Do In Monterey.

Monterey: Private Surfing Lessons — An Authentic California Wave Experience

Taking up surfing in Monterey is an inviting idea, especially with Big Surf Adventures offering well-rated, personalized lessons. While we haven’t personally paddled out, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of a friendly, professional, and scenic way to dip your toes into the ocean. Whether you’re a total novice or just want to improve your skills, this experience seems designed to deliver both fun and practical knowledge.

What we love about this tour is how comprehensively it prepares you for future surf sessions — from equipment to etiquette — and how it leverages Monterey’s beautiful coastline as your classroom. The two main options — private or group lessons — cater well to different comfort levels and budgets. A minor consideration is that lessons depend on weather and ocean conditions, so some days might not be suitable for surfing.

If you’re someone eager to try surfing with expert guidance, appreciate personalized attention, and love breathtaking seaside scenery, this experience could be just what you need to turn the ocean into your new playground.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Customization Options: Choose private, small group, or larger group lessons to suit your comfort and social preferences.
• All-Inclusive Equipment: Wetsuits, booties, boards, gloves, and hoods are provided, ensuring you’re warm and protected.
• Experienced Instructors: Certified guides focus on safety, technique, and surf etiquette, making it suitable for beginners.
• Flexible Locations: The lesson site is selected based on current conditions, maximizing your chances of catching waves.
• Authentic Monterey Setting: Learn while enjoying some of the most scenic coastlines California has to offer.
• Perfect for Beginners: The focus is on foundational skills and confidence-building, ideal if you’re new to surfing.

Discovering Monterey’s Surf Scene with Big Surf Adventures

The idea of learning to surf in Monterey might conjure images of chilly waters and long waits, but with Big Surf Adventures, it’s all about making it accessible, safe, and memorable. Their two-hour guided lessons aim to introduce you to surfing’s basics in a relaxed, friendly manner. What sets them apart is their emphasis on comfort and safety, providing high-quality gear, including professional-grade wetsuits capable of keeping you warm even in colder weather.

While some may worry about the cold or the difficulty of balancing on a board, the equipment is designed for all experience levels. Their wetsuits are 4/5mm, adding insulation, and the full range of equipment, including comfort-fit booties, gloves, and hoods, ensures you stay warm and dry, which is especially valuable if you’re new to the sport or visiting during cooler months.

When You Sign Up: What You Can Expect

Your adventure begins with a quick beach demonstration, where your instructor will go over the fundamentals of surfing, such as paddling technique, positioning, and the all-important pop-up. Whether you opt for a private lesson or a small group, the structure remains similar: initial instruction on land, followed by extended practice on the water. The instructor will also cover important surfer etiquette, how to read surf reports, and oceanography basics, giving you tools to surf confidently on your own later.

If you choose a private lesson, expect one-on-one attention that accelerates your learning curve. This is perfect if you thrive on personalized feedback or have specific goals. For groups of 2-4, you’ll learn alongside friends or family, sharing the fun and the challenge, with the instructor ensuring everyone’s safety and progress. Larger groups (5 or more) benefit from additional instructors and equipment, making it suitable for bigger parties or team-building outings.

The Monterey Coastline: A Stunning Classroom

The location of the lessons varies based on ocean conditions, but that’s part of what makes the experience flexible and safe. The instructor will contact you a day in advance to pick the most suitable spot among five options, ensuring you’re in the best position to catch some waves.

What’s especially appealing about learning in Monterey is the scenic backdrop. The coastline offers rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque views that make even the initial paddle-out feel like a mini-adventure. You’ll probably find yourself more focused on enjoying the scenery than worrying about the technical details, making the whole experience more relaxed and enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value of Equipment and Instruction

For $90 per person, the lesson includes all necessary gear. The professional-grade surfboard and leash are suitable for all levels, and the wetsuits keep you warm and comfortable. The inclusion of sunscreen and life jackets for children adds value, so you aren’t left scrambling for extras.

The emphasis on high-quality gear and expert instruction translates into a better learning experience and more confidence in future surf sessions. Plus, the equipment’s capability to keep students warm even on the coldest days means you can focus on riding waves rather than shivering.

Authenticity and Authentic Learning

Authentic surf lessons are about more than just standing up on a board. They’re about understanding the ocean, respecting the environment, and developing skills that will serve you well beyond this initial lesson. Many reviewers commented on how Omar, their instructor, was “very good” and made the experience enjoyable, reinforcing that professionalism and enthusiasm matter in making surf lessons memorable.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Weather and Ocean Conditions: Lessons are weather-dependent; if the ocean isn’t safe for surfing, you’ll get a full refund.
• Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 6, visually impaired, mobility-impaired, or pregnant women.
• Flexibility: You can reserve your spot now and pay later, making it easy to fit into your itinerary.
• Time of Year: Lessons run year-round, so you can plan a surf day on any visit, but be prepared for cooler waters outside summer.

Why This Experience Works for Travelers

If you’re after a fun, beginner-friendly, and scenic introduction to surfing, this tour hits the mark. The small group and private options make it personalized, ensuring you get feedback and attention suited to your pace. The professional instructors and focus on safety give peace of mind, especially if you’re new to the ocean.

For families or friends, doing a surf lesson together offers a shared adventure, with the added bonus of stunning coastal views. Plus, the educational aspect — understanding surf etiquette, oceanography, and report reading — helps you become a more confident, self-sufficient surfer later on.

While the cost of $90 is a reasonable investment for two hours of expert-guided instruction, the true value lies in learning skills that could keep you surfing Monterey’s waves for years to come. The experience isn’t just about standing on a board; it’s about connecting with the sea and enjoying a world-class shoreline.

The Sum Up

This Monterey surf lesson experience offers a fine balance of professional guidance, scenic beauty, and practical learning. The diversity of options—from private to large group lessons—means it can accommodate different comfort levels and social preferences, making it versatile for many travelers. The inclusion of high-quality gear and the focus on safety reassure those who are nervous about the cold or the water.

Designed for beginners and those looking to improve their confidence, the lessons are a gateway to embracing California’s famous surf culture without the intimidation. The instructors’ reputation for making lessons enjoyable and accessible, combined with the breathtaking views of Monterey’s coast, makes this a memorable way to spend part of your trip.

If you crave an active, scenic, and educational experience that leaves you with new skills and stories to tell, this surfing day trip is worth considering. It’s especially well-suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate personalized attention and the chance to learn in a safe, supportive environment.

FAQs

How long are the lessons?
Each session lasts 2 hours, providing enough time for instruction, practice, and some fun in the waves without feeling rushed.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear, including professional-grade wetsuits, booties, gloves, hoods, surfboards, and leashes, is provided, ensuring you stay warm and comfortable.

Can I choose the location of the lesson?
The instructor will select one of five possible sites based on water conditions, and you will be contacted a day in advance with the specific spot.

Are the lessons suitable for children?
Lessons are not recommended for children under 6 years old. Life jackets are available for young children if needed.

Is this experience weather-dependent?
Yes, lessons are weather permitting. If the ocean isn’t safe for surfing, a full refund will be issued.

What is the cost?
The price is $90 per person for a 2-hour private or small group lesson, which includes all equipment and instruction.

Do I need to be an experienced swimmer?
While swimming ability helps, the main focus is on paddling and balance. The instructor will guide you through each step.

Can I book now and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve your spot without paying upfront, giving you flexibility in planning your trip.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether a Monterey surf lesson is the right fit for your travel plans. With competent instructors, scenic surroundings, and all the necessary gear included, it promises a genuine chance to enjoy California’s coastal waves — whether you’re catching your first or just polishing your form.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby