Santa Monica: Surfing Day Trip with Lunch

If you’re looking to spend a day in Los Angeles that blends adventure, local culture, and stunning coastal scenery, the Santa Monica Surfing Day Trip with Lunch offers an appealing option. While it’s not a surf school exclusively for beginners, it caters to all skill levels by providing optional lessons and gear, making it accessible whether you’re new to surfing or more experienced.

The experience is tailored to small groups—just six people maximum—which ensures a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and plenty of personalized attention.

What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to visit two famous surf breaks in Southern California, combine that with a picnic on the sand, and learn about the area’s surf history from knowledgeable guides. We particularly appreciate the local insight and the chance to get in the water with an expert, which turns a standard sightseeing tour into a genuinely engaging adventure.

One potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with back problems, so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable in the water.

If you enjoy being outdoors, want a taste of Southern California surf culture, and prefer a small-group experience that offers flexibility and expert guidance, this trip could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience and more individual attention.
• Expert guides who are also surfers and passionate about sharing their knowledge.
• Visit two iconic surf spots, providing variety and a deeper appreciation of local surf culture.
• Includes a picnic lunch with your feet in the sand, offering a relaxing break.
• Optional wetsuit, board rentals, and surf lessons cater to all skill levels.
• Perfect for active travelers and those wanting an authentic coastal experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Santa Monica Surfing Day Trip

A Day Designed Around the Coast and Culture

This tour aims to combine the best of Southern California’s surf scene with the comfort of small-group travel. Meeting inside Poseidon Surf and Paddle, you’ll hop into a customized open-air surf buggy—think of it as a fun, breezy ride along the Pacific Coast Highway, with stops at some of the most iconic surf beaches in the area. The vehicle adds a laid-back vibe to the day, making the journey as enjoyable as the destinations.

Visiting Two Famous Surf Breaks

You’ll spend your day at two well-known surf spots—each with its own character and history. While the specific beaches aren’t named, the tour promises a chance to see the area’s famed surf culture firsthand. Whether you’re watching experienced surfers carve through the waves or trying to stand up yourself, these stops are the heart of the experience.

Learning About the Beaches and Surf Culture

Your guides are more than just drivers—they’re local experts with a passion for the coast. They’ll share stories about the history of the beaches, how these spots became surfing landmarks, and what makes the local surf community special. This insider perspective adds context that enhances the visual beauty, turning simple beach visits into meaningful cultural encounters.

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Surf Lessons and Gear

Not comfortable paddling out or unsure about your skill level? No worries. The tour offers surf lessons and equipment rentals, so even first-timers can catch a wave. The guides are willing to get in the water with you, offering encouragement and tips, which can make all the difference in turning a nervous beginner into someone who’s already smiling after their first ride.

Picnic Lunch with a View

After some time in the water, you’ll settle in for a picnic lunch right on the sand. This is a highlight for many: enjoying a relaxed meal with your feet in the sand, soaking up the sun and ocean breeze. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, making it a considerate choice for various dietary preferences.

The Small Group Advantage

Limitations to six participants mean this isn’t a whirlwind bus tour—it’s a more intimate, engaging experience. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions, get personalized advice, and really absorb the coastal atmosphere.

What We Loved and What to Consider

The Value of Expert Local Guides

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guides. They’re not just drivers—they’re surfers and locals who bring authenticity and insight, making the experience more meaningful. Their ability to get in the water with you and offer lessons is a bonus that adds confidence and fun, especially for newcomers.

The Scenic Route and Beachside Lunch

Traveling along the Pacific Coast Highway in an open-air buggy is a treat—imagine cruising with the sea breeze, stopping at iconic surf beaches, and ending with a picnic on the sand. It’s a casual way to enjoy California’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning logistics yourself.

Flexibility and Personalization

The tour’s small size and optional lessons mean it can be tailored to your comfort and skill level. Whether you’re a complete beginner eager to stand up on your first wave or someone looking to improve, the guides seem committed to making it work for everyone.

Price and Experience

At $185 per person, the tour offers a good balance of value, considering gear rentals, expert instruction, and a memorable seaside lunch. For those wanting a deeper connection to the surf culture and a fun, active day, the price feels justified—especially with the small-group intimacy and guide expertise.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience is flexible and friendly, it’s not suitable for everyone—pregnant women, non-swimmers, or those with back problems should carefully consider whether they’ll be comfortable in the water or on the sand for the duration. Also, if you’re expecting a structured surf school, this tour leans more toward sightseeing and casual instruction rather than intensive training.

A Complete Breakdown of the Itinerary

The day begins inside Poseidon Surf and Paddle, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers. From there, you’ll hop into a customized open-air vehicle—a real highlight that adds fun to the drive. The route along Pacific Coast Highway offers stunning views of the coast, with brief stops at renowned surf spots.

You’ll arrive at the first surf break, where your guide will give a quick overview of the beach’s history and what makes it special. If you’ve booked a lesson, you might start with some instruction on the sand before heading into the water. The guides are happy to get in with you, providing tips and encouragement, making it especially suitable for beginners or those needing a confidence boost.

After some time in the surf, you’ll move to the second beach, which offers a different vibe and wave conditions. Here, you’ll get a chance to practice and enjoy the waves, taking in views of surfers riding into the sunset if timing aligns.

The highlight of the day is the picnic lunch—a relaxed affair right on the sand, with plenty of time to chat, unwind, and soak up the coastal atmosphere. Vegetarian and vegan options are offered, accommodating different dietary needs.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head back along the coast, perhaps stopping briefly for photos or a quick stroll. The small group setting means you can customize your experience, asking questions or simply relaxing with new friends.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic California surf experience without the hassle of planning. It’s great for those active and eager to try surfing, but also for anyone interested in the coastal lifestyle and local stories. The small-group size ensures a relaxed, personalized environment, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups.

However, those who aren’t comfortable in the water, pregnant women, or individuals with back issues might want to consider other options, as some parts of the tour involve physical activity in the surf.

Final Thoughts

For anyone craving a hands-on experience of California’s legendary surf culture, this Santa Monica day trip offers a friendly, well-organized, and genuinely enjoyable way to learn, explore, and relax. The combination of scenic drives, expert guides, and beachside lunch creates a memorable coastal escape that balances adventure with comfort.

If you’re seeking a fun, manageable introduction to surfing that emphasizes local insights and small-group attention, this tour will deliver—plus, you’ll leave with some new skills, great stories, and a whole lot of sand in your shoes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour offers optional surf lessons and gear rentals, making it accessible for beginners. The guides are happy to get in the water with you and provide tips to help you catch your first wave.

What is included in the price?
The $185 fee covers transportation, an expert guide, a picnic lunch (with vegetarian/vegan options), wetsuit and board rentals (optional), and a surf lesson (optional).

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 6 hours, usually available in the morning, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beaches and the water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for travelers with uncertain schedules.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, sunscreen, comfortable clothes, and beachwear. Everything else—like wetsuits and boards—is provided if you opt to rent.

Is transportation in a regular vehicle?
No, transportation takes place in a customized open-air surf buggy, which adds to the fun and scenic experience.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Active travelers who want a fun, authentic coastal experience in a small-group setting. It’s perfect for those interested in surfing, beach culture, and local stories.

Are non-English speakers welcome?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, offering a multicultural and inclusive vibe.

To sum it up, this Santa Monica surfing day trip combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty into a genuinely enjoyable experience. Whether you’re looking to learn, watch, or simply relax by the sea, it offers a relaxed, personable, and memorable way to connect with Southern California’s surf lifestyle.

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