The Best Surf Camps Along The California Coast To Catch Waves & Have Summer Fun

As a native Californian, the song "Surfin' USA" by the Beach Boys practically runs on repeat in my brain. Okay, maybe not, but I did grow up going to a high school that had Surf P.E. as an elective. Though I am not coordinated enough to be one of the cool kids who learned how to surf and stuck with it, I did, in fact (like most of my fellow Californians), go to surf camp one summer. Surfers know that the West Coast has the best beaches, and learning to surf is something of a rite of passage — right up there with your first In-N-Out burger or your first time stuck in LA traffic. Whether you're a grom (surf slang for a young newbie) or just visiting from somewhere landlocked, surf schools are the safest and fastest way to get on a board and ride your first wave. The best ones don't just toss you into the ocean with a prayer and a rented wetsuit, they teach ocean safety, etiquette, paddling technique, and how to actually ride the waves instead of getting pummeled by them. 

Thanks to California's generous coastline and consistent swells, you can find quality surf schools and camps up and down the state from mellow beginner beaches in San Diego to legendary breaks in Santa Cruz. But not all surf schools are created equal. Some cater to total beginners with patient instructors and soft-top boards. Others help intermediate surfers refine their technique or even prepare for competition. So, if you're looking to take the plunge into California's favorite saltwater sport, these are five of some of the top-rated surf schools in the state—all tried, tested, and loved by beginners and seasoned surfers alike.

Founded (and located) in Santa Barbara, California, in 2000 by native Chris Keet, Surf Happens has grown to become the "undisputed top dog of surf schools on the South Coast," according to their website. With over two decades of experience, this school has an extensive track record of successfully teaching students of all ages and skill levels. They offer a tried-and-true teaching methodology that ensures students are standing up during their first session. Their step-by-step program includes ocean safety, wave reading (i.e, learning about wind, waves, tides, and the currents), surf etiquette, and more. They also have a world-class team of instructors, and a number of their former students have gone on to achieve great success in the surfing industry.

From private lessons to summer camps and advanced coaching, Surf Happens offers programs tailored to everyone from toddlers to senior surfers. They also run the long-standing Rincon Classic surf competition and local after-school programs. Tripadvisor has given Surf Happens an average rating of 4.9, with reviewers calling it an awesome introduction to surfing. One reviewer commented that the school is "incredible," and "as an intermediate surfer with experience surfing all over the world, lessons with Surf Happens have been the single most effective way that I've improved ... the instructors are expert and attentive, providing very specific and tailored instructions on how to progress." Summer Camps here are available from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday-Friday, and include students ages 4 through 17. According to their website, "Our day camps offer the perfect spot to learn the fundamentals of surfing, develop respect for the environment, and make new friends." Not to mention Santa Barbara holds the illustrious title as the "American Riviera," making it a great spot for your next summer vacation. 

Down near San Diego, California, located directly on La Jolla Shores, is a great surf school called Surf Education Academy (SEA). Founded by coach Sean Brody, current head coach of Team USA's Adaptive Surfing Team, SEA's instructional team brings world-class expertise and credentials. SEA is officially permitted and insured by the City of San Diego, ensuring it meets rigorous safety and instructional standards, and is recognized as one of the few schools in the area with this distinction. According to Sean, in an interview with Surfer.com, "At Surf Education Academy, we take pride in helping people from all walks of life enjoy the benefits of the ocean and find a sense of belonging through surfing." 

According to both Google reviews and TripAdvisor reviews, students appreciate the encouragement provided by the team, with one reviewer stating, "(It was) the most fun I've had at failing." The company offers a mix of different classes, like private or group sessions, and they promise to ensure individualized feedback and safety oversight in both group and private lessons. While group sessions are cheaper, private sessions allow tailored coaching based on each surfer's goals and ability, as well as one-on-one time with the instructors. They also offer day camps for kids and teens. According to their website, they comment on their understanding that kids probably don't want to spend the whole day surfing, "so we've designed a surf camp that balances fun in the water with engaging activities on land. From exciting beach games to fascinating lessons on the ocean, marine life, surf history, and etiquette." Their website also states that La Jolla Shores is one of the most user-friendly beaches in San Diego, and one of the best surf spots for beginners –– meaning the waves are gentle and fun for all levels.

Established in 1997 is another one of San Diego's best surf schools: Pacific Surf School. With many years in the game, they've managed to teach thousands of students how to surf across some of San Diego's best beginner breaks — Pacific Beach and Mission Beach. The school is known for its beginner-first approach, and whether you choose a group lesson, a semi-private class, or a fully private session, instructors focus on foundational skills like paddling, pop-ups, wave reading, and most importantly, surf etiquette and ocean safety. With over 1,300 TripAdvisor reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5,  it's widely regarded as one of the premier beginner surf schools in the area. 

The school is also well-regarded for its surf camps, which are a major highlight for children and teens aged 5 through 17. Pacific Surf School offers year-round lessons, with a three- or five-day format. They have morning only, afternoon only, and full day options depending on your schedule and preferences. Beyond surfing, camps introduce kids to San Diego's beach culture — learning about the local ocean ecosystem, friendly beach games, and appreciating the Pacific Beach vibe while building confidence in the water. They also offer after-school programs catered to groups of four students aged 6 through 16. In addition to their youth programs, Pacific Surf School offers corporate team-building events and even surf retreats in international destinations like Nicaragua. Their team takes pride in creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for all ages and skill levels, making it easy for anyone to jump into the sport. 

Founded by Santa Cruz's own local legend, Bud Freitas, Surf School Santa Cruz is one of California's top choices for learning to surf. With deep roots in the Santa Cruz surf scene and a founder who grew up riding the very waves he now teaches on, the school offers a truly authentic and local experience. Bud's background as a competitive surfer on the national and international stage gives students access to elite-level instruction, while still having fun. His team consists of some of Santa Cruz's top surfers, some of whom have competed around the world. 

What really sets this school apart is its approachability and commitment to safety, respect, and personal growth. With 5 stars on Tripadvisor and over 600 reviews, it's not hard to see why this is one of California's top-rated schools. Reviewers sing the praises of the instructors, and one reviewer called it a "first-class experience." Many also mention that the school tries its best to keep the instructor-to-student ratio low, so that as much attention as possible can be on the students. The instructors are not only skilled athletes but also patient and encouraging teachers who care about seeing you succeed. Lessons take place at Cowells Beach and Pleasure Point, two of Santa Cruz's most iconic surf spots, known for having waves for all levels.

Founded in 1996, Corky Carroll's Surf School was the first surf school in Huntington Beach, and remains family‑owned and operated. The school carries forward the legacy of Corky Carroll, widely regarded as the world's first professional surfer, with pioneering contributions to the surfing world, including endorsement contracts, production board models, major competition wins (over 100), and global surfing influence. Their methods are built on Carroll's fundamentals: teaching paddling, wave‑reading, pop‑ups, etiquette, and ocean awareness inspired by a man who revolutionized surfing. Lessons and camps are based at Bolsa Chica State Beach, Huntington Beach, just north of the pier between lifeguard towers 18 and 19. This location offers a gentler beach break, rock‑free sand bottom, limited crowds, ample parking, and nearby showers and toilets, creating one of the best beginner learning zones in the state.

The school offers a number of different lessons, ranging from private to small group lessons. Prices are tiered depending on how many are in your group, and they also offer discounted rates, with board and wetsuits included. Their surf camps range from ages 5 to 13, and they also offer boogie boarding camps. Corky Carrolls has a 4.9 on Tripadvisor, with reviewers writing that they "highly recommend" it for an "awesome surf experience." The school is highly rated as one of Orange County's top spots for private surf lessons — with a professional and patient team of instructors, all ready to welcome beginners to those looking to shred the gnar. It's a top Southern California choice for surfers of any age, looking for safe, fun, and efficient surf education in Surf City, USA. 

To evaluate and compare California's top surf schools, I focused on a few key elements, including instruction quality, student experience, ratings, and local reputation. Research was conducted using a combination of official surf school websites and third-party review platforms such as Tripadvisor and Google. Particular attention was given to schools with certified instructors, founder-led instruction, safety-focused schools, and those with a range of lessons suited for various skill levels. I also considered each school's location and assessed how well they catered to beginners, families, and advanced surfers. Testimonials, safety records, and unique offerings — such as surf camps, youth programs, or community involvement were also all factored in to form a well-rounded picture of what makes each school great.