California Surf Experience — Local services in Laguna Beach

5 Stars – A Life-Changing First Surf Experience!

This was my first time ever surfing, and I’m truly grateful for the experience. It was a powerful and emotional moment for me — one that I will remember for the rest of my life. I want to say a special thank you to my instructor Chris, who was kind, professional, and made me feel safe and supported throughout. His coaching helped me overcome fear and step into something completely new.

That said, I’d like to offer two respectful and constructive suggestions to help improve the experience for future students: Wetsuit type and cleanliness – The wetsuit I was given was my correct size, but it was a short-leg wetsuit (ending at the knees), not the full-length type that covers the legs down to the ankles. As a result, my lower legs were exposed to the cold water, and I experienced muscle cramps in my calves. I noticed that other clients received clean, full-length wetsuits that seemed newer and better maintained. The one I got was damp and filled with sand, which made it uncomfortable. Fortunately, I wore my own compression leggings and shirt underneath. Parking instructions – The website mentioned free street parking, so I didn’t pay attention to the meters nearby and unfortunately received a $75 parking ticket. I take full responsibility for not checking the signs more carefully, but a small clarification online about meter enforcement could help others avoid the same mistake.

Even with these minor issues, I absolutely loved the experience and fully support this surf school. I don’t leave negative reviews — only honest and constructive ones meant to help improve what’s already great. Thank you again for an unforgettable day...

California Surf Experience was absolutely AMAZING! So Cal Native here with the desire to learn to surf for the past 18 years. This was my fourth time out in the water for surfing and my first "official" lesson. Being from So Cal, I grew up skating and snowboarding with plenty of friends that also surfed. My previous experiences have always been with one of those buddies who have an extra board and take me out with them. No formal instruction, oversight and guidance. Of course, they were there to surf also which typically took priority over me. Those past surf sessions typically ended with me having no luck and completely exhausted from battling sets of waves to get to out to a place where you actually set up to catch waves. With California Surf Experience lead instructor Ryan, I was truly impressed. He took the time to patiently explain not only how to handle my surfboard but how to navigate the waves and ocean. He did this not only for me but my 8 year old son also who was out for his first time ever to surf! Both of us were able to get up on the board, multiple times, and surf to shore! I love to share these type of experiences with my son and it could not have gone any better. He had a smile from ear to ear the entire time! If your a first timer, or fourth timer like me, or have a young child eager to learn, California Surf Experience is the place to go for a great time and...

There are numerous surfing schools in California, but good ones are rare. Ryan/California Surf Experience is simply the best surf instructor I've ever met. He is more than just a friendly instructor providing gears and helping you standing up on the board. You can expect to really learn about the surfing from him. He is going to carefully choose the right spot and time for your skill level. It is not like other commercialized business surf schools that will bring you wherever convenient for them, NOT for you. Ryan is a genuine local surfer who ensures his clients to have real surf experience. As a beginner, I try to learn surfing from various instructors in different places like Bali, Hawaii, Australia and California. I know how most of surf schools work and indeed have met some nice people, but Ryan is just special. My surfing has improved significantly just over few weeks, because he always provides accurate advice on what to correct and how to do. He takes waves with me to observe my surfing if necessary, and makes really cool video too. Fun and safety are guaranteed. So satisfied, now I've become a regular client of him, and even plan to ask my wife and daughter to learn surfing from him. If you're in SoCal and want to learn surfing, Ryan is the man to talk. I enjoy my morning surfing more...