Private Surfing Lessons & Instructors in Cardiff, CA

Hi, my name is CJ! I am local to the Orange County beaches. For years I’ve been in search of those perfect waves, and now, with a decade of experience, I'm thrilled to share that passion with you. My coaching blends technical expertise with a genuine love for the sport, creating a fun, safe and supportive learning environment for surfers of all levels. Through our lessons I hope to not only teach you how to surf, but also show you why this sport brings so much joy into my life. Let’s get you out there shredding on some waves! 🤙🏻🏄🏻‍♂️

"We have been booking lessons for my daughters with CJ for the last 3 years! My daughters were originally scared of being in the ocean but after their first lesson with CJ they were super comfortable with being out there. CJ was very thorough in his instruction and super effective in communicating with my kids. We will definitely continue to take lessons with him whenever we are in SoCal!

With a surfboard in hand since childhood, I bring 15 years of experience to my coaching. My passion lies in helping others discover the joy of riding waves, building confidence and technique from beginner to intermediate. I tailor each lesson to individual needs. I also do a lot of one-on-one sessions externally in person if that’s ever something you’re into. I’d love to be a part of your progress.

"I had such an amazing time learning to surf with Brianna! She made everything feel easy and fun, and she really knows how to explain things in a way that clicks. I felt safe, encouraged, and excited the whole time. You can tell she has the skills and passion to be a great surfing coach. We loved every minute and would 100% recommend lessons with her!

Brett's lifelong passion for the ocean began amidst the rugged coastlines of South Africa, where he first embraced the exhilarating sport of surfing. His move to San Diego in his formative years only fueled his love for the sea, solidifying his place within the local surf community. As a global explorer, Brett has traversed the world's oceans in pursuit of perfect waves, gaining thrilling experiences and a profound respect for the natural world. Transitioning from surfing to teaching, Brett's innate coaching abilities and deep knowledge of wave dynamics have made him a revered surf instructor, introducing countless individuals to the transformative joy of riding waves and fostering a deeper connection to the ocean.

"“I am the father of 5 year old triplet boys. I’ve taken them to the beach for years but I’ve never been successful in getting them into the water. When I signed up for Brett’s camp, which is five days a week, I was a little worried that they wouldn’t be up for all five days in a row. After the first day when I picked them up I was shocked to hear how much they loved it. They are very adventurous but often can get burned out on constant activity. They couldn’t wait to go back the next day and every day after that was the same. Brett slowly got them in the water more and more and eventually had them standing up surfing. They haven’t been this into an activity their whole lives. After a few days they were calling Brett, uncle Brett LOL.”

With 15 years of riding the waves under my belt, surfing isn't just a sport for me—it's a way of life. For the past two years, I've had the privilege of passing on my passion as a surf instructor, guiding others to find their balance and embrace the ocean's rhythm. From catching that first wave to mastering advanced techniques, I'm here to share the stoke and help you unlock the magic of surfing. Let's paddle out and ride the waves together!

Surfing since I was 10 years old all over the world. Started working at the mission bay aquatic center last summer teaching 3000+ students aged 6-22 in various conditions at mission beach, San Diego. Red Cross certified.

Unlocking your surfing potential is my passion. As a former professional snowboarder transitioned to surf fanatic. I know just how rewarding catching your first wave is! These lessons will pass down into the rest of life as well. Truly a magical thing to learn in the most fun way possible! Let’s learn to surf together!

I guide surfers from first waves to confident turns, blending technical precision with patient encouragement. I have taught surfing for several years, focusing on ocean safety, board control and progressive skill plans. I bring professionalism, enthusiasm and respect for the sea.

San Diego local with 40 years of surfing experience. Experienced in teaching beginners to intermediate. Have ISA surf lesson credentials. Have soft tops, longboards and shortboards. Love to share the stoke of surfing and will get you up and riding. Whether it’s one or multiple lessons I’ll have you confident in the ocean. I can take you to a uncrowded beach where you don’t have to worry about other surfers/swimmers. Will provide local knowledge of the surroundings and location.

To teach is to share a way of seeing the world. A connection with nature. A connection with flow. A connection with the quiet part of ourselves that only reveals itself when we dare to step beyond what feels familiar. Every wave invites us into transformation. With every challenge, we learn to turn uncertainty into trust, effort into grace, and movement into presence. Surfing is more than a sport. It is a conversation with the ocean, a practice of humility, patience, and freedom.

With 30 years of surfing experience and 15 years of coaching both teams and individuals, I bring a passion to skill development and growth that students love.