10 Surfing coaches & instructors for lessons in Santa Monica, CA

For many years, I've been sharing my love of surfing with others, guiding them to find their joy on the waves. As an avid surfer myself, I understand the challenges and exhilaration that come with the sport and am passionate about helping others experience a deeper connection with the ocean. I would love to work with you to improve your skills, confidence and bliss in the water.

"I loved how each session with Gabriel helps me improve steadily. The lessons are well-paced and encouraging, making progress feel natural and fun. If you want to develop your surfing skills with an upbeat coach, Gabriel’s lessons are definitely worth trying. You’ll enjoy the experience and see yourself getting better every time. 🌊

🌊 Hi, I'm Jose, Your Surf Instructor! 🌊 With over 10 years of experience riding the waves, I’m passionate about sharing my love for surfing with everyone, from beginners to experienced surfers. My goal is to make every lesson both fun and educational, so you can confidently ride those waves. Whether you're looking to catch your first wave or improve your skills, I'm here to guide you every step of the way. Join me on the beach, and let’s ride the waves together! 🏄‍♂️

"José is an excellent teacher. You will enjoy every minute of the class. Bring your own board and wetsuit so you can derive the most benefit from the class.

I've been surfing for over 20 years, competing throughout high school and college, and now stoked to share that passion through personalized coaching. I work with surfers of all levels, from first-timers learning the basics to amateurs refining their skills and taking their surfing to the next level.

"Had a great time in my first lesson. I like the focus on technique and how Kenny combined that with a mental approach. Great energy and didn’t over coach letting me just get into it.

I’m a beginner-intermediate surf instructor with a passion for helping others catch their first waves and improve their skills. I’m dedicated to creating a fun and supportive environment where students can build confidence and enjoy the thrill of surfing.

Hey! I’m Myles, a surf coach who loves helping kids build confidence and have fun in the water. I got my start teaching at Summer of Surf Camp, where I worked with young surfers learning everything from standing up on their first wave to mastering balance and ocean safety. Since then, I’ve also helped friends and family learn to surf, and I’ve seen firsthand how rewarding it is to watch someone catch their first wave. My goal as a coach is to make surfing exciting, safe, and empowering for every kid—whether it’s their very first lesson or they’re ready to take their skills to the next level. 🌞🌴

Aloha friends! I’m Mikey and I’m just a dude that has been surfing for 30 years now. I started as a teen to be cool and win over the cute girls but I quickly became obsessed! Surfing is my life and I’m a surfer. I love to share the stoke of surfing! It’s the most exhilarating and rewarding sport. Actually, I would call surfing a lifestyle. I hope to meet y’all and teach you how to catch a bunch of waves and to appreciate the beauty of the ocean. Y’all will also learn to respect the power of ocean so I keep it safe and most importantly super fun! See ya out in the water and stay stoked!

"Mikey’s the best! Super supportive, clear, direct, locked in. Super grateful!

I'm Coach Ed, a lifelong surfer from Brazil, and I've been riding the waves since I was 7 years old! Now at 44, surfing is more than just a passion—it's a way of life. For over 20 years, I've been sharing that passion by teaching surf lessons, working with all ages and skill levels. I love helping others find their stoke on the waves. I'm also a proud family man, with a beautiful wife and a lovely young daughter who keep me grounded and inspired every day.

"Ed is an impressive! a professional who knows how to technically teach you how to improve and easily understand how to maximize your surfing potential. I highly recommend this excellent instructor.

With over a decade of experience teaching surfing and a background as an avid surfer and waterman, I'm dedicated to helping you ride your first wave or refine your technique. I provide personalized coaching tailored to your goals and skill level, fostering a safe and fun learning environment.

I started surfing at eleven and turned pro in my early teens, winning USA championships in both longboard and shortboard. Now, I'm here to help you master technique, movement, and wave knowledge. Whether you're a beginner or aiming to improve, I've got the experience to boost your surfing game. Let's ride the waves together!

"That lesson with Francesca had great energy and positivity, which was pretty encouraging. I especially liked her relaxed approach and how she kept the vibe natural, though I still want to stand up on a green wave next time. Still, I feel like I’m making progress, and it’s encouraging to have someone so steady guiding the way. If you're into lessons that foster a calm but motivating environment, you might want to give Francesca a shot.

With two decades of surfing experience and an amateur background, I tailor lessons to each student's needs. My goal is to help you ride waves confidently, safely, and with a smile, regardless of your current skill level.

"Totally recommend him!