Los Angeles County · Surf lessons, surf therapy and summer camp
Badass Surf School (BASS)
Venice Beach, Los Angeles
Badass Surf School, or BASS, is run by surf therapist and coach Jake McNulty. It focuses on teaching you to read and ride waves from the first lesson, and runs surf therapy and a Venice Beach summer camp for ages 4–17.
Camp and bundle prices
Summer camp weeks start at $435 for the first surfer ($250 per additional surfer) or $540 for longer days ($300 per additional surfer). Lesson bundles are also offered; check the site for current lesson rates.
Where they teach
Venice Beach. Summer camp meets in Venice.
Who is BASS
BASS founder Jake McNulty describes himself as a surf therapist and coach. You may have seen the school's bus around Venice. His pitch is simple: he guarantees you'll be on your feet your first lesson, and says that's the easy part. The real goal is surf education, from how waves form to protecting the ocean.
What a lesson looks like
BASS starts by asking what you want out of the lesson: a fun experience while visiting LA, or a real commitment to learning. Either way, the focus is reading waves and positioning, which the school calls the most important skills in surfing. Photos and video of your session are part of the experience.
Surf therapy sessions are offered for people who are differently-abled, have had a bad ocean experience or need extra guidance. Larger group lessons are available too.
Venice Beach for learners
Venice is a sandy beach break shaped by groins and the breakwater, which build sandbars that hold peaks on small days. Our Venice forecasts tend to run a little bigger than Santa Monica's on south swells. For first lessons, aim for days rated Poor to Fair at 1–3 ft with light morning wind.
Who it's best for
Kids and teens 4–17 looking for a summer camp with real coaching, families with kids who need extra patience, and adults who want to understand the ocean rather than just get pushed into waves.
Local tips before you go
Early bird deals are offered on camp weeks, so book ahead for summer. Venice parking lots fill fast on weekends. Tell the school your goals when you book so the session fits.
Check the surf before your lesson
Live forecasts for the breaks where Badass Surf School teaches.
FAQs
Does BASS guarantee I'll stand up?
Yes. The school guarantees you'll be on your feet riding waves your first lesson.
What ages is the summer camp for?
Ages 4 to 17, in Venice Beach.
Is surf therapy available?
Yes, for people who are differently-abled, have had bad ocean experiences or need special guidance.
Are lesson bundles cheaper?
Yes. BASS sells bundles that lower the per-lesson price.
Not sure which day to book?
Small, clean 1–3 ft waves are perfect for learning. Ask BODI which day looks mellow, or check the other schools.
More surf schools in Los Angeles
- Kapowui Surf Club · Santa Monica / Venice border
- Santa Monica Surf School · Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Manhattan Beach and Malibu
- Surf Academy · Los Angeles (South Bay)
Breaks near Badass Surf School
Nearby surf spots with live BODI forecasts, tides and wind.
Venice Breakwater
Venice · Beach break beside a breakwater · Intermediate
Best: 2–6 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
Venice Pier
Venice · Beach break around a pier · Intermediate
Best: 2–6 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica · Beach break around a pier · Beginner to intermediate
Best: 2–4 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
Sources
Facts checked against the school's website, October 7, 2026. Written by the Surfing Tomorrow Team.
Prices, schedules and booking rules can change. Confirm your reservation details with Badass Surf School before you go. Surfing Tomorrow isn't affiliated with this school.