Los Angeles County · Surf, SUP and swim lessons
Cali Surf School
Los Angeles and Orange County beaches
Cali Surf School was started by two friends and teaches surf, stand-up paddle and swim lessons at several Los Angeles and Orange County beaches. Instructors Alex and Houtan both have lifeguard backgrounds.
Where they teach
Several LA and Orange County beaches, including Santa Monica. SUP lessons use Marina del Rey Harbor or Santa Monica State Beach.
Who teaches at Cali Surf School
The school's about page introduces Alex, who holds lifeguard and dive master certifications, and Houtan, a professional ocean and pool lifeguard with a background in swim and competition coaching. That swim-coaching side is unusual: Cali Surf School offers swim lessons alongside surf and SUP.
What a lesson looks like
A session starts with short calisthenics on the sand, then covers wetsuit fitting, board control and how to enter the water safely. Beginner lessons cover ocean safety, paddling, standing up and catching your first waves. Intermediate coaching works on wave selection and turns. Surfboards and wetsuits are included.
Stand-up paddle lessons start in the flat water of Marina del Rey Harbor, or at Santa Monica State Beach for more experienced paddlers.
Choosing the right beach
Because the school works at more than one beach, ask where your lesson meets. In Santa Monica, our Santa Monica Pier forecast is the one to check; this part of the bay is often the smallest and gentlest in LA. A Poor-to-Fair rating at 1–3 ft is the sweet spot for a first lesson.
Who it's best for
All ages. A strong pick for nervous swimmers who want lifeguard-trained instructors, families who want to mix surfing with SUP, and anyone celebrating a special occasion with a private group.
Local tips before you go
Confirm the exact meeting point on the school's surf or SUP lesson pages. If you're not a confident swimmer, ask about a swim lesson first.
Check the surf before your lesson
Live forecasts for the breaks where Cali Surf School teaches.
FAQs
Where are Cali Surf School lessons?
At several Los Angeles and Orange County beaches. The school lists exact locations on its surf and SUP lesson pages.
Is equipment included?
Yes. Surfboards and wetsuits are included.
Do they teach stand-up paddle?
Yes, starting in Marina del Rey Harbor or at Santa Monica State Beach.
Do they offer swim lessons?
Yes. The school offers surf, SUP and swim lessons.
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
- Santa Monica Surf School · Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Manhattan Beach and Malibu
- Kapowui Surf Club · Santa Monica / Venice border
- Badass Surf School (BASS) · Venice Beach, Los Angeles
Breaks near Cali Surf School
Nearby surf spots with live BODI forecasts, tides and wind.
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica · Beach break around a pier · Beginner to intermediate
Best: 2–4 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 →
Venice Breakwater
Venice · Beach break beside a breakwater · Intermediate
Best: 2–6 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 Cali Surf School before you go. Surfing Tomorrow isn't affiliated with this school.