Ventura surf school
Santa Barbara Surf School (Ventura Lessons)
Ventura
Programs adapted to your level and pace, from first-timers to advanced surfers in Ventura.
Lesson prices
$125 for a 1-on-1 private lesson.
Where they teach
Ventura beaches
About Santa Barbara Surf School in Ventura
Santa Barbara Surf School also teaches in Ventura. All its lessons are private and priced per person, and each program is adapted to your level and pace, from your first time on a board to coaching for advanced surfers. A one-on-one lesson is $125.
Because every lesson is private, you won't be placed in a group with strangers. Your instructor can set the pace for you, whether you're nervous, a quick learner or coming back after years away.
What a lesson looks like
First-timers usually start with board safety, paddling and the pop-up on the sand, then move into the whitewater. Your instructor helps you choose waves and explains what went right or wrong after each ride. Surfers who already stand up can work on catching unbroken waves, turning and lineup etiquette.
Why Mondo's is a great place to learn
Mondo's sits along the coast road north of Ventura, between the city and Rincon. It's a gentle cobblestone point and reef where small waves peel slowly and stay soft, which is why it's one of the best-known beginner and longboard waves in the area.
It works best on west and northwest swells and usually likes a mid to higher tide, when there's more water over the cobblestones. Check our Mondo's forecast for 1–3 ft and light wind; mornings are usually calmest before the afternoon breeze. On big winter swells Ventura's points get powerful, so pick a smaller day for a first lesson.
Who it's best for
Anyone who wants one-on-one attention, families who want each person coached at their own level, and longboarders or returning surfers who want help with slow, peeling point waves.
Local tips
Parking at Mondo's is along the coast road shoulder, so arrive early and watch for traffic when you carry your board. The bottom is rocky; booties help. Ventura's water is cold much of the year, so plan on a full wetsuit except in late summer.
Check the surf before your lesson
Live forecasts for the breaks where Santa Barbara Surf School teaches.
FAQs
Are lessons private?
Yes, all surf lessons are private and priced per person.
How much is a lesson?
$125 for a one-on-one private lesson.
Where do Ventura lessons happen?
At Ventura-area beaches. Mondo's, a gentle cobblestone point north of town, is a popular beginner wave. Confirm the meeting spot when you book.
Do I need booties?
They help at Mondo's because the bottom is cobblestone and reef.
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 Ventura
- Ventura Makos Surf Camp · Ventura
Breaks near Santa Barbara Surf School
Nearby surf spots with live BODI forecasts, tides and wind.
Mondo's
Ventura · Point and beach break · Beginner to intermediate
Best: 2–5 ft, mid to high tide
See forecast →
Emma Wood
Ventura · Reef and beach break · Intermediate
Best: 2–6 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
C-Street
Ventura · Right-hand point break · All levels
Best: 2–6 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
Rincon
Carpinteria / Ventura line · Right-hand point break · Intermediate to advanced
Best: 3–8 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
Prices, ages and booking rules change often; always confirm with Santa Barbara Surf School before you go. Surfing Tomorrow isn't affiliated with this school.