Los Angeles County · Surf lessons, kids camps and surf teams
Surf Academy
Los Angeles (South Bay)
Surf Academy offers private and semi-private lessons for all ages, week-long camps for kids 5–8 and 9–17, and surf trips. It's run by Marion Clark and Jamie Marcellus, who has taught there since 1999.
Where they teach
Los Angeles beaches. Confirm the meeting beach when you book.
Who runs Surf Academy
Marion Clark is managing partner and beach programs director for Surf Academy and The Surf Bus Foundation. She coaches surf teams and organizes Surf Bus Days. Co-owner Jamie Marcellus has taught at Surf Academy since 1999 and is known for her rapport with kids and women.
The coaching team includes a shortboard specialist who was a regular in WSA finals, and an L.A. City Lifeguard who is bilingual in English and Spanish and water-safety certified.
What's on offer
Private and semi-private lessons for all ages, week-long camps and classes split into ages 5–8 and 9–17, youth surf teams, and surf trips, excursions and retreats.
Learning in the South Bay
South Bay beaches like Manhattan and Hermosa face west and pick up swell from both hemispheres, so there are waves most days. That consistency is great for kids' teams but means some days are too punchy for a first lesson. Check our Manhattan Beach Pier forecast and look for a Poor-to-Fair rating at 1–3 ft with light morning wind.
Who it's best for
Families with young kids, groms who want to join a surf team and progress over seasons, and Spanish-speaking families who want a bilingual instructor.
Local tips before you go
Ask which beach your camp or lesson meets at and what to bring. Camps fill up in summer, so book early.
Check the surf before your lesson
Live forecasts for the breaks where Surf Academy teaches.
FAQs
What ages do Surf Academy camps take?
Week-long camps and classes are split into ages 5–8 and 9–17.
Does Surf Academy offer private lessons?
Yes, private and semi-private lessons for all ages.
Is there a Spanish-speaking instructor?
The team page lists a bilingual English and Spanish instructor.
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
- GoSurfing · Manhattan Beach Pier
- Santa Monica Surf School · Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Manhattan Beach and Malibu
Breaks near Surf Academy
Nearby surf spots with live BODI forecasts, tides and wind.
Manhattan Beach Pier
Manhattan Beach · Beach break around a pier · All levels
Best: 2–5 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
Hermosa Beach Pier
Hermosa Beach · Beach break around a pier · All levels
Best: 2–5 ft, low to mid tide
See forecast →
El Porto
Manhattan Beach · Beach break · 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 Surf Academy before you go. Surfing Tomorrow isn't affiliated with this school.