Surf Diva Surf School

Who runs Surf Diva

Surf Diva opened in La Jolla in 1996 as the first surf school built specifically for women. It was started by identical twin sisters Izzy and Coco Tihanyi, who grew up surfing the same stretch of coast where they still teach. Co-ed lessons were added in 2002, and the school now runs programs for kids, teens, veterans, adaptive surfers and corporate groups.

According to the school, the sisters have trained more than 1,000 surf instructors over the years. Surf Diva says it is a permitted surf operator with the City of San Diego and that its instructors are CPR, First Aid and lifesaving certified. The shop and meeting point sit one block from the sand on Avenida de la Playa.

What a lesson looks like

Private and semi-private lessons run 90 minutes. Semi-private means your group only; Surf Diva doesn't add strangers to your session. A soft surfboard and rashguard are included, and you can rent a wetsuit for $9 when you check in.

Instruction covers the basics: how to lie on the board, paddle, pop up and stand, then balance and position yourself to catch whitewater and small waves. Lessons are open to anyone 5 or older, from first-timers to surfers who want coaching.

Why La Jolla Shores works for beginners

La Jolla Shores is a long, sandy beach break that is often smaller and gentler than the reefs and points just north and south of it. A deep underwater canyon sits offshore and pulls energy away from parts of the beach, which is one reason the inside whitewater tends to stay soft and manageable on most days.

The best learning days are usually 1–3 ft with light wind, which is common in the morning before the afternoon sea breeze picks up. Check our La Jolla Shores forecast before you book: look for a Poor-to-Fair size rating with clean conditions rather than a big swell. Water is coldest in late winter and spring and warmest in late summer, so check the water temperature on the forecast page when deciding whether to rent a wetsuit.

Who it's best for

Private lessons suit nervous first-timers, kids and anyone who wants all the instructor's attention. Semi-private is the best value for families and friends, since the per-person price drops as the group grows. Women who want a women-focused setting can look at Surf Diva's Weekend Clinics, the program the school started with in 1996. Kids and teens have holiday, spring break and summer camps.

Local tips before you go

Parking near La Jolla Shores fills up fast on summer weekends, so arrive early or plan time to walk. Bring a towel, sunscreen and a swimsuit to wear under your rashguard. The Shores is known for stingrays in warm months; shuffle your feet as you walk in so they swim away. Budget for the 16% city surcharge, and confirm your booking details with Surf Diva before you go.

Check the surf before your lesson

Live forecasts for the breaks where Surf Diva Surf School teaches.

FAQs

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Breaks near Surf Diva Surf School

Nearby surf spots with live BODI forecasts, tides and wind.

Sources

• Surf Diva: private surf lessons (prices, ages, what's included)
• Surf Diva: about Izzy and Coco Tihanyi
• Surf Diva: contact and hours

Facts checked against the school's website, October 2026. Written by the Surfing Tomorrow Team.