Lessons · Group
Group surf lesson in Santa Cruz
Two hours in the water with four other surfers and one Club Ed coach. The most popular way to learn to surf in Santa Cruz, and the best value.
The group lesson is how most people meet Club Ed: a handful of beginners, a soft-top board each, and a coach who has been teaching this coastline for years. You start on the sand — where to lie on the board, how to paddle, how to pop up — and then you paddle out together.
Out back, your coach reads the sets, lines you up and gives you a push at the right moment. Most students are standing within the first hour. The rest of the lesson is about staying up, steering, and paddling back out without wearing yourself out.
What to expect
- A beach safety briefing and pop-up practice on the sand
- Paddling out together to a beginner-friendly break
- Your coach calling waves and helping you into them
- Time to practice standing, steering and paddling back out
- Feedback on the beach so you know what to work on next
Who it's for
- Complete beginners — no surfing experience needed
- Families and friends who want to learn together
- Visitors who want a two-hour taste of surfing in Santa Cruz
- Anyone who wants the lowest-cost way to get in the water with a coach
What's included
- Two hours with a lifeguard, CPR and First Aid certified coach
- An O'Neill wetsuit in your size
- A beginner-friendly soft-top surfboard
- A beach safety briefing before you paddle out
Before you go
- Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and a water bottle
- Arrive 15 minutes early to get fitted
- A signed waiver — under-18s need a parent or guardian's signature
From the lineup
What surfers say
"The people were all very laid back and friendly. We had 4 or 5 instructors for our group, and everyone got up on a board."
"We were a group of six. This is my 3rd outing in the last 1.5 years and all have been so enjoyable, well-executed and we all learned to surf."
Is a group lesson suitable for complete beginners?
Yes. Group lessons are built for people who have never surfed. Club Ed coaches start on the sand with board position, paddling and the pop-up, then stay in the water with you for the whole two hours. No prior experience or fitness level is required.
How many people are in a group lesson?
Each coach takes up to four surfers, so a group lesson is four students and one instructor. Larger parties are split into groups of four with an extra coach for each group.
Can I book a group lesson for my family or a school group?
Yes. Families, school groups, Scout troops, birthdays and team outings are regulars at Club Ed. Book online for up to four surfers, or call (831) 464-0177 for parties of 10 or more to arrange coaches and a discounted rate.
What happens if the waves are too big or the weather turns?
Rain does not stop a lesson. If the swell, wind or water quality makes the beach unsafe, Club Ed cancels and you choose a full refund or a new time. Your coach decides the break the evening before and texts you the meeting spot.
Keep going
Other ways to surf with Club Ed
Ready when the swell is.
Book online and your coach will text you the break the night before.