School Surf was founded in 2015 by professional surfer and educator Marcus Santos, who grew up riding the waves along the California coast. After years of competing professionally, Marcus realized his true passion wasn’t just surfing—it was sharing the joy and transformative power of the ocean with the next generation.

What started as informal weekend lessons for neighborhood kids has blossomed into a comprehensive surf school serving hundreds of young surfers each year. Today, School Surf is recognized as one of the premier youth surf programs on the coast, combining expert instruction with a deep respect for the ocean and unwavering commitment to safety.

Our Mission

To inspire confidence, foster ocean stewardship, and create lifelong surfers by providing safe, fun, and professional surf instruction in an environment where every kid feels encouraged, supported, and stoked to catch their next wave.

Expert Instructors

All our instructors are certified lifeguards, experienced surfers, and trained educators who specialize in working with children. Safety and fun are our top priorities.

Safety First

Small instructor-to-student ratios (max 4:1), thorough safety briefings, quality equipment, and careful beach selection ensure every session is safe and age-appropriate.

Proven Method

Our progressive teaching approach breaks down surfing into manageable steps, building skills and confidence gradually. Most kids stand up on their first day!

Ocean Respect

We teach more than surfing—we instill respect for the ocean, marine life, and coastal environment. Every lesson includes ocean awareness and conservation education.

Community Vibe

We’re building a community of young surfers who support and encourage each other. Friendships made at School Surf often last a lifetime.

All Levels Welcome

From complete beginners to advanced youth surfers, we tailor instruction to each child’s ability level and personal goals. Everyone progresses at their own pace.

Kids Taught

Stand Up First Day

Years Experience

Safety Record

Private Lessons

One-on-one instruction tailored to your child’s specific needs and learning style. Perfect for focused skill development.

• ✓ Personalized attention
• ✓ Flexible scheduling
• ✓ Rapid progression
• ✓ Ages 6-17

Group Lessons

Small group sessions where kids learn together, make friends, and encourage each other. Our most popular option!

• ✓ Max 4 students per instructor
• ✓ Age-grouped classes
• ✓ Social learning environment
• ✓ Weekend & weekday options

Surf Camps

Multi-day immersive experiences combining surf lessons with beach games, ocean science, and environmental education.

• ✓ 3-5 day programs
• ✓ Summer & holiday camps
• ✓ All equipment included
• ✓ Lunch & snacks provided

Certified Instructors

ISA Surf Instructor certified with extensive teaching experience and lifeguard training

Kid-Focused

Patient, encouraging, and skilled at connecting with children of all ages and abilities

Ocean Experts

Deep knowledge of local breaks, tides, currents, and marine life ensures safe sessions

My daughter was nervous about trying surfing, but the instructors were so patient and encouraging. She stood up on her first day and hasn’t stopped talking about it since!

— Rachel M., Parent of Sophie (8)

Best investment we’ve made in our kids’ summer activities. They learned surfing, made friends, and developed so much confidence. We’ll be back every year!

— David & Lisa T., Parents of Twin Boys (11)

As a parent, safety is my number one concern. The small class sizes, qualified instructors, and attention to detail give me complete peace of mind.

— Jennifer K., Parent of Max (14)