Group Lesson
Age 5+ and Above
90 Minutes
1:00pm Daily
San Diego Group Lessons
Want to learn alongside friends, family, or a few fellow first-timers? Our group surf lessons in San Diego run daily at 1 PM Year-Round. You get the exact same instruction as a private lesson, but you’ll share the session with whoever else signs up that day, sometimes just one other person, sometimes a handful. It’s a fun, social way to catch your first waves.
A few things to know before you book group surfing lessons in San Diego:
Ages 5 and up are welcome, but we don’t recommend the group setting for little ones unless they can handle a surfboard on their own in the ocean
The first 15-25 minutes are on the sand, where we dial in your pop-up and run through an ocean safety briefing
The rest of the time you’re in the water, putting those new skills to work on real waves
If you’d rather have one-on-one focus, a private lesson is the way to go, but for group energy and a great price, this is hard to beat.
San Diego's Most Trusted Surf School
We’ve been teaching people to surf in Pacific Beach for more than 60 years, and every season we get over 3,500 men, women, kids, and first-timers up and riding. Our staff are true watermen and women with a gift for teaching, and every instructor holds the highest safety certifications out there.
Surfing is about so much more than popping to your feet. It’s knowing which wave to take and how to ride it safely, which is exactly what our crew teaches during Pacific Beach group surf lessons. Beginner or intermediate, whether you’re standing up for the first time or working on new maneuvers, now’s the time to cross surfing off your bucket list.
A 16% San Diego Concessionaires fee is added to each lesson.
Getting Ready For Your Surf Lesson in San Diego
Show up at the shop about 10 minutes before your lesson starts. We validate parking for up to 2 hours at the Promenade Mall underground garage, plus we’ve got secure storage for your stuff and a shower to rinse off afterward. Gear is included, but bring a few things along, and if you forget, the shop stocks it all:
- Bathing suit or board shorts to wear under your wetsuit
- A towel to dry off afterward
- Sunscreen to stay protected
- Bottled water to rehydrate after you surf
It’s also worth a quick read of our blog post on surf etiquette before you come. Your instructor will cover it, but it’s handy to keep in mind out there.
Best Time To Take Surfing Lessons in San Diego Pacific Beach
Almost any time is a good time to paddle out. You’ll be riding gentle white water, so you don’t need to be a strong swimmer. That said, mornings are usually best; the onshore winds tend to pick up after noon and chop up the surface, while mornings stay calm and clean. A medium tide is ideal too. Not sure about the conditions? Give us a call, and we’ll get you set up for the best window we can find.
Every instructor is trained and certified in CPR, First Aid, and Water Safety through the American Red Cross, and they’ll be right beside you the whole time. Surfers must be over 5 years old to take part.
PB Surf Shop | San Diego Group Surfing Lessons
Ready to make memories that last a lifetime with San Diego group surfing lessons at Pacific Beach Surf School?
(858) 373-1138
4208 Oliver Ct. San Diego, CA 92109
At PB Surf Shop You're in Good Hands!
Our friendly staff and experienced instructors are knowledgeable watermen and women with a talent for teaching San Diego Surf Lessons. If you have any concern about the waves and conditions prior to your lesson give us a call and we’ll be happy to get you set up with the best conditions we can find for you!
All our instructors maintain the highest safety certifications available: they are trained and certified in CPR, First Aid, and Water Safety by American Red Cross and will be beside you at all times. However, you must be older than 5 years old in order to learn to surf. We recommend a private lesson which provides the most flexibility and the best learning environment for you to focus on specific goals, learn proper technique and have fun in the ocean.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is included in the group surf lessons?
Our group surf lessons cover board rental, wetsuit, and coaching from a trusted surf school instructor. You’ll start with a quick land demo, then move into the water for practical training. Expect guidance on stance, paddling, and how to catch gentle waves safely in a supportive setting.
Are the group lessons suitable for beginners?
Yes. These group lessons welcome first-timers looking to build confidence and develop basic surfing skills. Our instructors focus on safety, technique, and fun, ensuring everyone feels comfortable in the ocean. If you want personalized guidance, ask about our private surf lessons for an even more tailored approach.
What is the maximum group size for surf lessons?
Each group surf lesson typically includes up to five students. Keeping classes small allows for better instructor attention and a smoother learning curve. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced surfer, you’ll have enough space to practice while receiving individual tips on technique and style.
What if I need to cancel my group surf lesson?
Our cancellation policy for group lessons is the same as our private lessons, if you cancel or reschedule within 24 hours of the lesson we charge a $50 fee. If you cancel 24 hours or more out from the lesson we will give you a full refund.
Are the instructors for group surf lessons certified?
Absolutely. Each surf instructor holds CPR, First Aid, and Water Safety certifications. With years of ocean experience, they’re trained to keep you safe in the water while guiding your progress. Our amazing instructor team ensures group surfing lessons are both fun and supportive for all levels.
Is there a minimum age to participate in group surf lessons?
Students must be at least five years old to join San Diego group surf lessons. For younger kids we highly recommend them to take semi private lessons or one-on-one sessions, ensuring they get extra help and feel more secure in the water. We tailor each lesson to the student’s comfort level and ability.
What are the benefits of choosing group surf lessons?
Learning together can be a blast, as you’ll cheer each other on and share in every achievement. Group surf lessons in San Diego also tend to be more budget-friendly. Plus, having classmates fosters camaraderie, making it easier to stay motivated, practice new moves, and celebrate progress as a team.
What is the typical duration of a group surf lesson?
Lessons run about 90 minutes. You’ll spend about 15-20 minutes on land learning how to pop-up, proper body positioning, a brief overview of wave reading and a briefing on ocean safety. After that you’ll spend the rest of the lesson in the water with your instructor putting your new skills to the test. You’ll learn the basics of paddling, popping up, and balance, all under the watchful eye of certified instructors in our san diego surf school.
What is the difference between a group surf lesson and a private surf lesson?
A group surf lesson pairs you with fellow learners, allowing you to share the experience and cost. A private surf lesson, on the other hand, offers one-on-one coaching or a customized approach, ideal for focusing on specific skills or quickly progressing to intermediate surf lessons if needed.
Are group surf lessons suitable for all skill levels?
Group lessons are usually catered to the lowest skill level of the group. If someone is more advanced they should take a private lesson.
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