Surf Education Academy – La Jolla’s Premier Surf School
Safe, beginner-friendly surf camps and lessons
at La Jolla Shores in San Diego.
All Ages, All Levels
Join over 2,500+ SEA Families
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SEA is one of the few Permitted Surf Schools for the city of San Diego, which means we have been rigorously vetted by the City for safety and best practices, we are fully insured, and we are outstanding at what we do.
Welcome to Surf Education Academy, where safety and stoke go hand in hand, and our experience and credibility speak for itself.
Choose Your Surf Experience
Kids Surf Camps
Safe, Fun, & Ocean Education
Camp Ages 5+
Safe Surf Ratios
Equipment Included
Surf Lessons
Personalized Coaching for All Levels
One on One Individual Coaching
Family or Private Class Coaching
Special-Surf Events
Surf Groups, Surf Clinics, All Abilities
Corporate Clinics or Large Groups
What Our Guests Say About Us
Trusted by:
Come S.E.A. La Jolla and Experience the Surf!
We don’t just love surfing
We care about you and your goals!
✓ Thousands of stoked surfers
✓ Countless waves Shredded
✓ Confidence and life skills through surfing
Meet the Founder:
Surf Coach Sean Brody
Coach Sean has made it his life’s goal to share his passion for surfing with others.
Surf Coach Sean Brody has taught thousands of people to surf from across the globe and from all walks of life. He has a Master’s Degree in Hospitality Tourism Management with an emphasis in Sustainable Surf Tourism, worked with the International Surfing Association for many years helping to develop surfing world wide, runs Adaptive Surfing programs for Challenged Athletes Foundation and is currently the Head Coach for Team USA’s Adaptive Surfing Team.
Coach Sean and Surf Education Academy take pride in helping people become confident in the ocean and we look forward to working with you.
Join us in La Jolla
Learn from the most experienced name in the game, SEA, where credibility counts.
Welcome to our surf school in beautiful La Jolla, California! We offer the best surf lessons and experiences for all levels of surfers, from beginners to advanced.
Our experienced instructors have a passion for surfing and teaching, and will ensure you have a safe and fun experience while catching waves in the beautiful waters of La Jolla. We use top of the line equipment and best practice techniques to help you improve your skills and achieve your surfing goals.
Whether you’re looking to catch your first wave, improve your technique, or simply enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, our surf school has everything you need. We offer private and group lessons, as well as surf camps and clinics for those who want to take their surfing to the next level.
Our surf school is located in the heart of La Jolla Shores, one of the most user-friendly beaches in San Diego. We provide all the equipment you need, including surfboards, wetsuits, and rash guards. The waves at La Jolla Shores are gentle and fun for all levels.
Join us for an unforgettable surfing experience in La Jolla. Book your surf lesson today and let’s get radical!
Frequently Asked Questions
S.E.A.’s most frequently asked questions about surf lessons and surf camps:
Click to view: SEA’s Surf Lesson Top 7 Questions:
Below will be Our Top 7 questions people ask about our lessons:
1. Are surf lessons in La Jolla good for complete beginners?
Yes — La Jolla Shores is one of the best beginner surf spots in San Diego thanks to its sandy bottom and gentle, rolling waves. At Surf Education Academy, our instructors specialize in first-time surfers and provide step-by-step coaching to help beginners safely stand up and build confidence in the water.
2. How long does it take to stand up during a surf lesson?
Many first-time students are able to stand up during their first surf lesson with proper instruction and beginner-friendly conditions at La Jolla Shores. Progress varies by individual, but our structured teaching method focuses on safe fundamentals that help most beginners experience their first successful ride quickly.
3. What should I bring to my surf lesson in La Jolla?
Students should bring:
- Beach Bag (Zippers, to protect from seagulls 😉
- Swimsuit (extra clothes too)
- Towel (Extra poncho towel is a winner)
- Sunscreen (Check surf shops for best brands)
- Water (Big and no plastic please)
Surf Education Academy provides the surfboard, wetsuit or rash guard, leash, and all necessary safety equipment, so beginners do not need to purchase gear before their lesson.
4. Are private surf lessons better than group lessons?
Private surf lessons offer the fastest progression because instructors provide one-on-one coaching tailored to the student’s skill level. Group lessons are a great option for families, friends, and beginners who want a fun shared experience. At Surf Education Academy in La Jolla Shores, both options are beginner-friendly and safety focused.
5. Is surfing safe for kids and first-time surfers?
Yes — when taught by certified instructors in beginner-friendly conditions, surfing is considered a safe and confidence-building activity. At Surf Education Academy, all lessons at La Jolla Shores are supervised by CPR and First Aid certified instructors, and students begin in shallow, controlled wave zones.
6. What age can take private surf lessons?
Most children can begin private surf lessons around age 5, depending on water comfort and ability to follow instructions. Surf Education Academy works with kids, teens, and adults at La Jolla Shores and groups instruction appropriately for safety and learning success.
7. Where do surf lessons take place in Diego?
Surf Education Academy lessons are held at La Jolla Shores in San Diego, one of Southern California’s most beginner-friendly surf beaches. The sandy bottom and consistent waves make it an ideal learning environment for first-time surfers, families, and visitors. We are one of the few surf schools to be permitted by the county of San Diego, making us legit and vetted by the State.
Click to view: SEA’s Surf Camp Top 7 Questions:
Below is Our Top 7 Questions that are asked related to our surf camps:
1. What is the best age for kids to start surf camp in La Jolla?
Most children can safely start surf camp at age 5 and up, as long as they are comfortable in the ocean and able to follow instructor guidance. Many La Jolla surf schools set age 5 as the minimum for safety and learning readiness.
At Surf Education Academy in La Jolla Shores, campers are grouped by age and skill level to ensure a fun, confidence-building experience for beginners through advancing young surfers.
2. Is La Jolla Shores a safe place for beginner surf lessons?
Yes — La Jolla Shores is widely considered one of the best beginner surf beaches in San Diego thanks to its sandy bottom, gentle rolling waves, and gradual ocean floor.
These conditions create longer, more manageable waves that are ideal for first-time surfers, kids, and families. Professional surf schools add additional safety through certified instructors, close supervision, and structured lesson formats.
3. Do kids need to know how to swim before surf camp?
Yes — basic swimming ability is strongly recommended for safety in ocean environments. Many surf programs require children to be comfortable in the water so they can handle waves and follow safety instructions effectively.
At Surf Education Academy, instructors work in shallow, beginner-friendly zones at La Jolla Shores while maintaining close supervision at all times.
4. What is included in a surf lesson or summer surf camp?
Most La Jolla surf lessons and camps include:
- Soft-top beginner surfboard
- Wetsuit or rash guard
- Leash and safety gear
- Professional instruction
- Beach safety orientation
Providing equipment is standard practice so beginners can focus on learning without needing to purchase gear.
Surf Education Academy provides all required equipment and keeps instructor-to-student ratios low for personalized coaching.
5. How many students are in each surf camp group?
Quality surf camps keep small instructor-to-student ratios to maximize safety and progress. Many reputable La Jolla programs intentionally limit group sizes so instructors can closely monitor each surfer and provide personalized feedback.
Surf Education Academy maintains small group sizes at La Jolla Shores to ensure every camper receives hands-on coaching and close supervision in the water.
6. When should I book summer surf camp in La Jolla?
The best time to book La Jolla summer surf camp is February through May, as popular weeks often fill before summer begins.
Families visiting San Diego during peak season should reserve early to secure preferred dates, especially for June–August camps at La Jolla Shores.
7. What makes Surf Education Academy different from other La Jolla surf schools?
Surf Education Academy focuses on safety-first instruction, confidence building, and personalized coaching at La Jolla Shores. Our programs serve:
- Kids and teens
- First-time surfers
- Families and tourists
- Adaptive athletes
With experienced local instructors and beginner-friendly waves at La Jolla Shores, students progress quickly while learning proper ocean safety and surf fundamentals.
How far in advance should I book surf lessons or camp in La Jolla?
For the best availability at La Jolla Shores, we recommend booking 2–8 weeks in advance, especially during spring break and summer. Peak summer surf camps (June–August) often sell out early, while private lessons may have more flexibility during the off-season.
Are wetsuits provided year-round in San Diego?
Yes. Surf Education Academy provides properly fitted wetsuits year-round at La Jolla Shores. Even in warmer months, wetsuits help with comfort, sun protection, and buoyancy for beginner surfers.
Can families or groups take surf lessons together?
Absolutely. Surf Education Academy offers group and family surf lessons at La Jolla Shores, making it a fun shared experience for parents, kids, friends, and visitors. Lessons are structured so beginners of different ages can learn safely together.
What happens if ocean conditions are poor on lesson day?
Safety is always the top priority. If conditions at La Jolla Shores are unsafe due to weather or surf, lessons may be adjusted, rescheduled, or moved to appropriate beginner areas when possible. Our team monitors ocean conditions daily to ensure the best learning environment.
Is parking available near La Jolla Shores surf lessons?
Yes — La Jolla Shores has a large public beach parking lot along with nearby street parking. During summer and weekends, arriving early is recommended to secure convenient parking near the lesson area.
Do you offer surf lessons year-round in San Diego?
Yes. Surf Education Academy offers surf lessons year-round at La Jolla Shores. San Diego’s mild climate and consistent waves make it possible to surf in every season, with wetsuits provided for comfort during cooler months.
Why choose La Jolla Shores for learning to surf?
La Jolla Shores is widely known as one of the most beginner-friendly surf beaches in San Diego due to its sandy bottom, gradual slope, and gentle rolling waves. These conditions allow new surfers to practice safely while building confidence in real ocean conditions. Big Tip: During Summer, big south swells are blocked by La Jolla Cove, making waves smaller and best for beginners and people learning without the risk of strong rips or dangerous swells.
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