Q. Why take a surf lesson with us?

a. So you don't hurt yourself or others. Our qualified instructors have developed lessons, know the local conditions and surf community, and use safe learning equipment so your chances of getting hurt are minimalized, ensuring that your first experience is a positive one.

b.Cut the learning curve by months or years with the knowledge you'll get from our experienced surfers/instructors in your lessons.

c. Tap into the experience of professional instructors who have taught thousands of students. Our instructors can assess and prescribe an individualized program so you can improve and move forward on your surfing path.

d. Find the right equipment for you. Our school stocks a range of sizes in both our soft-top surfboards and our Billabong wetsuits so you can find what works before you buy your own. We can also direct you to the best local shops for your needs.

You'll have a fun and safe surfing experience with skilled and friendly surfers who want to share what they've learned, and are stoked to see you improve and have fun surfing.

Q. What do I need to bring?

A: In Manhattan Beach bring $3.00 in quarters to feed the meters at our Rosecrans location. Also, bring a towel, bathing suit, sunscreen and water.

Q. How long is each lesson?

A: Lessons are 1.5 hours unless otherwise discussed.

Q. Any advice before we take our lesson?

A: Eat a light breakfast so you have some energy, but not so much that you're bloated. Oatmeal and orange juice or toast and tea, for example. Don't be hungover. Don't wear perfume or cologne.  Maybe check out a surf video the night before to get fired up.

Q. Is there anything I should do before my lesson to prepare.

A: Stretch, especially hips, lower back, and quads. Don't work out real hard the day before, you don't want to be tight or sore. Watch some surf videos and get in the mood. Check out the classic Endless Summer about two guys searching the globe for the perfect wave. Arrive early the morning of your lesson so you feel nice and relaxed. It'll be easier to get into the zone. Chill out, forget your stress, and be ready to have fun.

Q. Is surfing dangerous?

A: It can be. If you go out for your first time without proper instruction or ocean knowledge, and with a hard surfboard, you may find yourself in a dangerous situation.

At our surf school, we make surfing as simple and safe as possible.
1) We use soft surfboards. 
2) We go over all safety issues before you hit the water. 
3) We describe dangerous ocean conditions so you can recognize them, stay away from them, and know how to handle them. 
4) We take you to the safest area to surf. 
5) We remain in the water with you for your entire lesson. 
6) Our entire staff is made up of long-time local surfers, lifeguards, and watermen who live and work at the beaches where we teach, and know the conditions.  All of our instructors have been CPR and First-Aid Certified.

Q. How long does it take to learn how to surf?

A: It depends on the individual. Some students are up on their first wave. Most get up during their first lesson. Some take longer.

We recommend that our students take 3-4 lessons. Like any activity, you want to have a solid foundation. After 3-4 lessons, students have experienced many different conditions, tides, currents, and wave types with instructors who are in the water next to them, helping them catch waves and answering questions. By the 3rd-4th lesson, students can safely handle themselves in the surf, know their limits, and can practice on their own without our supervision.

Remember, surfing is not just being able to stand up and ride a wave. It is being able to safely and responsibly handle yourself in the ocean and knowing the rules and etiquette of the lineup. This is a continual process that only comes from a lot of time in the ocean.

Q. What if I can only take 1 or 2 lessons?

A: No problem. Many of our students take only 1 or 2 lessons.

Our goal is to teach you as much as we can in the time you are with us.

You'll learn all the basics. We'll push you into your first waves and help you catch waves. We'll show you exactly what you need to do to stand up and ride the wave, and the rest is up to you. Nearly all of our students stand up and ride waves in 1-2 lessons, and everyone will experience surfing and riding waves no matter how many lessons they take.

Q. What is the youngest and oldest students you teach?

A: We recommend that students are sufficient swimmers before taking surf lessons. 7-8 years old is a good age to start for kids. We teach many youths, teenagers, 20 somethings, 30 somethings, 40 somethings, and quite a few 50 somethings. We've taught a few 60 somethings and welcome students of all ages. It's never too late to start, and there's no better way to feel like a kid again. Any youths under 11 require youth group or private lessons.

Q. Can I take a lesson with my son/daughter?

A: Yes, we teach many families. You can take a private or a group lesson. Surfing is a great experience to share with your kids, and we recommend it.

Q. Do I have to be a good swimmer to take a lesson? Do I have to know how to swim in the ocean?

A: You must be able to swim, but we don't expect all students to know how to swim in the ocean as many do not live near the beach. Most of our lessons take place in waist- to chest-high water, and we like you to have your feet on the sand until you feel comfortable. You should be able to keep your head above water for at least 2 minutes, although we do not test you. It is a good idea to be a good swimmer before learning to surf.

Q. Do you offer female only classes?

A: We do cater to women, but we do not offer female-only classes. We have taught hundreds of women and girls to surf, and our instructors are sensitive to the best ways to teach women, whether there are males in the class or not. We encourage girls and women to surf, and offer them the best instruction available.

Q. Do you provide all the equipment?

A. Yes, we provide soft surfboards and Billabong wetsuits.

Q. How do I contact you?

A. You can email us at tommy@campsurf.com or call us at 310-928-SURF (7873)