Surf Diva Surf School
Rating
Family of 4
$250-$400 (group lesson $100-120/person for 2 hours; private lessons $150-200/person; family of 4 in group = $250-400)
Duration
2-3 hours
Best Ages
Best for ages 8-17
About
Surf Diva Surf School is consistently rated one of the best surf schools in California. Founded in 1996, it specializes in making surfing accessible and fun for beginners at La Jolla Shores -- arguably the best beginner surf beach in San Diego.
La Jolla Shores has gentle, consistent waves, a wide sandy bottom with no rocks, and water warm enough for long sessions in a wetsuit. The cove geography creates manageable waves perfect for learning.
The standard 2-hour group lesson covers wave safety, paddling, popup technique on the beach, then water instruction where coaches position students and push them into waves. Most students stand up at least once during their first lesson.
For kids ages 8-12, surfing builds confidence unlike almost any other activity. The ocean is humbling -- but the moment a kid catches a wave and rides it toward shore, the accomplishment is profound and entirely self-earned.
All equipment is included. Students should wear their swimsuit under the wetsuit and bring sunscreen, a towel, and dry clothes. The beach has public restrooms and outdoor showers.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Stroller-Friendly
No
Nursing / Changing
Limited
Kid Meals
Not Available
Setting
Outdoor
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Morning lessons (8-9 AM start) have the calmest water and smallest waves, ideal for beginners. Summer has the warmest water. Book at least a week in advance for weekends.
Wait Times
None -- reservation required
Nearby Food
Walk to Avenida de la Playa: The Shores Restaurant (ocean views, $18-30), Piatti Italian ($14-22). Drive 5 minutes to The Taco Stand (incredible tacos, $4-6 each) or Jeff's Burgers ($10-14).
Why Kids Love It
Learning to surf in San Diego is the ultimate California kid experience, and Surf Diva at La Jolla Shores is the gold standard. The school operates on one of the best beginner surf beaches in Southern California -- gentle, consistent waves, a wide sandy bottom, and warm water.
The 2-hour group lesson starts with 30 minutes of beach instruction, then everyone hits the water with individual attention from instructors. Most beginners stand up at least once during their first lesson -- and the joy on a kid's face when they catch their first wave is one of those pure moments of childhood triumph.
For teens especially, surfing hits every mark: physically challenging, culturally cool, individually empowering, and distinctly Californian. The bragging rights of surfing at La Jolla stay with them long after the vacation ends.
Pro Tips from Parents
- Book the earliest morning time slot -- wind is calmest and waves are smallest for beginners
- All equipment (wetsuit, surfboard, rash guard) is included in the lesson price
- La Jolla Shores beach has free public restrooms, showers, and changing facilities
- After the lesson, rent a board for additional practice time at a fraction of the lesson cost
- Parents can watch from the beach -- La Jolla Shores is a great spectator spot
What to Bring
- Swimsuit (worn under wetsuit)
- Towel
- Sunscreen (applied before wetsuit goes on)
- Water bottle
- Change of dry clothes
- Camera for beach photos
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
$250-$400 (group lesson $100-120/person for 2 hours; private lessons $150-200/person; family of 4 in group = $250-400)
Tips to Save
- Group lessons ($100-120/person) are much more affordable than private ($150-200/person).
- Ask about family discounts for 3+ students.
- The lesson includes wetsuit and surfboard rental.
- Book the earliest slot for the best conditions.
- Consider booking just the teens while parents relax on the beach.
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Monday
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
