4.923077 from partner siteMake your way to Cowells Beach in Santa Cruz, where you'll meet your CPR-, first aid-, and lifeguard-certified instructor who teaches the basics of surfing during a 3-hour surf clinic. Come ready to learn how to surf and explore the wonders of the ocean. Your instructor provides a safe and non-threatening environment for the beginner surfer.
Once you've squeezed into a provided wetsuit to keep you warm in the Pacific Ocean, you'll get an orientation to using a surfboard. You're walked through the steps to popping up on your board on shore. Learn how to read ocean conditions and wave breaks to ensure your safety, before you practice paddling and balancing.
You'll start out in shallow areas, riding the white water until you are comfortable with venturing further out, where your instructor helps you catch some waves.