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Best Surfing And Stand Up Paddleboard Classes In LA

[header]malibu surf shack
(credit: Malibu Surf Shack)

What's not to love about the laid-back culture and lifestyle that surrounds surfing? Truly, it is one of the best exercises for your body, mind and soul. Many find a strong connection to nature while spending hours of untracked time in the water. Others escape the daily grind of the concrete jungle by seeking refuge in the barrel of a tube.

Whether your motivation is an adrenaline rush or the pursuit for inner peace, you can learn (or perfect) the fundamentals at these surf instruction outlets.

aloha-brothers
(credit: PJ Gomez)

Aloha Brothers Surf Lessons

528 Rialto Ave
Venice, CA 90291
(323) 316-8108
www.untilthewheelsfalloff.com

Former world surfing champion Fred Hemmings pushed Nick Fowler into his first wave at age 5 and it was in this moment his love for surf was born. Today, Nick shares his passion for surf through teaching. He is a Venice Beach local who was born and raised in Oahu, the birthplace of modern surfing.

Whether you're a beginner looking to stand up for the first time or are a surfer looking for an experienced instructor to take your skills to the next level, Nick's patience and easy going vibe will have you hanging loose and hanging ten.

Aspiring wave riders of all age and ability levels appreciate Aloha Brothers' encouraging teaching style. Not only does Nick help you understand what you're doing wrong, he is sure to let you know what you're doing right. He's also a daily surfer and chock full of invaluable tricks and techniques to share with you.

malibu surf shack
(credit: Malibu Surf Shack)

Malibu Surf Shack

22935 Pacific Coast Hwy
Malibu, CA 90265
(310) 456-8508
www.malibusurfshack.com

This charming little shack overlooks Surfrider Beach in Malibu, where some of the world's most famous surf breaks can be found. Here, you can get surf or SUP (stand up paddle) lessons, the latter being a popular choice for many. After a quick overview and lesson on the sand, into the water you go to paddle away. Friendly, energetic instructors will lead you along the coast for some core-working fun and exploration of the open sea.

go-surf-la
(credit: Go Surf LA)

Go Surf LA

Ocean Front and Bay St
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 428-9870
www.gosurfla.com

If you're new to surfing, the instructors at Go Surf LA will teach you everything you need know to go from catching white wash waves assisted by an instructor to consistently catching open-face waves solo. First-time students can expect to learn about popping up, paddling techniques, positioning, surfing etiquette and ocean safety. They also will show you different techniques to get your board into the lineup.

Once your skills advance, you can start to catch waves without assistance and practicing perfecting your techniques. If you're an intermediate surfer looking to take your saltwater game to the next level, instructors can teach you how to build speed, set up a bottom turn, and come off the top of a wave successfully. Intermediate lessons focus on intricate body, board, wave mechanics and performing mid-level maneuvers.

learn-to-surf-la
(credit: Learn To Surf LA)

Learn To Surf LA

641 Westminster Ave, Suite 5
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 663-2479
www.learntosurfla.com

Santa Monica is an ideal place to learn how to surf due to the gradual slope of its sandy ocean floor, resulting in waves that break gently far offshore no matter what the ocean conditions. This type of break delivers the perfect beginner's waves for practicing your new addiction. The crew at Learn To Surf LA welcomes all ages and skill levels. Newbies find peace of mind being led by a staff of experienced, qualified and friendly surf instructors. Not only are they CPR and first aid certified, they will also teach you everything they know about ocean and wave dynamics.

Beginners can expect to catch waves and stand up on their first surf lesson, and more advanced students can look forward to learning techniques to improve their performance. Prefer a mellow cruise on the water? Take a SUP lesson along the coast for a chill alternative to conventional surfing. If you're lucky, you'll encounter a pod of dolphins or other sea life along the way. For both surf and SUP lessons, come as you are with a swimsuit on and they'll provide the rest.

covepaddle
(credit: Cove Paddle Fitness)

Cove Paddle Fitness

23823 Malibu Rd
Ste 50-111
Malibu, CA 90265
(310) 429-2058
www.covepaddlefitness.com

Cove Paddle Fitness is owned and operated by Tyler Lennon, an avid surfer with 27 years experience. He got interested in SUP surfing after watching big-wave surfer Laird Hamilton paddling by during the summers in Malibu. Safety is top priority as is teaching the proper paddling skills. Instruction here emphasizes getting fitness in through a fun activity in the big blue. Tyler's love and knowledge of the ocean, SUP and working with people from all walks of life makes Cove Paddle Fitness a great choice.

Joy Bitonio has the phrase "Joie de Vivre" tattooed on her shoulder, a reminder to enjoy life every single day. She has a voracious appetite for fun, adventure, food, good cocktails and works out like a madwoman to keep it all together. Check out her other articles on CBS L.A. She also covers fitness on Examiner. Follow her on Twitter.
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