How do you decide which beach is best? The waves, the tide, the vibe, the crowds… so many factors!

Surfer catches epic wave at Cardiff Reef Beaches

If you’re going to book a lesson you want it to be at a good location, right?

We couldn’t agree more! Wavehuggers only teaches at the best beaches for beginners in San Diego, Orange County and Los Angeles. While we can’t control the ocean conditions from day-to-day (that’s part of the experience in surfing!) the beaches we have chosen are the more consistent, novice-friendly breaks in the area, so that we can provide the best lessons for you as possible!

Click on the locations below to get the low-down on each beach and schedule a lesson at your favorite one! We’ll have you hangin’ ten in no time! 😎

Los Angeles Beaches

Beach in MalibuMalibu

Malibu is the center of California surf culture and known for its gorgeous beaches, incredible views, and epic surf.

Santa Monica

One of the most well-known areas in Los Angeles, Santa Monica’s iconic amusement park on the Pier draws locals and tourists alike. Fantastic beaches flank either side of the Pier with pumping waves.

Venice

Surf, skate, and art cultures intermingle in Venice Beach to create a unique bohemian and beachy vibe of free-expression. Crucial in surfing’s rise in popularity in the 60s and 70s, this beach town has firin’ waves when the right swell hits.

El Porto

Also known as North Manhattan Beach, El Porto is a very consistent break and favorite spot of the locals (and the dolphins!).

Manhattan Beach

Known as “the Pearl of South Bay,” Manhattan Beach boasts gorgeous beaches, an iconic Pier, and a lively downtown area.

Hermosa Beach

This classic surf town’s culture, events, and schedule revolve around catching waves. Hermosa Beach is one of the best places to learn to surf in the South Bay!

Redondo Beach

One of L.A.’s best surf breaks, Redondo Beach’s surf culture infiltrates the entire city. This quintessential beach town is popular for its exciting events, iconic Pier, amazing seafood, and epic waves.

Torrance

Torrance Beach is the local’s hidden gem. This often-uncrowded stretch of beach has soft, sandy shores and fun waves.

 

Orange County Beaches

Favorite Beaches in Orange CountySeal Beach

Sandwiched between Long Beach and Huntington Beach, Seal Beach has a small-town feel and laid-back vibe.

Huntington Beach

Huntington Beach, known as Surf City USA, is one of our favorite places to teach and also where we host our Surf Camps!

Newport Beach

Beautiful Day at San Clemente beachThe epitome of the SoCal surf scene, Newport Beach has world-class waves, picturesque beaches, and an iconic beachy style.

Laguna Beach

Known for panoramic views, pristine beaches, unique coves and caves, and legendary waves, Laguna Beach is one of Orange County’s finest destinations.

San Clemente

Nestled between Camp Pendleton and Dana Point, San Clemente is the quintessential surf town. It has a mediterranean style, a small-town feel, gorgeous scenery, and waves firin’ all year round.

 

San Diego Beaches

Favorite beach in carlsbadOceanside

Fantastic swells, flat beaches, and plenty of exciting activities for visitors make Oceanside a popular destination for tourists, surfers, and families.

Carlsbad

The Carlsbad beaches are truly the locals’ playground. Known for scenic biking paths, dramatic cliffs, fun tidepools, stellar waves, and lovely views, Carlsbad has an active and beach-centered atmosphere.

La Jolla has gorgeous beaches.Encinitas

A quintessential surf town positioned on bluffs and overlooking picturesque beaches, Encinitas is arguably one of the best areas of San Diego County.

Cardiff

Nestled between classy Solana Beach and charming Encinitas, Cardiff is a hidden gem with laid-back vibes and incredible beaches.

La Jolla

La Jolla has everything – sandy beaches, reefs, epic waves, and even seals! Its upscale vibe and incredible coastline make it an exciting place to visit and an awesome place to surf.

Mission Beach

Popular with both locals and tourists, Mission Beach boasts awesome waves, flat beaches, great entertainment, and an iconic boardwalk along the sand.

 

 

It’s our greatest joy to get out in the water with our clients and share the stoke of surfing!

Our instructors are CPR certified, super friendly, and avid surfers themselves. They are a TON of fun (by far, the coolest in the industry 😉) and trained in water safety. They’ll get you popin’ up and riding a wave into shore as soon as possible! 🏄🏾‍♂️ See you at the beach!