Los Angeles beach camps, surf camps and summer day camps for kids and teens who love the beach. Free transportation included. Join us for summer camp 2026!
Nestled along the pristine shores of Juno Beach, Aloha Surf Camp Florida offers an inviting haven for surfers of all levels seeking to immerse themselves in the coastal beauty of Florida’s Atlantic coast. Situated at 14200 U.S. Hwy 1, the camp benefits from consistent surf conditions and warm, inviting waters that make every session feel like a retreat into paradise. Whether you're a beginner eager to catch your first wave or an experienced surfer refining your technique, the camp’s expert instructors and supportive community create an environment where learning and fun go hand in hand. Surrounded by stunning coastal scenery, participants can expect personalized coaching tailored to their skill level, along with opportunities to explore the local surf breaks and develop a deeper connection to the ocean. Beyond the waves, the camp offers a relaxed atmosphere that emphasizes safety, camaraderie, and a genuine love for surfing, making it perfect for those looking to enhance their skills while soaking in the natural beauty of Florida’s coastline. At Aloha Surf Camp Florida, every surf session becomes an opportunity to grow, explore, and experience the simple joy of riding waves in a welcoming, scenic setting.
Nestled in the heart of San Clemente, Southern Los Angeles, California, lies Endless Summer Surf Camp—a haven for surf enthusiasts seeking a diverse range of waves. From the beginner-friendly shores of San Onofre Beach to the world-class point break at Trestles, San Clemente caters to all surfing preferences. As the inaugural surf school officially recognized by Surfing America, the US Council for Surf Sport, Endless Summer Surf Camp stands as a pioneer in surf education. Their comprehensive surf progra
Learn to surf in Santa Cruz and Peniche with the best-rated surf school! Enjoy group or private surf lessons, surfskate coaching, premium board rentals, and surf guide services. Certified instructors, top gear, transfers, and great vibes included. Book your unforgettable surf experience today with E
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Santa Monica at 20 Bicknell Ave, Fun Surf La offers an inviting gateway to the quintessential Southern California surf experience. Surrounded by picturesque coastal scenery and just steps from the lively Santa Monica Pier, this surf camp provides an ideal setting for both beginners and seasoned surfers to connect with the Pacific Ocean. The location’s consistent waves and sandy beaches create a relaxed yet dynamic environment, perfect for honing surf skills or discovering the joy of riding the waves for the first time. Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere with expert instructors who focus on safety, technique, and having fun, ensuring each session is tailored to individual skill levels. Whether you're seeking a weekend adventure or a deeper immersion into surf culture, Fun Surf La combines the laid-back Southern California vibe with professional guidance, making every surf experience memorable and accessible. From sunrise paddle-outs to sunset sessions, this surf camp fosters a sense of community and connection to the ocean, inspiring confidence and a lifelong love of surfing in all who join.
Perfect Day Surf Camp was founded in 2001 by Robbie Yrigoyen and is sponsored by Quiksilver. Perfect Day is one of the FIRST PREMIER SURF CAMPS in the Greater Los Angeles area and powered by a MOM! Private and Semi-private surf lessons are offered year round and to surfers of all ages and ability levels.
Planet Surf Camps Santa Cruz is a surf camp in Santa Cruz, Portugal. With a 5.0★ Google rating from 13 reviews, it offers quality surf experiences on the Portuguese coast.
Santa Beach House is a surf camp in Santa Cruz, Portugal. With a 4.6★ Google rating from 135 reviews, it offers quality surf experiences on the Portuguese coast.
Sunset Suzy's Surf School is the best surfing school on Oahu. We specialize in beginner and intermediate surf lessons on the North Shore of Oahu. You can take a private, group or family surfing lesson. We also offer paddle boarding lessons and turtle tours, where you can see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles.
Founded by Sean Mattison, an surfer expert with a large number of awards and coach of the National Surf team. Surf Coach USA offers SurfCamp with training programs to become a professional and competition surfer. With more than 30 years of experience, Mattison and his team will help you maximize your personal performance, with dedication and commitment. Due to the numerous surf competitions that are held throughout the world, surf has become a very competitive sport and to reach the first rows, special training is required.
Canada Surf Shop for surfing and SUP(Stand Up Paddle) on the Great Lakes and Ocean - Surfboards, Stand up paddle boards, Soft boards, Wetsuits, rashies (rash guards), surf gear accesories and swim wear. Keeping you in the water from the tropics to the icy cold waters of the greats lakes | Surf Ontario Surf Shop
Discover a dream destination at Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu, Hawaii. Explore paradise with astonishing scenery, breathtaking beaches, and unique experiences.
North America is the birthplace of modern surf culture, and the continent continues to be a global leader in the sport. From the legendary breaks of California and Hawaii to the cold water gems of Canada, North America offers an incredible diversity of surf experiences. The surf camp scene here is well-developed and professional, with options ranging from high-performance coaching camps to laid-back beach retreats.
The continent's surf culture is deeply ingrained in the American and Canadian way of life, with surfing influencing everything from fashion and music to language and lifestyle. This cultural significance means that a surf trip to North America is not just about the waves – it's an immersion into the very heart of surf culture.
California's iconic coastline is the birthplace of modern surf culture.
Located in Costa Rica but founded by American coaches, Surf Simply is widely regarded as one of the best surf coaching programs in the world. Their scientific approach to surf instruction has helped thousands of surfers improve their skills. Google rating: 5.0★
Offering lessons and camps on San Diego's beautiful beaches, this school provides an authentic California surf experience with professional instruction and a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Google rating: 4.9★
Learn to surf in the birthplace of the sport with Hawaiian Fire's experienced instructors. Based on Oahu, they offer lessons at some of Hawaii's most iconic beginner-friendly breaks. Google rating: 4.8★
On Canada's rugged Vancouver Island, Tofino Surf School offers a unique cold water surf experience surrounded by ancient rainforests and stunning natural beauty. Google rating: 4.9★
Located in Malibu, Ohana offers the quintessential California surf experience with professional coaching at one of the world's most famous surf spots. Google rating: 4.7★
Hawaii is the spiritual home of surfing, offering waves for all levels.
The United States offers an incredible diversity of surf experiences across its vast coastline. California is the heart of American surf culture, with iconic breaks from San Diego to Santa Cruz that have shaped the sport's history. The Golden State offers consistent waves year-round, world-class infrastructure, and a vibrant surf community.
Hawaii is the spiritual home of surfing, where the sport was born and where it continues to be practiced at the highest level. The North Shore of Oahu is the proving ground for the world's best surfers, with legendary waves like Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay. The islands also offer gentler waves perfect for beginners, particularly on the south shores during summer.
Florida's warm waters and consistent swells make it the surf capital of the East Coast, while Texas offers Gulf Coast waves that come alive during hurricane season. The Pacific Northwest, including Oregon and Washington, provides cold water adventure for those willing to brave the elements.
Canada's surf scene is centered on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, where the town of Tofino has become a world-renowned surf destination. The cold Pacific waters produce consistent swells year-round, with the biggest waves arriving during autumn and winter. The combination of ancient rainforests, pristine beaches, and uncrowded waves creates a unique surf experience.
The Canadian surf community is tight-knit and welcoming, with a strong emphasis on environmental stewardship. Surf camps and schools in Tofino offer everything from beginner lessons to advanced coaching, all set against the backdrop of one of the world's most beautiful coastlines.
Tofino's cold water waves are set against a backdrop of ancient rainforest.
The Most Famous Surf Spots and Waves in North America
Pipeline, Oahu, Hawaii
Pipeline is the most famous wave in the world, a perfect, hollow barrel that breaks over a shallow reef. This wave has made and broken careers, and it remains the ultimate test for any surfer. Best suited for experts only, Pipeline comes alive during the winter months from November to February.
Mavericks, California
Mavericks is one of the most dangerous big wave spots in the world, producing massive, cold water barrels that attract the world's best big wave surfers. Located near Half Moon Bay, this wave is for experts only and requires specific conditions to break.
Trestles, California
Trestles is one of the best high-performance waves in the world, offering long, peeling walls perfect for progressive surfing. This wave has hosted numerous professional competitions and is a favorite among California's best surfers.
Rincon, California
Known as the "Queen of the Coast," Rincon is a world-class right-hand point break that produces long, peeling waves during winter swells. This wave is suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
Waikiki, Hawaii
Waikiki is where modern surfing was born, and it remains one of the best places in the world to learn to surf. The gentle, rolling waves and warm water make it perfect for beginners.
Surf Scene in North America
The North American surf scene is the most developed and influential in the world. The United States, in particular, has shaped global surf culture through its media, industry, and professional surfers. California's influence on surf fashion, music, and lifestyle has spread around the world, making surfing synonymous with the American dream of freedom and adventure.
The professional surf industry is largely based in North America, with major brands, media companies, and competition organizers headquartered in California and Hawaii. This concentration of industry has created a robust ecosystem of surf camps, schools, and coaching programs that cater to surfers of all levels.
Despite its commercialization, the North American surf scene retains a strong connection to its roots. The aloha spirit of Hawaii, the laid-back vibes of California, and the rugged individualism of Canada's west coast all contribute to a surf culture that values authenticity, community, and respect for the ocean.
North America's surf seasons vary by coast. California's best waves arrive from late autumn through spring (October-April) when North Pacific storms generate consistent swells. Hawaii's North Shore is legendary from November to February. Florida and the East Coast receive hurricane swells from June to November. Mexico's Pacific coast works year-round with peak swells from May to October. The Great Lakes even have a surf season during autumn and winter storms. Each region has its optimal window for scoring waves.
California is excellent for beginners, with numerous gentle beach breaks and well-established surf schools. San Diego's La Jolla Shores, Santa Cruz's Cowell Beach, and Los Angeles' Manhattan Beach offer ideal learning conditions. The water is cold (12-18°C), requiring a wetsuit year-round, but instruction quality is world-class. Summer offers smaller, more manageable waves for learning. California's surf culture is welcoming to newcomers, and the infrastructure for surf tourism is unmatched.
California is one of the more expensive surf destinations. Budget accommodation starts from $40-80 per night for hostels, while surf camp packages range from $1,500-3,000 per week. Daily expenses add up quickly - meals cost $15-30, and parking at popular beaches can be $10-20. Wetsuit and board rentals cost $30-60 per day. Mexico offers significantly better value for budget-conscious surfers. Hawaii falls somewhere in between, with accommodation being the biggest expense.
Citizens of 40 countries can visit the USA under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days by obtaining an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) online before travel. ESTA costs $21 and is valid for two years. Citizens of other countries need to apply for a B-1/B-2 tourist visa at a US embassy. Canadian citizens can enter without a visa for up to 6 months. Always check current requirements and ensure your passport is valid for your entire stay.
Water temperatures vary dramatically across North America. Hawaii enjoys warm waters (24-27°C) year-round - boardshorts suffice. Florida ranges from 20-29°C, comfortable with a spring suit in winter. California's waters are cold (12-18°C), requiring a 3/2mm wetsuit in summer and 4/3mm with booties in winter. The Pacific Northwest and East Coast north of Florida are similarly cold. Mexico's Pacific coast is warm (24-28°C), making it a popular escape from cold US waters.
Hawaii is the birthplace of modern surfing with legendary waves. Oahu's North Shore features Pipeline, Sunset Beach, and Waimea Bay - world-famous breaks for experienced surfers. Waikiki offers gentle waves perfect for beginners. Maui has Honolua Bay and Ho'okipa for advanced surfers, plus learner-friendly breaks in Lahaina. The Big Island has less crowded waves. Kauai offers uncrowded surf but limited access. Hawaii's waves are powerful - respect your skill level and ocean conditions.
Mexico is excellent for surf travel, offering warm water, consistent waves, and great value. The Pacific coast from Baja California to Oaxaca has world-class breaks. Puerto Escondido's "Mexican Pipeline" is one of the world's heaviest beach breaks. Sayulita and Punta de Mita offer beginner-friendly waves. Baja has uncrowded points and reef breaks. The Caribbean coast (Quintana Roo) has occasional surf. Mexico combines quality waves with incredible food, culture, and significantly lower costs than the USA.
Shark encounters do occur in North American waters, though attacks are rare. California's "Red Triangle" (between Bodega Bay, the Farallon Islands, and Big Sur) has great white sharks, with most incidents involving seals. Florida has the most shark bites globally, though most are minor. Hawaii has occasional tiger shark encounters. Statistically, the risk is very low - you're more likely to be injured driving to the beach. Avoid surfing at dawn/dusk, near seal colonies, or in murky water to minimize risk.
Yes! The Great Lakes have a dedicated surf community, particularly on Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and Lake Erie. The best waves arrive during autumn and winter storms (September-March), when cold fronts generate surprisingly powerful swells. Water temperatures require thick wetsuits (5/4mm or thicker) with hoods, boots, and gloves. Cities like Sheboygan (Wisconsin), Grand Haven (Michigan), and Cleveland (Ohio) have established surf scenes. It's a unique experience for adventurous surfers willing to brave the cold.
Packing depends on your destination. For California: 3/2mm to 4/3mm wetsuit, booties for winter, and layers for variable weather. For Hawaii: boardshorts, rash guard, reef booties, and strong sunscreen. For Mexico: similar to Hawaii, plus insect repellent. Universal items include travel insurance, a good board bag, and any medications you need. Rental gear is widely available throughout North America, so traveling light is possible. Don't forget a valid passport and ESTA/visa documentation.
California's popular breaks can be very crowded, especially on weekends and during good swells. Malibu, Huntington Beach, and Trestles regularly have packed lineups. Localism exists at some spots. However, California has hundreds of miles of coastline with waves for those willing to explore. Early morning sessions, weekday surfing, and venturing beyond the famous breaks help avoid crowds. Northern California is generally less crowded than Southern California. Respect the lineup, wait your turn, and you'll have a good experience.
California is the heart of American surf culture, with a history dating back to the early 1900s. The lifestyle blends laid-back beach vibes with competitive surfing at the highest level. Surf shops, shapers, and surf media are concentrated here. The culture varies by region - San Diego is relaxed, Orange County is competitive, and Santa Cruz has a localized vibe. Surf fashion, music, and art all have roots in California. It's a place where surfing is woven into everyday life for millions of people.
