California’s best workshops deliver hands-on learning with expert instructors. The standout offerings include mountain biking lessons in San Diego’s backcountry trails, where skilled guides help master essential techniques. In San Francisco, authentic Chinese cooking classes teach traditional recipes in small-group settings. Ventura’s coastal waters provide ideal conditions for windsurfing and wing SUP instruction, while North Highlands offers professional firearms training in a controlled environment.
We especially love the San Diego mountain biking program for its patient instruction and stunning routes. The San Francisco cooking workshops earn top marks for their intimate class sizes and practical tips you can use at home.
Browse our carefully selected workshops below, each tested and approved by our travel experts.
Good To Know
California offers a diverse range of engaging workshops and classes, from outdoor adventures like mountain biking and windsurfing to culinary experiences and specialized safety training.
Many local providers in California offer personalized, immersive class experiences, allowing travelers to customize their learning journey and explore their interests in-depth.
Classes are scheduled over extended periods, providing flexibility for travelers to fit the activities into their itinerary, with options available throughout the year.
California’s workshops and classes cater to a wide range of skill levels and accessibility needs, ensuring an inclusive experience for most travelers.
Workshops and classes in California often include convenient amenities, such as transportation, equipment, and refreshments, enhancing the overall experience for participants.
Private Guided Mountain Bike Lesson in San Diego Mountains
Nestled in the picturesque San Diego Mountains, this private guided mountain bike lesson offers an exhilarative way to explore the rugged terrain. Priced from $240 per person, the 3-5 hour adventure takes place in California, USA, with pickup and drop-off at 10545 Sunrise Hwy, Mt Laguna, CA 91948.
Available on select Monday-Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday timeslots from December 2023 through June 2025, the lesson includes bottled water, trail snacks, and lunch.
Bike rentals can be arranged through the local provider, Alter Experience.
This private tour isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations, as a moderate fitness level is required. Confirmation is subject to availability and must be received within 48 hours of booking.
Flexible cancellation policies allow free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start time.
Read our full review: Private Guided Mountain Bike Lesson in San Diego Mountains Review
Book now: Check availability
Learn to Cook Creative Chinese Cuisine: Private Cooking Class in Belmont Near SF
This private cooking class in Belmont, California invites guests to learn the art of preparing creative Chinese cuisine.
Hosted by Shuo, the class offers a hands-on experience in mastering classic dishes with a modern twist, such as pan-fried crab and pork dumplings, dumpling soup, and Peking-duck inspired bao.
Located near San Francisco, the class is priced from $66.67 per person, with free cancellation up to 2 days in advance.
The 3-hour experience includes an alcoholic beverage and gratuities. Guests will meet at Shuo’s home in Belmont, where the class will begin at 11:00 AM.
While the activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Operated by Traveling Spoon, this private class ensures that only your group will participate, providing a personalized and immersive culinary journey.
Interested you can check availability for their desired date and group size to secure their spot.
Read our full review: Learn to Cook Creative Chinese Cuisine: Private Cooking Class in Belmont Near SF Review
Book now: Check availability
Windsurfing and Wing SUPing Lessons and Rentals
Windsurfing and wing SUPing lessons and rentals at Harbor Cove Beach in Ventura, California provide an exhilarating way to experience the water. Participants can learn to sail on a Standup Paddle (SUP) board through private tours and activities, suitable for most travelers.
The equipment includes Tracker Standup Paddle Boards with sails or wings, available in junior and standard sizes. Rentals come with personal flotation devices, dry bags, paddles, and wetsuits.
The meeting point is at Harbor Cove Beach, where participants should look for a van with Winged not Wired Watersports magnets and a flag. The activity is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM and is available from December 30, 2023, to November 18, 2025.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience. Bathrooms, outdoor showers, and nearby food and shopping options make this an accessible and convenient activity.
With a 5-star rating from 2 reviews, this windsurfing and wing SUPing experience is a great way to enjoy the California coast.
Read our full review: Windsurfing and Wing SUPing Lessons and Rentals Review
Book now: Check availability
Private 2 Hour Hand Gun Class in North Highlands
A private 2-hour handgun class in North Highlands, California provides participants with world-class instruction on firearm safety and handling.
Located at 3479 Orange Grove Ave, the class costs $150 per person and includes rental firearms, ammunition, range fees, and eye/ear protection. Customers can park and enter through the glass door, then simply ask for the TNT Firearms Training class if there’s a line.
The class is open to most travelers aged 18 and up, though pregnant individuals and those with serious medical conditions aren’t recommended to participate.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the activity concludes back at the meeting point.
While the class is wheelchair and stroller accessible and near public transportation, infants must remain on laps.
Unfortunately, the class has a non-refundable cancellation policy, with no refunds issued.
Read our full review: Private 2 Hour Hand Gun Class in North Highlands Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Age Restrictions for the Mountain Bike Lesson?
Typically, most mountain bike lesson providers don’t have strict age restrictions, though they may have minimum height or skill requirements. It’s best to check with the specific lesson provider to understand their policies and ensure the class is suitable for the participant’s age and ability level.
Can Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated in the Cooking Class?
The cooking class can accommodate dietary restrictions. Most instructors are happy to work with participants’ needs, whether they have allergies, intolerances, or follow specific diets. Just let the class organizers know about any dietary requirements when registering.
What Safety Equipment Is Provided for the Windsurfing Lessons?
The windsurfing lessons provide participants with a life jacket, harness, and helmet for safety. Instructors also give detailed safety briefings on proper techniques and handling the equipment before hitting the water.
Are Eye Protection and Ear Protection Required for the Handgun Class?
Eye and ear protection are required for the handgun class. The instructor will provide the necessary safety gear, which must be worn at all times during the class for the participants’ protection.
Is There a Minimum Participant Requirement for the Private Lessons?
There is usually no minimum participant requirement for private lessons, as they are tailored to the individual student’s needs. However, some instructors may require a minimum number of participants to hold a private session.
The Sum Up
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a budding chef, or a gun enthusiast, California has a wealth of workshops and classes to explore your interests. From private mountain biking lessons in San Diego to cooking classes in the Bay Area, and even handgun training in North Highlands, the Golden State offers an array of unique educational experiences to cater to every passion. With a range of hands-on activities, you’re sure to find something that piques your curiosity.