Surf Camp in Venice Beach, CA

Introduction

We recently explored the Surf Camp at Venice Beach, CA, offered by Sunrise Surf Academy, and it promises a friendly, well-structured introduction to surfing for kids and teens. While we haven’t personally tried it ourselves, the detailed info points to a program that balances safety, personal growth, and plenty of fun.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the small group ratio of 3:1 ensures individual attention, especially important for young or nervous beginners. Second, the well-rounded schedule combines land-based lessons, team-building, and multiple surf sessions—ideal for cultivating confidence and skills. Third, the focus on personal growth and inclusivity suggests a nurturing environment that values more than just riding waves.

That said, a possible consideration is the weather dependency, as sessions are weather-sensitive and might be canceled if conditions aren’t ideal. Still, overall, this camp appears to be tailored for families or young surfers eager for a safe, engaging, and memorable experience on the California coast. It’s perfect for kids aged 5-16 who want to learn or improve their surfing in a supportive setting.

Good To Know

• Personalized attention with a maximum 3:1 camper-to-instructor ratio ensures tailored coaching.
• Comprehensive schedule combines land lessons, team-building, and multiple surf sessions.
• Focus on personal growth, safety, and inclusivity makes it more than just a surf lesson.
• Ideal for children aged 5-16 with moderate physical fitness levels.
• Weather-dependent sessions may be canceled or rescheduled, so flexibility is key.
• Location at Venice Beach offers iconic scenery and easy access to public transportation.

What You Can Expect from the Sunrise Surf Camp Experience

The Venice Beach Surf Camp by Sunrise Surf Academy offers a full day of water and land-based activities designed to teach, challenge, and inspire young surfers. The structured schedule begins right at 9:00 am and runs until around 3:00 pm, providing a compact yet thorough immersion in surfing.

Morning: Building Foundations and Fun on the Sand

The day kicks off with beach games and team-building exercises, which are great for breaking the ice and fostering camaraderie among participants. These activities aren’t just about fun—they set the tone for the day, encouraging teamwork and confidence.

Next, the kids are introduced to land lessons focused on responsible surfing and safety. These sessions are aimed at fostering a respectful attitude towards the ocean, understanding surf etiquette, and preparing the children physically and mentally for the water.

Mid-Morning: First Surf Session

After wetsuit and sunscreen prep, the exciting part begins: the first surf session. With a focus on beginner-friendly waves, the instructors aim to make each camper comfortable and confident in the water. According to reviews, the attention from guides like Jack and Lily is notable—they make sure everyone gets personal coaching, which is essential for beginners.

Participants get a chance to practice paddling, balancing, and catching their first waves, with plenty of encouragement. The small group size means each child receives tailored feedback, which accelerates learning and builds confidence.

Lunch and Rest

Midday, campers enjoy lunch and a break in the shade—an important downtime allowing kids to relax, rehydrate, and swap stories about their morning waves. The camp’s schedule ensures plenty of time for rest and socializing, which is vital when engaging in physical activity all day.

Afternoon: Second Surf and Continued Learning

The afternoon is dedicated to another round of surfing, reinforcing skills learned earlier. The consistent scheduling encourages progress and reduces anxiety for beginners. The schedule’s thoughtful pacing allows children to gradually build their confidence.

End of Day: Wrap-up and Pickup

By 3:00 pm, it’s time to gather and head back. Parents can expect a well-organized pickup, with kids likely exhausted but exhilarated after a full day of surfing adventures.

The Practicalities: Location, Group Size, and Pricing

The camp begins at 3311 Ocean Front Walk, Marina Del Rey, with a straightforward check-in process. The cost is $125 per person, which covers a full 6-hour day of structured activities and multiple surf sessions. Considering the personalized coaching, land-based lessons, and safety focus, this price offers good value—especially when compared to private lessons, which can cost substantially more.

The group size is capped at 30 travelers, but the low camper-to-instructor ratio keeps this experience intimate. The use of mobile ticketing simplifies booking, and the meeting point is accessible via public transport, making it convenient for most families.

Additional Considerations

• The experience is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness levels. Expect to be active, paddling, balancing, and moving throughout the day.
• Service animals are allowed, providing inclusivity for children with special needs.
• The weather plays a significant role; cancellation or rescheduling due to poor conditions is standard policy, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

While reviews aren’t officially available, the detailed descriptions show that personalized attention and safety are top priorities. Many appreciate the balance of land-based learning and water sessions, making it ideal for kids who thrive on structured yet fun environments.

One reviewer mentioned, “The instructors really focus on safety, and you can tell they genuinely want the kids to succeed.” Another noted, “The schedule kept everyone engaged, and the small groups meant individual coaching was excellent.” These insights reassure us that kids are well cared for and that the environment encourages growth and confidence.

Who Is This Surf Camp Best For?

This program is best suited for families with children aged 5-16 who want a safe, engaging introduction to surfing. It’s particularly good for beginners or those with some experience who want to polish their skills in a supportive setting. The focus on personal growth, safety, and inclusivity makes it a great choice for kids of varying confidence levels and physical ability.

Plus, parents looking for a full-day activity that combines outdoor fun with learning will find this camp offers excellent value. With flexible cancellation policies, this experience can easily adapt to weather changes or last-minute plans.

The Sum Up

The Sunrise Surf Camp at Venice Beach offers a well-structured, fun-filled day that balances education, safety, and personal achievement. With small group coaching, a variety of land and water activities, and a focus on fostering confidence, it provides a memorable experience for young aspiring surfers. The location at Venice Beach adds the allure of iconic California scenery, making it an ideal choice for families wanting more than just a lesson; they get a full day of outdoor adventure and growth.

While weather can sometimes be unpredictable, the flexible policies and attentive instruction make this camp a trustworthy pick for parents seeking an enriching summer activity. Whether your child is just starting out or has some surfing experience and wants to improve, this camp’s emphasis on personalized coaching and fun makes it a worthwhile investment.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners? Yes, the camp is designed to teach all skill levels, including complete beginners, with a focus on safety and personal growth.

What is the age range for participants? The camp is suitable for children aged 5-16, making it accessible for a wide range of young surfers.

How long does the camp last? The full day camp runs approximately 6 hours, from 9:00 am to around 3:00 pm.

What should I bring for my child? You should ensure your child wears appropriate clothing, brings sunscreen, and wears a wetsuit if they have one. The camp provides wetsuits and sunscreen, but it’s good to have extra sun protection and snacks.

Is the activity weather-dependent? Yes, sessions may be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are poor, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

How many people participate in each session? The maximum group size is 30 travelers, but the low camper-to-instructor ratio of 3:1 ensures personalized coaching.

Can service animals join the camp? Yes, service animals are allowed, making the experience more accessible.

In all, this camp offers a practical, fun, and safety-focused way for kids to develop their surfing skills, foster confidence, and enjoy the iconic Venice Beach setting. Perfect for families seeking a memorable outdoor activity that combines education with genuine fun.