What makes a surf school the best in California? Is it the waves? The boards? The beach vibes? Maybe it’s all of that. But if you ask the students, the parents, and the surfers who keep coming back, they’ll tell you the real secret: it’s the heart. That’s what Aqua Surf has—heart, passion, and a mission that reaches far beyond the sand.
This year, Aqua Surf has been nominated as the Best Surf School in California. And for those who know this Santa Monica-based school, that’s no small splash. Aqua Surf has been riding waves—and changing lives—since 1997. That’s almost thirty years of teaching surfing in a way that’s safe, fun, and deeply meaningful. What began as a local passion project has grown into one of the most respected surf programs on the West Coast.
Aqua Surf is more than a school. It’s a place where people grow, smile, and believe in themselves. Their mission is to educate, inspire, lead, and empower people through surfing. That’s not just a nice slogan. It’s something they practice every single day. Every lesson is about more than surfing. It’s about building confidence, making friends, and having a blast.
Do your kids dream of catching waves? Their summer surf camps are a highlight for kids across Southern California. Every year, children and teens between the ages of 5 and 17 gather at the beach to learn, play, and grow. Whether it’s for a single day or a full week, campers get an experience they’ll never forget. They surf, of course, but they also build friendships, play games, and learn important life skills. They learn how to respect the ocean, how to fall and get back up, and how to work together as a team.
Parents love Aqua Surf because it’s safe. The team is made up of professional instructors who are certified in CPR, First Aid, and ocean safety. But more than that, they’re mentors. They’re positive role models who lead with kindness and patience. Many of them come back year after year. Some even started as students themselves. And because Aqua Surf runs its rigorous training program, every instructor is prepared for anything the beach throws their way.
And let’s not forget about the teaching method. It’s one of the most thoughtful and well-structured in the surf world. Students learn how to read tides, understand wave timing, and practice surf etiquette. They study swell reports, tide charts, and learn how to stay safe in different ocean conditions. They’re taught not only how to surf—but how to think like surfers. And through it all, they’re having the time of their lives.
Every Friday, the camps end with something special: a surf contest. But don’t picture kids battling each other for the top prize. This contest is about self-mastery. Students are recognized for personal growth, not just performance. They compete against their own goals, not each other. Prizes are given out—surfboards, trophies, hats—but the biggest reward is pride. Parents are invited to watch and cheer. It’s a celebration of effort, resilience, and fun.
For those who want more flexible options, Aqua Surf has that, too. You can sign up for full days or half days. You can register for a week or just drop in. Morning or afternoon? It’s your choice. They also offer extended care, sunscreen breaks, and plenty of shade for kids who need a rest from the sun. Every detail is thought through, and every decision is made with the students’ best interests in mind.
Aqua Surf also runs private and group surf lessons year-round. Whether you’re four years old or ninety-four, there’s a lesson for you. Beginners, intermediates, and advanced surfers are all welcome. Lessons run from sunrise to sunset, seven days a week. And every lesson comes with all the gear you need—surfboards, wetsuits, and, of course, great instructors. Many families, friends, and even corporate groups join together for lessons, building memories that last a lifetime.
But perhaps the most special part of Aqua Surf is what they do off the board. They give back. Their programs include scholarships and discounts for families in need. They create surf experiences for youth from all backgrounds. They teach environmental awareness, run beach cleanups, and make sure students understand what it means to care for our oceans. They don’t just surf in the community—they build it.
It’s no wonder they’ve been awarded the #1 Surf School in Southern California. They have the best safety practices, the best student-to-instructor ratios, and the most caring staff. But more than that, they have a spirit that can’t be matched. They believe in surfing. They believe in nature. And they believe in people.
In 2025, Aqua Surf is celebrating 20 years of its legendary surf camps. That’s two decades of laughter, growth, and passion. They’ve helped thousands of students ride their first wave, conquer fears, and discover new strengths within themselves. That kind of impact doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from dedication, heart, and a deep belief that surfing can change lives.
So, is Aqua Surf the best surf school in California? Yes — and now the rest of the world is noticing, too.
Aqua Surf deserves to be named Best Surf School in California because they’ve been teaching the art of surfing since 1997. They offer top-notch instruction and create a safe, fun experience every time. But they do more than teach surf skills. They teach life skills. They care about the ocean, the community, and every single student who joins them.
They make surfing possible — and meaningful — for everyone. That’s why their nomination is so well-deserved. Because at Aqua Surf, it’s never just about surfing. It’s about becoming something more.
And that’s the kind of school California — and the world — truly needs.🏄♂️ Surf’s up. And so is Aqua Surf.
