My partner and I took our very first surf lessons here. First: I am not a strong swimmer, I have bad experiences with water and the ocean, and I was extremely apprehensive about this experience. It was something my partner was really interested in though, and I figured it was worth it just to try. Now I can say: WOW it was worth it! Our instructor Gavin provided everything I could hope for in a first time surf lesson. He was knowledgeable, encouraging, and above all else - patient. The water was rough and the waves were bigger than I had expected, but Gavin's energy completely put me at ease and made me feel safe in what otherwise would have felt like a terrifying place to be for me. He took his time to explain what sets are and how swim under the stronger waves. He was very intuitive to my comfort levels as well. My partner is much less timid than myself, and he was ready to "dive right in". Gavin was just as patient with my partner's excitement as he was with my anxiety. He made conversation easy with his friendliness and relaxed spirit. Thank you SO much Gavin for everything we learned, for building my confidence throughout our lesson, and for helping us discover a new favorite hobby. Not a moment went by without smiles on our faces. We will absolutely be return customers. read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Courtesy of the best surf instructor: Gavin! - Surf Schools Near Me

Always wanted to take surfing lessons and when there was a Yelp Elite event I decided to go for it!! Noah was super helpful in the booking process where you put your name, height, weight, and sex. We were originally going to surf at Carmel beach but surfing conditions were rough there so we ended up at Del Monte Beach in Monterey. Prior to the lesson we were instructed where to meet, come in your bathing suit, and bring your own beach towels. As far as valuables go, they can lock it up in the truck or you can lock it in your car. I was weary but they had someone sitting in their truck so I felt safer. Wetsuits are provided and you don't really feel cold even in that Monterey water! The end of the lesson you can rinse off with warm water they provide which is nice! Kelly was our instructor and he was so patient and kind! They teach anyone from 4 y/o and up! I am in no way athletic and hella out of shape but I had a blast! At the end of the lesson, both of us were beat up by those waves but we stood up!!! It's a great workout that will leave you sore the next day! So I recommend not eating a big breakfast prior. My boyfriend is not a big fan of open water and the ocean but we both felt very safe! I highly recommend trying out surfing at least once in your life! Something to check off my bucket list. I can't imagine you could pick up surfing without instruction so I'm glad we did this! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Surf Schools Near Me

Our instructor Emily was so fun and patient! Came for the free Yelp Elite session, and I will def come back in the future to ride the waves again. If you want to get good, highly recommend doing a private lesson. We did a group lesson so we took turns in the water. The day we went was super windy and the waves were pretty crazy. The water was shallow though so we were still able to stand up (thank god). Getting the hang of it really takes some practice, but glad we had a great instructor to help us. So so fun!! Also, thanks Carmel Surf Lessons for the pics!! Please keep doing that for customers, the action pics are such a great memory to have read more

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So I was that girl that would find the thrill in dangerously walking as closely to the edge of the waves as possible and then running for my life as it chases after me. The surf lesson completely introduced me to the danger zone. I was expecting we'd be going into the ocean and practicing at knee height, NOPE. Beginners start out at water chin high FYI. Can't swim? NO problem. The surf board will keep you afloat like a floatie. Emily was the BEST instructor we could have ever asked for, extremely supportive and passionate about teaching. Anyways, I definitely recommend y'all come out to Carmel/ Monterey to ride the waves! read more

Thank you Carmel Surf Lessons for the super fun surfs! The instructors were patient and answered all questions. We spent about 15min on the beach learning the basics, how to do a pop up and off we went to the ocean! Waves were rough as it was a gloomy day. They saw us struggling and moved everyone to an area with calmer waves. Unfortunately I'm a weak swimmer but the instructor was super patient and helped me catch the waves. I highly recommend the class for beginners and first timers! I wouldn't have been able to catch the waves and stand on the surf board without the instructors! Thank you Carmel Surf Lessons! :) read more

Wow! What a great team this company has. My husband and I came out from the East Coast and took private lessons from Kelly. He was amazing. He was educational, relaxed, attentive and an expert when it comes to surfing. If I could rate him and the company higher, I would. We not only got up the first day multiple Times, but enjoyed it so much we met up for another round two days later. Cannot wait to come back and surf again with them. Professional, kind, communicative and experiences. Highly recommend!! read more

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My significant other and I had the most amazing experience surfing with Carmel Surf Lessons. I highly recommend them and their instructor Emily for surfing lessons. Surfing was something my significant other and I had both wanted to do for some time, and we are so glad we had our first experience with Carmel Surf Lessons. It started with a phone call with Noah, who led us through the simple registration process on their website. We received direction and confirmation throughout our time waiting for our surfing date to arrive. You only need to prepare your swimsuit and towel. They will take care of the surfboard and wetsuit for you. They have availabilities for lessons in the morning and afternoon. Noah explained to us that it would be best to surf in the morning due to the difference in availability of waves. We decided on the afternoon time slot, 1200 - 1400 on a Friday, because we needed time to drive down from Mountain View. However, there were still plenty of waves to ride during the afternoon! Kelly, the manager, had group messaged us to let our group of four know the location of the lessons the day before. On the day of, we received a message updating us on the location because the waves were better at another beach. We had conversation with Emily regarding how they choose the beach to hold their lessons at, and Emily told us they drive around early mornings to check out the waves at various beaches. I am so appreciative of the work and effort they put into finding the best location to hold their lessons. Emily was such a wonderful instructor. She had such positive energy and really knows how to work with you and your comfort level. She also knows how to push you and gives amazing tips to help you surf. We practiced paddling and popping up on the shore. Then we were out in the water, doing what we practiced on the shore, in the ocean. Just like that! I cannot believe I was able to stand up on my first try, though I did topple over shortly after! Emily was extremely patient with me in the ocean and made sure I was absolutely ready to go before she pushed me out to catch a wave. She would notice when I was nervous or needed to catch my breath before going. One time, I just told her I was ready, so she did not have to wait on me. However, she noticed and asked me if I was sure, to which I responded, "No." She waited for another two waves to pass when I told her I was actually ready, and off I went. Surfing was so fun; my significant other and I are most definitely interested in taking more surf lessons. Lastly, I would just like to remind everyone to tip your instructor because they put so much time and effort to prepare for your surfing lesson, as well as to teach you during the lesson itself. read more

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I always wanted to learn to surf and finally got the opportunity through Caramel Surf Lessons. The instructors were friendly, patient, and accommodating, which I appreciate because it takes longer for me to pick up on things than others. I would recommend them towards other beginners. read more

My partner and I took surf lessons as part of the Yelp elite event, and let me be honest here: I really did not want to do surf lessons. But my partner did, so I sucked it up and dreaded it most of the day. I am not a good swimmer, and I'm not the biggest fan of the ocean. I'm glad, though, that I took this opportunity because it was such a great experience! We called them up and they had us book either a morning or afternoon lesson. We chose afternoon, and they monitor the weather and tides and such to pick out a time for us. We ended up meeting them near Monterey wharf around 2 p.m. They instructed us beforehand to wear our swimsuits, but everything els was provided! As others have mentioned, the lessons are mobile--like a lot of surf organizations around the area. There aren't changing rooms and such, but the company prepared us for that ahead of time. Our instructor was Emily, and she was an absolute delight. She radiated fun and positivity, but not in an overbearing way. She started us out on the beach for some practice paddling and "popping up," and then we headed out to the water. Another instructor, Kelly, was also giving lessons nearby and he made it a point to say if he was happy to help us, too, when he was around. The waves were tame and the water was smooth, so I never felt too nervous about being out there. Plus, the water was not too deep either. But when we did ride waves, we had nice long rides to the shore. It was great! I was never super successful at standing up, but I really had a blast. I know there are many options in the area, but I'd highly recommend them for surf lessons! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Smooth water - Surf Schools Near Me

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At first you notice the colors. No, I don't mean of the ocean (which are fantastic in their own right), I mean the colors of this human being. Not only is she fly with her purple and blue chrome visor and blue and pink wetsuit, but she emits a vibrancy of rainbow frequencies. Her name is Emily Hunt and she is a surf instructor (among many things). She could be your surf instructor. She takes things lightly; the biggest prerogative to have fun. There's not a competitive bone in her body so it's enjoyable to be absolute rubbish at surfing in her company. She has great practical tips, and a go-getup (with compassion) attitude. You'll be laughing, and throwing your arms up in 'Hey ma, look at me!' celebratory gestures in no time. Oooo and Carmel Surf Lessons has the best end-of-lesson treat. I won't ruin the surprise, but you will be pleased. I know I was. And at the end of the two hours, you'll be that much more rich by having spent time with Emily Hunt. Cheers! And surf's up! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Grubbing for her next lesson! - Surf Schools Near Me

Had a great time surfing with Emily as our instructor. She made surfing fun and approachable, even for two out of shape folks like us! Her enthusiasm made this a really fun experience, and I was super pleased to have a woman instructor. Because of the situation they were fairly easy to find, but on a busier day at the beach, I could see groups getting frustrated in finding the truck. I'd highly suggest they add some sort of signage. They provide wetsuits, surfboards, and a delightful hot water rinse off post-surf. We were able to throw our stuff in the truck while we surfed so it was secure. Dont forget to bring your own towel. We will definitely be back and will recommend to family/friends! Thanks for a great time :) *Note: there's no actual building or location for changing, so come in your swimsuit and use the bathroom beforehand, as you won't have an opportunity as this is a fully mobile business. read more

Great instructors at Carmel Surf Lessons! My first time surfing was 10 years ago and I didn't have an instructor to teach me how to get up on the board to ride a wave correctly. Thank goodness I had Kai as my instructor this time around. After thorough explanation and some practice on the sand, I got up on my first wave. Although, I looked goofy trying to maintain my balance, I felt accomplished. After nearly an hour, I was fatigued and my shoulders felt like they were going to fall off. Kai was understanding as I took a break on the beach. After about 15 minutes, I headed back out into the water to ride some more waves. After the lesson, Kai brought a large jug of warm water to wash me down; it was very refreshing so I wouldn't freeze to death!y surf lesson was a great experience. Thanks Kai! read more

We booked the surfing lesson last minute through the company's online request. Luckily they replied my email also texted to confirm the appointment! Our teenager boys' 1st surf lesson. My boys had so much fun and I saw coach Elijia helped the whole team practice/perform their best. Although the meeting place is at the beautiful Carmel-by-the-sea beach while the truck meeting place is located at the corner so actually easy to find parking in the morning. They take good care of students! read more

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This was the best surfing lesson I ever received. The instructors are so kind, encouraging and helpful. I was able to stand on the board and I learnt how to paddle out with my board. It was fun, amazing and I'm now a surfer girly! read more

My 13yr old daughter has never surfed and is not always super comfortable in the ocean but wanted to learn to surf. Kelly at Carmel Surf assured me that they would have an instructor with her the whole time and do her lesson in shallow water. My daughter's lesson was so amazing! Her instructor, Emily, was friendly and made my daughter immediately feel comfortable. She was laughing, having fun and looked confident out in the water! She now says she feels ready to go out and surf on her own! Thank you for the great lesson and helping my kiddo feel at home out in the water! read more

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My 15 year old daughter and her friend had a great time today. All the guys were very nice and patient. My daughter ended up getting a bit seasick and had to sit out early (nothing to do with the lesson, just not used to being on the water very often!) The instructor came in to check on her, which was very thoughtful. read more

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My 2 kids, ages 6&8 had their first surfing experience with Kai and Makenna. Not being strong swimmers, this was actually their 2nd time in the ocean (1st in the Pacific) The instructors were stellar at building trust with the kids and making sure they were comfortable and having fun. They stayed on the boards with the children, allowing them to safely stand up and catch a wave without fear of wiping out. Kelly was amazing as far as being flexible and helpful with getting the lesson organized. We started thinking it'd be a mixed group of 6 kids/adults, which turned into one lesson with just my 2 kids. Kelly didn't falter at all with my inconsistency and was able to get everything organized with clear information on what to expect. It was the ideal introduction to a new sport and I'd highly recommend!! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Surf Schools Near Me

People friendly staff and patience with beginners, made everyone feel confident and engaged.

Great morning on the water. Very much enjoyed and now feel like I have a solid foundation.

What a joy to get top notch surfing instruction for our church youth group. The kids (and adults) had a great time! Heath was a wonderful instructor and managed our group of 19 with the ease of the positive, seasoned professional he is. What an awesome experience! Highly recommended! read more

Noah is one of the best instructors I've had for any sport, period. His passion for surfing is contagious, and he makes what I thought would be a very difficult sport for beginners -- EASY. I was amazed. Less than 30 minutes into the lesson, I was already standing up and riding in waves to shore. Noah knows exactly when to introduce new material, and when to let someone "get a feel for it" before introducing the next step. His teaching style made surfing feel intuitive. (Major accomplishment, given I am a total klutz!) Also fantastic teacher-to-student ratio (I was in a group class and still got tons of personalized attention). Bonus: top-of-the-line gear rentals. I actually got to rent a brand new O'Neil wetsuit, and high-end surf board, for no additional price. Above all though was the quality of instruction. Inspiring, helpful, attentive, and FUN. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND Carmel Surf Lessons. Can't wait to get back out on the water again!! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Getting ready for first surfing lesson ever. - Surf Schools Near Me

I've never written a yelp review but felt that I owed it to Noah and his super awesome staff to hop on here and say what's up! We're on a big road trip from WA to Baja and all the surf shops were closed - luckily we ran into Noah in town and he totally hooked us up with all the right gear we needed to go have a great time surfing as well as recommendations on some great surf spots. Super grateful to you man!! This is definitely the guy you want to give your business to folks! See ya down the way Noah! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Surf Schools Near Me

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Best surf lessons in the history of all time. The instructor Makena was super stoked, an expert at recognizing where we were erring and providing helpful cues for modifications, and hilarious. He was patient with us and by the end of our first lesson we were SHREDDING ALL THE GNAR. (Although gnar is actually an inexhaustible resource so there will be plenty left for you when you take your lessons.) The boards and wetsuits were top notch and well maintained. We went on a coldish day and at the end of our lesson they even had WARM fresh water to rinse off with. 5 out of 5 stars totally recommend. read more

The whole family spent a week in Carmel and decided to try surfing for the first time. Noah and his team made the whole experience very enjoyable and easy. They provided all the equipment including wet suits, but more importantly, they provided expert advice and guidance. There were 8 new surfers taking lessons and we had 3 instructors, so we all had tons of attention. The equipment was well maintained and the instructors were patient. One thing to note, it was cash only, so I had to run to the ATM machine, not a big deal but a minor inconvenience. read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Surf Schools Near Me

What a fun experience for the family. The water may be icy cold and the waves are just the right size for the newbie to this sport. The instructors really care and will make sure you have a positive experience while surfing Carmel. You will have a memorable experience after this. read more

Mitchel was a great instructor and helped our entire group learn the basics of surfing. He taught us how to use the board on land first before we moved into the water. He made sure we were all comfortable swimming in the ocean before we took the boards in. Emily wasn't our instructor but we met her and she had good vibes read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Surf Schools Near Me

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A full afternoon of great surf lessons! My 13 year old daughter had been asking us about surf lessons for a while, so on a weekend getaway in Carmel , we booked Noah and his team. The crew showed up at a quiet corner of Carmel beach with all the equipment: surfboards , wetsuits... everything looks to be in good or new shape. There were about 3 or 4 instructors (can't remember ) for the group lesson. About 6 people in the class of varying age and abilities on the water. Really good ratio of instructors to students at any rate. Everyone got a lot of personal instruction and coaching. They started with the boards on the sand with some quick balancing, paddling and standing maneuvers, then into the water. The waves were perfect for 1st timers, and the instructors kept everybody moving! The location was perfect too, out of the way of the regulars and other beach traffic. A good length to the class too, definitely got our money's worth. (A couple of hours, probably just over 2) Most people were up on their boards by the halfway point, and absolutely everyone was having a blast! Next time we are down on the coast we will call Noah again, it's worth it just to have the equipment there and have an experienced surfer to surf with. read more

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Wow what a fun experience with Noah and Kai It was awesome surfing with these professional men and women It was almost a dare to do this and so glad we said yes The new wetsuits and surfboards made me feel safe, secure and stroked to be in the water. I'd also say that they took there time finding waves that where not scared at all. This outfit took good care of us the staff ratio was 2:4 which made for tons of assistance. Highly recommend read more

If you are considering learning to catch a wave with Carmel Surf Lessons, do it. Just do it. The instructors were outstanding - they had great attitudes and were oh, so patient. Their group lessons had a great student-to-teacher ratio. That, combined with the guys' seamless teamwork, made us feel taken care of through the entire lesson. From explaining how to put on a wet suit to walking us through basic positioning on the board to coaching us in the water, they gave us what we needed to be successful and have fun. It was an exceptional experience! These guys know how make learning fun! read more

The surf instructor (owner) Noah was the most down to earth chill guy. Very patient and encouraging for new surfers. You can tell everyone around town knows this guy and he is respected in high regards in the surf world. I will be back next year to learn to surf this time ! My son learned to surf in one lesson ! Thank you Carmel Surf Lesson's! Highly reccomend! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Surf Schools Near Me

Mitchell is a great teacher. I was on a lesson with him and McKenna, and they both were so personable and warm. I left this lesson wanting more and I came back five days in a row because I was learning so much and felt so welcome. I am 23 but it was lovely to watch them with much smaller children, encouraging them in the water and he'll g then tackle waves. read more

My friends and I had so much fun at the carmel surf lessons. The two instructors were very nice and enthusiastic. The ratio of student to instructor was 3:1. And they had variety of boards that you can try if you want. Noah responded emails very fast when we were arranging schedules. The only thing that I would ask is the cleanliness of wetsuits and wished it would be nice if there's somewhere that I can change. But the staffs were super chill and nice. read more

If you want to have a fun experience in the water riding waves this is the guy, Noah and his crew are professional and fun!

Carmel Surf Lessons is great!! Noah Greenberg taught me how to surf about 6 years ago and it was one of the best experiences of my life! He and all of his instructors are absolutely great and so hands on. They are all very knowledgable and want to help you catch as many waves as possible and give you helpful instructions with lots of encouragement. In their hands, you are always safe and having a blast. I return year after year for a relaxing time with good people! Every time is an awesome experience. I recommend Carmel Surf Lessons to everyone looking for an enjoyable beach trip! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - New boards and wetsuits! :) - Surf Schools Near Me

Great session with Mitchell this morning. Patient, purposeful and supportive. Plus, a great guy to hang with. Highly recommend!! Gary (Carnel by the Sea) read more

Just wanted to find a place to grab wetsuit and board - wasn't really looking for a lesson. Went out with a group and an amazing instructor named Pippen gave me pointers throughout. Made a huge difference to me. Great guys. read more

Robert is THE BEST instructor if you are serious about learning to surf. He is a super cool guy who is very knowledgeable about surfing, the ocean, and science behind everything. Guys.... when I say I have two left feet, like I am uncoordinated for real. I did not think I would be able to stand up. Within five minutes I was literally standing up on the board and riding waves. It was so exciting. He found ways to challenge me to the next level when I learned one thing. Also was very encouraging the whole time when I was nervous. I would for sure recommend this surf company over any of the others. They are chill dudes that are professional and knowledgeable. They provide the surf boards and wet suits, so it is super convenient. If you can afford it the private lessons with a buddy it is totally the way to go so you can get the most out of the experience. We also got super cool hats and sunglasses as little gifts after which was pretty sweet. Overall I am super happy I found this place and a new love for surfing. Thanks for everything ! :) read more

I had never had a surf lesson before my experience with Carmel Surf Lessons, but I immediately felt welcomed, safe, and encouraged! The instructor, Kai, was incredibly patient, thorough, and helpful when it came to getting up on my first wave. We even paddled out to explore the seaweed and shallow marine life. It was awesome. If you're in Carmel and looking for a bit of adventure and exercise, I highly recommend Carmel Surf Lessons!! read more

Noah was a big help when my group of friends and I were out in the water. If you ever want to learn how to surf or if you're looking for something fun to do, come and have fun learning how to surf with Noah! Definitely something I want to do again! read more

Carmel Surf Lessons - Surf Schools Near Me

Emily was exactly what I needed when I decided I wanted to learn how to surf! I was so nervous but so excited to try this new sport out. She is encouraging, easy going, and a lot of fun. I felt safe the whole time I was with Emily. She brought a sense of security when I felt nervous. Seriously will take lessons from her again! Can't recommend her enough! read more