Surf Happens

I do like to drop into surf shops when I happen to be in a beach town. When I was in Carpentaria…read morenear Santa Claus beach, I popped into the A-Frame Surf shop. They offer *surf boards, *SUPs, *boogey boards, leashes, wax, *wetsuit, swim gear, towels, clothes, hats, sunglasses, and beach gear. They *rent out gear. Also what sets them apart from typical surf shops is that they offer lessons (all ages) and summer camps for kids. The shop is clean, modern, well stocked and organized. The staff were helpful. Plus I happen to see the kiddos summer camp surf lessons at Santa Claus beach. I was impressed with the organization and leadership to handle the gaggle of surfing kiddos and teach 'em a thing or two .

It's unfortunate because every time we come to Carpinteria, we've stopped by this surf shop for the…read morepast 10 years. We always hope the experience will be different, and we've purchased items from the store many times over the years. Unfortunately, the staff has consistently come across as unfriendly and unwelcoming. As a customer, it's hard not to wonder if we're being treated differently, and that feeling is disappointing. Whether that's the case or not, we've never felt welcomed here despite being loyal customers. It's sad that after so many visits, the experience has never improved. Based on our repeated experiences over the years, I can't recommend this shop. Zero stars.

Kona shaved ice after camp

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Tiki Trader

4.3(3 reviews)

1.6 mi

Big congrats to AK on his new tiki retail store. Super excited to come across the Tiki Trader while…read moreon our annual camping trip to CARP. Picked up an awesome puffer fish lamp and tiki lava lamp. Can't wait to add to my home tiki bar and tiki hut. If you're looking to add to your tiki bar, Tiki Trader is the place. AK put together an amazing selection of tiki decor. Can't wait to visit again.

Hours aren't accurate, too bad because what we could see looked cool. But we came from out of the…read morearea, so doubt we'll come back, too far. Says open until 5pm, we got there at 4:15. Phone number doesn't work either.

Beautiful puffer fish hangers and glass fisherman hanging bouy

Beautiful hanging glass fisherman bouys from Tiki Vato!

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Puffer fish hanging in the tiki hut!

Max McDonald Surfboard Repair

4.9(11 reviews)

0.8 mi

I have been getting boards back from Max for years now. He does a fantastic job guarantees all of…read morehis work. He's my go to guy for when I have ding repair. Max is Surf legend don't let him tell you any different used to be one of the best surfers in California. He also shapes great surfboards! He is overall outstanding guy. Really taught me a lot about surfboard design with my equipment. Enjoy!

Dinging your favorite board is one of the worst feelings, fortunately Max has the cure. He provides…read morea super high quality repair that will leave your board as good as new, which he also guarantees! Max has fixed a huge variety of dings for me, on the rail, on the fin box, on the spine, on the tail and on the nose. He even fixed a partially buckled board that is now going strong. He is a legendary surfboard shaper so he really knows what he is doing. He always keeps his repairs true to the original shape of the board and as light as possible. All this for a very fair price. Be sure to check out the picture on his door of Max getting barreled at Puerto Escondido in the 70's.

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Top side of the broken board. Done perfect.

Murray's Sports

3.9(8 reviews)

3.6 mi

I've been using Murrays my Hobie 16 & Hobie Wave parts for years. Starting with line kits,…read moremiscellaneous shackles and pins, shrouds all the way through life preservers & harnesses. The quality of the goodies is awesome. But the best thing is being able to reach out to Murrays and get some amazing tips, recommendations etc. when I get to some non-standard / more obscure line items. Thanks Murrays & Tom for keeping my boat in the water!

I would give less than 1 star if I could. I ordered an H18 traveler assembly from them about a…read moreyear and a half ago (alongside a lots of other parts and accs). It has been on backorder this entire time and still is. I finally found one at another shop online, so I called them and asked to cancel the order and refund it so I could get the ONE available elsewhere. These are hard to find. They said they would do it, but it might take a week or so as it is an old order. Now over two months later and after numerous e-mails and phone calls, I have been told basically, "Sorry, we can't refund it, accounting says it isn't possible". This is nonsense, it is a $200 part, the owner could refund me from petty cash or his own money and write off the expense. I will NEVER shop here again. This is literal theft, they took my money, never delivered the part and refuse to refund a cancelled order. Unbelievable!

Custom sailboat rigging made on site

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Steve Murray

Angels Antiques

4.2(16 reviews)

1.6 mi

•$$$

I love the selection at this store. This is my second visit. I drove from LA and arrived late…read moreafternoon. I entered the store and wasn't greeted. I started shopping as it was late in the day...I had no idea what time they were closing but they were open when I got there.The couple burst into a fight while I was in the store. Shouting at each other and acting like they were on judge Judy. I felt like my parents were fighting. It was uncomfortable and awkward so I walked to the back to give them room to feud...the store is giant and has lots of alcoves and areas. Great stuff! I then asked after they'd simmered down "is your other shop open for a bit?" I was responded to by a look up and down and a " ehhhh it's between opened and closed." Okkkkkk. Weird. I then asked continued shopping and asked "do you know what this is? " and the male owner said "can you move I want to bring stuff in" I didn't move, instead I asked the price....he paused and said 95. I moved out of his way and said "I do t know what's going on here here but the vibes are insane and terrible." "Yeah I know sorry about that" all I said was "yeah it's terrible" and I left. Drove 2 hours to shop here. I will never return. Get a divorce or don't work together maybe. You guys are wild!

The sweetest couple owns this antique shop. Definitely worth the visit! Ask Wayne about his…read moresurfboard collection.

Wooden xylophone

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Paddle Sports Center

4.7(151 reviews)

8.4 mi

We rented kayaks here to kayak to the Santa Barbara pier area. The customer service is great. They…read moreare very helpful and sweet. The good thing is that it's by the harbour so the water is calm. You can even bring your toddler on this Kayak! I brought my little one and she loves it! The highlight was to kayak to see the sea lions lying around with lots of birds in a very close proximity, but you're not supposed to get too close or the sea lions get scared. The sea lions were clapping at one point and waving at my friend, which was super cute. The dock that you depart from is less ideal. You had to paddle under this wooden walkway where part of it was dripping and has spider webs, which makes it a little unappealing. They have a changing room for you to change after because you most likely will get wet, so make sure to bring extra change of clothes, especially pants and underwear.

This is my go-to adventure on a sunny morning in Santa Barbara. I joined the monthly member club…read moreyears ago and would go kayak a few times a week. It is hard to maintain with my work schedule, so now I sneak in a workout every so often which is great because you can pay by the hour for any activity. Try the single, tandem kayaks or paddle boards. After you sign the waiver, you just got check in and put your things in the locker and walk to the dock. It's that easy. Grab your equipment and go! The latest workout included sea lions, pelicans, cranes, and waves from other boaters and water activists. Have a great time with friends or relax on your own. It's worth the fun!

The single Kayak that holds the dog.

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Santa Barbara Surf School

4.8(47 reviews)

7.6 mi

I took a surf lesson with Joshua and it was such an epic experience! I had never really surfed…read morebefore, and was super nervous. Joshua was super patient, and made me feel really comfortable. He was super flexible around our schedule, and we even ended up surfing with a pod of dolphins around us--it was truly one of the best experiences ever! Couldn't recommend enough, will definitely be booking another lesson!

Had another great day in the ocean for my second lesson, Noah was a great coach. The surf was a…read morelittle heavier this time, still it was a lot of fun. Noah was very personable and patient, we had a great conversation and I learned a couple of things. He even left me with some resources to look at if I continue surfing. Even if you are not very athletic or you are a little older (like me), you will have a good experience at Santa Barbara Surf School based on the lessons I had with Spencer and Noah.

Santa Barbara Surf School - High quailty surfboards for beginnners and comfortable wetsuits provided for all surf lessons here at Santa Barbara Surf School!

High quailty surfboards for beginnners and comfortable wetsuits provided for all surf lessons here at Santa Barbara Surf School!

Student popping up during surf lesson!

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Surf lesson student with instructor

Pike’s Surf & Sk8 School

5.0(69 reviews)

9.3 mi

James is an amazing surf instructor. My 10-year-old son absolutely loved it. He definitely loves…read morewhat he does for a living and it shows. He was very personable and easy-going. We are looking forward to our next trip!

James is an ABSOLUTELY AMAZING surf coach…read more James is knowledgeable, skilled and able to convey the spirit and stoke of surfing. He knows when to go and where to take you so you will have success. He is a wealth of information on equipment, mechanics, environment, and the mental and physical components of surfing. If you're interested in surf history and culture, as I was, he will also teach you a lot. I've worked with quite a few surf coaches, and James is the best. He is a phenomenal teacher. He teaches ocean safety, awareness and respect. He is excellent at breaking down moves. My sense is that he adjusts his teaching style to the student. I'm sure he is great at working with beginners, but he's also quite skilled at working with advanced beginner/intermediate surfers. As noted in several other reviews, James is communicative, committed and competent. He is super conscientious, he shows up early, and often goes overtime in order to give students best experience. Never got the sense he was looking at his watch, like with other coaches. And he's just delightful to work with, an incredibly down-to-earth and generous person, I feel super lucky to have gotten a chance to get coaching lessons from him. If you have an opportunity to work with him, you won't be disappointed!!

Dogtown academy in action!!!

Lucas is my favorite surfer! He's got style, check out that awesome bonzer surfboard under his arm. 5'5, 19 & 1/2 and 2 & 3/8.

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James Pike Owner of Pike Surf & SK8 Skool:)

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S M.

7 years ago

Best Surf School Ever! Surf Happens made our trip perfect. We just finished a weekend getaway to the Santa Barbara area and our children had the best time learning to surf with Surf Happens! The first day was so great they insisted on a second lesson, despite a tight schedule. We had three kids taking lessons, and each had a different level of skill or anxiety and all were accommodated with the amazing instructors. Our youngest was very nervous about being tossed about by waves, but was the one asking for "one more run!" several times over by the end of the lesson. Watching him stand up on those waves was inspiring! We also had two young teens at slightly different experience levels who were given all they needed to find the waves and get up on their boards with confidence. The fact there was time on the beach learning about the water and how to handle yourself in the ocean was great for our landlocked kids. The second day's lesson included instruction on land too, reviewing the safety information from the day before and learning about the changes in the waves at the new beach. The Surf Happens instructors were so great- engaged but relaxed, eager to share their passion and knowledge, and encourage the kids through the challenges and triumphs of surfing. With years of experience at all the area beaches, they know the waves like the backs of their hands and when/where is best for your level of ability. We are now looking for a time to come back for their week-long surf camps! Thank you to the team at Surf Happens! read more

Lucero N.

3 years ago

I appreciate the instructor's friendly demeanor and informative approach, which helped my daughter get up on the board a few times. However, there was a slight concern regarding the session structure. Although I booked a 2-hour lesson, the instructor spent the entire first hour on explanations, entering the water only during the second hour. As a family from LA on a budget, we value cost-effective activities, especially considering our reliance on community-based free lesson programs. Unfortunately, having only one of the two paid hours actively in the water made the overall experience less satisfying, considering the financial commitment. read more

Kimerly H.

137

11 years ago

Surf Happens is the best surf camp out there. Our kids (7 &8) are on their third year and love it more every time. Chris is organized, calming, caring and a highly skilled and respected surfer. He has fantastic counselors out there with him that inspire the kids to be their best. The kids not only learn surf skills but also respect for the ocean, beach, "trains" and, best of all, each other. I can't say enough good things about this camp. Sign up! and get the photos they offer as well. Branden is excellent and offers photo memories you won't get anywhere else. read more

Layla K.

13 years ago

If you want to learn how to surf, go to Surf Happens. They are awesome. I took lessons for myself with the womens group, Aloha Surf Sisters. The first day out we got up on our boards and surfed waves. So empowering and so much fun! Surf Happens instructors know what they are doing and Chris, who is the owner, is absolutely amazing - so knowledgeable, motivating and extremely positive. My daughter now does the after school program and is having so much fun while learning how to bottom turn! You will be so happy you took surf lessons with Surf Happens! read more

Laurie L.

12 years ago

Surf Happens is a top-notch surf experience, from expert instruction to the groovy t-shirts. Owner Chris Keet is absolutely cool and very kind. My 11-year old had a fantastic lesson with him on perfect waves and went back to the East Coast with tips to work on this summer. Now I see why so many locals recommend Surf Happens - they are 100% professional and committed to giving you the best surf experience possible. Surf Happens was the best part of our Santa Barbara vacation - we will definitely be back! read more

Chia M.

7 years ago

I've always wanted to learn how to surf. My instructor Jack was an incredible teacher. He was extremely patient and had such a positive attitude. He answers any questions I had and was super funny. Thank you for this life-changing experience. Afterwards they let us use their cute outdoor shower and had a great conversation with one of their kind owners. She was very sweet and was very knowledgeable about tips for living a more ecofriendly life. Thank you Surf Happens for giving me this opportunity! read more

Genevieve M.

11 years ago

Surf happens is the very best camp anywhere, ever! The best instructors and the most enthusiastic coaches! Fun and safe and just plain cool. Kris Keet the founder, has created and poured his soul into this really special place for kids to develop a love of the ocean and surfing. This is my sons 4th year and my daughter's first and it is only getting better. That said not only was it fun, but both my kids can catch and ride waves on their own! read more

Jeffrey L.

7 years ago

Wow... what an A+ experience; registration was easy; instructor Chris was on time, knowledgeable patient and extremely kind to my 11 year old niece who had never been on a surf board before. Chris provided excellent info on the history and heart of surfing and when in the water my niece was up on her first wave... My niece said "Chris was so positive and when I messed up he was kind to explain what I did and how could do better next time". read more

Gabrielle J.

13 years ago

I have the best time surfing with the Aloha Surf Sisters at Surf Happens. The instructors are always welcoming and patient and just great fun to be with in the water. The girls are also great fun!! Enjoy both the time in the water and post session lunch on the beach! What a great way to get in the water, improve your surfing and spend time with a great bunch of ladies!! read more

Betsey R.

7 years ago

Great morning of surfing with Chris! He had both of us (50 yo old mom and teen daughter) up several times despite never having surfed before. Chris is funny, extremely knowledgeable and made our experience one to remember. Can't say enough good things about Surf Happens. Definitely should be your number one choice for surf lessons in Santa Barbara!!! read more

J.D. L.

1107

8 years ago

Had the best time working with Chris. Such an awesome surfing teacher. Both he and Jenny could not have been nicer. Was a great experience. Have already set up another appointment to do it again. Do yourself a huge favor and learn to surf with this group of people... kind, knowledgable, encouraging and FUN! Highly recommend!!! read more

Pc H.

9 years ago

Great surf camp. Chris knows how to keep kids engaged. The surf instructors are wonderful with the kids. Hot lunches were great. My son learned to surf by the second day and enjoyed every minute of the week he spent at Surf Happens. read more

Ellen S.

10 years ago

Simply the best. Our kids have been surfing with them for years and they have also helped us with rental equipment from boards to kayaks to bikes. We love Chris, Ryan, Drew, Christophe, Kyle... all the instructors! read more

Tim K.

8 years ago

The Best surf camps! Great for all kids at all levels of ability. Travel camp takes it a step further for kids ready to get out and explore with top notch surfer coaches. read more

Karen G.

10 years ago

Chris Keet is amazingly talented at connecting with beginner surfers and elite surfers. His camps are awesome and fun for all ages. Best surf camp in SB! read more

Jay K.

7 years ago

Chris was terrific teaching my girls how to surf. They are hooked. The waves were ideal for my first and second timers. We're going back tomorrow. read more

Lisa H.

7 years ago

The instructors at Surf Happen make learning to surf a fun, positive experience. My kids look forward to the lessons and weeks spent at surf camp. read more

Infinity R.

16 years ago

My love for Surf Happens is so vibrant you can feel the aloha from here! Surf Happens and so do good people like the owner of this company.

Surf Happens - summer_camps - Updated October 2026

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I had a surfing lesson this summer with instructor Patrick, he was really nice and very patient…read moreteaching me and other two students. Before approaching the Surf Adventures, I looked for other surf classes. Some classes require beginner attend their introduction class before proceeding to a practical class, and the classes are set in different days and charged separately. I found the surfing class in Surf Adventures is a very authentic, price-worthy option for me as a beginner who wants a quick result in learning surfing. Although in the beginning, the Surf Adventures miscommunicated the change of location, the staff reached me right away and committed to giving me a complete 2-hour, fully experienced class despite the class has been delayed for 45 minutes. Patrick is the best, I hurt my foot during surfing and barely can walk, he gave me first-aid and helped me got to my car and made sure I can drive home before he left. I would recommend the surfing class to a beginner.

My son has done two different Surf Camps this summer. I just love the vibe of this camp. It is…read moresuper casual, easy drop-off/pick-ups, and the instructors are so nice. My son had a great time and staying in one place - not getting in a car to go to another beach - really maximizes their time in the water. Having the food catered by the nearby Shoreline Cafe makes it easy on me in the mornings too. I also really dig the surf tunes being played in the afternoon at pick-up. It makes me wish I could be a kid in the camp again. I highly recommend the camp.

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I ordered over $270 worth of apparel for my husband for Christmas and I didn't pay attention to the…read moreorder summary. One of the items was the wrong size. I contacted the number listed and it was answered unprofessional. I thought I called the wrong number. Whoever answered sounded like it was a personal phone and they just said "Hello". Once I asked if it was the right number and what I should do I immediately realized there was zero customer service experience and they directed me to the website for the return/refund policy. After ordering over $270 of merchandise you would think they would cover the shipping cost. I won't be ordering directly from them again. Go to a local surfboards shop where they have great customer service.

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Lobster Jo's Beach Camp

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Surf with Vanessa Rivers

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Wilson Swimming

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5 Stars! My…read moreGrandkids took lessons here last summer and can't wait to go back in April. My Grandson is on the spectrum. The Instructors he had were very patient with him. Mostly they just got him used to being in the water. By end of session he was putting his face in water. (9yo) My Granddaughter had a good time too! She was starting to learn the different strokes. Swim lessons helped bring her out of moody preteen funk. Highly recommend these Guys!

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Peak2Pacific