Star-Surf, Santa Monica

Star-Surf’s lead instructor passes on more than three decade’s worth of wave riding experience to fledgling surfers through private lessons, group lessons, and surf camps held throughout the year. For each lesson, students are supplied with a soft foam surfboard and a wetsuit if needed, then paired up with a dedicated instructor who tailors the session to the individual, never forcing him or her to hang ten if they’re only comfortable hanging nine. Instruction covers topics important to the surfer just starting out, with an emphasis on safety and proper etiquette as well as the basics of paddling, popping up, and selecting waves.