LOS ANGELES SURF FIELD GUIDE
Stand Up on Gentle Breaks: Group Surf Lessons with Richard Schmidt in Santa Cruz’s World Surfing Reserve
A two‑hour group surf lesson (ages 12+) taught by Richard Schmidt Surf School—wetsuits and boards included—designed to teach ocean awareness and the fundamentals of riding beginner waves.
Stand Up on Gentle Breaks: Group Surf Lessons with Richard Schmidt in Santa Cruz’s World Surfing Reserve.
Since 1978 Richard Schmidt Surf School has been introducing newcomers to the famously forgiving beginner waves of Santa Cruz, inside a designated World Surfing Reserve. The two‑hour group class blends shore-side briefings on ocean awareness and hazards with in‑water drills — paddling, push‑throughs and the stance and body mechanics you need to get to your feet — all taught by instructors trained to keep groups small and focused.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Beginner-Friendly Waves in a World Surfing Reserve
The lessons take place on Santa Cruz waves celebrated for their approachable, learner‑friendly breaks, a setting that reduces intimidation while amplifying the thrill of catching your first rides.
Decades of Local Knowledge and Focused Coaching
Richard Schmidt and his team have been teaching since 1978; instructors bring structured techniques and close supervision to ensure each student learns ocean awareness, paddling and correct body mechanics.
Small Groups, Hands‑On Progression
Classes keep the ratio tight—no more than four students per instructor—so you get personal attention through land drills and in‑water practice that build toward riding and maneuvering your board.
What the day feels like
How the Lesson Feels
The session moves briskly across instruction modes: a shore briefing that covers ocean awareness and potential hazards, hands‑on drills for paddling and push‑through technique, then repeated in‑water attempts with instructors guiding stance, weight and board control until students catch their first glides down the face of a wave.
THE BREAK
Beginner-Friendly Waves in a World Surfing Reserve
The lessons take place on Santa Cruz waves celebrated for their approachable, learner‑friendly breaks, a setting that reduces intimidation while amplifying the thrill of catching your first rides.
THE INSTRUCTORS
Decades of Local Knowledge and Focused Coaching
Richard Schmidt and his team have been teaching since 1978; instructors bring structured techniques and close supervision to ensure each student learns ocean awareness, paddling and correct body mechanics.
THE FORMAT
Small Groups, Hands‑On Progression
Classes keep the ratio tight—no more than four students per instructor—so you get personal attention through land drills and in‑water practice that build toward riding and maneuvering your board.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this lesson suits — and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Lessons run two hours.
Wetsuits and surfboards are provided; bring swimwear, a towel and any personal sun protection as needed.
The standard price for a surfer (minimum age 12) is $120.00.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is a group surf lesson?
Each lesson lasts 2 hours.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be at least 12 years old.
How much does a lesson cost?
The price is $120.00 per surfer (minimum age 12).
Are wetsuits and surfboards provided?
Yes — wetsuits and surfboards are included with the lesson.
How many students per instructor?
There are no more than four students per one instructor.
Can I join with friends or as part of a group event?
Yes — the class format accommodates friends, birthday parties, corporate team building, school or church groups and similar events.