San Diego Surf Retreats:
The Perfect Getaway
Adult Surf Retreats in San Diego
Welcome to San Diego surf retreat, the best destination for adults eager to experience an exhilarating surfing adventure. Our locations at Ocean Beach Surf School and Pacific Beach Surf School offer unmatched surfing experiences amid stunning surroundings. Rest assured, we emphasise top-tier instruction and safety.
Conquer the waves daily with sessions from 9 AM to 12 PM. Book now to secure your spot at our adult surf retreat.
San Diego Surf School: Adult Surf Retreats (3:1 Instructor:Student Ratio)
Discover the excitement and adventure of the ocean with San Diego Surf School’s Adult Surf Retreats! Our retreats are designed for adults looking to learn or improve their surfing skills in a small group setting, with personalized attention and expert guidance. With programs available as 5-day, 3-day, or weekend camps, you’ll experience the thrill of riding waves while developing the essential skills and knowledge to surf confidently.
Each retreat is led by professional instructors, with a 3:1 instructor-to-student ratio, ensuring you get personalized feedback and attention throughout your experience. Whether you’re a first-time surfer or looking to refine your technique, our retreats are perfect for all skill levels.
What You’ll Learn:
- Surfing Basics & Fundamentals: From safety to paddling, our program covers everything you need to know to start surfing or improve your skills.
- Surf Etiquette: Learn the unspoken rules of the surf to respect others and ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Wave Selection & Timing: Understand how to read the waves, position yourself, and time your rides.
- Ocean Safety & Awareness: Learn the critical aspects of ocean conditions, tides, rip currents, and how to stay safe in the water.
- Surfboard Types: Explore the different types of surfboards and find the one that suits your surfing style and goals.
- Individual Surf Goals: Progress to catching waves independently, while receiving formative feedback from your instructors.
Program Overview:
Monday – The Fundamentals of Surfing
- Topics Covered: Analyze surf conditions, understand safety practices, practice stretching for surfing, focus on timing, and stance.
- Surf Focus: Basic surfing techniques, including the pop-up and wave riding fundamentals.
- Safety: Emphasis on ocean awareness and surf safety.
Tuesday – Surfboard Components & Wave Selection
- Topics Covered: Learn the basic components of a surfboard and how to evaluate surf conditions.
- Surf Focus: Wave selection and positioning, ensuring you catch the right waves at the right time.
- Safety: Ensuring safety in the lineup and while paddling.
Wednesday – Surfboard Types & Surfing Styles
- Topics Covered: Introduction to various surfboard types and styles of surfing. Learn the different designs for your individual goals and style.
- Surf Focus: Techniques for turning and catching face waves.
- Safety: Ongoing focus on surf safety and ocean conditions.
Thursday – San Diego Surfing History & Personal Style
- Topics Covered: A brief history of surfing in San Diego and the culture of the sport.
- Surf Focus: Emphasis on developing your individual surfing style, focusing on smoother and more controlled wave rides.
- Safety: Constant reinforcement of safety practices during your sessions.
Friday – Surf Etiquette & Independent Surfing
- Topics Covered: Review of surf etiquette, as well as techniques for evaluating surf conditions.
- Surf Focus: Focus on catching waves independently and receiving feedback from instructors to refine your skills.
- Safety: Final safety review and end-of-retreat celebration of your progress!
Perfect for All Skill Levels:
- Beginner Surfers: Start with the fundamentals, including surf safety, paddling techniques, and the pop-up. Our experienced instructors will provide clear, encouraging guidance to get you on the board and riding waves safely and confidently.
- Intermediate Surfers: Refine your technique, improve your wave selection, and develop your personal surfing style with targeted coaching and individualized feedback.
What’s Included:
- Professional surf instructors with 3:1 instructor-to-student ratio
- All necessary surfing equipment, including wetsuits, rashguards, and soft-top surfboards
- Surf stretching programs to improve flexibility and prevent injury
- Ocean safety training and personalized feedback on your technique
- Access to professional lifeguard and CPR certified instructors who are passionate about surfing
By the end of the retreat, you will have gained the confidence to assess surf conditions, select the best waves, and enjoy the experience of catching waves on your own. Plus, you’ll have a deeper connection to the ocean and the surf culture of San Diego!
Join us for an unforgettable surf retreat experience that blends adventure, relaxation, and skill-building. Whether you are looking to try surfing for the first time or refine your technique, our retreats are designed to meet your personal surfing goals in a supportive, fun, and safe environment.
Book Your Retreat Today!
Our Surf Retreat Program
Our San Diego surf retreat program is designed to help participants develop their surfing skills and gain confidence in the water. By the end of the week, participants will achieve the following:
- Ability to assess surf conditions, including currents.
- Knowledge of the essential components of a surfboard.
- Understanding of different types of surfboards.
- Independent wave selection and catching skills.
The surf retreat program is led by professional surf instructors and educators who will customise the experience to suit individual goals and desired outcomes. The program includes various activities and features, such as but not limited to:
- Surfing lessons and coaching.
- Surfboard equipment guidance.
- Practical sessions for wave selection and catching.
- Customised instruction for specific surfing goals.
Monday
On Monday, the surf retreat program focuses on laying the groundwork for surfing skills while prioritising safety. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the following:
- Fundamentals of surfing.
- Surf condition analysis.
- Surf-specific stretches.
- Emphasis on timing and stance.
- Safety measures.
Tuesday
Tuesday’s focus in the surf retreat program revolves around understanding the surfboard and honing participants’ wave selection skills, all while maintaining a safe and secure environment. The day’s activities include:
- Basic components of a surfboard.
- Evaluating surf conditions for entry points.
- Surf-specific stretching exercises.
- Emphasis on wave selection and positioning.
- Safety protocols.
Wednesday
Wednesday’s schedule in the surf retreat program covers essential aspects of surfing, focusing on introducing participants with surfboard types, and various surfing styles and enhancing safety measures. The day will feature the following:
- Introduction to surfboard types and styles of surfing.
- Surf stretching program.
- Evaluation of surfing conditions.
- Surfing style demonstration by instructors.
- Emphasis on turns and catching face waves.
Thursday
Thursday’s activities in the surf retreat program focus on enhancing participants’ understanding of San Diego’s rich surfing history, refining their surfing style, and maintaining a safe environment. The day will feature:
- Overview of San Diego's surfing history.
- Evaluate surf conditions: Instructors will guide participants in evaluating surf conditions, including analysing wave patterns, tides, and currents, to ensure optimal wave selection.
- Emphasis on individual surfing style.
Friday
On Friday, the surf retreat program focuses on essential aspects such as surfing etiquette and individual progress and culminates with celebrating participants’ achievements. The day’s activities include:
- Surfing etiquette.
- Evaluate the surf conditions: Participants will assess them, considering factors such as wave size, break patterns, and currents to make informed decisions for their solo surf sessions.
- Emphasis on catching waves independently.
- Formative feedback from surfing instructors.
- End of retreat celebration.
Explore the Unique Features in Our San Diego Surf Retreats
Discover San Diego's Wonders
Embark on a journey to uncover the enchanting wonders with our San Diego surf retreats. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the pristine beaches as you soak up the sun, sand, and surf. What sets our camps apart is the opportunity to delve into the rich ocean ecosystem, gaining a deeper understanding and admiration for the marine life that inhabits these waters.
Dive into the Community Vibe
Dive into the lively ambiance of the surf retreat community, where like-minded individuals, open to new experiences and well-travelled, unite. Get ready to join a community of passionate surfers who share a common love for the sport and a genuine eagerness to connect. They’ll craft enduring memories through their stories and shared experiences, providing you with a cherished surf retreat experience.
Certified and Permitted Instructors
Our instructors have been licensed and permitted by the city of San Diego. They have undergone extensive training enabling them to adeptly handle any circumstances that may arise. Our experts offer customised instruction, meticulous guidance, and clear communication, ensuring efficient progress. Moreover, they emphasise adapting their teaching methods to suit individual learning styles, promoting optimal results. We point professionalism, patience, and reliability up, making them essential in helping learners become skilled and responsible surfers.
Certified in Water Safety, First Aid, and CPR Protocols
Feel confident knowing that our team holds certifications in water safety, first aid, and CPR protocols. Your safety is our foremost concern, and our certified instructors possess the expertise to maintain a secure environment during your surf retreat. Rest easy, as our team is well-trained to respond promptly and effectively in any scenario, offering you the utmost care and attention throughout your surf retreat experience.
Meet Your Instructors
Tate - “Tate Brudda”
Bio: A Goofy footed waterman from NorCal, Tate developed his affinity for surfing in a Texas wave pool. Bringing his abilities on a skateboard to the water, Tate Brudda’s smooth surfing style is easy to recognize in the lineup. If he isn’t surfing, he is working on his boat or sailing through the Pacific Ocean. Tate has been coaching beginner and intermediate surf lessons for almost a decade and is certified through Water Safety Specialists.
Favorite Surfboard: 5’10 Twin-fin
Favorite San Diego Restaurant: Turf Club – Downtown
Brody - “Brodz”
Bio: Born and raised on the island of Oahu in beautiful Hawaii, it is no question those perfect island waves developed Brody into a world-class waterman. He has style for days and grace in small surf, but his poise and confidence in big surf is something you only learn from experience in the powerful tropical surf of somewhere like Hawaii. Don’t let his age fool you, Brody knows surfing as well as someone twice his age and knows how to share that knowledge with others. Brody is a certified surf coach through Water Safety Specialists.
Favorite Surfboard: Any Single-fin
Favorite San Diego Restaurant: It’s Raw Poke – Ocean Beach
Kenan - “Keeny-Baby”
Bio: The landlocked soul-surfer found his passion for the waves in the Outer Banks of North Carolina in his early teens. He took full advantage of his coastal access, and quickly improved in surfing. Kenan has now cemented his position in the lineups throughout the San Diego coastline with his explosive style, and ability to move water with his surfboard. Kenan teaches beginner and intermediate surfing lessons, specializing in adult learners. Kenan is a certified surf coach through Water Safety Specialists.
Favorite Surfboard: 6’0 Steve Lis Fish
Favorite San Diego Restaurant: Sombrero’s – Mission Valley
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I learn on the surf retreat?
- Master the skill of successfully jumping on and riding your board within the first hour.
- Acquire essential ocean knowledge and focus attention on water safety throughout the retreat.
- Develop expertise in wave knowledge, including the ability to choose the right waves.
- Learn safe board handling techniques.
- Focus on paddling techniques to enhance your surfing proficiency.
- Gain insights into turning your board effectively.
- Discover how to utilize the energy of the waves to gather speed.
What's the student-to-instructor ratio?
3:1 Student to instructor ratio.
Do you offer accommodation?
No, we do not provide accommodations as part of our services.
Is surfing a risky sport?
Surfing is an exhilarating and adventurous sport, but like any activity, it is important to approach it with proper training, caution, and respect for the ocean’s power, ensuring a thrilling and safe experience.
Can I wear my glasses or contact lenses?
Unfortunately not, since they could be a hazard.
What should I bring to the surf lesson?
A towel, bathing suit, sunscreen (if weather requires), water, sweatshirt, and sweatpants when it is overcast or cloudy, hat and sunglasses are optional.
How do I physically prepare for surfing?
There are numerous ways to prepare for surfing. It is a very physically demanding sport that requires some upper body strength to excel. Here are some exercises to get you ready for your camp.