Surf Camp in Venice Beach, CA

A Detailed Look at the Venice Beach Surf Camp with Sunrise Surf Academy

If you’re thinking about introducing your kids to surfing while enjoying the laid-back charm of Venice Beach, this Surf Camp in Venice Beach, CA might be worth considering. While we haven’t personally strapped into a wetsuit here, the comprehensive details paint a picture of an experience designed to be safe, engaging, and genuinely educational. This camp is perfect for children aged 5 to 16, whether they’re absolute beginners or aspiring competitors.

What we love about this camp first is their focus on personalized attention—with a 3:1 camper-to-instructor ratio, each child gets the care they need to succeed and grow. Second, the curriculum isn’t just about riding waves; it emphasizes personal growth, safety, and responsibility, making it more than just a summer distraction. A potential consideration? The cost of $125 per person, while reasonable for a full-day, hands-on activity, might seem steep compared to more casual beach outings. However, the value lies in the structured lessons and professional guidance. This camp suits families seeking a safe, educational, and positive environment where kids can develop confidence and love for the ocean.

Key Points

• Inclusive for All Skill Levels: Suitable for ages 5-16, from first-timers to future competitors.
• Focus on Personal Growth: Emphasizes confidence, independence, and safety.
• Comprehensive Day: Includes land lessons, multiple surf sessions, team-building, and supervised breaks.
• Small Group Sizes: Ensures personalized attention.
• Convenient Location: Starts at Venice Beach’s Ocean Front Walk, a lively and iconic setting.
• Cost-Effective for Full-Day Learning: $125 covers a full day of activities, including equipment and instruction.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The camp’s location at 3311 Ocean Front Walk in Marina Del Rey situates you right on Venice Beach, a hub of vibrant street life, eclectic shops, and classic California scenery. The meeting point is easily accessible, near public transportation, making it simple for local families or visitors staying nearby to join.

The day begins early, with 9:00 am drop-off. Upon arrival, kids are welcomed with beach games that set a tone of fun and camaraderie. These quick warm-ups are perfect for breaking the ice, especially for first-timers who might be a tad nervous about jumping into the ocean.

The Structure of the Day

The schedule is thoughtfully organized to balance learning, practice, and breaks. At 9:15, team-building exercises help kids connect, which is crucial in a small group setting. The first land lesson, from 9:30 to 10:00, focuses on responsibility and safety, teaching kids how to respect the ocean and surf equipment—fundamentals that can translate into lifelong habits.

The actual surfing begins at 10:05 with a “let the shredding commence” session that lasts nearly an hour. The teaching team ensures that kids get plenty of hands-on practice, which is vital for building confidence in the water. After a brief debrief, there’s a second session from 11:15 to noon, giving children more time to refine their skills.

Lunch is a well-timed break, offering a chance to rest, hydrate, and apply sunscreen. The afternoon session, from 1:00 to 2:45 pm, continues the fun, with another opportunity to ride waves. The full program wraps up around 3:00 pm with a smooth, organized pickup.

What Sets This Camp Apart?

What’s especially appealing is the emphasis on personalized learning. Kids aren’t just thrown into the water with a group of strangers and left to fend for themselves; they receive individual attention suited to their skill level and confidence. The curriculum’s focus on responsibility, safety, and enjoying the present makes it stand out from more superficial summer programs.

Equipment and Safety

The camp provides wetsuits and sunscreen, ensuring kids are comfortable and protected. The use of wetsuits isn’t just for warmth—they help with buoyancy and make paddling easier, especially for beginners. Their safety protocol seems well thought out, with a small camper-to-instructor ratio, which is vital for maintaining a secure environment.

Real-World Feedback

While there’s a lack of formal reviews, the description and structure suggest a camp that values personalized attention and safety. The mention of “kids get the attention they need to thrive” and “personal growth” indicates a focus on meaningful experiences rather than just fun in the water.

The Value Proposition

At $125 per person, this camp offers a full day of structured, professional instruction, equipment, and supervision. Compared to standalone surf lessons, which might be shorter and less personalized, this program delivers more value through its extended schedule and small group size. Kids not only learn how to surf but also gain a sense of responsibility and confidence, making it a worthwhile investment.

It’s perfect for parents wanting a safe, educational experience for their children—especially those interested in more than just a quick splash in the waves. The inclusion of team-building and land lessons adds depth, making it more than just a surf lesson; it’s a holistic outdoor education.

Who Should Consider This?

Young children or teens eager to learn in a supportive, well-structured environment will find this camp ideal. It also suits families looking for a full-day activity that combines outdoor fun with learning responsibility and safety. If your child has a moderate physical fitness level and enjoys active outdoor pursuits, they’ll likely thrive here.

FAQ

• What is the start location? The camp begins at 3311 Ocean Front Walk in Marina Del Rey, CA.
• How long is the camp? The full day lasts approximately 6 hours, from 9:00 am to around 3:00 pm.
• What is included in the price? The price covers instruction, wetsuits, sunscreen, and all necessary equipment.
• Is the activity suitable for beginners? Yes, the curriculum is designed to teach all skill levels, including first-timers.
• What is the group size? The camp maintains a maximum of 30 travelers, with a 3:1 camper-to-instructor ratio for personalized attention.
• Are there breaks during the day? Yes, there are scheduled snack and rest periods, including lunch.
• Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Is transportation provided? No, but the meeting point is accessible via public transportation.
• Are service animals allowed? Yes, they are permitted.
• What happens in case of bad weather? The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Venice Beach surf camp offers a balanced approach to learning how to surf while emphasizing safety, personal growth, and fun. It’s ideal for families wanting a structured, supportive environment where kids can develop confidence in the water and learn about ocean responsibility. The small group setting and comprehensive schedule make it a good value for the price, especially if your child’s goal is to build skills and enjoy a memorable beach day.

Whether your kid dreams of catching their first wave or just wants to try something new, this program seems poised to deliver a positive, enriching experience. It’s a smart choice for families seeking a safe, engaging outdoor activity that emphasizes learning, camaraderie, and outdoor adventure.

Remember: Surfing isn’t just about the waves—it’s about respect, responsibility, and having fun. With Sunrise Surf Academy, your child will get a taste of that, along with some great California sun.