I was just a girl looking for something fun to do at the beach other than perfecting my tan...Then it hit me...I'll learn to surf!!! When I told my friends of my new project, they suspected that I might have been suffering from Heat Stroke... ..."you are not a strong swimmer"... ..."you're afraid of the water"... ..."I know you're stupid; but this is crazy!"... Undeterred by the critics, I pressed forward. A google search for surf instructors delivered the names of Dan, Jason, and Graham. I decided to take the plunge and take up surfing under the tutelage of Dan, Jason, and Graham soon to be known to me collectively as the "Surf Studs"... Now my friends were right about a few things, I am not a strong swimmer and I was a little afraid...The "Studs" quickly picked up on my trepidation and showed great patience, understanding, and compassion, Dan is even a trained lifeguard! My fears of death by surfing sank to the ocean floor LOL Eventually, due to the skill and care of the "studs" I was able to stand up on my board...Catch a wave...and bring it to the shore... So if you're like me, looking for something to heighten your beach experience, consider surfing, and consider Dan, Jason, and Graham, "The Surf Studs"! They will treat you right and teach you right! If you want proof about the "Studs", go to the beach and look for the girl with the perfect tan riding the waves...and I'll tell you more. read more

Best experience for a first-time surfer! They really know what they are doing! Nikko is an amazing teacher! Had such a fun time with my younger niece! It's worth every penny! 10/10 would do it again! read more

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Very fun, Dave was great! Pushed us all in the waves and encouraged us all. Totally shredded these west coast waves today brah read more

Learn To Surf - Surfing Near Me - Huntington Beach, California

I booked my 4 kids ages and skill ranged significantly for beginning surf lessons. The owner and instructions were SUPER helpful. Nothing but good reviews for this company. It added so much to our California beach trip. read more

Learn To Surf - Surf lessons - Surfing Near Me - Huntington Beach, California

My son and I had a great lesson with Brian. Super fun and easy - everything was on time and as planned and safe. Thank you!

Great first class!! Dave the instructor was awesome! Def recommend to anyone looking to try something new! read more

Back in Sept. of 2020 I purchased a surfing lesson for my 8 year old child. I did research several companies on the internet and decided to book with Learn to Surf based on their reviews. My child had a fantastic time with their instructor "Big Wave" Dave. I even wrote a GLOWING review and prepaid for 6 more lessons ( for a total of $750.) Our next lesson was with a different instructor named "Sven". My child's experience with him was very disappointing. Even though he was very nice, his instructional skills were sub-par at best. He didn't have the enthusiasm or attention span that an instructor should have. He was very distracted by the waves and the other surfers. Me, my husband and child noticed a significant difference in the quality of both lessons. I wrote a review of this lesson and Jason Murchison (the owner) contacted us. Both me and my husband let him know how "Sven" just didn't meet our expectations and our child had such a better experience with "Big Wave" Dave. He suggested that from now to book with "Big Wave" Dave. My child had their 2/6 lesson with Dave with no issues. Our 3rd lesson with Dave didn't go as planned. My husband and child went to meet Dave but he did not show up. Apparently there was some confusion with their scheduler Libby. With the holidays coming up and Dave leaving to go up north to do snowboarding lessons we decided to wait for Spring/Summer season to come around before we used our last 4 lessons. Fast forward I texted Libby on July 1 to ask about Dave's schedule for July 5. She did not respond. I called Learn to surf's main number and Dave answered the phone. I asked if Libby still worked there, and he stated she didn't. I asked if he was available Monday, July 5 at 430pm, and he stated they do not do lessons on the half hour mark. I asked if he could do 4pm, and he stated that should be fine. I also mentioned to him that I still had 4 prepaid lessons and would like to use one of them for Monday, July 5th. He looked on my account and confirmed that I still had 4 lessons left but that I should "confirm" via email with Jason. I emailed Jason with no response. I called Jason on July 2 in the morning about Monday, July 5th. He stated he would talk to Dave and get back to later that day. He did not. I texted him at 5:25pm to confirm, and he responded that " we can do that but going I can't always guarantee Dave." On Monday, July 5th we show up early for our appointment. The reason being because parking is hard to find at the location where surfing lessons is located at 7203 Seashore Dr., Newport Beach, Ca 92646. We were all super excited. We even brought the family dog! I texted Jason @ 3:56 pm stating we were here. Then an instructor came up and greeted us, but he was there for another family that was waiting as well. Then we see Dave walking down the street. We greeted him and he handed my child a wet suit. During that time he was communicating with Jason. Then a moment later he confirmed my name and stated that he couldn't give us our lesson ! WAIT ? WHAT !! I showed him the text from Jason, and he said he was there for a 4:30pm lesson. I said but I thought you didn't do lessons on the half hour? He then said that he was originally at the grocery store and was called in to help out last minute. Jason did text me at 4:04 pm stating he "I can't answe " (typo) , On phone." I called him at 4:05 pm with no answer. Great, now after we had been waiting since last week and essentially the last few months for surfing lessons here we go again! He made no effort to call me, text, send a replacement, NOTHING! Waited for Jason to contact me for 90 minutes with no communication. I finally texted him and asked when he would be available to talk. He texted back and stated "I guess there was some confusion... unfortunately Dave is an independent contractor and does not want to continue servicing you, I will have to find another instructor." At that point me and my husband decided it was best to just ask for my money back. I don't want to continue subjecting my 9 year old child to any more missed lessons due to "confusions." Jason refused to refund my money and offered no apologies or anything to compensate us for our time and effort. I told him I could have worked and my child could have gone to other classes that evening. I stated this was "breach of contract" and he stated "he has a law degree and this was not breach of contract." In a nutshell after texting back and forth, no resolution was found. After doing a Google search of "Jason Murchison" I found a few things. Perhaps, in my opinion, Mr. Murchison needs to keep my money for the remaining 4 lessons ($500) because of recent court case. https://www.justice.gov/usao-edca/pr/guilty-verdict-case-unpermitted-snowboard-instruction-business-mammoth-mountain-ski In this case he was fined $500, charged with a class B misdemeanor and is now on 2 years probation for operating a non-permitted business. read more

Learn To Surf - Screenshot of text messages. I waited 90 mins. and no response from Jason. - Surfing Near Me - Huntington Beach, California

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Jason was wonderful. He was so accommodating, prompt with scheduling and it was seamless. Would use time and time again. Also, much more affordable and hands on than my experiences with other instructors in the past. read more

Dave was a great instructor. I had been struggling for a while learning to surf on my own. He helped me identify key things that I was doing wrong. We worked on those and he had me up on the board pretty quick. We originally had an issue because I purchased a lesson on Groupon, the voucher wasn't working, but they honored my rate. I'd go visit them again. Great surf school! read more

Just finished a 2 hour beginner surf lesson today with my surf instructor, Chad. Characteristics I look for in any instructor are: if they are approachable, friendly, their expertise level, and if they are able to create a fun, non-judgemental learning environment for a student to begin to develop a new skill; Chad had all of the above and more. If you are looking to get into surfing, or perhaps progressing your surf skills, Learn to Surf is the way to go. After choosing an appropriate wet suit, Chad took me through some foundational skills, informed me on the components of surfboard design, and also what to look for in a reading the waves; all in vocabulary a novice should be able to comprehend. Plenty of my friends surf, so I'm not completely forgone in the surf and oceanographical terminology, but you can tell he knew what he was talking about. In terms of safety, the instructors are swimming right beside you all the time. Chad was always looking out for my well-being while also giving appropriate verbal cues and guidance while out on the water, as well as moral support. So if your a parent with a child who wants to get into surfing, no need to worry, safety is of upmost importance. Above all, he always had a smile on his face especially when you catch any wave or even white wash, which made for an extremely fun and memorable experience. He knows what he is talking about when it comes to reading waves and selecting which waves/white wash are appropriate for a beginner to ride on. Overall it was a very humbling, informative, and down to earth experience, everyone was very local and seemed to know each other, yet no one puts up any intimidating facade, so don't be afraid to fall or even look silly because no one cares. Jason, the owner of Learn to Surf, made it extremely easy to book an appointment via phone/or email, and was able to provide answers to all my questions, further elevating the surf experience. Thanks ! read more

The owner and my son's instructor, Andy, are great. My son is having so much fun learning how to surf. I highly recommend this place to anyone interested in learning how to surf. read more

Jason is an amazing surf instructor. Here are my reasons for 5 stars and why I encourage you to take lessons: 1. Honest about pricing and his service 2. Patient with teaching students how to surf and water safety 3. Knowledgeable about surfing instructions and a students ability level 4. Positive feedback to students 5. Friendly and personable 6. Provided the correct wetsuit size and board 7. Gave us clear directions on where to meet at the beach read more

We ran into Jason after being stood up by Wavehuggers. We were very disappointed especially since that was our last day in Huntington. He didn't have too but he fit us in right away, treated us like VIP. He was genuinely interested in helping me make that the best experience for my children and for that I am entirely grateful. We will definitely be using his company's service in the future. read more

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Had an awesome time with Jason on my first time on a surfboard. He was very thorough in the beginning of the lesson before even touching the water. He made sure we understood safety, positioning, different methods, and of course to STRETCH before spending a morning out on the water. He kept me at ease, talking me through the waves, and providing feedback to improve my stance. Although I had a more difficult time, my friend was able to read, pop up, and ride the waves perfectly, showing me up, within 2 tries. Jason gives you that confidence to not be scared of the waves and just chill.. and hang loose. I would highly recommend lessons from Jason for anyone looking to take up surfing. read more

I highly recommend anyone wanting to learn to surf or to refresh their skills to hire Jason. From start to finish, everything was top notch. I did a fair amount of research on surf lessons for my 13 year old son. What impressed me about Jason was his Navy Seals background, being CPR certified, and his ability to surf the big waves. I wanted to make sure that my son was 100% safe and with a local instructor who knew the water, currents, & rocks. The website is very easy to navigate, I selected my date and time and entered in the credit card information. I got a confirmation email and about an hour later a phone call to confirm the location and discuss wetsuit sizes. Jason was early and had brought two sizes for my son to try on. The wetsuit and boards were both in very good condition (much better than I had expected for a rental). Jason made sure to make my son and I both feel comfortable, and within a few moments I was fine letting him take my son out. Jason made sure that they stretched before going out (very important). My son rode almost every wave that he tried - Jason's ability to pick the right wave and tell him when to go was very impressive and made for a great time for my son. After the lesson, Jason even had a portable shower for my son to rinse off with. When we come back to California, we will definitely hire Jason again. I may even try it too! read more

Had a great time! Jason worked with me for the summer and im pretty damn good surfer now! Highly recommended to people of all ages! Surfs up brahhhh read more

We booked about a week in advance, and had amazing time. I had personally surfed a few times, but my two friends had never. It was helpful for us to all learn the basics and by the end everyone was able to stand...at least once :) read more

Since I am from Indiana, this was pretty much my one foreseeable opportunity to try surfing. I cannot say enough about these guys! I called same day and they worked with me to get me in, even with a massive storm moving in. Dylan S. was super helpful and gracious and got me up on the board in no time! I will definitely be calling them if/when I'm in the area and ready to go again!!! read more

Jason was great to work with. Very communicative. I had a lot of question (before I even showed up for the lessons). Jason quickly got me answers. Zack is an amazing instructor. I am old, overweight, out-of-shape and a little obnoxious adult male trying to learn to surf. He made me feel like a million bucks. He was patent and kind. I was winded and pathetic. But he got me to surf. I'm excite to go out and spend time doing what I learned. Then I plan on coming. Ack for another lesson to learn some more. I'll be back. read more

My five year old daughter really enjoyed her first surf lesson with Dakota. Conditions were a bit cold for her, but she made it though a good chunk of the lesson with a smile on her face. After her lesson, I asked if she'd choose Dakota again. In her words, "Yes, I liked him. He comforted me when I was scared and prepared me for what was to come. He was instructing me the whole time." My only suggestion would be for this company (and others) to offer a shorter lesson time for the younger kids who might not be able to hang for the full two hours. I would have liked to split this lesson in two. Owner was also super helpful and informative over the phone while we were making arrangements. I had called other surf companies prior, and felt there was too much "bro" on the other end for me to comfortably schedule appointments for my young kids. Owner here is super professional. I'd use them again. read more

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Absolutely wonderful experience!! We called at the last minute hopeful but WOW. The kids were on the water within and hour and a half!!! Sam and Matt were amazing with my teens !! They were totally hands on instructors tailoring the lesson to each kid. My daughter at 13 needed a bit more of a hand my 15 year old needed a bit more independence. San and Matt taught to each kid at their level. Both of the kids walked away feeling confident and successful! It was awesome. I had really tired and really hungry kids! They had such a great time. Definitely the highlight of our spring break. Thanks so much. We'll see you next time we're this way for sure! read more

Learn To Surf - Surfing Near Me - Huntington Beach, California

Wow - Jason is great. I've have tried many surf lessons in SoCal, Hawaii, Cabo, and Costa Rica, and by far, Jason is the best. On the first lesson he not only covered the safety topics, but showed me how learning to surf can be fun. He is very patient, gives very clear directions, and does not push me until I'm ready. Now after our forth lesson, I'm learning the finer points on padding, popping up, and reading the waves. Plus he is fun to talk to between waves. He is super smart (currently in law school), been around the world (Navy Seal Training) and is a local boy. I have signed up my nephews, ages 8 and 10, for their first try on the board. And they can't wait. Enjoy the ride! read more

Cortland did a great job teaching us to surf. We were spreading it up in no time. He was on time and very positive. They have a van parked near the beach with everything you need. So when u show up to someone's house don't knock on the door. Call the instructor and find out where the Orange van is. read more

O my goodness! Such a blast! Jason (shadow) was amazzzzing! He has tons of knowledge and a great attitude! Thanks for making our lesson awesome. Highly recommend! read more

Wonderful experience!! My instructor was Dylan, great guy, helped me catch lots of waves and really helped me paddle out to the wave. I really recommend Learn to Surf to anyone looking to surf in Newport! read more

My sons are 17 and 18 and they had a blast! Xavier had them up and riding there first wave in less than an hour! Xavier is also a body surfer so it was great for them to watch him as they learned: Check weather and tides to make sure you get the most of your time. Yes the water is cold but my boys said the wet suit kept them warm. This was sons favorite time of the trip. Thank you Xavier!! read more

Awesome experience. Two instructors for four of us, Including my 9 year old son. One spent the whole time with my son, who had an absolute blast. Safety minded and good instruction. Would highly recommend. read more

My 10 year old son took lessons while we were visiting for a week. He had never surfed before. He had a really great time! The instructor was very patient and helpful. I would have had my son take another lesson if we were in town longer. Communication with this company was GREAT! I received immediate replies back, via text. read more

I've had learn to surf on my bucket list for forever. Was so happy I went with these guys. Kohl was awesome teacher! Had an amazing experience doing lesson at sunset at Newport. Can't recommend enough! read more

Dakota was amazing, my 15 year old son had a blast and learned lots. Very professional company, one on one instruction, well worth the money! read more

My son has had 2 fantastic lessons thus far. After his 2nd lesson he is hooked on surfing. Specifically Gene (Gino) who he worked with today was amazing. He had so much fun and learned all of the basics. He ended his 2nd lesson confident and he can't wait to get back in the water. Thanks Learn To Surf! read more

I booked a lesson online for my daughter then called to confirm. They were so nice! We had Zeke and he was awesome. He explained everything and you could tell he really loves what he does. We even rented an extra board on the spot for my niece who had taken her first lesson from Learn To Surf. Very accommodating, friendly and professional. I highly recommend them. read more

A wonderful morning spent with Chad at Learn to Surf. My son and I went out for 2 hours in the morning and could not have had a better time. Easy to arrange, wet suits and board provided, short walk to the beach and we were catching waves a short time later. Cudos to Chad, a truly natural teacher with a positive reinforcing manner and a contagious laugh. Enjoyed it so much, sent my son out the next day for round two. Although we did not take advantage of the offer, the Board and wetsuit were ours to use the rest of the day. read more

My friend just recently moved to California from Ohio and brought up to me how she wanted to learn how to surf. I mentioned that even though I was a SoCal native, I'd never been surfing. Through mutual friends I was referred to Jason, where we both signed up to take our first lesson with him. I'm not particularly a strong swimmer but with Jason's positive attitude, and experience he not only assisted in building my confidence but prepared me for success. I had a blast and recommend anyone who is interested in learning how to surf, to definitely contact Jason and go through Learn to Surf! read more

What can I say Jason is probably one of the best surf instructors in the OC area. My brother has been receiving surf lessons from the owner, Jason for about three months and I could not be more pleased. My brother was nervous to try something new at first but with Jason's confidence, patience, and expertise he made everything seem possible if you put in the effort. Motivating him to do better my brother has been building skills not only in the water but outside too. I love the fact that he keeps every lesson upbeat, fun, and professional at the same time. I definitely recommend him to someone that wants to learn how to surf. You seriously won't be disappointed. read more

I made the bold decision of taking a lesson in Mid-February so the water was definitely not warm but I still had a great time. Dakota was really helpful and gave me some great instructions. I can't wait to get back out in the water! read more

Jason was great to talk to he's very organized and knowledgeable. He called me back right away after I called him to ask questions about middle age men wanting to learn to surf. He asked all questions I asked and made me less nervous. My coach was Kristian fro Australia he was very knowledgeable about surfing had some good stories and was very patient with this old guy. If you want to learn to surf give Jason a call you won't be sorry. Just a little sore in the muscle. read more

Had a great time with Jason during my two surf lessons. He was very patient and very clear with his instructions. I was so excited when I first stood on my board during the first day. All credit to Jason, he really cares and helps you throughout the process of learning to surf properly. Would recommend for anyone looking for a great teacher! read more

I live in newport beach and have always wanted to surf but have been kind of scared to try the sport. But decided to try Learn to Surf because of the credentials all the instructors had. They were all really professional and funny and got me to relax because I was pretty nervous surfing for the first time. I'd definitely go back...my instructor Joe is the guy you want to surf with. read more

Jason was great from the time I called in for a quote to even answering a couple questions after the lesson. He was knowledge, professional, fun and a great teacher! He did a private lesson for myself and 2 friends and even brought a 2nd instructor so we would have more attention and all of his equipment was very nice. I was able to get up on my 2nd try and I had never suffered before. I would definitely recommend him for a fun private lesson with friends or even a team building event. And ladies, he is not too bad to look at either :) read more

Learn To Surf - Surfing Near Me - Huntington Beach, California

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