Fabien has been an incredible surfing coach. He's super friendly, approachable, and immediately makes you feel comfortable in the water. What really stands out is how supportive he is--he pays close attention to your technique and gives clear, practical feedback that you can actually apply right away. His tips on how to pop up were especially helpful. He broke the movement down step by step, corrected small details I didn't even realize I was doing wrong, and made the whole process feel much more natural and consistent. I saw improvement quickly because of how clearly he explained everything. What I appreciated most is that he didn't just focus on the session itself--he also gave me specific drills and practice tips to work on at home. That made a huge difference in building muscle memory and confidence before getting back in the water. If you're looking for a coach who's knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely invested in helping you improve, I highly recommend Fabien! read more

My son loved his surf camp this week. He is 11 and has a high need for excitement. He was safe and had fun. He stayed up on the board quite a few times. He is already talking about when he can go back. Fabien and his team are patient, kind, understanding and fun! Highly recommend! read more

The reviews are accurate, my 12 and 15 yr old have really enjoyed their experience at Sea, Surf. They were particularly appreciative of the quality of the wetsuits. And the owner was very gracious with a scheduling request. read more

Thank you Fabian!!! You got me up on the board, finally. And I feel like a genuine surfer now, no longer a poseur.

Fabian is an amazing instructor. I went from falling every single time to being able to surf all the way into the beach. I hope to continue my gradual improvement with more lessons. He is very patient and gives great pointers. It is an incredible feeling to be out in the ocean for long periods of time, get some great exercise in, all while enjoying the sea with the birds, seals, and whales in the distance. read more

Our 7-year-old recently finished two weeks at this surf camp and is already asking when he can go back! From day one, Fabien and the other instructors made him feel safe, comfortable, and totally excited to try surfing. The small group size (no more than eight kids) meant our son actually got lots of one-on-one attention. By the end of the first week, he was catching waves and beaming with pride! The vibe was fun and relaxed--lots of laughter, lots of encouragement, and plenty of time in the water. The spot in Half Moon Bay is beautiful and felt really safe for beginners. Honestly, watching our son gain confidence and fall in love with the waves was one of the highlights of our summer. Highly recommend this surf school to any parent looking for a safe, joyful, and unforgettable first surfing experience. read more

Chose this place for my first surfing lesson and it was worth it! I was scared of the cold water, but the wet suit they provided me with was amazing and let me stay warm for the whole 90min. The instructor (Fabien) was super fun and helpful. He even gave me exercises to keep practicing at home. I will definitely come back for another lesson soon. read more

This was such a great experience! I joined last minute after emailing with Fabian the morning of and they were super accommodating of taking a late joiner. The lesson was super approachable and Fabian and Jacob were both extremely patient and well versed in teaching different levels of surfers. As well a great value for $90 to include the suit and board rental and a 90 minute surf lesson! Beats all the competitors out there! I had only surfed twice before, both without lessons, so I wanted to focus on foundations and just really have fun and learn a more calm approach to riding a wave, which MAHALO I DID!! The water was amazing, the group class I joined had a great time and it was such a convenient joyful Saturday on the water~ can't wait to come back with friends!! read more

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Had a great class with Fabian; would highly recommend! I'm just starting out, had two lessons elsewhere, practiced on my own and then had a lesson with Fabian and I finally "got it." read more

Fabien is the best surf instructor I've ever met. He is patient and encouraging. Most importantly, he has almost 30 years of surf experience and is good at instructing different levels of students. I am not good at sports and was so afraid of the water at the beginning. Now I could even catch some waves by myself after few surf lessons with him! In addition, the beach for the surf classes is super friendly to beginner surfers. I will definitely recommend Fabien to my friends read more

All the 5-star reviews are spot-on. My first lesson today with Fabien went swimmingly well. He's been teaching surfing for 9 years, and his experience is immediately apparent. He knows the local spots that are best for beginners, he calls out common mistakes from rookie surfers, and he makes and suggests micro-adjustments. I also really liked that Fabien lets you go and learn at your own pace. After eating a couple waves, we recognized that fatigue was throwing me off. So he let me rest on my board while I observed his technique. I may come back for future lessons, and I may also bring my young kids with me to learn surfing from him as well. read more

I had the best lesson with Fabien!!! His instructions were clear and so helpful- I was finally able to get up on the board! With his help I caught so many waves which felt so rewarding. Surfing is MAGIC. Had an absolute blast. Can't wait to go again! read more

Fabien is amazing surfing coach! I learned so much during my private sessions with him! Highly recommended! read more

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Had an amazing experience in a private lesson with Fabien. He's a great teacher and very a friendly/pleasant person all around. He gave lots of insights about the waves, how to stay safe, and how to have the best experience. He clearly has a love for surfing. Highly recommend. read more

The first time I went surfing was in the west coast...of England ! Despite the rain and the cold water I loved this surf class so much that I promised myself to do it again in my life. When I moved to SF I thought it would be the right place and an adventurous activity in complement of my ballet class. I started to look for surf schools on Yelp. I was comparing the different schools in Pacifica but I had the feeling they were all very impersonal with crowded classes in crowded spots, so when my friends told me about Sea, Surf & fun something rang a bell. It seems to be the first school founded by French natives in SF and Bay Area but I am sure they will welcome you with a smile even if you're not French. The school has opened recently and the numbers of participants is already increasing, so be quick. They have classes during the week but the most popular are on weekends. The spot is just amazing, it's called Princeton Jetty in Half Moon Bay. This place is absolutely stunning, immaculate and never crowded. It is right after Pacifica and Montara along the coast so it is convenient when you come from SF (40 min drive max. on one of the most beautiful road in the world). It is not far from the Mavericks wave which is a cool name to drop ;) We all meet at the parking lot to get the boards and wetsuits (provided by the school) ready for a 2 hours lesson. The teacher, Fabien is very professional, educational and friendly. For our first class he made a great introduction before we got into the water which gave us more confidence. We appreciate that our teacher is accessible (not the typical show-off) and passionate, he accompanies you in your improvements and seem to share your happiness when you pull out your first take-off ! They even took pictures of us which was really nice. He also knows how to give you space and freedom to experiment the waves on your own, keeping an eye on you all the time. I like our small group classes, you have advices and safety with the feeling to share a great moment with friends. After 2 lessons we signed for a 10 lessons package because we became addicted but also because it just take time to learn, you have to be patient and surf as much as possible. Being a girl is not a weakness at all, everyone is struggling like hell anyway...Come on ladies, we need more grace in the water ! Honestly, for urban, lazy people as us, this is the best experience you can get, you are part of the nature which gives you humility (swallowing 9 degrees salty water makes you humble :), the feeling to improve is awesome, and the chamallowness effect after the class is even better than after skiing. It changed a lot things in my routine, now I run every week, I do work-outs to get stronger arms and I even went surfing alone as I was craving the feeling so much. I don't why I am writing this review as I would prefer to keep this school secret but they deserve a good review. read more

I had my first surf lesson ever with Fabien. What a great experience! The surf that dayy was pretty rough and I was challenged just trying to stand up on the ground without getting wiped out but still had such a fun time! Fabien is so nice and patient and you can tell he truly loves what he does. He had a very nice wet suit and booties for me to use which is a must in the chilly surf. I plan to take another lesson or more with Fabien and would recommend him to anyone who asks! read more

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Long overdue in writing this review. In late July, I signed up my 15 yr old son for a private surf lesson with Fabien. We had previously tried a group lesson with another surf school and it wasn't a great experience. SS&F's previous stellar yelp reviews made me feel better about going forward and signing up my son. We signed up and paid online and showed up at the appointed time. A wetsuit and surfboard were provided. My son had a great time and learned a lot. Fabien was great! Very patient and informative, my son learned a lot. We've been meaning to get back but my son broke his arm skating. As soon as he's able, he'll be back to pick up where he left off! read more

Sea, Surf & Fun - Surfing Near Me

Fabien is a great surf instructor! I was the type of person who only surfed once or twice a year when I went on warm beach vacations. I never really got that good. Then I finally decided it was time to get good so I contacted Fabien! In about two months he took me from being very raw to being able to consistently catch my own waves! Fabien taught me how to paddle out past the breaking waves without using up all of my energy, how to watch for catchable waves, and how to catch and ride waves on my own! I always wanted to be able to surf. Now I can and plan to make this a lifelong hobby! Fabien is super cool and very encouraging, which makes for very enjoyable lessons. He is very observant and then gives great tips and corrections that helped me improve quickly. Also, he's very easy to coordinate with via email and text. Thanks Fabien and hope to see you out on the waves! read more

Fabien is a great instructor! My son had a group lessons and attended the surf camp. He had such a great time!! Fabien does a really good job, taking good care of everyone and adjusting the level of difficulty to have great fun (and to learn a lot!). His camps are really fun and my son thoroughly enjoyed them as he incorporates different activities each day. My son has a ton of energy and this camp tired him out!! That's a plus in my book. I totally recommend Fabien! read more

Excellent personalized surf instruction and assistance. I felt comfortable and confident in the hands of Fabien and another man(I forgot his name... sorry!) I arrived a bit early to the lesson to find Fabien already prepared for me. He had a wetsuit and board ready to go. Once the group arrived, Fabien set the expectations for the lessons - then we warmed up and hit the waves. They greatly emphasized safety in the water and catered to the needs and abilities of every person at an individualized level. I had a wonderful time and am looking forward to another lesson. Ps - The meeting area is in a parking across the street from the fire station (next to the halfpipe) read more

Fabien and his team are amazing and I'm forever grateful for their introduction to surfing. You will have so much fun. Try it.

I took some group lessons with Fabien and will continue taking some more. I've taken some other surfing lessons before (in Hawaii a couple of times, Costa Rica), but I really love working with Fabien. He is very energetic, positive, professional, and motivational too. I really feel comfortable and safe with him. He has been teaching for years and surfing for his entire life. Also, he has great organizational skills - prompt communication, timing, setting up. If you are a newbie, always wanted to try surfing, there's no need to look further. Or if you want to get better at your surfing skills, Fabien got that too. Fabien is also teaching kids. I'm planning to bring my 9yo daughter next time. read more

My family and I (wife and two boys) joined Fabien and Nate for a beginner surf lesson for Mother's Day. We had a blast, and everyone was able to catch a couple of waves! My wife and I both remarked how organized and safety conscious Fabien was from greeting to lesson end. You can see he loves surfing and wants his clients to enjoy the ocean as much as he does. Thanks for a super fun morning! read more

There were three of us, two with zero surfing experience. We did a semi private lesson, so whilst there were other learners we had our own instructor (Thomas) which was great. We were provided with good gear - nothing damaged or dirty. The choice of beach was excellent - small but surfable waves, nothing too intimidating. And there was free parking nearby. Fabien and Thomas were really freindly. They covered the safety aspects & surfing techniques quickly but efficiently so we could spend as much time as possible in the water. Thomas gave clear instructions, answered my questions, and helped me catch the right waves - eventually I went from falling off a lot, to standing on the board. When I mentioned that I'd like to try surfing again Fabien said to email him with any questions I might have, and he could suggest where to get a good value wetsuit. Super fun morning! ‍ read more

I had never been surfing before. When you watch people out on the sea it looks so easy, piece of cake! Well let me inform you it's one of the hardest things I've ever done. If I didn't have the support of great teachers (Sea, Surf & Fun) I would have been screwed. I grew up swimming so when I went to the lesson I thought I had an advantage, also because I used to boogie board as a teen. Boogie boarding is NOTHING compared to surfing, surprise! So basically I had a teacher there with me the entire time, encouraging me to stand up! Paddle! Cover your face! Things you'd think were standard to know but as a first timer it really helps to have someone literally training you into the sport, reminding you of ways not to drown and how to eventually stand up. Like, sometimes I'd ride the surf board on a wave, on my belly, gripping the sides thinking YES! I'm not under water! - and I'd hear in the distance 'STAND UP!' Logically yes, that's why I'm out there but in the moment I would forget, (obviously a first timer) -.-! They supplied the wetsuit and for two full hours had me in the water trying over and over again. By the end of the session I could ride the waves to the shore (without drowning) and I ALMOST stood up. It's really a matter of mind. I'm definitely going again for another lesson. I feel so much more confident now. Just a note about the teachers, - they are so nice! And they know what they're doing. Sometimes I felt scared, like I was going to get knocked over by a huge wave (which was very small) because the darn surf board would get away from me and take me under, but there was the instructor, holding onto the board, helping me get back up. I felt like a student with positive instruction the entire time - even when I complained how tired I was lol. They'd just smile and say, get back up! It was so worth it. A+ to them! Thanks for the great lesson, I will be back! read more

Fabien took my 58-year-old mom (intermediate surfer), myself (beginner surfer), and 8-year-old niece (first time surfer!) out for a semi-private (3-person/multi-generational!) surf lesson. I would highly recommend Fabien's services, for several reasons: -He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also able to cater his instruction to our differing skill levels. -He brought 4/3mm swim suits that kept us warm, good surf boards, and a mobile shower, making the whole experience hassle free. -The place he takes his students in Half Moon Bay is a gem--beautiful, not too crowded, and perfect for all levels. So... definitely reach out to him! I know I will. read more

"PASSION-BASED LEARNING" I can't emphasize enough how amazing this surfing school is. The genuine enthusiasm that, passionate teachers expressed in their work, inspire and motivate their students. They sincerely cared about helping everyone get better at surfing. "FABIEN and GUILLAME" are incredible! They understand the ocean and his students' abilities and concerns. They are seriously committed to a safe and effective experience. Patient in dealing with our different skill levels. They are professional, knowledgable, approachable, experienced and most importantly, cool guys! "BASICS"-They taught us how to find out where and when to surf and how to safely fall off a surfboard. Then, lying on the board, paddling, catching a wave, how to get up and ride properly. "EQUIPMENTS"-They had just purchased new equipments.They bring the wetsuits, water boots and boards. They are all in excellent condition. "APPROACH"-Students can become confident learners with their hands on approach. They'll give you the chance to apply your skills in the field immediately. Provide students with opportunities to take ownership of their learning. But they know when to give you space and freedom to experiment the waves on your own, with close supervision. They are very encouraging every step of the way. "EXPERIENCE"-Best part of my summer! I am so glad that I decided to try surfing with them! First try was addicting and booked a second lesson right away. I give them my highest recommendation to anyone thinking about learning how to surf and have "FUN". read more

Fabien and his class was amazing. You pay in advance online and meet him in a parking lot where you change into the wet suit. He has you warm up before getting into the water. Once you get in the water, it isn't cold. I never once thought "wow I'm cold" the whole time I was out there. My boyfriend and myself were able to stand up right away on the board. Fabien only takes 6 people per class so he is able to coach you the entire time you are in the water. I highly recommend taking lessons with him. It was the most fun thing I have done since moving to California. read more

I went last Saturday for a surf lesson and I have to say it was a really nice and fun experience ! Fabien is super sweet, professional and attentive. I came as a total beginner and I was kind of scared to be really bad but actually the atmosphere is so friendly, everybody is in a good mood, Fabien makes you feel comfortable so you quickly get to enjoy it, have fun and feel confident. It definitely made me want to improve myslef and keep learning. I also loved it for the fact of being away from the city and simply enjoy the elements (fresh air, water) It was a real getaway. I would totally recommend it to anyone, but be careful: if you try it, you'll be back, it's addictive ! read more

Fabien is amazing! I took my first 3 surf classes with him, and my friends and I ALL loved him! He's really patient and is so good at giving you feedback on how to improve. He's friendly, considerate and passionate. I always did a group class and you definitely get enough 1:1 time with the instructors. I'm going back to him next time for sure! read more

Fabien is your man for learning how to surf! He's the ideal combination of fun and professionalism. He's incredibly knowledgeable about the sport and is more than happy to answer questions. I enrolled in Fabien's 10-class program and now I'm riding green waves on my own. Thanks to Fabien! read more

When I moved from France to San Francisco I really wanted to try surfing, I started with Sea, Surf & Fun and never stopped since. Sea, Surf & Fun school is human and friendly but it is mainly very professional, concerned about safety and honestly interested in every student's improvement. This school is different because you really feel like the instructor is dedicated and truly passionate. The advice are tailor-made to each person, it never feels touristy or quickly done. The team is enthusiastic, active in water, follow your progression path and provide tones of great photos. Scheduling a class is easy, I appreciate that the instructor is very reactive. There are a lot of returning students so I like to surf with these people every week, all year round and be part of a fun, humble group. The Jetty in Half Moon Bay is a great place to learn, it's safe and delivers plenty of waves to learn from. I also like that the school is dynamic and organize surf camps, yoga classes and different activities around surfing. Overall, I got hooked with surfing thanks to this school and I'm happy to spread the word. read more

Very highly recommended! Just got done doing a 5 lesson pack with Fabien. Great for total beginners and also those who have been a few times and trying to improve. I had only surfed once before and by the end of the lessons I was standing up and riding pretty easily and comfortable to head out on my own. Fabien is a great teacher and his class is a great value as well, compared to some other lessons around, it's definitely the best bang for your buck in the area. read more

I started with the Girl Session more than a year ago. It was my first time and I had one of my best experience in California ! The place (Half Moon Bay) is beautiful, Fabien (the teacher) is great, patient and very professional. Thanks to Sea, Surf & Fun I met 4 awesome girls and we still go surfing to Pacifica and Half Moon Bay (after 5 lessons @ Sea, Surf and Fun). I highly recommend Sea, Surf & Fun whatever age you are ! They are not expensive and you will have a blast ! And you don't even need to be French :) ! read more

I booked a semi-private surfing lesson with Fabien, and it was a perfect way to get step-by-step surfing instruction and plenty of time to apply my new skills. Fabien spent just enough time to explain surfing techniques on the beach and lead us through a short-warmup so we were ready for the water. We still had ample time in the water and plenty of time to catch waves. With Fabien's help, I was able to get up on the surfing board plenty of times, and I was able to begin learning techniques to help me outside of my lessons. I appreciate all of Fabien's help, and next time I want to refine my technique, Fabien will be the first instructor I call. read more

Excellent experience! I received a private surf lesson as a bucket list birthday present and had some reservations but it was definitely the best gift ever. Fabien is an excellent teacher and he made us feel comfortable from the moment we met. He does a great job explaining everything you need to know and answering questions, and he's very knowledgeable about the ocean at that particular location so I felt safe and in good hands. I was impressed at how much time we spent in the water surfing because I kind of expected to spend some time on the beach or just bobbing around out there but nope. Fabien makes sure you're actually surfing - or at least trying. We had an awesome time. Highly recommend. Thanks for a great time. read more

I had surfed a few times before and was getting better (slowly) but a shoulder injury last year put me out of commission for quite a while. I felt that taking a class would be the best way, and Fabien was recommended to me by a surf shop in pillar point beach. We started with a great warmup and some surf skills fundamentals and safety warnings. This class was 10% talk, 90% practice - and I really liked that. We had a good balance of practice time and 1 on 1 attention where Fabien gave pointers and tweaks on how to get on the board. Bring a towel and change of clothes since there is no shower. The current at HMB beach is strong, so be ready to work hard! I've taken the class and it really got me back on track - im going to buy a new/used surfboard and keep practicing and I think will go back for another class once I can stand up and surf a few waves at a time. read more

Fabian and his co-instructors were great! I am complete beginner and went with a group of ten other similarly inexperienced newbies. We met in a parking lot near the beach to get set up with wetsuits and boards. Note that there aren't any changing rooms nearby, so I'd recommend coming with your swimsuit already on or bring a towel to change under. After equipping, we went down to the beach for some extensive warm-ups and the lesson proper. Although it seemed odd at the time, the warm-ups really helped with the cold Pacific water. Nothing feels better than cooling off in the ocean after running around the beach in a hot wet suit! For the lesson, we divided into smaller groups of three or four students per instructor, so we received plenty of individual attention. Fabian is great at constantly providing feedback and pointing out exactly what you can do to improve -- super helpful! read more

We have enjoyed contact with Fabien since summer camp registration until the exit of the water! He is funny guy and at the same time he takes care of the children with serious during the day. Our two boys loved their camps and the afternoon's activities they have been doing have always been great. read more

Myself and my other half had a surf lesson today with Fabien. We had both had a few surf lessons before but both firmly in the beginner category. It was a brilliant experience. I was a bit of a scaredy cat as the waves were quite big (for beginners anyway!) and coming from all directions and he completely put me at ease. He gives you lots of one on one attention. There was no pressure to be Kelly Slater, he really let me go at my own pace which is what I wanted. Fabien is really focused on safety so you really feel you are in safe hands but he also teaches really well. He has all the gear that you need, I was delighted he had boots and the wetsuit I was wearing was very comfortable. The parking lot where you meet has no amenities so don't need to pee before hand! But its rough and ready and a real surfer experience. I would highly recommend Sea Surf and Fun and hope to go back again soon. read more