Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast: Learning to Surf in Los Angeles & Santa Monica

One of the biggest challenges every beginner surfer faces isn't standing up on the board—it's getting  out  to the waves in the first place. In this episode of the  Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast , professional surf instructor  Lucas Coleman  explains how to paddle through breaking waves safely, efficiently, and with far less effort. Whether you're taking your very first surf lesson in...

Planning a 4th of July weekend in Santa Monica? This is the only guide you need, straight from a surf instructor who lives and works on Santa Monica Beach year-round. In this episode, Lucas from Calibunga Surf Lessons breaks down everything you need to know to make the most of Independence Day weekend at one of the most iconic beaches in the world. Whether you're a tourist visiting Los Angeles...

Rip currents are the number one ocean hazard for swimmers and beginner surfers along the Los Angeles coastline — and most people have no idea what to do when they get caught in one. In this entry-level episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, we break down exactly what a rip current is, how to spot one before you ever get in the water at Santa Monica Beach, and the simple steps to escape one...

If you're thinking about taking surf lessons in Santa Monica or anywhere along the Los Angeles coastline, safety comes first — and this episode covers exactly that. The Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast breaks down the absolute basics every beginner surfer needs before paddling out at Santa Monica Beach: how to read ocean conditions, what rip currents look like and how to escape them, proper leas...

What is the best surfboard to buy if you are a complete beginner surfer? In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, Santa Monica surf instructor and Calibunga Surf Lessons owner Lucas Coleman breaks down exactly what to look for when buying your first surfboard — and why the advice you get at a surf shop is not always the advice that's best for a beginner. Should you get a big boar...

What are the best fun outdoor things to do in Los Angeles in the summer of 2026? In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, Santa Monica local and professional surf instructor Lucas Coleman shares his insider guide to the best outdoor activities in and around Los Angeles this summer — from Santa Monica Beach and the iconic Santa Monica Pier, to Malibu, Venice Beach, Griffith Park, the...

When you're out in the water for the first time, how do you know whose turn it is to catch a wave? In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, Santa Monica surf instructor Lucas Coleman breaks down one of the most confusing parts of learning to surf — surf etiquette and wave priority in the lineup. What is dropping in? What is snaking? Who has the right of way on a wave? What is the...

How old do you have to be to learn to surf? In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, professional Santa Monica surf instructor Lucas Coleman answers one of the most common questions beginners ask before booking their first surf lesson. Whether you're looking for kids surf lessons in Los Angeles, adult surf lessons in Santa Monica, beginner surf lessons near the Santa Monica Pier,...

How much should you expect to pay for surf lessons in Los Angeles? In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, we break down the typical cost of surf lessons in Los Angeles and what beginners should know before booking their first lesson at Santa Monica Beach. Surf instructor Lucas Coleman explains why surf lesson prices vary between schools, what equipment is usually included, and what...

One of the most common questions beginners ask before taking their first surf lesson is simple: how long does it actually take to learn to surf? In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, surf instructor Lucas Coleman explains what beginners can realistically expect when learning to surf at Santa Monica Beach. We talk about how quickly most students stand up during their first surf les...

Santa Monica Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Los Angeles, but is it actually a good place for beginners learning to surf? In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, we break down the wave conditions at Santa Monica Beach and why the area near the Santa Monica Pier has become one of the most popular places for beginner surf lessons in Los Angeles. Surf instructor Lucas Colema...

Spring Break 2026 in Los Angeles is here! 🌊  Heading to  Santa Monica  or the LA area and wondering what to do? This episode covers the best activities for families, groups, and couples, with insider tips that only locals know. From beginner surf lessons on Santa Monica Beach to unforgettable beach memories, we show you how to make your trip one to remember. If you’re visiting with kids or family...

If you’re searching for the best surf lessons in Santa Monica, it can be hard to know where to start. With several surf schools operating along Santa Monica Beach, beginners often wonder how to choose the right surf instructor and what separates a good surf lesson from an average one. In this episode of the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, surf instructor Lucas Coleman explains what makes a great s...

Welcome to the Calibunga Surf Lessons Podcast, a show about learning to surf in Los Angeles and what it’s really like to take your first surf lesson at Santa Monica Beach. Hosted by surf instructor Lucas Coleman, this podcast answers the most common questions beginners ask before learning to surf near the Santa Monica Pier. If you have ever wondered how surf lessons work, whether Santa Monica is a...