Malibu vs Santa Monica: Where to Learn to Surf
- Anthony Petro
- Oct 12
- 4 min read
Southern California is home to two of the world’s most famous surf towns — Malibu and Santa Monica.If you’ve been searching surf lessons near me or trying to decide between these two coastal icons, this guide compares their beaches, waves, and surf schools so you can choose the right place for your first lesson.
At Always Summer Surf School Malibu, we teach on Malibu’s clean, consistent beaches like Zuma, Broad Beach, and Surfrider Point — all perfect for beginners who want space, safety, and that classic Malibu magic.
Malibu and Santa Monica at a Glance
Why Malibu Wins for Beginner Surf Lessons
1. Cleaner Water and More Room
Malibu’s coastline stretches over 20 miles, so even on busy weekends instructors can find peaceful sandbars for new surfers.Santa Monica, by contrast, can feel packed — especially near the pier.
2. Mellow Waves and Gentle Take-Offs
Beaches like Broad Beach and Zuma Beach create forgiving waves that break gradually, giving students time to stand up smoothly.Santa Monica’s beach breaks can be faster and steeper.
3. Authentic Surf Culture
Malibu’s heritage goes back to the 1950s — it’s the birthplace of California surf style.Learning here connects you to the same spirit that made surfing iconic.
When Santa Monica Might Make Sense
Santa Monica does have advantages for visitors staying downtown or without a car:
Walking distance from hotels and the promenade
Easy rental boards on the sand
Great post-surf restaurants and shops nearby
If you only have an hour or two, Santa Monica Surf School options like<a href="https://www.kapowui.com" rel="nofollow">Kapowui Surf Lessons</a> and<a href="https://www.gosurfla.com" rel="nofollow">Go Surf LA</a>offer quick sessions right near the pier.
Still, most people looking for a quieter, safer environment prefer Malibu surf lessons through<a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/">Always Summer Surf School</a>.
Best Malibu Beaches for New Surfers
Zuma Beach
Large, clean, and lifeguard-patrolled — perfect for 90-minute private or group sessions.
Broad Beach
Ideal for families and kids; softer waves and fewer crowds.
Surfrider Point
Great progression spot once you’re catching unbroken waves.
For live surf forecasts, check<a href="https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/malibu/5842041f4e65fad6a770888c">Surfline’s Malibu Report</a>.
Lesson Structure and Pricing at Always Summer Surf School
All Malibu lessons include a board, leash, wetsuit, and 90 minutes of professional coaching.
Local competitors such as<a href="https://www.malibusurfingschool.com" rel="nofollow">Malibu Surfing School</a> and<a href="https://www.malibusurfexperience.com" rel="nofollow">Malibu Surf Experience</a>list similar rates, but Always Summer Surf School includes all gear and small group ratios for every beach.
Cost Comparison and Value
When you search surf lessons near me, you’ll see Malibu and Santa Monica prices overlap—but the experience differs.
At Always Summer Surf School, there are no add-ons or rental fees—gear, permits, and coaching are included.That transparency saves beginners both stress and surprise charges.
Getting There and Parking
From Downtown LA: 35–45 minutes to Santa Monica; 60–75 minutes to Malibu (depending on traffic).If you want the quickest paddle-out, Santa Monica wins; if you want clean water, space, and scenery, Malibu is worth the extra drive.
Parking Tips
Malibu: Paid lots at Zuma and street parking at Broad Beach.
Santa Monica: Metered spots fill fast near the pier—arrive early or rideshare.
Vibe and Atmosphere
Malibu: quiet mornings, dolphins, and a local crowd that still lives the surf lifestyle.Santa Monica: a lively urban beach with volleyball, rollerblades, and tourists watching from the pier.
If your goal is focus and calm instruction, Malibu gives you space to learn.If you love action and people-watching, Santa Monica is unbeatable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Beach Is Better for First-Timers?
Malibu’s Broad Beach and Zuma Beach are gentler and less crowded, so most beginners start there.
Are Wetsuits and Boards Provided?
Yes — every lesson at Always Summer Surf School includes a soft-top board and wetsuit.
Can I Take Lessons in Both Cities?
Absolutely. Many students start in Malibu and take a refresher lesson in Santa Monica during vacation.
Is the Water Colder in Malibu?
A few degrees cooler on average, but our full suits keep you warm year-round.
Do You Offer Kids or Family Lessons?
Yes — we run family and corporate sessions at Broad Beach and Zuma Beach.
Ready to Book Your Malibu Surf Lesson?
You’ve seen how Malibu and Santa Monica compare—now it’s time to ride your first wave.👉 <a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/book-now"><strong>Book Now with Always Summer Surf School Malibu</strong></a>
Learn more about<a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/private-lessons">Private Surf Lessons</a> or<a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/group-lessons">Group Surf Lessons</a>,or message us through the <a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/contact">Contact Page</a> with any questions.
Compare & Book Surf Lessons Near Me
<h3>Compare & Book Surf Lessons Near Me</h3>
<p>
If you're comparing <strong>surf lessons near me in Malibu</strong>,
check out <a href="https://www.malibusurfingschool.com" rel="nofollow">Malibu Surfing School</a>,
<a href="https://www.gosurfla.com" rel="nofollow">Go Surf LA</a>,
and <a href="https://www.kapowui.com" rel="nofollow">Kapowui Surf Lessons</a>.
Then book your own <a href="https://www.alwayssummersurfschool.com/">Malibu surf lesson</a>
with <strong>Always Summer Surf School</strong> — boards and wetsuits included.
For real-time waves, visit <a href="https://www.surfline.com/surf-report/malibu/5842041f4e65fad6a770888c">Surfline’s Malibu forecast</a>.
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