About
SoCal Surf Lessons offers surf lessons that include Kid's Private Lessons, Adult Private Lessons, Group Lessons, and Kid's Summer Surf Camps. A typical beginner lesson includes about 5–10 minutes of beach instruction, with the remaining time in the water with the instructor surfing. Students also have free 1 hour use of the equipment after the lesson.
• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Everyday, with lesson options from 8AM–8PM; a typical beginner lesson includes 5–10 minutes of beach instruction plus water time, followed by 1 hour of free equipment use
SoCal Surf Lessons was founded in the summer of 2004 by lifelong waterman Rusty Friesen and has operated for over two decades as a year-round surf school based in Carlsbad, California. All instructors are experienced local Carlsbad residents, and SoCal Surf Lessons is licensed, bonded, and insured. Founder Rusty Friesen is a three-year California State Lifeguard, an experienced big-wave surfer and bodyboarder, and a world traveler. The program states that its goal is to give students the knowledge, confidence, and stoke to enjoy surfing for life. The school describes itself as a small local operation that has grown into a trusted, year-round surf school based in Carlsbad, California.
SoCal Surf Lessons provides top of the line equipment and offers year round lessons, same day appointments, and no deposit necessary. Lessons are tailored to beginner to advanced surfers of all ages, with both private and group lessons and Kid's Summer Surf Camps offered. The program guarantees that students will be up and surfing a wave on their first lesson or the next lesson is free, and students have free 1 hour use of the equipment after the lesson.
One parent testimonial states: “We just finished an hour and a half surf lesson for my three kids (ages 15, 13, and 9) with SoCal Surf Lessons. I can’t speak highly enough about the experience. It was absolutely incredible. Definitely one of those core life memories for my kids; something they'll never forget. Hands down the best money I’ve spent in a long time. Huge thanks to Rusty and his team at SoCal Surf!” – Rachel Martin.
Last updated June 26, 2026.
• Ages: 5–18 years old
• Schedule: Everyday, with lesson options from 8AM–8PM; a typical beginner lesson includes 5–10 minutes of beach instruction plus water time, followed by 1 hour of free equipment use
SoCal Surf Lessons was founded in the summer of 2004 by lifelong waterman Rusty Friesen and has operated for over two decades as a year-round surf school based in Carlsbad, California. All instructors are experienced local Carlsbad residents, and SoCal Surf Lessons is licensed, bonded, and insured. Founder Rusty Friesen is a three-year California State Lifeguard, an experienced big-wave surfer and bodyboarder, and a world traveler. The program states that its goal is to give students the knowledge, confidence, and stoke to enjoy surfing for life. The school describes itself as a small local operation that has grown into a trusted, year-round surf school based in Carlsbad, California.
SoCal Surf Lessons provides top of the line equipment and offers year round lessons, same day appointments, and no deposit necessary. Lessons are tailored to beginner to advanced surfers of all ages, with both private and group lessons and Kid's Summer Surf Camps offered. The program guarantees that students will be up and surfing a wave on their first lesson or the next lesson is free, and students have free 1 hour use of the equipment after the lesson.
One parent testimonial states: “We just finished an hour and a half surf lesson for my three kids (ages 15, 13, and 9) with SoCal Surf Lessons. I can’t speak highly enough about the experience. It was absolutely incredible. Definitely one of those core life memories for my kids; something they'll never forget. Hands down the best money I’ve spent in a long time. Huge thanks to Rusty and his team at SoCal Surf!” – Rachel Martin.
Last updated June 26, 2026.
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