COVID-19 PROTOCOL FOR ALL CAMPS & LESSONS

All students, campers and persons accompanying them must abide by current CDC regulations

WHERE IS THE SCHOOL LOCATED?

You can find us ON THE BEACH on Eighth St. in Manhattan Beach, CA. Look for the black canopy tent that says Locals Surf School

Make sure you are NOT trying to book for our NY location.

WHAT ARE THE WAVES LIKE?

Manhattan beach offers great waves for those who are just learning how to surf and for those who are looking to advance. With a sand bottom and plenty of wide-open space, our area is perfect for taking lessons. The waves also break relatively close to shore which makes for easy paddle-outs.

I AM NOT A VERY GOOD SWIMMER, CAN I STILL TAKE SURF LESSONS?

We require that you know how to tread water and stay afloat. Being able to swim will be very helpful when you learn how to surf; however, being a good swimmer is not necessary. Our beach is great for beginners because the waves don't typically break very far out and the water is relatively shallow so you will be able to stand after you dismount your board. Furthermore, all of our instructors are well trained and CPR / First Aid certified putting you in great hands. Finally, your surfboard will be your over-sized flotation device!

IS THE WATER COLD? 

The summer months will bring warm water temperatures ranging from the mid 60’s to low 70’s, perfect for surf lessons. The water cools down from October through April but we provide full body wetsuits, boots, and gloves to keep our students toasty. You will be surprised at how warm you will be in the off-season while wearing one of our wetsuits. 

WILL WE BE PROVIDED THE NECESSARY EQUIPMENT?

We will provide you with everything you need: surfboard, wetsuit, water, and shade.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE BEACH?

Just bring a bathing suit, a towel, some extra water and a good attitude.

I HAVE NEVER SURFED BEFORE. CAN I STILL TAKE LESSONS?

No experience necessary at all. In fact, we encourage beginners!

I HAVE SOME SURFING EXPERIENCE BUT WOULD LIKE TO IMPROVE MY ABILITY. IS LOCALS THE PLACE FOR ME?

You bet it is. We at Locals also specialize in surf mentoring and surf coaching for those who are familiar with the sport and want to take their surfing to the next level. We teach on all types of boards in all types of conditions and even offer photo / video analysis for those who are committed to improving.

WHAT TYPES OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?

We accept credit online to make your booking. Payment s due in full at time of booking. 

WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS BAD WEATHER OR ROUGH SURF?

You will have no problem surfing in most weather conditions. However, if there is thunder, lightning or other threatening conditions (such as big waves), we will personally notify everyone for that day and reschedule lessons. We would love to give you as much notice as possible; however, weather and wave patterns may change quickly so we do our best to notify students of cancellation as soon as we know what is best. The latest we will let students know is 2 hours before your scheduled lesson time if we have to reschedule. Always feel free to reach out if you are unsure!

CAN I CANCEL A LESSON? 

We would really like at least 48 hours of advanced notice if you must cancel or reschedule but we NEED 24 hours of notice. If canceling or rescheduling within 24 hours of your lesson, you will be charged the full cost of your lesson for however may spots were reserved. We are normally very accommodating and understanding of unforeseen emergencies and circumstances but keep in mind that we pay our instructors in advanced for lesson spots that could have otherwise been filled if you had given us more notice. Parties and Outings of 6 or more are required to give 2 days of notice to cancel or reschedule without incurring the fee. Parties and Outings of 12 or more are required to give 5 days of notice to cancel or reschedule without incurring the fee. Parties and Outings of 20 or more are required to give 15 days of notice to cancel or reschedule without incurring the fee.

IS THERE AN AGE LIMIT?

There are no age requirements. We will place you in basic age groups: youth and adult if taking a group class. Kids under 14 will likely need to take a private lesson if they do not bring their own friends to form a small group of 3 or more. Kids as young as 3 can take a private lesson. 

WHEN ARE THE LESSONS OFFERED?

Lessons are offered 7 days a week ALL YEAR ROUND. Each day will have 3 possible sessions that you may sign up for.

HOW MANY LESSONS DOES IT TYPICALLY TAKE TO LEARN HOW TO SURF? 

We will have you standing on a board in only one lesson but it may take several lessons to find your groove. To truly get the hang of it, we recommend you sing up for a lesson package as most students do. 

SHOULD I DO GROUP OR PRIVATE LESSONS?

We teach both lesson types all year but the groups happen mostly in the warmer months when we can group people together at random due to higher demand. Group Lessons foster a fun and low pressure learning environment that many enjoy. One can take a private lesson any day of the year and will benefit from the fastest track towards being a better surfer. 

IS SURFING DANGEROUS?

As with all sports and activities, surfing comes with some risks. However, at Locals Surf School you have little to worry about. We have been in this business for quite some time and are certified with the National Surf Schools and Instructors Association. Our staff is also well trained and CPR/ First Aid certified.

IS THERE PARKING IN THE AREA?

Yes there is street parking throughout the area as well as pay-to-park lots by the pier.

DO I HAVE TO BE IN SHAPE TO SURF?

Not at all. While being in good health and shape helps, we've taught all sorts of people and abilities how to surf. Most people, regardless of their physicality, are able to stand up and ride a wave on their first lesson!

CAN YOU SURF IN THE WINTER?

Yes, and many people do. You will just need the right wetsuit. If you take a surf lesson with Locals, we will provide you with all the gear you need.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I BREAK A BOARD OR PIECE OF EQUIPMENT?

If you break a board or other equipment, either while renting or during a lesson, Locals reserves the right to charge you the full amount for this broken board or piece of equipment. The following is a list of fees for broken equipment:

Surfboard: $350

Leash: $25

Wetsuit: $50

To keep our operations running smoothly, we at Locals Surf School have a few terms and conditions that are important to understand before taking lessons with us. Don't worry, there's nothing to be scared of here. We've worked hard to build a reputation of being very understanding and accommodating people who are in the business of making our customers happy, not making a extra buck when possible. 

• Gratuity for lessons is not included or necessary but generally recommended. 

     "Like It"   =  $10

     "Love It"  =  $20

• Large Groups: Parties of 10 or more are required to tip at least 20%

• Scheduling: All lessons must be scheduled. Scheduling a week in advanced is recommended for preferential timing; however, students can often call at the last minute to jump in an open time slot. Walk-ons are accepted but not guaranteed. Purchasing a lesson online before scheduling does not guarantee lesson availability. 

• Requesting Instructors: Students may request to work with a particular instructor but working with that instructor is not guaranteed. Instructors have to juggle busy and constantly changing schedules so its is recommended that students tip the insctuctors they wish to work with in order to secure their lesson with him or her.

• Being Late: Arriving 30 minutes before a lesson is recommended but 15 minutes early is a MUST. It takes a few minutes do get signed in, suited-up, and stretched out so please be on time and ready to go. If you are running late, please let us know and give us an honest ETA.

• When arriving late, we do our best to accommodate our students by giving them extra time a the end; however, at some point we have to end the lesson no matter what. We will have other students waiting to use their own paid time and cannot sacrifice their time. If you arrive so late that so you miss most of the lesson, you can choose to take the remainder of the lesson for the full lesson price, or simply pay the cancellation fee. 

• Cancellation Policy:  We would really like at least 48 hours of advanced notice if you must cancel or reschedule but we NEED 24 hours of notice. If canceling or rescheduling within 24 hours of your lesson, you will be charged the full cost of your lesson for however may spots were reserved. We are normally very accommodating and understanding of unforeseen emergencies and circumstances but keep in mind that we pay our instructors in advanced for lesson spots that could have otherwise been filled if you had given us more notice. Parties and Outings of 6 or more are required to give 2 days of notice to cancel or reschedule without incurring the fee. Parties and Outings of 12 or more are required to give 5 days of notice to cancel or reschedule without incurring the fee. Parties and Outings of 20 or more are required to give 15 days of notice to cancel or reschedule without incurring the fee.

• Class Minimums: We offer group classes each day of the week from Memorial Day through Labor Day but our minimum to run a group class is 3 people. Off-peak season group classes mostly run on weekends. You do not need to have 3 people to register and can register individually but if less than 3 people total are registered for a group class, then students will be given the option to upgrade to a private lesson or come another day instead. 

• Broken Equipment: If our equipment is lost or broken with a rental, it must be replaced to its full value. If equipment is lost or damaged during a lesson, the student may be liable for replacing the equipment if actions were deemed negligent by owner or instructor. Prices vary for different equipment but are generally priced as follows:

    • Surf Board : $300

    • Leash : $30

    • Wetsuit : $200

    • Wetsuit Top : $70

    • Fins : $15 

• Leaving A Lesson: If you decide to leave the lesson at any point, you may not make-up the remaining time. 

• By signing up for a lesson with Locals Surf School LLC, you agree for your card on file to be charged for cancellation and damage fees. 

• Owners, instructors and affiliates of Locals Surf School LLC are not responsible for injuries or damage caused to students or their parties.

• No Refunds: There are no refunds for orders, lessons or packages once they have been placed or purchased. Lesson and camp credit always valid. 

• Surfing in an extreme sport. In order to surf with us, students need to be able to swim and be in good physical health. Students should also be advised that there are inherent risks to participating in the sport including but not limited to, injuries, drowning, death, marine hazards such as sharks, submerged objects, surfer’s myelopathy ( a spinal disorder resulting from prolonged periods of laying on a surfboard) and others. Fortunately these risks are EXTREMELY RARE & very well mitigated by our professionally rained and certified staff.