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Paddle Board, Surf, Kayak, and More in LA: Rentals and Lessons for the Whole Family

Kids of all ages can learn to hang ten. Photo courtesy of Freedom Surf Camp
Kids of all ages can learn to hang ten. Photo courtesy of Freedom Surf Camp
1/29/21 - By Meghan Rose

Most people think of surfing or paddle boarding as summer activities, but for lucky Angelenos these outdoor adventures are year-round possibilities. While hiking and playground visits are great ways to get active outside, sometimes kids want a little more excitement. Plus, long boats and boards are natural social distancing enforcers! So we rounded up the best places in and around Los Angeles where the whole family can rent SUP boards, surf boards, and kayaks—or even take part in more unique water sports (water biking anyone?).

First timers can take lessons, while old hands can simply rent the boats and gear. Ocean breezes in your face, sea lions barking from the rocks; any time is the perfect time to don a wetsuit and hit the waves for some water sport fun in LA.

While we are trying to promote safer activities that occur outdoors or with social distancing guidelines in place, please keep your family and others safe by always wearing a mask and maintaining appropriate distance. If you arrive at an event that appears too crowded try using the see all locations in this article or “nearby” search feature on our event calendar to find something else to do. 

If your child needs to get more comfortable in the water before taking part in water sports, we've got a list of the best private swim lessons in LA that might be just the ticket.

 

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Winter, spring, summer, or fall ... all you gotta do is not fall! Photo courtesy of Pro SUP Shop
Winter, spring, summer, or fall ... all you gotta do is not fall! Photo courtesy of Pro SUP Shop

SUP (Paddle Board) Lessons and Rentals in Los Angeles

Paddle Method

Marina del Rey
Kids ages 10 and up can learn to stand up and paddle on a paddleboard in the calm waters of Mother's Beach in Marina del Rey. Lessons cover everything from basic standing up to managing wind and waves. READ MORE

Stand Up Rentals

Long Beach
Experienced paddlers can just review the rules, demonstrate that they know how to paddle, and rent a board. Beginners get instruction for safety and help with the basics included with the stand up paddle board rental fee. READ MORE

Pro SUP Shop

Marina Del Rey
The calm waters of Mother's Beach is one of the best places to learn to paddle. Rent a stand up paddle board or kayak, and hit the water. Be sure to ask for a quick beach lesson before you get started, if you like. READ MORE
First conquor the sand, then the waves. Photo courtesy of Perfect Day Surf Camp
First conquor the sand, then the waves. Photo courtesy of Perfect Day Surf Camp

Where to Learn To SUP and Surf in LA

LA Surf and Swim

Multiple locations in Santa Monica and Venice
The legendary Coach Syd of LA Surf and Swim is responsible for decades of successful swimmers on the Westside. He and his team apply a zen-like calm that eases the fears of students from infants to toddlers to older kids, in private or semi-private lessons at three locations around Santa Monica and Venice. The school also offers ocean swimming classes and surfing lessons. Lesson times can be booked individually online. READ MORE

Learn to Surf LA

Santa Monica, Venice, and Manhattan Beach
With private lessons, group lessons, and spring break & summer camps, Learn to Surf LA is a great place for kids (or parents!) to learn to surf. Stand Up Paddleboard lessons are also available for individuals or small groups. READ MORE

Go Surf LA

Santa Monica, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Zuma, and Venice
Go Surf LA surf and SUP lessons run 90 minutes and cover popping up, etiquette, and ocean safety. Lessons are available all year long in multiple locations including Santa Monica, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Zuma, and Venice. READ MORE

Perfect Day Surf Camp

Santa Monica, Torrance, Redondo Beach, and Manhattan Beach
You're never too old or too young to learn to surf at surf camp. In addition to hosting a fantastic camp, Perfect Day Surf Camp offers private surf and SUP lessons for kids as young as 4 years old. Why not learn LA's signature skill during school break?  READ MORE
Parents can learn alongside kids! Photo courtesy of Malibu Makos Surf Club
Parents can learn alongside kids! Photo courtesy of Malibu Makos Surf Club

Surf Lessons for Kids and Families in Los Angeles

Malibu Makos Surf Club

Malibu
Malibu Makos Surf Camp is geared towards surfers of all abilities, ages 5 to 17. Kids also learn the safety, ocean education, and fitness components of a junior lifeguard program. Transportation is available from several locations. Private and small group lessons are also available. READ MORE

Campsurf - Youth Surf Lessons

Manhattan Beach
CampSurf offers surfing lessons for kids as young as 4 and up through adults. Lessons come in the form of camps, private lessons, small group lessons, or even birthday parties. READ MORE

Newport Surf Camp - Private Lessons

Newport Beach
In addition to summer camp, Newport Surf Camp offers lessons (private or small group) and birthday parties, all of which offer hands-on instruction in the water. READ MORE

Freedom Surf Camp

Santa Monica and Manhattan Beach
Private surf lessons and surf camps for kids (and adults) from kindergarten age on up. Lessons are available in Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach. READ MORE

Kapowui Surf Club

Venice
Surf lessons here include all the equipment - surfboard, wet suit, and instructor. Lessons can last from 1-2 hours, and are for all ages. Group lessons and inflatable SUP lessons are also available. READ MORE
Thumbs up, umbrellas up! Photo courtesy of Ventura Boat Rentals
Thumbs up, umbrellas up! Photo courtesy of Ventura Boat Rentals

The Best Places to Rent Kayaks in Southern California

Ventura Boat Rentals

Ventura
Renting single kayaks, double kayaks, and even double+ kayaks (allowing for 2 adults and a child under 50 pounds), families can rent by the hour to take a paddle around Ventura Harbor. Electric boats and SUP boards are also available to rent. READ MORE

Huntington Harbor Boat Rentals

Sunset Beach
Kayaks and Paddleboards are available to rent hourly, and duffys can be rented out in two hour blocks. Enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Huntington Harbor and the amazing customer service; the staff here has been known to pass out popsicles to kids, and provide doggy life jackets. READ MORE

Everyday California

La Jolla
Ok, this is a drive, but we have to include it because kayaking in La Jolla is an unforgettable experience. Rent a kayak and head out to explore on your own, or take a guided tour of La Jolla’s Seven Sea Caves. See leopard sharks in the summer and gray whales in the winter. READ MORE
Why follow a path, when you can bike anywhere? Photo courtesy of Long Beach Waterbikes
Why follow a path, when you can bike anywhere? Photo courtesy of Long Beach Waterbikes

Even More Water Sports near Los Angeles

Long Beach Waterbikes

Long Beach
Ride a bike on the water! Take a spin during the day or a glow ride at night. Kids must be 10 years old and be tall enough to reach the pedals. READ MORE

Los Angeles Wake

Lake Elsinore
Take a group wakeboarding, wakesurfing, wakeskating, or tubing! Anyone 5 and up can learn. the company is currently operating at Lake Elsinore. READ MORE

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