There’s something magical about sharing a passion with your kids. For me, that passion is surfing. My daughter has always been curious about the ocean, asking questions about the waves, the sea breeze, and those “crazy surfers” out there paddling into the unknown. So, when she finally asked, “Dad, can you teach me to surf?” my heart swelled. Teaching her how to ride waves became not just a new adventure for her but a way for me to rediscover the joy of surfing all over again.
California is famous for its surf culture, but finding the right spot for beginners—where the waves aren’t intimidating, and the vibe is laid-back—can make all the difference. Over several weekends, my daughter and I explored some of the best beginner-friendly surf spots in California. Here are our favorites, each with its own charm and lessons learned along the way.
1. Santa Cruz’s Cowell Beach
Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz was where it all began. It’s the perfect starter spot, with gentle, rolling waves that seem to welcome you into the world of surfing. I remember paddling out with my daughter, reassuring her that the waves wouldn’tknock her down. The sandy bottom here adds an extra layer of comfort—it’s forgiving if you take a tumble. Plus, there’sno need to worry about sharp rocks or reefs.
The crowd at Cowell is mostly beginners and instructors, which creates a calm, friendly atmosphere. We met a local surf coach who gave us a few pointers on positioning and timing—a little advice that went a long way. Watching her catch her first small wave felt like witnessing a spark of magic. She stood for all of three seconds, but to her, it was an eternity. We celebrated with ice cream at the Santa Cruz Boardwalk afterward, which, in my book, is a core part of the surfing experience.
2. Bolinas, Marin County
If Cowell Beach was our introduction, Bolinas was where my daughter started feeling more confident. This hidden gem in Marin County feels like a secret surf spot that only locals seem to know. It’s a quiet, quirky town with a small, welcoming surf scene. The waves here are gentle and consistent, perfect for practicing.
What makes Bolinas special is the sense of calm it offers. Unlike some more popular beaches, there’s no rush, nocompetition for waves. We spent hours laughing, wiping out, and trying again. By the end of the day, my daughter was paddling into waves on her own, her confidence growing visibly with every ride.
One tip: parking can be tricky in Bolinas, so arrive early. And don’t forget to stop by the local café for a post-surf hot chocolate. It’s a great way to cap off a day in the water.
3. Cardiff Reef, Encinitas
Heading south, we discovered Cardiff Reef in Encinitas. This spot has a special energy, a blend of laid-back surfers and families just enjoying the day. The waves at Cardiff are smooth and forgiving, perfect for beginners like my daughter. What’s great about this spot is the variety—it accommodates newbies while offering slightly bigger waves for those ready to step up their game.
One memorable moment here was when I decided to hop on a wave alongside her. We cheered each other on, laughing as we both rode the same wave toward shore. It felt like pure joy, the kind you only get when you’re in sync with nature and each other. Cardiff Reef also has plenty of nearby taco stands, and let me tell you, few things taste better than a fish taco after a long day of paddling.
4. San Onofre State Beach, San Clemente
San Onofre, or “San O,” as locals call it, quickly became one of our favorite spots. This beach exudes classic California surf vibes. With longboarders gliding gracefully across the water, it’s a place that feels like stepping back into surf culture’s golden age.
For beginners, the waves here are ideal—smooth, mellow, and perfect for learning. It’s also a fantastic spot to watch and learn from experienced surfers without feeling out of place. My daughter was fascinated by how effortlessly they moved, and it gave her something to aspire to. We spent hours practicing our pop-ups on the sand before heading back into the water to try for real.
San O also has a unique charm with its picnic areas and relaxed atmosphere. We brought a small grill and had a beach barbecue after surfing, a tradition we’ve continued ever since. There’s something about sitting on the sand, eating burgers, and watching the sunset that makes the whole experience unforgettable.
5. Doheny State Beach, Dana Point
If there’s one spot that screams “beginner-friendly,” it’s Doheny. The break here is so gentle that even first-timers can feel comfortable. It’s a great place to practice the basics without worrying about getting overwhelmed by larger waves. The gradual, sloping beach makes for a long, easy ride—perfect for building confidence.
The community at Doheny is one of its best features. Everyone we met was supportive and encouraging, from fellow surfers to instructors giving free tips. On our second visit, my daughter paddled into a small wave all by herself, riding it all the way to shore. She was beaming, and I couldn’t have been prouder.
Dana Point also offers plenty of other activities, so we made a weekend of it. After our surf sessions, we explored the harbor, grabbed some seafood, and even went on a short whale-watching tour. Surfing may have been the highlight, but the trip as a whole felt like a perfect family getaway.
Lessons from the Waves
Surfing with my daughter taught me more than I ever expected. It’s not just about riding waves; it’s about patience, persistence, and celebrating the small victories. Watching her struggle, try again, and eventually succeed reminded me of why I fell in love with surfing in the first place. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about showing up, having fun, and connecting with the ocean.
Each of these surf spots offered something unique, but the common thread was the memories we created together. From her first wobbly ride at Cowell Beach to confidently paddling into waves at San Onofre, every step of the journey was a reminder of the simple joy of sharing something you love with someone you care about.
Tips for Surfing with Kids
If you’re thinking about hitting the waves with your own child, here are a few things I learned along the way:
- Start small. Choose gentle, beginner-friendly spots with sandy bottoms. Confidence is built one small wave at a time.
- Make it fun. Don’t focus too much on technique at first. Celebrate every little victory, even if it's just standing for a second.
- Invest in a good wetsuit. California’s waters can be chilly, even in summer. A well-fitted wetsuit keeps kids warm and happy.
- Be patient. Learning to surf takes time. There will be wipeouts, but that’s all part of the process.
- Bring snacks. A hungry kid is a cranky kid. Pack plenty of snacks and water to keep the stoke alive.
The Waves Keep Calling
As a dad, there’s nothing more fulfilling than seeing your child light up with excitement over something you love. Surfing has become more than a hobby for us—it’s a shared adventure, a way to connect, and a reminder of life’s simple pleasures. California’s beginner surf spots provided the perfect backdrop for these moments, and I know we’ll keep exploring more together.
The ocean has a way of teaching you things you didn’t know you needed to learn. It taught me patience, gratitude, and the beauty of experiencing life through my daughter’s eyes. So, if you’ve ever thought about grabbing a board and hitting the waves with your kid, do it. You won’t regret it. And who knows? You might just find yourself falling in love with surfing all over again.
