A Local's Guide by Sunrise Surf Academy
Surfing in Pacific Palisades
If you're searching for the best place for kids and families to learn to surf in Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades is a hidden gem. Nestled between Santa Monica and Malibu, this stretch of coastline offers a quieter, more relaxed surf experience — with scenic views, soft sand, and beginner-friendly waves that make it ideal for all ages.
Sunrise Surf Academy proudly offers surf lessons and our seasonal Youth Summer Surf Camp at Will Rogers State Beach, located just off Pacific Coast Highway. It's one of LA's safest and most consistent beach breaks for beginner surfers — far from the crowds but still close to the city.
Whether you're booking a private surf lesson, signing up for our summer camp, or just exploring a new beach to paddle out, Will Rogers is one of the best places to learn to surf in Los Angeles. With experienced local instructors, a positive learning environment, and a deep connection to this coastline, we're stoked to help you ride your first (or next) wave here.
🌊 Surf Guide: Will Rogers State Beach
- Wave Type: Beach break (sandy bottom) — mellow, wide open, and beginner-friendly
- Best Season: Year-round — especially consistent in summer and early fall
- Best Time of Day: Early mornings before the wind picks up (7:00–10:00 AM)
- Local Coffee Pick: ☕️ Caffe Luxxe – elevated espresso and great pre-surf vibe just up the road
⚙️ Ideal Surf Conditions at Will Rogers
- Swell Direction: SW to W — combo swells offer the cleanest, most user-friendly waves
- Wind: Light offshore (from the northeast) is ideal
- Surf Height: Best in the 2–4 ft range (waist- to chest-high) — perfect for learning and progressing
- Tide: Works best on a medium incoming tide; low tide can lead to closeouts, high tide may soften the wave
🔗 Live Forecast for Will Rogers State Beach (via Surfline):
Will Rogers State Beach Surf Report
🧳 Coming from Out of Town?
Pacific Palisades offers a peaceful, upscale escape just minutes from LA's westside. Nestled between Santa Monica and Malibu, this stretch of coast is known for its natural beauty, laid-back charm, and uncrowded beaches — making it one of the best-kept secrets for learning to surf in Los Angeles.
Surfing in the Palisades is more than just catching waves — it's about slowing down, tuning into nature, and experiencing the raw beauty of the California coast. Nestled between Malibu and Santa Monica, this stretch of beach offers mellow waves, stunning views, and a peaceful vibe that makes it one of our favorite places to teach.
We'd love to share it with you.
Let's paddle out — the waves are calling.
