Surfing lessons in Santa Monica, CA?

Question

I'd like to take surfing lessons in or near Santa Monica. Any suggestions. I've picked up information on the following places. Any feedback on them

1. Blue Rider Surf

2. Aqua Surf School

3. City of Santa Monica Rec classes (listed in their SeaScape magazine)

Answer 1

Make sure that the outfit you hire is insured and has a permit from the city to operate. If you get hurt these things become very important. Surf near an open lifeguard station and ask the guards about water hazards and proper surf areas.

Answer 2

Mary Setterholm owns Surf Academy surf school in Santa Monica.  She has one of the largest schools in LA plus knows how to teach most everyone.  She was also a great surfer and US Champ years back.  Look on the web at surfacademy.com

Answer 3

Try picking up a good surf mag and there should be some ads for surf lessons in there.