Private Surfing Lessons & Instructors in Santa Cruz, CA

I've been in the water since I was very young. I started as a Junior Lifeguard then was seasonal Lifeguard in Newport Beach, CA. I've surfed all over the world. I've pursued big swells in Indonesia as well as mainland Mexico, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Iceland.

"Matthew was wonderful and helped us stand up and feel confident!

Raised on the shores of Oahu, Hawaii, my journey began with the rhythm of the waves at the age of 10, sparking a lifelong passion for surfing. Alongside carving waves, I immersed myself in college and high school football, basketball, and track, finding joy in the thrill of competition. As a competitor in the Hawaii Amateur Surfing Association for 5 years, I honed my skills in the ocean's embrace. Complementing my active lifestyle, I prioritize breathwork, stretching, and a healthy diet to nourish both body and soul. Transitioning into coaching, I've shared my love for sports with the next generation through coaching high school and pop warner football, as well as youth basketball. As an Oahu Professional Photographer, I've captured the beauty of surfing, sports, weddings, and family portraits, preserving cherished memories for clients. For the past decade, I've surfed the waves of San Francisco, delighting in small to medium fun perfect waves and discovering local gems based on conditions. Currently, I'm homeschooling my 8-year-old daughter, embracing the opportunity to instill a love for learning and adventure.

"The lesson with Russ had a great coaching vibe and really good energy. I felt supported throughout! If you're into surfing and want a relaxed, practical approach, you will want to give Russ a try.

With over 15 years of surfing experience and 9+ years as a surf instructor, I deliver professional, safety-focused coaching tailored to all skill levels. My expertise in wave reading, surf technique, and ocean awareness helps students build confidence and progress efficiently. Fluent in five languages, I communicate effectively with an international clientele and create an inclusive, supportive learning environment.

"Abdelaaziz was an amazing instructor! He made us feel comfortable and helped us have so much fun, even though we were complete beginners. He was very attentive and caring, always giving us all the help and support we needed. We felt safe, encouraged, and really enjoyed the whole experience. Highly recommended!

Our surf instructors are seasoned watermen and waterwomen rooted in the rugged coastline of Marin. Each instructor blends technical surf expertise with a deep respect for the ocean, creating a safe, supportive, and empowering experience for every student. With years of teaching, guiding, and surfing in local conditions, they specialize in building confidence, refining technique, and helping students connect more fully with the natural world. Whether working with beginners catching their first wave or advanced surfers looking to elevate form, our instructors bring patience, clear communication, and grounded presence to every session. Their approach combines mindful movement, ocean awareness, and practical skill-building—making each lesson both transformative and fun.

"Could not recommend Sandy and Nikki enough! One session in and I already feel confident and excited to get back out there.

Born in San Francisco and raised in Marin County, I've spent the last 11 years mastering the waves along the Northern California coastline and around the world. From the beginner-friendly breaks of Bolinas to the challenging waves of Advanced Ocean Beach, I've navigated it all with skill and expertise. With a deep understanding of tides, weather patterns, rip currents, and ocean conditions, I provide a comprehensive surfing experience that prioritizes safety and progression. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your skills to the next level, I'm here to guide you on your surfing journey. Book a lesson with me today and let's hit the waves together. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned surfer, there's always something new to learn and discover in the exhilarating world of surfing.

I built my surfing foundation through Junior Lifeguards, wrestling, 24hr ocean/cliff rescue and time with shredder friends. With 33 years of dedicated practice, I now coach surfers of all levels, sharing techniques, insights, challenges and unique awareness the surf breaks demand. I've also used CAD to design next-gen surfboard fins. These airfoil-based, winged fins generate more thrust and lift, making surfing easier and more controlled for beginners while unlocking radical lines for experts.

"I've been surfing for a long time, but I love how Todd surfs and decided I'd ask him to try some coaching with me. He was able to point out some things about what board I may rather surf, and he ended up being right! He also shared with me a number of unique navigation and wave-tracking methods that I find fascinating and very useful.