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.
Levels taught: Intermediates, Beginners
Teaches: Kids, Adults, Teenagers, Seniors
π₯27 Lessons
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Try Russ risk free. If you don't love your first lesson with Russ, we'll switch you to another coach or give you a full refund.
Reviews
Total reviews5
Average rating
5.0
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Alice G.Verified β
Lessons taken: 2
Verified β
We had a great time with Russ!
He is good and follows you step by step. Thank you!
Dylan H.Verified β
Lessons taken: 3
Verified β
I have had two lessons with Russ, and I could not have asked for a better instructor.
He is super welcoming, all smiles, and very calm. He emphasizes safety and makes you feel comfortable in the water and being in the line-up with the other surfers. Last, but not least, he helps you ride waves and develop a feel for the ocean.
Luna L
Lessons taken: 1
As a beginner in the water , Russβs mellow, easygoing but straightforward approach gave me comfort and confidence, and he seemed to really know his stuff, with his decades of surf experience. He helped to guide me in what to expect, so that I could relax and focus enough to learn to stand up on the board for the first time.
Tenzing S.Verified β
Lessons taken: 1
Verified β
Russ provided excellent support and went above and beyond during our session. Not only did he lend me his equipment, but he also extended our lesson time to teach me more than I had booked. I managed to stand up twice thanks to his guidance. I will definitely recommend him and plan to take more lessons in the future.
Locations
These are the locations I've set as being able to provide lessons:
4 courts available
Linda Mar
2117 miles away
Outdoors
Pacifica State Beach
2116 miles away
Outdoors
Ocean Beach (Advanced Surfers Only)
2113 miles away
Outdoors
Pacifica / Linda Mar
2116 miles away
Outdoors
When I'm usually available
These are the times I've set as being available for lessons.
tuesdays1 PM - 3 PM
wednesdays1 PM - 4 PM
fridays12 PM - 3 PM
sundays10 AM - 3 PM
Beginner training plan
Your first lessonWe want to have fun, safely.
Ocean awareness and observation of the local conditions, waves, wind, currents and crowds.
Land lesson reviewing basic surfing techniques.
(Paddling, Duck dive, pop up, riding)
Learning lineup etiquette, where to paddle out and where to catch waves.
Practicing paddling out, catching waves popping up, and riding safely.
Advanced training plan
What you need to bringBeach gear(shorts, rash guard towel, change of warm clothes.)
What I can bringRentals are available for beginners, we can find the right wetsuit and board for you first, and then have a better understanding of what size suit and board you want to ride.
I do have some equipment for novice/intermediate level.
Frequently asked questions
Cancellation Policy
We totally understand that life can be unpredictable and plans might change. That's
why we've got your back with our flexible cancellation policy, designed to give you
peace of mind when booking private sports lessons with our awesome local instructors!
If you need to cancel your lesson, no worries! You can get a full refund if you cancel
within 24 hours of making your booking. We want to make the process as hassle-free as
possible for you.
And if you simply want to reschedule your lesson, change the date and time, or adjust the
number of students joining, we've got you covered there too. You can easily make
these changes within 24 hours of booking, and up to 72 hours before your lesson starts.
Our goal is to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and worry-free. So go ahead and
book with confidence, knowing that we're here to accommodate your needs every step of
the way!