Discover the joy of surfing in uncrowded, private
locations with personalized instruction that builds your
confidence wave after wave.
Private Surf Lesson
This is a one-on-one lesson customized to your experience level. At ZHS, we help you work toward all of your surfing goals, whether you’re just learning how to stand on a board for the first time or aiming to refine your technique and gain more ocean experience.
In a private surf lesson, your instructor will guide you through every aspect of surfing in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Here’s what you can expect to learn:

Ocean Awareness & Safety
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- Understanding how waves form and break
- Identifying rip currents and how to safely handle them
- Reading ocean conditions and understanding tides, wind, and swell
- Basic surf etiquette to respect other surfers and share the waves responsibly
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Surfboard Familiarization
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- Introduction to different types of surfboards and their uses
- Learning about board anatomy (nose, tail, fins, rails, leash)
- How to carry and handle your board safely in and out of the water
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Paddling Technique
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- Correct paddling form for efficiency and endurance
- Positioning yourself on the board to maintain balance
- Practicing paddling through whitewater and toward the lineup
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Pop-Up Technique (Standing Up)
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- Land-based drills to practice the pop-up motion
- Step-by-step guidance on how to smoothly transition from lying down to standing
- Finding the right stance and foot placement for stability
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Balance & Stance
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- Maintaining a low, centered stance to stay steady on the board
- Adjusting foot and body position as you ride
- Using your arms and gaze to direct your movement and maintain control
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Wave Catching & Timing
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- Learning how to spot and choose the right waves to catch
- Timing your paddle to match the wave’s momentum
- Understanding when to commit and when to let a wave pass
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Riding & Maneuvering
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- Riding straight toward the shore (whitewater rides for beginners)
- Introduction to trimming (riding along the face of the wave)
- Basic turning techniques (weight distribution and rail engagement)
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Falling & Recovery
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- How to fall safely to avoid injury
- Recovering your board and getting back on quickly
- Staying calm and confident after a wipeout
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Personalized Tips & Feedback
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- Individual assessment of your strengths and areas to improve
- Tailored drills and techniques based on your progress
- Ongoing encouragement to build confidence and have fun
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