Discover the joy of surfing in uncrowded, private
locations with personalized instruction that builds your
confidence wave after wave.
Semi-Private Surf Lesson
This is a private lesson designed for two people — perfect for friends, partners, siblings, or family members who want to share the stoke together. Whether you’re both total beginners or at different experience levels, our instructors can customize the session to meet each of your individual goals and make sure you both progress confidently and have a blast.
In a semi-private surf lesson at ZHS, you’ll receive a personalized blend of instruction, practice, and hands-on support, all while enjoying the shared energy and motivation of learning alongside someone you know. Here’s what you’ll learn:
Ocean Awareness & Safety
-
-
- 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
-
Surfboard Familiarization
-
-
- 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
-
Paddling Technique
-
-
- Correct paddling form for efficiency and endurance
- Positioning yourself on the board to maintain balance
- Practicing paddling through whitewater and toward the lineup
-
Pop-Up Technique (Standing Up)
-
-
- 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
-
Balance & Stance
-
-
- 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
-
Wave Catching & Timing
-
-
- 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
-
Riding & Maneuvering
-
-
- 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)
-
Falling & Recovery
-
-
- How to fall safely to avoid injury
- Recovering your board and getting back on quickly
- Staying calm and confident after a wipeout
-
Personalized Tips & Feedback
-
-
- 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
-
