Free Surf Lessons — Wave Rider SD

The Process

How It Works

It's simple — fill out the form, we review your application, and if you qualify, we'll reach out to schedule your free session!

1

Submit Application

Fill out the form below with your details and experience level. Takes less than 2 minutes.

2

We Review

Our team reviews applications and selects participants based on our program criteria.

3

Get Scheduled

Qualified applicants receive a personal call or email to schedule their session.

4

Catch Your Wave!

Show up at the beach, meet your instructor, and ride your first wave — totally free.

Program Info

About the Program

What's Included in Your Free Lesson

1.5-2 hour hands-on surf lesson with a certified Wave Rider SD instructor
All equipment provided — surfboard, wetsuit, and rash guard
Beach safety briefing and ocean reading basics
Personal coaching tailored to your experience level
Video footage of your session for your review
Post-lesson feedback and progression recommendations

About Our YouTube Content Program

Wave Rider SD creates educational and inspirational surf content on our YouTube channel. As part of this free lesson program, we film your session for use in our YouTube videos and social media content. This is how we're able to offer lessons at no cost to you — it's a win-win! You get an amazing surf lesson with professional coaching, and we get authentic footage that helps inspire others to try surfing.

Full consent is obtained before filming begins, and you'll receive a signed copy of the release form at your session. You can opt out of having your face shown and we'll accommodate your preferences whenever possible.

Eligibility

Who Qualifies?

We select participants based on the following criteria:

San Diego Area

Must be located in or able to travel to the San Diego, CA area for the session.

Basic Swimming Ability

Comfortable swimming in open water — you don't need to be a great swimmer, just safe.

Comfortable on Camera

Your session will be filmed for our YouTube channel. See program details above.

Available Weekdays or Weekends

Flexible scheduling — we'll work with your availability once approved.

All Ages Welcome

Kids under 16 require a parent or guardian. No upper age limit — everyone can surf!

Any Experience Level

Never tried surfing? Perfect. We especially love teaching absolute beginners.

Get Started

Apply for Your Free Lesson

Fill out the form below and we'll be in touch within 1-2 business days!

Spots are limited! We typically receive more applications than we have sessions available. Fill out the form completely to increase your chances of being selected.

First Name *

Last Name *

Email Address *

Phone Number *

Age *

City / Neighborhood *

Surfing Experience *

Swimming Comfort in Ocean *

Best Availability *

Why do you want to learn to surf? *

How did you hear about us?

I understand that my surf session will be filmed and that footage may be used on Wave Rider SD's YouTube channel and social media platforms. I consent to being filmed for this purpose. *

I acknowledge that surfing is a physical activity with inherent risks. I agree to follow all safety instructions from my instructor and understand that Wave Rider SD is not liable for injuries sustained during participation. *

I confirm that I am 16 years of age or older, OR that I have a parent/guardian who will accompany me and provide written consent at the session. *

We review applications within 1-2 business days and will contact you by email or phone.

Application Submitted!

Thanks for applying! We'll review your application and reach out within 1-2 business days. Get ready to surf!

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — there is no cost to you whatsoever. All equipment, instruction, and session footage are provided at no charge. The only thing you need to bring is yourself and a positive attitude!

That's perfect! We specifically love teaching beginners. Our instructors are extremely patient and will guide you through every step — from getting comfortable on a board on the sand to riding your first real wave.

A typical free lesson session runs approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. This includes a beach orientation and safety briefing, warm-up on land, and time in the water. Wear your swimsuit and bring sunscreen!

We provide everything you need on the water — board, wetsuit, and rash guard. You should bring: a swimsuit to wear under the wetsuit, sunscreen, a towel, water, and a good attitude. Leave jewelry and valuables at home.

We'll reach out by email and/or phone within 1-2 business days of your application. If selected, we'll work with you to find a session time that fits your schedule.

Yes! Friends and family are welcome to watch and cheer from the beach. If they'd also like a free lesson, they need to submit their own application separately as spots are limited.

After your session, we'll give you a full debrief on your progress and personalized recommendations for continuing your surf journey. We also offer paid private and group lessons if you want to keep improving!

Free Surf Lessons for Qualified Participants