Two hearts. One unbreakable bond.
Where the bond begins.
Whether you’re a beginner learning the basics, or a seasoned surfer who wants to learn how-to surf with your dog to compete, we teach every day, year-round.
Start on Land. Move to Water.
Every surf dog starts somewhere — usually on solid ground. Our lessons meet you and your dog exactly where you are, no experience necessary. We start on land, move to still water, and only then head out into real waves — the same patient, step-by-step approach that shaped our own champions. Whether your dog is a beginner or ready to sharpen their pop-up, our certified instructors will help you build the skills, trust, and confidence to paddle out together, safely. Lessons are offered at beaches up and down the California coast — find a location near you and come catch your first wave. Book a lessonPrivate Surf Clinic
Our Private Surf Clinic consists of six hours of surf instruction over the course in a day. In this private session we cover all the basic theory and explain and demonstrate the techniques necessary to get your dog surfing and keep you both safe in the process. We maintain a one-to-one to instructor ratio to ensure that our students obtains the attention and instruction they require. The private surf clinic is ideal for students that wish to have ample time in the water with their dog putting the theory into practice.
Catch the Wave.
We focus on building inner self confidence for adults surfing with their water loving four-legged best friend and at the same time teaching them respect for the environment, while experiencing the thrill of surfing with their dog. Group Surf Clinic
Group lessons are great for families, groups of friends, and couples. We focus on teaching our students and their dogs how-to surf safely. Group surf lessons can provide a great opportunity to meet other dog lovers/future surf doggers - please note that we require a minimum of two people for a group lesson.
Meet us up and down the coast.
We focus on building inner self confidence for adults surfing with their four-legged best friend and at the same time teaching them respect for the environment, while experiencing the thrill of surfing with their dog. Pick your dog beach and we’ll meet you there!
Accredited & Certified
Real credentials, real credibility. The SDA instructors are lead by Jill Nakano, our certified surf instructor through the NSSIA (National Surf Schools & Instructors Association) — the same standard of training and safety she brings to every surf dog lesson. The Surf Dog Association is proud to now offer NSSIA certification to owners and aspiring instructors ready to take their knowledge further, whether you're looking to teach your own dog with confidence or build a career helping others do the same. This is the kind of expertise the surf dog world has been missing — and we're here to make sure it's never in short supply again.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Private lessons are $150 per hour. Interested in a group lesson? Get in touch and we’ll share group pricing.
-
Each one-hour lesson is built to ease you and your pup into the surf:
10 minutes of water safety: the basics that keep you and your dog safe and confident in the water.
20 minutes of board introduction and balance work: your dog meets the surfboard and practices staying steady on it.
30 minutes of water time: your dog gets to ride.
-
We use lure-and-reward, a positive reinforcement method. Your dog learns that surfing is where the good stuff happens.
-
Not at all. Whether you’ve never touched a board or you’re a lifelong surfer, we’ll meet you and your dog where you are.
-
What are the requirements for my dog?
Your dog should:Be at least 6 months old and have received their core vaccinations
Be current on their rabies vaccination
Swim freely on their own
Consistently follow sit, stay, and recall commands
Be comfortable with people and fine with strangers holding the leash
Stay calm around other dogs at close range
-
Short leashes are welcome. For safety, we don’t allow long leashes. We also encourage off-leash ability, since a dog who stays tuned in to you without a tether is on the way to being a confident surfer.
-
We provide a surfboard and life jacket for your dog. Please tell us your dog’s breed and weight when you book so we can make sure the fit is right.
-
Yes. For safety, we recommend a soft-top board and discourage hard-top fiberglass boards.
-
A positive attitude, an open mind, and low expectations
High-value treats, or a clicker if you use one
Water for you and your dog (and hydrate before the lesson)
Water attire, such as a wetsuit, swimwear, water leggings, a rash guard, or water booties/sandals. Be ready to work alongside your dog in water up to thigh height.
Sunscreen
A towel
A chair
-
Cameras are welcome, but please be mindful during the exercises. We want you and your dog to be active participants, so we suggest having a guest take your photos or saving your photo session for after the lesson.
-
Your dog should be at least 6 months old and have received their core vaccinations. A current rabies vaccination is also required.
-
Yes. Your dog should be able to swim freely on their own. Strong, happy swimmers make the best surf dogs.
-
We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel, please give us at least 48 hours’ notice.
-
We monitor the weather and will let you know if conditions become unsafe. If weather or ocean conditions require it, we’ll cancel and/or reschedule your lesson.
-
Tipping is optional. If your instructor kept you safe and made the lesson enjoyable, you’re welcome to show your appreciation. A typical gratuity is 15-20% of the lesson price, though $20 is also appreciated. Above all, our goal is to help you learn to surf and have a great time.
“Surfing with Rocket on his board and Cherie’s memory on my arm is pure happiness.”
— Rocket & Dan Nykolayko
Book a Lesson
Booking your surf lesson is simple, and our team is ready to provide the attention, care, and expertise you deserve. Let’s get started—pick a lesson that works best for you.