Business Details
Surf & Stand Up Paddle Lessons in Capitola
Capitola Surf and Paddle is a locally owned surf school dedicated to providing personalized surf and stand-up paddle lessons for all skill levels. Our instructors are licensed watermen and women with certifications in CPR, first aid, and ocean safety, ensuring a focus on both expertise and client well-being. Nestled within the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, we leverage Capitolas consistent waves and sheltered conditions to create ideal learning environments. With decades of combined experience in lifeguarding, water rescue, and environmental education, our team prioritizes safety, etiquette, and fun while fostering a deep connection to the ocean.We pride ourselves on offering tailored instruction, from one-on-one sessions to small groups, and have been recognized as the Good Times Best Surf School of Santa Cruz 2024. Our commitment to quality extends to equipment selection, environmental stewardship, and creating memorable experiences that reflect the unique character of Capitolas coastal ecosystem.
Services
Surf Lessons
SUP Lessons
Women's Clinics
Eco Tours
Private Instruction
Group Lessons
Beginner Packages
Advanced Training
Equipment Rental
Safety Courses
Highlights and features
- Our instructors are certified in CPR, first aid, and ocean safety with lifeguarding backgrounds
- We provide personalized instruction tailored to individual skill levels and learning styles
- Lessons emphasize ocean safety, environmental education, and proper surf etiquette
- Located in the protected waters of Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary for optimal conditions
- Recognized as the Good Times Best Surf School of Santa Cruz 2024
What people say
Great instructors
Perfect learning environment
Excellent safety focus
Memorable experiences
Ideal location
Services
Surf Lessons
Our surf lessons cater to all skill levels from beginners to advanced surfers. Certified instructors provide personalized instruction focusing on proper technique, ocean safety, and surf etiquette. Lessons include equipment rental and emphasize building confidence while developing essential wave-riding skills in Capitola's ideal surf conditions.
SUP Lessons
Stand-up paddleboard lessons teach balance, core stability, and proper paddling techniques. Instructors guide students through water safety protocols and equipment handling while exploring Capitola's calm coastal waters. Lessons accommodate all experience levels and include wetsuit rental when needed for comfortable year-round paddling experiences.
Women's Clinics
Specialized women-led clinics focus on skill development in a supportive environment. Offerings include wave reading, carving techniques, and contest preparation. Clinics are structured by ability level to help female surfers improve positioning, maneuver execution, and overall ocean confidence while fostering community among participants.
Eco Tours
Guided eco-tours combine paddleboarding with marine life observation and environmental education. Participants explore kelp forests and coastal ecosystems while learning about local marine biology and conservation efforts. Tours emphasize low-impact water activities that promote appreciation for Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary's biodiversity.
Private Instruction
Customized private lessons offer focused attention for accelerated skill development. Instructors create personalized curricula addressing specific goals while maintaining safety standards. Sessions allow flexible scheduling and tailored equipment selection to optimize learning outcomes for individuals seeking dedicated coaching.
People
Katy Collins
Owner
Katy Collins grew up in Capitola as a Junior Lifeguard and competitive surfer. With certifications in lifeguarding, water rescue, and environmental education, she brings decades of ocean experience to her role. Her background includes surf team competition, surfboard shaping apprenticeship, and environmental science education.
Questions
What should I wear for a surf lesson?
Wear board shorts and a long-sleeve water shirt for sun protection. Wetsuits are available if needed based on water temperature. Bring a towel and change of clothes for after your lesson.
Do I need prior experience for SUP lessons?
No prior experience is required. Our instructors provide comprehensive land-based instruction before entering the water, making SUP accessible to complete beginners with personalized guidance throughout the lesson.
What areas are best for parking?
Village metered street parking ($1.50/hour), Pacific Cove lot behind City Hall ($0.50/hour), or Cliff Drive parking ($1/hour). Free shuttle service operates from Crossroads Center lot during summer weekends.
Are lessons available for advanced surfers?
Yes, we offer specialized clinics for advanced techniques including carving, cutbacks, and wave reading. Private instruction can be customized to refine specific skills for experienced surfers seeking improvement.
What safety certifications do instructors have?
All instructors are certified in CPR, first aid, and water safety. Many have additional qualifications in lifeguarding, wilderness first response, and environmental education to ensure comprehensive safety protocols.
Can I rent equipment without lessons?
Yes, we offer equipment rentals including surfboards and wetsuits. While lessons are recommended for beginners, experienced users can rent gear for independent water activities with proper safety briefing.
Reviews (6)
Megan G.
Jul 31, 2021
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Our child had a first time surf lesson and Jason was absolutely fantastic with her. From providing the wetsuit and surfboard to the genuine care and enthusiasm along with obvious expertise, it was such a great experience for her and for us. She was up on the board and riding a wave in within the hour. I'd highly recommend to anyone who wants to try surfing, they are truly kind and knowledgeable people who made our vacation that much better. Thank you so much!
Haley C.
Jun 28, 2021
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Excellent experience! Signed up for a private sup lesson via the website and was contacted later via phone call / texts for all the confirmations and info for wetsuit sizing. Had a 2 hour lesson with Jason and he was extremely nice and fun! Never been on a stand up board before but he made it fun and not stressful at all. Got lucky that the weather was perfect. Highly recommend. Excellent and friendly staff from everyone I interacted with and a great experience!
Tom C.
Dec 05, 2020
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This shop appears to be no longer in business. I stopped by in April of this year and the place was empty. Probably a casualty of the Covid-19 lockdowns as so many businesses were. =(
Andrew T.
May 29, 2019
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This is probably the best place to rent surfboards/paddle boards. The staff were very knowledgeable and helped us with out first surfboard rentals. They have a great selection of wetsuits, standup paddle boards, and soft to hard surfboards. The business is ran by a local firefighter and his son who are both passionate about the sport. They provided us with a warm shower, locker for all of our belongings and a changing room. We didn't get any lessons from them but I would trust in them for any pointers.
Melissa A.
May 29, 2019
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Great service. Helped us pick the right wet suits that fit perfectly. Super friendly and helpful. Answered all of our questions. Rented two surfboards and two wetsuits for better price then we found anywhere else. Will definitely go back next time we are in Capitola.
Joe M.
Oct 24, 2018
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I love pleasure point and have been surfing there off and on for quite awhile. its great to see first time surfer have there thrill, what we cant stand is the paddle boarders. Get on a real surfboard or find a nice lake.
