CALIFORNIA

Come experience the California Gold.

THE LOCATION

Come spend a day or a week surfing the wave filled region of Southern California. Work with one of our knowledgeable TSS certified instructors or head coach Terry Simms. We offer a diverse range of custom packages for beginning surfers or for the more experienced surfers looking to tune-up skills and get familiar with all of the different waves California has to offer.

The West coast of California is where surfing first happened in the US. In the late 1800’s in the original “Surf City” aka Santa Cruz, a young Hawaiian prince gave the country it’s first surfing demo at a surf break near the outfall of the San Lorenzo river. That one demo lead to the birth of a new tradition and lifestyle that would define California for the the next century.

Surfing in California at one of the classic and iconic spots gives one a feeling of connection to the roots of the sport. Come experience the Cali Gold in your roots, and surf the original breaks where true surf style was born while taking advantage of Terry’s life long connection and love for his home state. We can also arrange for tours with local board shapers and help you custom order your board from some of California’s best and legendary board crafters.

ACCOMODATIONS

There are dozens of choices of hotels and home rentals along the southern coast of California. We have selected a few tried and true spots that we love to send clients to. If you prefer a  luxury hotel with all of the perks, the Four Seasons Biltmore in Santa Barbara or the Ojai Valley Inn in Ojai are both great choices. For those more interested in a more grass-roots California adventure, spend a few nights in an authentic Airstream at Caravan Outpost in Ojai.

We have selected a few tried and true spots that we love to send clients to. These hotels below all work well for families and have a good proximity to the surf.

Ojai Valley Inn, Ojai

A luxury, full service hotel situated in the beautiful Ojai Valley and about 25 minutes to the beaches. When you want to truly relax and enjoy the benefits of a resort with a world class Spa, check into The Ojai Valley Inn.

Caravan Outpost, Ojai

This chic and intimate adventure hotel offers guests a truly one-of-a-kind Ojai experience. Spend the night in one of their 11 curated Airstreams. This luxury camp is set on a masterfully designed tropical landscape with stunning views of the Topa Topa mountains. A evening under the stars with a roaring bonfire is a true complement to any surfer’s day.

The Shoals Inn, Ventura

One of our personal favorites because it sits directly in front of one of an epic right point break. The ocean view rooms are a great deal and with a restaurant on-site, there is not much reason to leave when the waves are good. it’s perfect for those visiting LA and want a quick surf jaunt.

Four Seasons Biltmore, Santa Barbara

The original and classic Santa Barbara luxury retreat with all of the amenities, overlooking the Pacific and within walking distance of many of Santa Barbara’s downtown activities.

The Goodland, Santa Barbara

These recent renovated hotel is super creative and has the west coast surf vibe dialed in. Great food, hip and modern rooms, and a gorgeous pool to take in the sunny California weather. This is a great choice for families and those who want to explore Santa Barbara for a reasonable price.

Private Homes

There are also home rentals in our area that sit directly on point waves. If you are visiting for a few days and want to truly max out your water time, these paddle-out-from your-front-porch options are always a winner. Please contact us directly and we can connect you to our favorite rental escapes on the coast.

THE SURF

We are based near Ventura, CA about 70 miles north of Los Angeles. We like to work within a one hour – two hour range of our home base, but on the occasion we can create trips outside of this zone.

Malibu Surf Rider Beach, Rincon, California Street, El Capitan, Hammonds, just to name a few of the classic California Point waves all sit very near are home. In between all of these legendary waves lie numerous other waves that can go A grade on the right days. We will work with the forecast and your abilities and goals to select the best spots for coaching. Our goal is maximize your time in the water and provide the highest quality wave without a crowd of surfers.

THINGS TO DO

Once your done surfing the best this coast has to offer, discover the beautiful landscape that surrounds the area. The Topa Topa mountains offer a diverse range trails from easy, leisure walks to really challenging day long hikes.  The Channel Islands are also easy to access from the harbors in Santa Barbara and Ventura. Ojai has recently become the home to many artists and craftsman looking to escape urban enclaves. Come shop the independent boutiques in the area that all support this new movement by selling their hand crafted, one of kind wares.

The Santa Barbara Zoo and the Museum of Natural History are terrific day trips for the kids, as are the numerous low tide reefs and marine sanctuaries that line the surrounding coast.  Let us help you plan some great apres-surf experiences.

GETTING HERE

Our home base near Ventura and Ojai, California is located about 70 miles north of Los Angles International Airport (LAX). We are an easy drive north up the 101 or for a closer hit, fly into the charming Santa Barbara Airport (SBA). This is one of the countries best little airports. Most Santa Barbara flights are routed through Los Angeles, San Francisco or Phoenix, Arizona via American, Alaska and United. Car rentals are easy at both locations.