Private/Group Surf Lessons, and Surf Camp


​Do you provide equipment?

Private/ Groups: We provide all equipment: surfboards and wetsuits. We use 8 ft and 9 ft foam boards, which are safe and stable for beginners. We recently updated our wetsuit inventory with both Woman’s and Men sizes available. Wet suits must be worn during the lessons, since the water temps vary between 55-65 degrees on average. 

Surf Camp: All equipment is provided: surfboards, boogie boards, and beach supplies with the exception of kid size wetsuits. We recommend purchasing either a used or new wetsuit for your convenience. If you’re  just dropping in for the day, our local surf shops (Cowboy Surf Shop, Mavericks Surf Company, & HMB board shop) rent them for half/ full day.


What should I bring to the lesson?

All you need to bring is a bathing suit, towel, and sunscreen. Water is  recommended to stay hydrated throughout the lesson. If you have your own surfboard or wet suit that you would like to use, you can, but the instructor will determine if it is safe and conducive for a good lesson when you meet.


How early should I arrive?

Arriving 5 minutes early is suggested since Highway one traffic can get bad; we suggest you plan on getting to the beach 15 minutes early. You can expect to meet your surf instructor in the parking lot right on time when the lesson begins, and finish the lesson saying goodbye to the instructor.


​What days and times do you offer lessons?

We offer lessons 7 days a week (based on our availability) and depending on the weather/ surf conditions.


When is the best time to surf?

Usually the mornings are best to surf because the crowds and winds are lighter. The wind usually comes up in the afternoon and makes the conditions bumpier. However, it is best to learn to surf on a lower tide for most breaks, which might be in the afternoon. You can surf at any time of day in Northern California and still have a great time. But, we can look at surf reports and help you pick the most optimal time to surf if you are flexible.


What ages do you teach?

We teach kids and adults of all ages to surf! We have taught from 4 years old up to 70. For young children, it is up to the parents to decide if they are ready. All instructors have been trained to teach young kids; they stay very close to shore and hold on to the board at all times so if the child falls off, the instructor is right there to help him/her back onto the surfboard. The instructor caters the surf lesson to the comfort and skill level of the client.


Do you have to know how to swim to take a surf lesson?

Being able to swim is preferable, but is not required. The instructor will cater the surf lesson to the skill and comfort level of the client. If you don’t know how to swim, the instructor will be sure to hold onto you and the surfboard the entire time, and never take you out further than where you would be able to stand.


What should I do if I wear contacts or glasses?

Disposable contacts are recommended to be worn in the ocean. Glasses will not stay on during the lesson.


What if after I take the lesson, I want to book more lessons?

We offer discounts when you purchase multiple lessons, starting with 5 lessons. If you only purchase one lesson, but then decide you want to surf with us again, we can upgrade you to one of our package deals so you will still receive the discount.


Do you rent out surfboards and wetsuits?

Upon request, if we have no other lessons for the day, we can rent out wetsuits & surfboards until 5pm. However, we recommend renting wetsuits and surfboards from our local surf shops like Cowboy Surf Shop, HMB Board Shop, and Mavericks Surf Company.


Does everyone get up their first time?

Everyone is different. It depends on you athleticism, your aptitude, fitness level, and the surf conditions. During your first surf lesson, you will learn the skills needed to stand up on the surfboard. Some people stand up from first wave to last wave, others get up only 1 or 2 times. Everyone is different. The waves play a major factor – the ocean is always changing; sometimes the waves will make it either easier or more difficult to stand up. While getting to your feet is a major goal, that is not what learning to surf is all about!! You will learn a lot about the sport of surfing, the waves and the ocean, and will walk away having had an awesome and adventurous experience and for some, a spiritual awakening.


What if my lesson is scheduled during rainy weather?

Pillar Point gives you the opportunity to learn to surf all year round, how ever there is a slight chance it could rain during your lesson. The rain often brings the best conditions: offshore wind, glassy water, and less crowd! We still hold our lessons during the rain- you’re getting wet anyway! We conduct all scheduled lessons regardless of surf or weather conditions unless it’s unsafe.


 

Should I tip my instructor?

Our team works hard to exceed your expectations and ensure that you have an unforgettable experience. If at the end of your lesson you are pleased with the performance of your instructor, a gratuity is never expected but would be greatly appreciated.


What is your Cancellation Policy? 

 

Pillar Point Surf School Cancellation Policy

Exceptions to this policy cannot be made for any reason, including weather, illness, or personal emergencies. We run an extremely high-quality, tight-margin program with limited space.  If you must cancel your reservation, our policy is as follows:

If you cancel at least 60 days prior to the first day of the program for which you are registered, your tuition will be refunded.

If you cancel within 60 days of the first day of your program, you will only receive a tuition refund, if we can fill your spot.

If you register for two or more sessions of camp, and you cancel one of these sessions 60 days prior to the program start date, your tuition will be refunded.

If you register for two or more sessions of camp, and you cancel one of the sessions within 60 days of the program start date, the tuition will only be refunded if we are able to fill your spot.

For registrations prior to March 19th, 2020. In the event of a tsunami or other natural disaster, we will refund your payment on a prorated scale based on the number of days canceled. These refunds will be issued within 60 days following the cancellation.

For registrations on or after May 9th, 2020 should we cancel due to COVID-19 your tuition can be used for any of summer 2021 programs.

There is no refund for arriving late or leaving early. There are no partial refunds for any services not used while at camp. If a camper is sent home for not adhering to camp policies, your credit card on file will be charged for all costs associated with dismissal.

Pillar Point Surf School is not responsible for expenses incurred in preparation for a canceled trip, such as airline tickets, or for costs incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellation, or illness.

We do not recommend non-transferable, non-refundable airline tickets. Pillar Point Surf School does not assume responsibility for any loss incurred on account of such tickets. We also reserve the right to make changes to any trip itinerary without notice or explanation at any time.


PILLAR POINT SURF SCHOOL HAS MEET ALL THE STRICT RULES AND REGULATION IN HALF MOON BAY TO LEGALLY CONDUCT SURF LESSONS. PILLAR POINT IS LICENSED, PERMITTED, AND INSURED.