Pismo Beach Surf Academy - Pismo Beach, California

Josh N.

My surf lesson with Rod was just amazing! I give it my highest recommendation. It was incredibly fun and I made tons of progress in a single session thanks to Rod's approach, expertise, and good energy. Much respect and gratitude to Rod and his wife, who run this wonderful shop together at Pismo Beach.

Gary D.

Pismo Beach Surf Academy offers an incredible experience for first-time surfers, and I can't recommend it enough! My daughter recently had her first surf lesson with Rod and it was an absolute success. Rod's patience and teaching skills were outstanding—he made sure she felt comfortable and confident throughout the lesson.

Opting for private lessons was definitely the right choice. Rod's one-on-one attention ensured that my daughter was up and surfing on her very first try, which was an exhilarating moment for her. She left the beach not just with a new skill, but with a newfound love for surfing. If you're looking for a surf school that is both professional and encouraging, Pismo Beach Surf Academy is the place to go!

Ian J.

Pismo Beach Surf Academy has gone above and beyond what you’d expect from surf lessons. My 10-year-old son has been working with them for about six months, focusing on more advanced techniques, and the progress he’s made is incredible. What sets them apart is how much care and interest they take in his development—not just in the water but also through "homework" exercises to improve his skills and safety when surfing.

While they’re fantastic for beginner lessons, I cannot recommend them enough for anyone looking to take their surfing to the next level. Their personalized attention, deep knowledge, and passion for teaching make them a standout choice. If you want to grow as a surfer, this is the place to come. I hope to see their business continue expanding into advanced lessons because they truly excel at helping surfers progress.

Thank you, Pismo Beach Surf Academy, for everything you’ve done for my son! Keep up the amazing work!

Laura M.

Our son took up surfing when we moved here in June and he was quickly determined to get out with the locals. We met Rod at a Surfing for Hope event and loved his passion for the water and dedication to teaching people to surf. When our son decided he wanted to enter competitions we approached Rod about regular coaching and are truly grateful for the bond they have formed and the care Rod has for him. Thank you Rod and Kelly for all you do.

Town T.

Best place to learn surfing! Prices are very reasonable. We took the private lesson, and it's worth every penny. I had never surfed before, and I was able to stand in one lesson. The couple who ran the school are very nice, funny and accomdating! They also provide free pictures and videos of your lesson.

Maralyn B.

Excellent choice. Our experience was everything we hoped it would be and more. A fun filled exciting time in the waves off Pismo Beach. Rod Way is a professional in every way. A shop owner, a skilled surfer and a experienced instructor. He was painfully patient with my 12 year old grandson. Always enthusiastic with his never ending encouragement. Even threw in some tricky maneuvers for an added treat and good entertainment. He made a second trip back to his shop for a bigger board for my less than graceful grandson. The pictures he provides are an added bonus. His perspective from off shore ocean level is like re-living the entire experience. I could not be more pleased.

Peggy L.

We arrived this morning to rent a wetsuit and board for my daughter to use. Today would be her first surfing experience. Not only were we greeted with kindness and friendliness, but Rodney took the time to give my daughter a lesson in the basic fundamentals she would need to get up on the board. But above and beyond the call of duty, Rodney came down to the beach about 30 minutes later to make sure she was doing okay. Finding that she had been unable to get up on any significant waves yet, he repeated the lesson on the beach and stayed with her for about 20 minutes to make sure she got up, which she did.
The cost of a full day rental: $20
The value of our experience: priceless!

Jakob S.

Without a doubt the best surf shop in Pismo Beach (and likely surrounding area)! Rod and his wife run the small business themselves. The lesson was quick, easy to understand, and fun. We were getting up on our feet within 10 minutes of being on the water, without any prior experience. Rod is an excellent teacher, and is able to provide exact, precise adjustments and tips to make it easier(while out in the water with us) We started our lesson after another surf school began theirs, got out on the water, and were getting up on our feet just as they were entering the water. Safe, thorough, and amazing experience! Definitely coming back for more.