Winter family surf lessons offer a fun and healthy way to beat the season boredom while strengthening family bonds. With fewer crowds, calmer waves, and ideal learning conditions, winter surfing in Malibu becomes a hidden gem. And don’t worry—modern wetsuits will keep you warm despite any chilly water conditions! Without distractions, families enjoy personalized instruction, physical activity, and meaningful connection, making the off-season the perfect time to surf together.
Winter comes with a lot of holidays, busy social schedules, and a change of weather. But it also comes with fewer outdoor activities, less daylight, and way too much time spent on screens indoors. And then boredom takes over. Kids of all ages want something fun to do—an adventure. Parents want a new way to connect that can feel refreshing.
Many families fall into this familiar seasonal cycle. What is the solution?
When you live in SoCal, it’s easy to get into the mindset that in the winter, the beach is closed. But doing so keeps you from discovering an amazing opportunity.
This article explores why family surf lessons in winter are the perfect off-season activity.
The Wonder of Winter Surfing
As professional surf instructors at Malibu Makos, we love teaching families during the winter season. In fact, it may just be our favorite time to do so. The coastline along Malibu does not shut down when the temperature drops. Rather, it changes the overall experience.
Crowds become scarce.
The water becomes calmer.
And the ocean’s gentle rhythm is perfect for surfers of all ages and all levels.
With the help of today’s modern wetsuits, you will remain comfortable and warm despite the water temperature. Ah, but what about the cool, brisk air? Believe it or not, the coolness of the crisp ocean, combined with your warming wetsuit and the cool air, can create a sense of rejuvenating energy. Whatever you do, don’t fear the chill.
What’s more, surfing in the winter is like a hidden gem—a secret family activity that is different from everything else. Kids, especially,can find it extra exciting because it is so unique from any other seasonal fun they may have had. Surf camp is
Make Memories, Not a Spectacle
When you want to spend time doing something with your family, you don’t want to include everyone at the beach, too. The lack of crowds is by far one of the biggest perks of winter surf lessons.
The busy summer is when the water and the shore are inundated with beachgoers. For a family trying to connect while learning an entirely new sport, the busy surroundings can be overwhelming. Winter brings more space and a slower pace. The calm environment gives each new surfer time to focus without heavy distractions.
Personalized attention is also more accessible because there are fewer people in the water. As instructors, we love this because we have the chance to work closely with each family member, tailoring instructions and guidance based on age and skill level. And, without all the onlookers, our students can take what they have learned and feel more confident to practice and grow in their ability.
Build Strong Family Bonds
Surfing is not like a walk in the park—it is challenging. This is exactly why learning how to surf together as a family can be so much fun. Throughout the lessons, you will communicate with one another, as well as the instructors. Encouragement, patience, and teamwork are all necessary, and they just happen to be things that will naturally strengthen your family bond.
Parents, imagine seeing your kids helping each other out and celebrating successes. Imagine laughing together as a family at some silly wipeouts or hearing words of encouragement being shouted to a sibling from the lineup. All these little moments don’t happen when you stick to routines and do the same ol’ activities you have done year after year.
Surfing lets you step outside the box and enjoy shared time, growth, and memories. It’s no surprise that families tell us year after year that winter surf lessons were the highlight of the season.
Get a Boost in Physical Activity
There is no denying that when the temperatures cool down, our physical activity often goes into hibernation. More time is spent indoors during this time of year than at any other. Not only can this be damaging for mental health and the immune system, but it is not good for your family’s physical health either.
Rather than begging the summer sun to come back, why not get your family outdoors with the promise of something they will surely love—winter surf lessons. Fresh air, sunlight (yay for vitamin D), and movement are all wonderful and healthy. Kids can burn energy, and parents can relieve stress. It is a win-win for everyone.
Ideal Learning Conditions
Finally, winter is a better time for learning how to surf. Not just because the crowds are fewer, but because of the ocean’s predictability. Those new to the sport will have an easier time learning how to understand timing, positioning, and wave selection. The fundamentals can be taught without rushing, allowing time to practice pop-ups and learn how to properly balance. Also, ocean awareness can be taught at a pace that can be understood and cherished.
Without distractions, we find that progress seems to flow faster and more smoothly. It is amazing what a little bit of focus can do on a quiet beach.
The days may be shorter, but the conditions are ideal for family surf lessons.
Make This Winter One to Remember
Stop sitting around wasting time. Family surf lessons in winter offer adventure, connection, and physical fun when it is needed the most. Challenging everyone to learn something new can actually bring a lot of joy—and bring everyone closer together.
If you are ready to get out of the house and embrace all that Malibu has to offer, then it is time to sign up for winter surfing.
Join us at Malibu Makos, located at Zuma Beach.
