Fall is the best season for newbies to learn how to surf. The weather is still warm and the waves are gentle. With fewer crowds, confidence can soar on the calm and welcoming beaches of Malibu. Smaller class sizes and more one-on-one treatment create a positive experience, too. Surfing for beginners starts at Malibu Makos, located at Zuma Beach. We have expert instructors who can help you master the basics and make every moment enjoyable.
Have you ever thought about taking up surf lessons only to find yourself intimidated by the crowded beaches? You aren’t alone if you feel like learning to surf in front of onlookers would be a bit humiliating. Nobody likes the pressure of trying something new while everyone is watching.
Don’t give up your dreams of one day being able to ride a wave while standing on your board with the sun shining down on you. Instead, we will let you in on a little secret—fall.
The autumn season is ideal for learning how to surf, thanks to the perfect balance of water conditions, open spaces, and a chill vibe. Ready to get started? Let’s talk about why fall is just right for beginner surfers.
Less Crowded Beaches
Summertime draws a crowd of locals and tourists to the beach, especially those along Malibu’s iconic coastline. This usually results in a battle between seasoned surfers and beachgoers, each wanting time in the water.
Once the summer comes to an end and everyone heads back to their responsibilities, the beaches are quiet and inviting. With fewer people in the water and on the shore, the more comfortable you will be practicing new skills and getting your feet wet with your board. Literally.
At Malibu Makos, our instructors have noticed just how much more relaxing fall lessons are for everyone. Focusing on building fundamental skills comes much more easily, as does putting them to use in the water. When you can paddle without bumping into anyone, you can be more relaxed and have a greater amount of confidence.
More Individualized Instruction
Not only are beaches much less crowded during this time, but you can expect smaller groups for surf lessons, too. And this can be a huge benefit. After all, fewer people means more time for you to get your questions answered and work on skills with one-on-one attention.
You will feel supported as you are guided through the techniques needed to progress in your surf journey in a more personalized manner. While all surf lessons should provide you with the necessary training and encouragement, the interactions are just different when you don’t have as many distractions along the way.
Stellar Weather and Warm Water
While the temperatures may be dropping in some places, the weather in Southern California remains warm. The sun shines strongly, and the water holds onto the heat all the way through October and into November.
Wetsuits are always recommended when surfing, but during this time of year, you can often get away with wearing a light one.
In other words, you aren’t sacrificing weather and water temperature to avoid the summer crowds—you still have them.
Manageable, Beginner-Friendly Waves
When learning a new skill, you have to ease your way into it, including surfing. Waves that are massive and crashing over you can be dangerous for a beginner.
In the fall, the water is calmer and it is less windy, resulting in the cleanest waves—smooth and consistent for beginners. Unlike other times of the year, these waves throughout Malibu are much less intimidating in this season. You will find it much easier to practice the skills you are learning, such as balance and timing.
A Chill Vibe
Ask anyone who spends time on Malibu’s beaches, and they will tell you that the fall season just hits differently. The restlessness and bustling crowds are replaced with a sense of peace that is calm and relaxed. It’s ideal for learning how to surf because the sport is about connecting with the ocean and feeling its rhythm as much as it is about technique.
Tips to Make the Most of Your Fall Season Surf Lessons
As you begin to make plans for your fall surfing adventure, consider these tips for beginners.
Focus on the basics. Unless you have some hidden talent, learning everything will not instantly make you a pro. You will want to take your time conquering the basics, such as paddling, popping up, and balancing.
Learn surf etiquette. As we have discussed, the fall comes with fewer crowds, which means it is prime time for learning how to respect and interact with other surfers on the water without feeling overwhelmed.
Remain consistent. The more you practice surfing, the greater the chance your mind and body will adjust to that of a surfer. So, be present and make the most of your lessons—your increased confidence will follow.
Enjoy it. Most of all, you want to remember that learning how to surf should be exciting and fun. There will be moments when things may feel tough. When this happens, remind yourself to be patient. Surfing is a sport—something that takes time and practice to learn.
By signing up for surf lessons in the fall, you are giving yourself the best opportunity to gain a solid foundation, have consistent access to the smooth waves, and take your time throughout each lesson.
Don’t Wait Until Next Summer—Learn to Surf This Fall
If you have been dreaming about what it would be like to know how to surf, now is a superb time to jump in. It may even be better for beginners than any other time of the year. The Malibu beaches have smaller crowds, the waves are clean and smooth, and the overall experience is more relaxed and conducive to learning. And with the expert instructors of Malibu Makos, you will have guidance through it all.
Can you imagine yourself paddling with confidence, popping up, and letting the gentle wave carry you toward the shore? Without the chaos and intimidation some beginners face during the summer months, you will feel a greater sense of accomplishment.
Let us help you turn your surf dreams into a reality. Book your fall surf lesson with Malibu Makos today!
