Winter is the perfect time to learn how to surf in Malibu. With fewer crowds, gentle waves, and consistent conditions, a greater focus can be placed on the fundamentals—as long as you’re wearing the right gear. Add private lessons and expert guidance from skilled professionals, and winter becomes the perfect opportunity to build confidence, skills, and a lifelong love of surfing.
Winter often feels like the season when most outdoor adventures take a back seat to life—especially those involving the ocean. If you have been wanting to learn how to surf, don’t think that you have to wait until the sun brings back the heat.
It is time to ditch your misconceptions. Winter surfing is the best season for newbies in Malibu, particularly in terms of water conditions. Pair this with expert instruction and the right preparation, and your dream of riding waves isn’t too far off.
Check out these winter surfing tips for beginners.
Tip #1 Work on the Fundamentals
Surfing is a sport that some people spend their whole lives practicing. After all, you won’t become perfect right away—if ever! There will always be new skills and new techniques to learn. So, for right now, rather than focusing on how to master advanced maneuvers, spend your time building a strong foundation.
The winter waves give beginners a chance to get their feet wet. They are slow and gentle, allowing you the opportunity to be attentive to basic surfing skills like paddling, board positioning, timing, and pop-ups. You will really get to feel how the board moves and where your control lies.
Don’t be alarmed, you are going to wipe out. Your balance may be off or your timing terrible. But these are all things you learn and grow from. And, since the beach is rather empty of spectators, it is much easier to shrug it off and try again.
Tip #2 Dressing for Warmth—And Success
Of course, surfing in the winter is only enjoyable if you are wearing the right wetsuit. Beginners spend a lot of time sitting on their board and grasping the fundamentals. So, when you aren’t moving, you need to make sure you are protected.
Modern wetsuits will keep you comfortable despite frigid temperatures while still allowing you to move freely. For the winters in Malibu, a 3/2mm or 4/3mm suit will work just fine—as long as it is well-fitted so that unwanted water doesn’t seep in.
We also suggest you don’t underestimate the power of booties. Not only will they keep your feet warm, but they also give you better traction in rocky areas.
Being prepared for your winter surf lessons with the ideal attire will help you focus less on being cold and more on learning new skills.
Tip #3 Warm Up and Take Your Time
There is no rush during the winter season. The temperatures naturally slow down the body, and instead of darting to catch every wave, you are going to find yourself practicing patience. Then, as you wait and observe, you will be better able to choose the right moment to take action.
And since you are taking things slow, prep yourself before getting into your training. Just as with any other sport, you never want to start with cold muscles. Always warm up before entering the water to increase circulation, improve flexibility, and lower your risk of injury.
Paying close attention to your body can ensure you create an enjoyable overall experience.
Tip #4 Book Private Surf Lessons in Winter
If you truly want to learn how to surf, why not take private surf lessons in winter? They are especially valuable during this season as the beach in Malibu is quieter and scheduling is a bit more flexible. You get to work with expert instructors who can focus entirely on you—with customizations, too.
Intimidation will drop, and encouragement will rise. You won’t be comparing yourself to others and will no longer have to worry about distractions. Rather, you will be able to learn fundamentals in a way that feels more personal and relaxed.
Because the weather changes regularly, working with a skilled professional means adapting lessons to ensure safety at all times. There really is no reason not to take private lessons.
Tip #5: Get Faster Progress with Consistency
Did you know that if you commit to winter surfing, you are likely to achieve progress faster? It’s true. When you show up consistently, you are building muscle memory, balance, and confidence.
Learning to surf in the summer and taking the cooler months off means you have to rebuild your skillset when the weather warms. So, make it part of your year-round routine, and you will keep your forward movement of progress.
Tip #6 Learn to Respect the Ocean
Surfers spend a lot of time in the water. And as beautiful and tranquil as it can be, it can also be dangerous and deadly. While you develop a love for the sport of surfing, be sure to also gain respect for the ocean.
Learning how to read the waves may seem impossible. Yet, with the right guidance, they will become more predictable and manageable. During the winter months, this is even easier as the swells are softer and easier to judge.
The more knowledge you gain about the ocean, its rhythm, and keeping yourself safe, the better. Enjoy the ocean for what it has to offer, but never take it for granted.
Don’t Miss Winter Surf Lessons in Malibu
There are so many reasons to want to learn how to surf, but who ever thinks of diving in when the water is cold? Winter surfing in Malibu brings consistent waves, fewer crowds, and the perfect environment for beginners to learn.
Follow these tips and watch how unstoppable you will be with the right wetsuit and the right instructors. Many may shove surfing aside, referring to the winter as the off-season. However, those who take advantage of all it has to offer know that peaceful lessons and advanced learning are what come from consistently surfing through every season.
Join us at Malibu Makos, located at Zuma Beach, and discover why winter is the best time to learn something new. Book your surf lessons today.
