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Big Surf Lessons & Adventures
230 Grove Acre Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, United States
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Mi
Review №1

Abraham was so much fun to surf with! I had only played around with a surfboard before so to have a professional surf teacher like Abraham help me identify points where I could improve was huge to my progress, even over just a day. Abraham really cares about his students and holds safety and fun at the top of the list. At the end of the all-too-short 2 hour session, I felt like a completely different surfer than when I had started. Thank you, Abraham!

An
Review №2

I signed up my two children (15 and 10) for surf lesson with Big Surf a couple of weeks ago. This was their very first surfing lesson ever. We got Samantha for our instructor. She was THE BEST! She explained all the techniques on dry land first, introduced them to surfing on the calmer and less crowded part of the beach and then when they were ready, she took them to the bigger waves. My kids are both different personalities. One is more adventurous and energetic, and the other a little cautious. Sam adjusted her lesson to them perfectly. She was super patient and encouraged and applauded their achievement each time. She was very attentive to both of them and worked hard to give the kids the best experience. We were so lucky to have Sam as our instructor and had a wonderful first time surfing experience! My kids loved it and it was their highlight from our California trip.Thank you Sam and Big Surf for making these wonderful memories for my kids!

Ad
Review №3

My daughter wanted another surf lesson with Abraham for her birthday this year. This was her second lesson with Abraham and Big Surf and it proved to be just as fun as the first. Abraham is a great teacher and really tries to get to know his students. My daughter said it is easy to understand what he is explaining and makes it fun. We highly recommend Big Surf and Abraham if you want a great day in the water!

Me
Review №4

They accommodated our 3 kids for a last minute lesson, and they had an amazing time! Abraham was so great with all three of them, and my daughter was up on her feet multiple times throughout the lesson, and Abraham taught the boys how to find their balance on their knees with their arms raised. I would recommend, and we will be coming back for more!

Ka
Review №5

I can’t recommend Abraham and Big Surf enough. My 3 east coast city kids, ages 10, 8 and 5 had the best experience. Abraham is knowledgeable, energetic and patient and spent so much time with each of them. He gave each of them the confidence to get up on their boards. My 8 year old wants to surf every single day now. What a fun experience!

El
Review №6

I called day of to get a private lesson, so wasnt sure what to expect. What I got was Abraham, retied HS bio teachers, king of stoke and getting others to feel stoked, and an amazing time in the Pacific. Im totally hooked now, this was the best first experience!! Cant wait to go again! The price was exactly what I thought I should lay for a two hour private lesson :)

C.
Review №7

As an adult learner with a little (I mean very little) surf exposure, I was impressed with Big Surf Lessons and Adventures. I scheduled a private lesson and my instructor was Zane. I also met Abraham at the truck as he prepared for a lesson with a different student. You can tell Big Surf loves what they do. They make it a fun experience!I like that they chose the beach based on the waves that day. It was easy to find the Big Surf truck. They carry all their boards and wet suits with them, so they can give you equipment that suits you.Zane gave me the choice between a 7 and 8 foot board (for my 5 foot height) and next time I would go with the longer board so I could focus on catching the wave and less on trying to balance.On the shore Zane explained surfing basics: getting past the break, positioning on the board and in the water, and other info like how to communicate with other surfers about who is taking a wave (priority). Honestly it started to feel like a lot of information, but once we went into the water he coached me and it was helpful to have the background information that he had taught me.Getting through the break the first time (to get to the waves) wiped me out. I had my breath knocked out of me and took in some water. I had a primal but quiet, inner freak out. There was a moment when I thought I can’t do this I’m just going to have to watch! I told him I needed a moment to catch my breath and Zane helped me succeed. He was really good at coaching me through catching the waves and giving me a push when it was time to go. He told me how he relaxes between rides and lets go of the stress. My last ride was the best. Surfing is so fun! I feel like for this sized wave (4-5’) I’d need another lesson before surfing on my own. And in spite of the challenges, I WANT to take another lesson. Over all it was a very good experience. Five stars!

Ke
Review №8

Zane was amazing! We had a group of 5 out and he was patient and helpful with the 2 adults and all 4 kids. Definitely recommend! He took us to the best beach for the time we went and was very professional. Highly recommend!

AD
Review №9

We have had two instructors with Big Surf: Cody and Alex.Cody was friendly, knowledgeable, and patient. He did a great job instructing girls 13 and 9 that had limited surfing experience.The girls had a lot of fun, and were able to catch some waves.Alex is the other instructor with whom Ive taken lessons and he did a great job of adapting his instruction to my level.He provided clear guidance on technique progression as well as tips on surfing etiquette.We plan on taking surf lessons with Big Surf again and would recommend both Cody and Alex as instructors.

Ja
Review №10

Fantastic day of instruction for my son! Abraham was awesome in every way! So patient, as my son has a slight disability! Easy to contact and great directions. We were in our RV and took Uber to the beach!

Ma
Review №11

Went surfing for the first time and thanks to our awesome instructor Abraham already caught some waves. He really made it worth the time and also explained technique and how to spot the waves. Thank you for this great experience!!

An
Review №12

Loved this experience and loved having Abraham as our instructor!! This was an incredible mix of instruction, comfort, guidance, and self exploration. Being on the water was relaxing, surfing was empowering, and the company and instruction was golden!!!

Sa
Review №13

Big Surf was amazing for a first time surfer! Zane was very responsive and flexible in scheduling, and he paired me up with the best instructor I could ask for!!! Abraham was so knowledgeable about waves and water and exceptionally patient with me. He also pushed me out to waves countless times! I would go back again and again. Thanks Big Surf and Abraham!!

We
Review №14

First surfing lesson ever and Abraham was really helpful and patient with us. We spent some time finding a good spot and I think is well worth it. The wave seems nice and no other people was around us so we dont need to worry about hitting someone when we fall off our board. He help both of us caught a lot of waves (at least 20) so we have a lot of time to practice standing up on the board.

Dy
Review №15

Great teacher, great first time! I definitely recommend.

Ch
Review №16

Sam is AMAZING! Shes the type of instructor youll want and need if it is your first time surfing. She is a natural teacher--extremely knowledgeable, encouraging, and helpful. My surfing experience with Sam was beyond expectation, and I cant remember a moment when I was not laughing. I had so much fun and I cant wait till I can go surfing again. I highly recommend Big Surf!

Li
Review №17

Abraham was an excellent teacher for my 12-year-old son. Very motivating, upbeat, helpful, and encouraging. He and Ezra developed a nice rapport during their two hour lesson, and he really helped Ezra to figure out the timing of standing up and riding the waves.We’ve done a couple of different surf lessons over the years, and would definitely come back to this one. Really nice people, good equipment, and a beautiful beach!

Qi
Review №18

Highly recommend this place. The coach is friendly and professional. It is definitely a good choice if you wanna learn surfing. And they will provide all the equipment and wet suits, so dont worry if you have nothing. Overall, I like their service and attitude to clients!

Ky
Review №19

Cannot recommend this company enough! Abraham was a true delight! We had no surfing experience, and Abraham taught us the basics, shared with how to feel comfortable in the water, and was constantly coaching us on each attempt. We had such a fun time, and we learned a lot!

Ro
Review №20

In from the East Coast for a few days and connected with Abraham of Big Surf and Adventures. He is an experience to be had whatever your level. I have had a number of lessons over the years and Abraham got this 58 year old body standing on the board in a matter of minutes. If you have the opportunity get hooked up with BS&A and ask for him by name!

Ka
Review №21

My sibling and I had always wanted to try surfing and were gifted a lesson for our birthday. We had instructor Cody who was super professional, encouraging, and informative! Great instructor, and great practice. We will definitely be back!

Ma
Review №22

After more than 20 years without surfing, decided to pick it up again when I moved to the Monterey area. Had a great experience with Abraham, he was a superb instructor and very knowledgeable. Ill be back for a few more lessons!

Mi
Review №23

We had 2-12 year old boys do a private lesson with the instructor Robert. They absolutely loved it so we went back and did another lesson the next day. Robert was great with our boys and we will definitely go back again and again.So fun!Michele

Mi
Review №24

I had an amazing time and learned so much! I can now call myself a surfer. The overall experience could not have been better.

c
Review №25

I experienced a private lesson with a small group, all of us first timers. Abraham was our instructor 2 days in a row (requested the 2nd day). Waves were not ideal for beginners but Abraham coached, supported and encouraged each of us effortlessly. Some of us even stood before the end of our lesson. We went into it eager but hesitant, and left confident, ready for more! Abraham has loads of experience, not only with surfing, but the ocean in general, and safety. Definitely recommend!

Bo
Review №26

Just awesome. My instructor, Sam was so kind and understanding if I just didn’t feel like it. I highly recommend BigSurf if you are visiting, or just want to try surfing!

Sa
Review №27

Abraham gave a phenomenal lesson to me and my dad. He was very patient and made sure we felt comfortable being in the water with the big waves, which was quite intimidating! Fantastic experience - would recommend 10/10. A must do in Monterey!

Jo
Review №28

A Great lesson by Alex! Could not of had a more enjoyable experience getting out and surfing! The quality of instruction is top notch and creates a fun environment to learn! Highly recommend for anyone looking for true professionals in the area for a lesson!

Ma
Review №29

I had a lesson with Sam a couple of weeks ago and it was fantastic! Such a fun experience and I learned a ton! Im excited to get back out there again soon!

Kr
Review №30

Had the most wonderful time surfing with Abraham! It was our first lesson and he made us feel so comfortable and safe! We cant wait to go back!

He
Review №31

This was a great experience! From the moment we got there, all the instructors were really helpful and friendly. Our instuctor was Alex D. and he was really knowledgeable and gave very clear, uncomplicated directions so that even a total newbie like me could understand. I was very impressed at how well they balanced safety with fun! Alex was attentive with us, gave us needed feedback, and made sure that we had a good time while staying safe. My daughter and I had a great time and learned a lot. If we are up this way again, well be back!

Sh
Review №32

Ive wanted to surf my whole life, so I took a road trip down the Cali coast to learn..I had a great day on the water with Zane, 2 hours felt more like 3.. LOL! But he was very professional, very thorough, kept memin contact on the best beach to surf that day and where to meet..AND he had me surfing after only ONE PRIVATE LESSON...!HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!! :)

Si
Review №33

My instructor was Abraham. It was my first time ever surfing and he was very patient and encouraging. With his help I was actually able to stand up on the board, which felt very accomplishing. Overall the experience was awesome and Id definitely do it again.

Ra
Review №34

Robert was a great instructor! My friend and I were each surfing for the first time and he was very patient and super friendly. We both got to ride a wave too (:

Ro
Review №35

Our family had an amazing lesson today! Alex, our instructor, was fantastic with our 11 year old. We all had a great morning and are planning to do it again tomorrow.

Da
Review №36

Our instructor was very informative, great working with the kids, and was good at one on one instruction and genuinely seemed invested in our development as beginner surfers With lots of great tips and pointers! Would definitely recommend!

Jo
Review №37

Highly recommend Big Surf if you are a beginner or experienced Abraham was my instructor totally professional helpful and only there to help you succeed! Definitely a fun time!

Ra
Review №38

Abraham was an amazing teacher. I was standing up on the first wave, and by the end of it, dropping in. He was encouraging, taught well, and very professional. Im definitely coming back for a second lesson!

Kr
Review №39

Had a great time with Abraham teaching me for a private lesson. I feel as if he was very patient and hard working in the water. I learnt a lot and am confident now to try on my own. Thank you!

Ma
Review №40

10/10 recommend! Our instructor Alex did a great job explaining the basics of surfing, the technique, and the types of waves you want to catch.

Sa
Review №41

Our surf instructor was Robert! He was extremely encouraging and helpful, allowing us to do better at surfing than we have ever done before. I would definitely recommend and if you can get Robert as your instructor you’d be very lucky.

Br
Review №42

I really enjoyed the session, the instructor Alex Gave us a great and professional experience. Definitely we are coming back!! Thanks 😊

Ma
Review №43

Huge kudos to Samantha for the best surf lesson I have ever taken...... and Ive had many. Samantha is extremely knowledgeable and a natural teacher, the perfect balance of encouragement and useful information. I had a great time and learned things that not only helped me that day but that I will remember and carry forward surfing forever. If I was in town longer I would have immediately booked a second with Samantha. Thanks Samantha!

Je
Review №44

Abraham was a great surf instructor for my son and nephew. He was very supportive and he loved to joke around. 100% would do again.

Xi
Review №45

Having spent some time growing up on the Monterey Peninsula, I actually never took advantage of the waves until Zane and his instructors, Tyler and Kodey, showed me a new perspective about the ocean. Their desire to gift the surfing experience comes through in their business. They helped me see so many waves.

Ni
Review №46

We had a great time getting lessons from Big Surf! They are easy to contact, easy to borrow the right gear, and they bring it beachside. The instructors themselves are knowledgeable and can help beginners who have never touched a surfboard to those who are trying to become good enough to hit the waves on their own. We went with a group of 4 and our instructor Alex was nothing but helpful. I highly recommend going through Big Surf for surfing lessons.

Cy
Review №47

Zane was so kind - I found the experience on Airbnb and due to extenuating circumstances ended up having to cancel my lesson. Zane was very understanding, communicative, and generous. I’ll be coming back as a student in the future!

Ja
Review №48

Our instructor was Abraham! He obviously was very experienced and patient, I had a lot of fun! By the end of the day I was able to kneel on the board with wave, and find balance.

Ja
Review №49

I have never been to a business that left me willing to go thru the hassle of logging in to leave a review, but Cody got me excited enough about surfing to come on here. The gear, advise and location were all top-notch!

Sc
Review №50

Abraham was fantastic. Quality instruction tailored to students abilities and confidence. Highly recommended.

Be
Review №51

Three of us had an amazing time with Sam, Zane and Abraham. Whether youre a beginner or have some experience, I would highly recommend spending a morning with the Big Surf team.

Vy
Review №52

Awesome!!!!! I would recommend this to every parent!!! Abe is very good with kids and took the time to to teach each kid one by one! I’m bringing my kids and her friends back for more sessions!Thank you!!!!

Ry
Review №53

We were passing thu on vacation and booked with short notice. Zane was very accommodating, his instruction was on point, he was outstanding. We had an incredible experience and are now hooked on surfing. I highly recommend this!

Ke
Review №54

Kody was our instructor and he was awesome! My husband and I had a great time learning from him and he was so patient and helpful, would definitely recommend surfing with Big Surf!

Al
Review №55

We had a great lesson with Sam. She taught us all the basics and helped us to catch a few nice waves. Thanks so much.

Ga
Review №56

Had a great lesson this morning with Cody. He was very patient and encouraging - would recommend!

Ba
Review №57

We came to visit from Sacramento. While on our trip we got engaged and wanted to do something fun. This was possibly the best experience and we couldn’t ask for a better teacher. Abraham was so awesome and made learning so easy. We will be coming back aging and again to surf with Big Surf adventures and will make sure we get Abraham.

Vo
Review №58

Such a stellar time. Alex K chose our spots and adjusted to the conditions super well. Can’t wait to get back out!

Ki
Review №59

I did private lessons with both Josh and Robert. Both did a great job of working with me on my level. I caught several waves and learned a lot about paddling, positioning and wave selection. If you are a hodad/surfer wannabe, these guys will get you comfortable in the lineup.

is
Review №60

I was looking for a beginner surf class short notice as I traveled up the coast and Big Surf and adventure gave me everything I was looking for! With the patient and attentive help of my instructor, Sean, I now feel comfortable venturing out to get better at surfing on my own. Thank you for getting me out there!

Gr
Review №61

This was an awesome experience. We didnt know what we were doing but Alex got us up and surfing! 😃😃🤙 Thank you from both of us.

Ga
Review №62

Really awesome experience and the instructors were extremely helpful/supportive. Shout out to Cody and Noah!

Ta
Review №63

My daughter and I had an AMAZING experience with Zane at Big Surf! We have both had a single surf lesson in the past, though not together), and I have recently become disabled, able to walk very short distances using crutches but otherwise dependent on a wheelchair. I reached out to Big Surf explaining my physical limitations and, because my daughter is 9 and cannot join a group lesson without an adult with her and because I really wanted to participate in the experience with her rather than sit on the sidelines, I asked what options might be available. Zane was so great. He responded to my request offering to teach my daughter and I himself, and to bring along an additional instructor so we would each have someone to help as we needed during the lesson. He was incredibly supportive and encouraging, both in that communication, and during our lesson. Everything was organized and prepared when we arrived. He and our other instructor were so great -- focused on teaching my daughter (who is on the autism spectrum so has some challenges of her own), while also ensuring we both had an enjoyable time. Neither instructor was judgmental or showed any frustration for the extra help I needed to get down to the water, back on my board at times, and definitely back up the beach after we were done, nor towards my daughter who sometimes gets overwhelmed and shuts down and other times can be overzealous and a little wild. They were incredibly positive and encouraging to both of us the entire time! My primary goal was absolutely fulfilled - I surfed (on my knees or even just staying on my stomach) alongside my daughter. We laughed and cheered each other on and ultimately created the most wonderful memory! Thank you, thank you, thank you for giving us this treasure we will always cherish! Zane and Big Surf are nothing short of amazing! If you are looking for surf lessons, or Im sure any of the adventures they provide, this is THE place!!!

So
Review №64

Our instructor cody was great!! sm fun!

Ti
Review №65

Zane did a great job coordinating a date and time that worked super! So easy to do business with! First class operation and everyone was super friendly. My instructor Alex was the best! So fun! We laughed the whole time. Great feedback and super supportive. Totally awesome first time surfing experience! These guys are the best!

Ed
Review №66

Awesome personal lesson with Zane for a complete novice. Great instruction, friendly and patient. Have lots of great tips to work on my technique. Excellent equipment. Would recommend - even if you are passing through the area, like I was.

Ar
Review №67

Made a reservation for a group lesson and experienced some coordination issues, but were quick to compensate and help with delay

Ja
Review №68

Learned so much and had an amazing time! Highlight of our trip, thanks Robert!

Di
Review №69

Zane, thank you for your knowledgable help! Not only are you passionate about surfing but youre equally passionate about teaching how to learn. My surfing experience have been beyond expected and I look forward to the many more surfing session with you, sir!

Ji
Review №70

Wow. What an experience our 15 year old son and his best bud had on his birthday. He had been wanting a surf lesson for months. They were very communicative, professional, and gave great quality instruction in a very small group. There were 5 boys who showed up to the group lesson. The 2 instructors split them up into groups for more personal instruction. To see the smile on our sons face was everything! And to top it all off, instructor Zane gifted him with an old surfboard for his birthday! He was so stoked! So worth the lesson for the price. Well definitely be back!

Je
Review №71

Very good trainers (Robert) is our trainer

Ch
Review №72

Alex is the man, these guys are great!!

Br
Review №73

Zane was the real deal! We booked for our 4 boys (ages 8, 10, 12, and 14). He was patient, got them up and surfing quickly, and our boys had a blast!! This was the first time for all of them and they LOVED it! The oldest 2 were ready to buy surf boards by the end of the lesson. We will definitely use Big Surf again the next time were in the Monterey Bay area!

Pa
Review №74

Zane was awesome and outfitted our 3 kids for a week of fun in the water! We are from So Cal so we aren’t used to needing wetsuits, and Zane saved our vacation on the beach! Super friendly and got us hooked up great gear!

Sh
Review №75

Had a great time!

Ke
Review №76

There is nothing like showing up to your local surf break and seeing a massive horde of kook foamys with people acting a fool in the lineup on them. I dont know if this company just doesnt offer any advice /coaching to their customers, but they certainly dont act like they have any clue what is going on. This company is dangerous to their clients and everyone else in the ocean. Who knew one company could ruin a good thing. This company definitely isnt in the spirit of what surfing is all about. Skip this and get private one on one lessons instead so that you arent associated with these clowns.

Wi
Review №77

Zane is awesome. Hes a very patient instructor who will spend hours with you in the water and make it fun. Im an early riser and he was willing to get up and out at 6 AM for me, which is some serious dedication. I cant think of anyone I would rather learn from more or just spend time with.

Ad
Review №78

We’ve been “surfing” on our own for a month or two now, but we learned more today than we would have ever learned on our own. My 11 year old son and I (33 years old) took a lesson together and my son said it was the best day he’s had in Monterey yet. I was a little nervous I’d still be terrible even with an instructor but he made it all so easy to gain confidence and get up on the board. I definitely recommend for any age and level.

Re
Review №79

Group lesson with Big Surf was wonderful and affordable. People in my group were nice. As far as product, the wet suits and booties are comfortable, clean and kept us warm. Booking was easy and the instructor did a good job answering all of my questions beforehand as Id never been surfing before and was a tad timid.Surfing at Asilomar was beautiful. Ill definitely be back to book a private lesson with Zane to refine my skills.

Re
Review №80

First off...the wetsuits! Wow, not cold at all. Even in the middle of winter on a rainy day. Zane accommodated a same day lesson and was fun, informative and encouraging. Looking forward to getting back out there !

Br
Review №81

This was my first time ever getting surf lessons and I was pleasantly surprised at how smooth the experience was. The instructor was very professional but made it super fun from start to finish. I highly recommend Big Surf especially to first timers like myself.

Se
Review №82

Robert was amazing and patient

pr
Review №83

Took a group of my student facilitators for a team building activity while we were in Monterey for a conference. We were able to book a last minute and extremely affordable group lesson with Big Surf! Many of the teens were timid before trying a new sport but the instructor made them feel at ease with his passionate and friendly speech before they even put on their gear! Many said they wanted to surf again...too bad theres no Zane in Los Angeles

Ja
Review №84

Zane was a fantastic instructor! I would go so far as to call him Captain of the Waves! All the gear was brand new. I’m definitely going to book with Big Surf again and would highly recommend you do so also! Thanks Captain Zane!

Pe
Review №85

I loved every minute with my time with Zane. He is a true free spirit and a professional. He is a very patient instructor and you will feel his warmth each and every wave. Thank you Zane for being a true California Legend, I can’t believe you even got this ditz to ride a wave for a few seconds.

Mi
Review №86

Surfing has been something Ive always wanted to learn but never took the plunge until I met Zane. His lessons taught me the necessary foundations and I love the new sport. Whether youre a pure beginner like myself of have some experience but want to learn a few tips you will be in greater hands here. Ill be going back for more lessons when Im back in town. Thanks Zane!

Jo
Review №87

Zane is very professional, patient and a good communicator. Our family felt very supported, and encouraged throughout our 2 2 hour sessions. One of us had never surfed before and was able to successfully catch waves. We’ll be back!

R
Review №88

Awesome teacher and a great guy too! I would highly recommend

Mi
Review №89

Decided to take the plunge and try some surfing lessons. Zane was an excellent instructor and really helped ease my anxiety!

MO
Review №90

Very well instructed. We all learned a lot. Time to tackle the waves of the world now!

ro
Review №91

Zane is awesome!

Re
Review №92

Awesome !!!

La
Review №93

Abraham was an amazing instructor. I almost ended up cancelling my class due to the cold water, but he assured me that they had great gear that would keep me warm (and he was right)...I was sweating after our lesson! To our surprise, at the beginning of the lesson, we saw a rainbow and during the lesson a little sea lion hung out around us. Abraham is very knowledgeable about the ocean and how the waves work. The waves were different from what I was used to, but Abraham made me feel super comfortable. I felt like I was dancing with the sea by the time the lesson was over. It was a super memorable lesson!

Information
84 Photos
93 Comments
4.9 Rating
  • Address:230 Grove Acre Ave, Pacific Grove, CA 93950, United States
  • Site:http://bigsurfadventures.com/
  • Phone:+1 831-264-8008
Categories
  • Surf school
  • Recreation center
  • Sporting goods store
  • Tourist attraction
  • Water sports equipment rental service
Working hours
  • Monday:7AM–9PM
  • Tuesday:7AM–9PM
  • Wednesday:7AM–9PM
  • Thursday:7AM–9PM
  • Friday:7AM–9PM
  • Saturday:7AM–9PM
  • Sunday:7AM–9PM
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