Venice Surf Shack

My son recently took surf lessons with Wagner, and I couldn’t be more impressed! From the very first session, Wagner made him feel comfortable, safe, and excited to learn. His patience, experience, and clear passion for surfing really stood out. Wagner not only taught solid technique but also helped build my son’s confidence in the water. By the end of the lessons, he was catching waves and absolutely loving it! Highly recommend Wagner to anyone looking for a knowledgeable and encouraging surf instructor. We’ll definitely be back!

Surfing has always been a dream of mine, but living far from the beach and having a busy schedule made it hard to ever give it a real try. After many years, I finally decided to go for it — and I’m so glad I chose Venice Surf Shack in Venice Beach. From the very beginning, the experience was amazing. Coach Wagner was super friendly, supportive, and professional. Even though it was a group class, he made it feel like a private one-on-one session. He gave everyone personal attention and explained things in a clear, easy-to-follow way. Thanks to his great teaching and encouragement, I was able to stand up on the board during my very first class — something I didn’t think would happen so soon. The vibe was relaxed, fun, and really motivating. If surfing has ever been something you’ve wanted to try, I totally recommend taking a class with Wagner. He helped me check off a lifelong dream, and it felt amazing. Wagner, you’re the best — thank you for everything and God bless you, man!

My two children (13yrs and 10yrs) had a great time. Wagner explained things very simply and supported them brilliantly when they were in the water. And they were getting up on the boards in their first few attempts and made the experience really enjoyable. Thank you Wagner and definitely recommended your lessons to other beginners wanting to give it a go!

I planned a trip to LA and surfing was a top priority on my list. I found the Surf Shack on google with a simple “places to surf in LA” search. Wagner was very accommodating to a last minute schedule change. When I finally made it to learning he was such a great teacher. I came with low expectations for learning to surf so quickly but he was about to help me and two of my other family members attending get up more than 3 times each. It was an amazing experience and I would do it over everytime I visit LA!! Thanks so much Wagner you’re a great teacher and a great energy to learn around!

Wagner is an incredible surf coach! He has a calm, positive energy that instantly gives you confidence in the water. His lessons go beyond technique — he teaches you how to truly read the ocean and connect with it. I’m so grateful for everything I learned from him and can’t recommend his classes in Venice Beach enough!

Book this guy! My 10 year old (an Iowa kid with no surfing experience) had the best time learning to surf. Wagner was kind, patient, fun, and had my kid surfing in no time! He can’t wait to try it again. Thanks, Wagner!

I bought a surf lesson for my 15-year-old nephew, and he said Wagner was amazing! He made the whole process super straightforward and was an excellent instructor in the water. My nephew was popping up and riding waves within just a few tries. I highly recommend this surf school for both small and large groups!

So glad I finally got lessons and wound up with Wagner @ surf shack. He made everything so easy to learn and understand. I’ve been afraid of surfing and secretly wanting to do this for YEARS… and within the first lesson, years of fear and uncertainty went away. Was able to stand on the board and surf waves THAT DAY! I immediately went back the next day to try out everything he taught me. Cannot wait for the next lesson.