About Capitola Beach Company
Capitola Beach Company is a surf and paddleboard instruction business based at 131 Monterey Avenue in Capitola Village, the colorful beachside community just south of Santa Cruz. The company specializes in getting beginners comfortable on the water at Capitola Beach, which is widely considered one of the best learner-friendly surf spots on the Central Coast thanks to its sheltered cove, gentle wave break, and sandy bottom. Whether you have never stood on a surfboard before or want to try stand-up paddleboarding for the first time, Capitola Beach Company provides the instruction, equipment, and encouragement to make it happen.
Lessons run daily year-round, scheduled around low tides, wind patterns, and swell conditions to ensure students get the best possible experience. Surf lessons are available for individuals, couples, and small groups, with all boards and wetsuits included. Stand-up paddleboard lessons follow a similar format, with instructors guiding students through the basics of balance, paddling technique, and ocean awareness in the calm waters of the cove — where it is common to spot sea otters and dolphins just offshore. The company also offers board and wetsuit rentals for experienced surfers and paddlers who just need gear.
What sets Capitola Beach Company apart is the intimate, small-group teaching style and the picture-perfect setting. Capitola Village's candy-colored buildings, warm microclimate, and laid-back vibe create a distinctly different atmosphere from the busier breaks in Santa Cruz proper. Instructors are patient, knowledgeable, and genuinely stoked to share the ocean with newcomers, making this an ideal choice for families, couples, and anyone who wants their first surf or SUP experience to feel special rather than rushed.
