Pacific Beach Surf School

Tours & AttractionsOwner Verified

About

At 4208 Oliver Ct in San Diego, CA 92109, Pacific Beach Surf School operates out of PB Surf Shop, the oldest surf shop in San Diego, which first opened in 1962 when the Southern California surf scene was still in its infancy. Owner Randy Strunk, a local surfer, open-ocean prone paddler, and outrigger canoe enthusiast, took over in 1993 and has maintained the shop's deep connection to the community ever since. The school sits directly on the Pacific Beach boardwalk, steps from Crystal Pier, and teaches more than 3,500 students each year through private lessons, group sessions, and multi-day surf camps. 710 Beach Club at the foot of Crystal Pier anchors the same stretch of boardwalk, making it a natural pit stop between sessions. All instructors are CPR certified and trained in first aid and water safety, and the curriculum covers more than just standing up on a board — students learn about wave types, swells, currents, and local surf breaks. The shop's long history with iconic surfboard maker Gordon & Smith Surfboards gives it roots that most competitors simply cannot match. Equipment rentals include surfboards, bodyboards, and beach cruiser bikes, and the shop also sells skateboards, branded apparel, drinkware, and accessories. A hot outdoor shower is available for rinsing off after a lesson or rental session, and The Fishery on nearby Cass Street serves some of the freshest catch in the neighborhood for anyone craving a post-surf meal. The school holds a perfect 5.0-star Google rating, and reviewers consistently praise instructors for their patience and ability to get first-timers riding waves on their very first outing.