Teen Surf Camp at Zuma Beach, Malibu: A Week of Waves and California Days

The camp runs at Zuma Beach, one of Malibu's best-known surf spots, with consistent waves and a long shoreline. Surf lessons are run in small groups by Malibu Makos instructors, who coach each student at their own pace. Sessions cover proper technique, reading the ocean and staying safe in the water, so first-timers and returning surfers are in the same programme but working on different things.

What separates this from a plain surf school is the rest of the day. The programme is built as a full summer experience, with afternoon and evening activities around Malibu and Los Angeles and weekend excursions. The source lists the Santa Monica Pier Ferris wheel, boutiques and Rodeo Drive, sunset hikes, karaoke nights, bowling, mini golf, ultimate Frisbee and bonfires.

Accommodation is at Pepperdine University in Malibu, in dorm-style housing shared with other students and staff. Rooms have in-suite bathrooms and internet, and students have access to campus fitness facilities and food service. The source describes the dorms as safe and stylish but gives no further room detail.

Malibu sits just north of Los Angeles on the California coast. The camp uses that position: the beach is the training ground, and Los Angeles sights and shopping are close enough for afternoon and evening trips.

An optional add-on extends the California programme by seven days in Hawaii, travelling with ACA staff. The Hawaii leg covers Honolulu and Maui, including beaches, Iao Valley, Haleakala, snorkelling with sea turtles, the Dole Pineapple Plantation and a traditional luau. The source says supplemental tuition applies but does not state the amount.

The source does not give a day-by-day timetable, exact dates, prices or group sizes, so those are not listed here.

What's included

- Small-group surf lessons at Zuma Beach with Malibu Makos instructors - Coaching on technique, ocean awareness and water safety - Dorm-style accommodation at Pepperdine University - In-suite bathrooms and internet in the dorms - Access to campus fitness facilities - Food service on campus - Afternoon and evening activities around Malibu and Los Angeles - Weekend excursions - Supervision by ACA Summer staff

What's not included

- Travel to and from Malibu - The optional 7-day Hawaii add-on (supplemental tuition required) - Personal spending money for shopping and outings - Travel insurance - Anything not listed as included by ACA Summer