A first-timer running her board down to the water while Troy MacDonald watches

Laguna Beach surf lessons · Since 2005

Learn to surf where the locals learned.

That is Troy MacDonald, who runs Laguna Surf Lessons, on the sand at Thalia Street with a first-timer, which is where he has been for twenty years.

95% of Troy’s students stand up in their first lesson. You will be too.

Board, wetsuit and twenty years of local wave knowledge — all included.

Troy MacDonald · Thalia Street · April 2026

Full report on Surfline

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A first-timer up and riding on her first lesson at Thalia Street
First lesson, first wave — shot from the water

The whole point

95% stand up in the first lesson.

That is a first-timer on her feet, on a real wave, inside her first ninety minutes. Your instructor picks the wave, times the push, and tells you the one thing to think about. Then you are up. You will be too.

20+ yearsCoaching this beach
4.9 / 538 Google reviews
5 maxAnd only your own group

Lessons & pricing

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Private lessons are one-on-one.

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Don’t see a time that works for you? Text Troy directly at 949-280-5818.

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Your instructor

Troy MacDonald

I am a Laguna Beach local, born into a surf family. My father had me on a surfboard at the age of 3. The ocean has always been a huge part of my life, and I have a deep connection and respect for it. I began competing at a young age, winning numerous surf contests and riding for multiple sponsors who recognized my passion and dedication to the sport.

I spent my summers working with local surfing companies and camps, teaching people of all ages and skill levels. With over 20 years of surf instruction experience, my goal is to make your surf lesson both fun and safe, leaving you excited to do it again. When you learn to surf with me, you get guidance from a lifelong surfer who not only knows how to surf but knows how to teach it.

I’m just as passionate about what lies beneath the waves as I am about riding them. As a free diver and underwater photographer, I love capturing marine life through my lens. See my work on YouTube.

Troy MacDonald, owner and instructor

Laguna bornLocal his whole life
20+ yearsTeaching surf
4.9 on Google38 reviews
Troy MacDonald on the sand at Thalia Street with a board under his arm
Troy as a kid in the ocean
Salt water since the start
A seal resting on Troy’s head mid-swim
A local, mid-swim cameo
Troy, after a first lesson — and yes, that is a seal on his head

Reviews

4.9 / 5 · 38 Google reviews · no paid ones

If I could give Troy 10 stars, I would! Neither of us had ever been on a surfboard before, but Troy’s instruction was absolutely incredible.”

★★★★★ · Braxton F. · Google review

Troy was so amazing with my triplet 8 year old boys! They were nervous to try surfing and by the end of the lesson they asked if we could do it again tomorrow.”

★★★★★ · Amy M. · Google review

I came in with absolutely zero surfing experience, but Troy had me standing up and riding waves in my very first lesson.”

★★★★★ · Phil D. · Google review

It was my 6 and 8 year old daughter’s first time surfing. Both caught multiple waves!”

★★★★★ · Matthew C. · Google review

If you’re in Laguna, don’t waste your time looking for the best spot, this is it!!!”

★★★★★ · Jack · Google review

He had both of them up surfing on their first try. Troy’s instruction inspired them to love it!”

★★★★★ · Tom T. · Google review

They had an absolute blast and hands down said it was the most epic part of their vacation.”

★★★★★ · Maximiliano A. · Google review

He knows the Laguna waves like the back of his hand. He teaches surfing in an easy to understand way and doesn’t overcomplicate it.”

★★★★★ · Rob R. · Google review
1 / 8

Every written review, word for word

★★★★★

We had a great time surfing with Troy! It was my 6 and 8 year old daughter’s first time surfing and I joined in as well. Troy was great with the kids, teaching the basics and ensuring everyone was prepped and comfortable before hitting the water. Once on the water he helped them paddle out, positioned the kids, and both caught multiple waves! Really fun experience for all and extremely satisfying as a parent to have a front row seat - we even caught a few waves together.

Matthew C. · 3 weeks ago on Google

★★★★★

I’ve really enjoyed working with Troy! He’s been incredibly helpful, professional, patient, and encouraging. Since I started taking lessons with him, I’ve become more and more motivated to learn surfing and improve every week.

For me, it’s become much more than just learning how to surf, it’s also a great full-body workout. I actually find myself exercising throughout the week so I can be stronger and better prepared for my weekend sessions with Troy!

I really appreciate his teaching style. He’s professional and knowledgeable, but at the same time makes the whole experience relaxed and enjoyable. I also genuinely enjoy his company and our conversations while we’re out in the water waiting for the right wave.

Every session is something I look forward to. If you’re thinking about learning to surf or improving your skills, I definitely recommend Troy!

Farb M. · a month ago on Google

★★★★★

I was referred to Troy from a good friend who grew up in Laguna Beach and is from a surfing family. He said Troy was the best, and based on that, I signed him up to teach our two grandsons to surf. My friend was proved right. Troy is the best! He had both of them up surfing on their first try and they continued to improve over the three lessons. They not only learned to surf, but Troy’s instruction inspired them to love it! I highly recommend Laguna Surf Lessons and Troy. We will be returning next summer!

Tom T. · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Had 2 lessons with Troy and it was a blast. (Obligatory “I had not done it before and I was able to stand after lesson 2” but fun is arguably more important.)

Benefits of a private lesson: knowing which waves to take, personalized attention so that you are safer, continuous form evaluation.

Benefits of doing it with Troy: timely, patient, knowledgeable, and fun to talk to. There are lull moments between sets, and you want the person you are on the water with to be a conversationalist. Troy is happy to talk about documentaries he has seen, along with general surfing knowledge, which I definitely appreciated.

Efe A. · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy was awesome. He had both our kids up and surfing way faster than we ever expected! They had an absolute blast and hands down said it was the most epic part of their vacation. 🌊🏄‍♂️🤙

Maximiliano A. · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

We had an amazing surf lesson with Troy!!! He was patient, encouraging, and made us feel comfortable from the moment we got in the water. His instruction was clear and personalized and the lesson was so fun. Highly recommend whether you’re a beginner or more advanced and can’t wait to be back!!

Sophia M. · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Our family took lessons from Troy this past weekend, leaving us with lifelong memories! Our teenager stood up first wave and he gave our 7 year old the confidence to stand on her third wave. If you want a fun, encouraging, knowledgeable lesson, book with Troy!

Andrea B. · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Our lesson with Troy was perfect 👌🏻🤙🏻 He is a great teacher. Amazing experience, we absolutely recommend this surf school 😎

Karolina S. · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

I tried surfing for the first time and it was awesome :) Don’t think twice, take lessons with Troy.

Radomir · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

It was a great time and good fun.

Marcin K. · 2 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Had my first ever lesson with Troy and couldn't recommend the entire experience more to anyone thinking about it!

Troy is a fantastic instructor with a wealth of experience in the ocean. Communication was clear and easy from the outset and I felt totally safe as a beginner out in the water. I will absolutely be coming back to Laguna for another surf session with Troy!

Divit S. · 3 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy is an amazing surf instructor! He has such good knowledge of the ocean and really helped me! I caught nearly every wave and he was so encouraging. Such a lovely guy, definitely recommend him!! Millie from England

Millie S. · 3 months ago on Google

★★★★★

We had a great experience surfing with Troy! He explained things clearly, was very supportive and made sure we had fun the whole time. I went with my younger sister who surfed for the first time and she really enjoyed it!

Malika N. · 3 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Five stars, hands down. Troy was patient from the first minute: clear instructions on the sand before we ever hit the water, and steady encouragement the whole way through. Caught my first wave quickly, which felt incredible. The whole lesson was genuinely fun. Troy was awesome. Lesson #2 happening soon. Highly recommend!

Sp Y. · 3 months ago on Google

★★★★★

If I could give Troy 10 stars, I would! My wife Sammi and I decided on a whim to book a same-day surf lesson while celebrating our 5th anniversary, and Troy went completely above and beyond to accommodate us. Neither of us had ever been on a surfboard before, but Troy’s instruction was absolutely incredible. He was patient, knowledgeable, and broke everything down in a way that made us feel totally comfortable and safe out in the ocean. We were both actually catching waves and standing up way faster than we ever expected! The entire experience was so much fun and ended up being a massive highlight of our trip. If you are looking for top-tier instruction and an unforgettable time on the water, I cannot recommend Troy enough. Thank you for making our anniversary so special!

Braxton F. · 4 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy was so amazing with my triplet 8 year old boys! They were nervous to try surfing and by the end of the lesson they asked if we could do it again tomorrow. Troy made them so comfortable in the water and taught them about the ocean as well as how to surf. We can't wait to take more lessons!

Amy M. · 4 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Great experience with Troy. Was a great teacher for my son who had gone surfing only once before. With Troy’s guidance he was able to catch a wave on his own and can stand up almost every time now.

Jose I. · 4 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy was awesome! Fantastic and patient instructor. He really made us feel confident and in control, even though this was our first time.

Amir · 4 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Had an epic first surfing lesson with Troy! Experienced, dependable and hands-on instructor for all skill levels. Highly recommend.

Carly F. · 4 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy is an incredible coach and human in general. I booked a private lesson for 3pm and he reached out right away to schedule for an hour later ensuring the best tide, surf, and overall experience. We had such a good time. He had us standing up by our first waves and was genuinely stoked to see us succeed. If you’re in Laguna, don’t waste your time looking for the best spot, this is it!!!

Jack · 6 months ago on Google

★★★★★

I had an amazing first surfing experience with Troy in Laguna Beach! Surfing has been a lifelong dream of mine, and Troy made it come true. He was patient, encouraging, and an excellent instructor who made the whole session feel comfortable and fun.

From the start, he explained everything clearly and helped me build confidence in the water. By the end of the session, I was actually riding waves, which felt incredible for my first time.

If you’re thinking about trying surfing for the first time or want to improve your skills, I can’t recommend Troy enough. I had a great session and can’t wait to get back out there and ride even more waves next time. 🌊🏄‍♂️

David K. · 7 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Best gift to give! My husband had so much fun learning how to surf and got to check it off his bucket list. Troy is an amazing teacher: he’s easy going, patient, and passionate about what he does.

Beatrice K. · 7 months ago on Google

★★★★★

Laguna Surf Lessons with Troy is a real 10/10! Troy was great with my son. He got him up on his feet, taught him about the ocean and how to read waves, and most importantly made him feel safe in the water. Troy even got some video of my son riding that was really the icing on the cake. Thanks Troy!!

Jeff · 10 months ago on Google

★★★★★

I came in with absolutely zero surfing experience, but Troy had me standing up and riding waves in my very first lesson. Mind-blowing. His calm, encouraging teaching style and focus on safety made the experience not only informative, but also incredibly fun and relaxing!

I’ve walked away from each of his lessons with new skills, more confidence, and a greater appreciation and respect for the ocean overall. Troy’s extensive surfing experience is priceless and his ability to connect with both adults and kids makes him an outstanding instructor!

Troy is fantastic not only for beginners, but seasoned surfers that are looking to reach the next level. Thanks for helping me build confidence in the water, Troy. You rock!

Phil D. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy is an incredible surf instructor. I’ve taken two lessons with him now and am excited to keep going. He’s been surfing his whole life and knows the Laguna waves like the back of his hand. He teaches surfing in an easy to understand way and doesn’t overcomplicate it. When I’m out on the water with Troy, his calmness and great energy helped me feel comfortable in the water, and our lessons have done wonders for my confidence on the waves. He’s also teaching me to read the ocean and understand the waves that are coming. He’s not just going to get you up on a board, he’s going to make sure you have a great time doing it, and build the skills to be able to do it without an instructor. It’s awesome to find someone who isn’t just a good instructor, but is a great person who is fun to be around. I’m glad to have met Troy and highly recommend him to anyone looking for an awesome surf instructor in the Laguna area!

Rob R. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

I hired Troy for a lesson for my teen daughter and her best friend, who are total beginners. Troy had such a fun and positive attitude, he clearly loves what he does. He was very patient, thorough, and encouraging as an instructor. Both of the girls were able to stand on their boards and catch a few waves during their lesson! I keep thinking about a sentence I heard him say: “As long as you're having fun, you're the best surfer out there!”

Kim L. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

I had an amazing experience taking surf lessons in Laguna Beach! Coach Troy was super friendly, patient, and made it really easy to learn to surf, even as a first-timer. He breaks it down step by step so I was able to follow and not be overwhelmed. I was standing up on the board by the end of the lesson! The waves in Laguna Beach are ideal for beginners, and the scenery is absolutely stunning. Highly recommend to anyone looking to learn to surf or improve their skills while enjoying the best of Laguna Beach.

Maggie Y. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy is an awesome instructor: patient, clear, and just fun to be around. I was nervous at first, but he made it easy to relax and actually enjoy learning. Caught a few waves and had a great time. Definitely a memorable experience.

R F · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

Our family of four spent two sessions with Troy and had a blast. He was super patient, encouraging and knowledgeable. All four of us caught multiple waves and we hope to come back and catch more with Troy!

Lauren W. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

Surfing with Troy is an amazing experience. He is skilled, professional, and he makes every lesson fun. Whether you’re a total beginner or just looking to level up, he’ll make sure you catch waves and have a blast doing it! 🌊🤙

Yutong Z. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

Troy is the best. My family surfed with Troy in July and he took great care of us. I can't wait to book another lesson with him.

Brad M. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

My kid took a lesson with Troy. He’s patient, kind, trustworthy, and made sure my kid was safe. I would recommend him without hesitation.

Paula L. · a year ago on Google

★★★★★

Super personal and attentive instructor. Took a 1 on 1 private lesson with him and it was amazing. He just wants you to have fun and learn while doing so.

Zachary W. · a year ago on Google

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FAQ

The things everyone asks.

How much are surf lessons?

A private one-on-one lesson is $170. A private group lesson is $130 per person for 2 to 5 people. Advanced coaching is $180. Every lesson is 90 minutes and includes a premium surfboard, wetsuit and leash. For coaching packages, birthday parties or corporate and team events, text Troy.

When can I book a lesson?

Lessons run every day except Monday, 6 AM to 5 PM, conditions permitting. Lessons start at 6:00, 8:00 and 10:00 AM, 12:00, 2:00 and 3:30 PM. Book at least 24 hours ahead. Don't see a time that works? Text Troy at 949-280-5818.

I've never been surfing. Is that a problem?

Sharing the joy of surfing with a first-time surfer is one of our favorite things to do! We are with you every step of the way, creating a fun, positive and memorable surfing experience.

Is surfing still an option for me, despite my age?

We welcome students of all ages! Our private one-on-one lessons are great for kids as young as 5 to adults in their 70s. Private group lessons are perfect for ages 7 and up, provided they are competent swimmers.

What if I'm not a strong swimmer or I'm afraid of the ocean?

Surf lessons are still an option. We love helping people overcome a fear of the ocean. Our goal is for you to feel safe, have fun and turn that fear into a love for the ocean.

What happens in my first lesson?

Before hitting the water, we start with land demonstrations on reading waves and ocean conditions, standing up, board handling, ocean safety and surf etiquette. Then we move to the water and put those skills into practice.

Will I actually stand up?

About 95% of Troy's students stand up in their first lesson.

Will Troy be my instructor?

Most lessons are taught by Troy. When he is booked up, he may send one of his trusted instructors, and he will let you know before your lesson.

Where do we meet?

Troy picks the spot for each lesson based on the conditions, safety and your ability, and texts you where to meet before your lesson.

How early should I arrive?

Allow time to find parking, especially in summer. We recommend arriving 15 minutes before your lesson.

What equipment is provided?

Your lesson includes a premium surfboard, wetsuit and leash. Your equipment will be waiting for you at the beach.

What should I bring?

Bring what you would bring for a day at the beach: a bottle of water, a bathing suit, sunscreen and a towel.

Do I need to sign a waiver?

Yes. You sign it online when you book, and it must be signed before your lesson starts.

What payment methods do you accept?

Credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, Zelle and Venmo. If you'd rather book by text, you can pay with Zelle or Venmo.

How do I tip my instructor?

Tips can be given by Zelle, Venmo or cash.

When can I get a full refund?

If you ask for a refund 24 or more hours before your lesson, or if the lesson is cancelled because of conditions, you get a full refund.

What if I need to reschedule?

You can reschedule free of charge if you let Troy know at least 12 hours before your lesson.

Is there somewhere to store my things?

No. Pack for a day at the beach. We are not responsible for personal belongings.

Are there restrooms nearby?

There are no restrooms directly on the beach. You'll need to use a nearby business.

Can I surf with goggles, a life jacket or floaties?

We recommend not wearing goggles if you can avoid it. Life jackets and floaties get in the way of paddling, so we don't use them.

Can I rent a surfboard after my lesson?

We don't rent boards, but several local shops rent surfboards and wetsuits by the day.

Can I buy a surf lesson as a gift?

Yes. Gift cards come in any amount from $50 to $1,000 and are good for any lesson.

Text Troy Book a lesson