Best 130 coaches for lessons near Santa Monica, CA

With over a decade of experience teaching surfing and a background as an avid surfer and waterman, I'm dedicated to helping you ride your first wave or refine your technique. I provide personalized coaching tailored to your goals and skill level, fostering a safe and fun learning environment.

I'm Coach Ed, a lifelong surfer from Brazil, and I've been riding the waves since I was 7 years old! Now at 44, surfing is more than just a passion—it's a way of life. For over 20 years, I've been sharing that passion by teaching surf lessons, working with all ages and skill levels. I love helping others find their stoke on the waves. I'm also a proud family man, with a beautiful wife and a lovely young daughter who keep me grounded and inspired every day.

"Ed is an impressive! a professional who knows how to technically teach you how to improve and easily understand how to maximize your surfing potential. I highly recommend this excellent instructor.

I’m a lifelong student of the game, raised in a family of coaches, and I’ve spent years in the gym studying how players actually improve. I care about the details—footwork, decision-making, and building skills that show up in real games. Every session is focused on helping players grow their confidence, understand the game, and become more effective when it matters. I built my own game around efficiency—shooting over 60% from three with a 3:1 assist-to-turnover ratio—and that same approach is what I now use to help players improve and reach their potential. Above all, my goal is to help players develop a genuine love for the game that lasts a lifetime.

Hi I have loved the game of basketball for a long time. I played in high school, some college at the JC level, I’ve been an assistant coach, a developmental coach, I’ve run clinics and camps as well as a volunteer coach. I want to bring fun and a love of the game to the next generation!

With over 30 years on the court and experience competing at the college level, I bring a lifelong love of basketball to every session. I specialize in developing fundamentals—shooting, passing, and defense—for beginners through intermediate players. I coach in Santa Monica at Reed Park and private residences, offering personalized, goal-driven (in writing 😁) training that builds skill, confidence, and understanding of the game. As a father of two teens (one at Pali High and one at SaMo) and a COO by day, I value focus, growth, and helping each player reach their potential.

"I dribble with my head up and can use my left hand better now. Thanks!

Hi, I'm Nick Cmager, a former #1-ranked player in Slovenia and Division 1 athlete with over a decade of coaching experience. I've competed internationally and reached a UTR of 13. I enjoy working with players of all levels—from beginners picking up a racket for the first time to competitive high school athletes and recreational adults. Whether you're looking to learn fundamentals or take your game to the next level, I'm excited to help you improve. See you on the court! :)

"Fun and structured classes

I was a four-year varsity player at Oberlin College and currently work in economic consulting. I am also currently building a post-match feedback platform for competitive players (we are currently demoing the product for a select group of players). Outside of tennis, I completed a 2,800 mile walk across America a few years ago and am currently training for an Ironman. I value discipline, consistency, and long-term development, and I enjoy working with players who want to improve and are willing to put in the work.

"My 12-year old son has been taking lessons with James and it’s been a really positive experience. James is very encouraging but also keeps him focused and working hard. My son looks forward to the lessons each work and has been doing better in his tournaments recently.

I've been coaching, teaching sports on the Westside of Los Angeles for over 40 years. I have coached & still coach scholastic golf teams, that consistently achieve success at the team and individual level with multiple team & individual championships. I can help you improve your game no matter what level you're at, from the beginner/novice to competitive player. Instruction includes full swing, short game, putting, course management and mental game. I help all my students improve along with having fun to play a game you can participate in your whole life.

Yoga with Carlos Vargas

Step onto your mat and into your power. As a dedicated yoga instructor, I'm passionate about guiding individuals on their personal journeys toward strength, balance, and inner peace. Let's flow together!