Conquer the Surf Zone: Lesson 3 — Waves & Ocean SUP
You’ve mastered flat water. You’ve handled boat wakes and marina chop. Now it’s time for the next level — paddling through the surf zone and catching actual waves on your SUP. This is where the real magic happens, and it’s one of the most exhilarating milestones in any paddler’s journey.
Our Lesson 3: Waves & Ocean class is designed specifically for intermediate paddlers who are ready to take on the ocean. Tim Sanford, Paddle Method’s founder and lead coach, has spent years developing a step-by-step methodology that breaks down the surf zone into manageable, confidence-building moments. You’ll learn how to read the water, time your entry between sets, and position yourself to catch a wave — all in one of the most unique training environments in Los Angeles County.
We operate at the North Channel Jetty, which Tim affectionately calls “the kiddie pool for learning to get through the surf zone.” It’s a protected, forgiving environment that gives you real ocean experience without throwing you into the deep end before you’re ready. By the end of the session, you’ll have the skills and the confidence to paddle in conditions that once seemed intimidating.
Ready to level up? Book your Lesson 3 — Waves & Ocean session here.
Discover the Venice Canals: Self-Guided SUP Tour
Most people walk the Venice Canals. You’re going to paddle them. The historic Venice Canals are one of LA’s best-kept secrets — a tranquil, charming network of waterways tucked just steps from the bustling boardwalk. On a paddleboard, you get an entirely different perspective: intimate, unhurried, and genuinely magical.
Our Venice Canals Self-Guided Tour puts you in control of your own adventure. You’ll glide past beautifully landscaped footbridges, lush gardens, and architectural gems that most Angelenos have never seen up close. It’s a peaceful contrast to the energy of the beach, and a reminder of why so many people fall in love with this city.
The self-guided format means you go at your own pace, pause where you want, and soak it all in. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple looking for something memorable, or a small group wanting a unique afternoon out — this tour delivers every time.
Explore the Venice Canals Self-Guided SUP Tour →
Sunset Sailing: See Venice from the Water on a 40-Foot Cruiser
There’s something about watching the sun melt into the Pacific from the deck of a sailing vessel that simply cannot be replicated on land. Our Discover Sunset Sailing experience takes you out on a stunning 40-foot ocean-going blue water cruiser every Wednesday evening — and it’s every bit as incredible as it sounds.
This isn’t a passive sunset cruise. You’ll get behind the wheel, hoist a sail, learn basic seamanship, and feel what it’s like to harness the wind. Our skipper is an OUPV-licensed captain with decades of ocean experience and a background teaching sailing for the American Sailing Academy — so you’re in expert hands from the moment you step aboard.
From the water, you’ll see Venice Beach, Marina del Rey, and the Santa Monica Bay from a perspective most people never get. The coastline looks completely different when you’re sailing along it — and as the sky turns amber and rose and the city lights begin to flicker on, you’ll understand why we say: Live Life on the Water.
Sunset Sailing is available at $250 per person, or $400 for two — with private charters also available for groups and special occasions. Book your Discover Sunset Sailing experience here.
Paddle Parties at Mother’s Beach: The Best Group Water Experience in LA
Looking for a group activity that nobody in your crew will ever forget? Our Paddle Party at Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey is the answer. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, planning a bachelorette weekend, organizing a corporate team-building day, or just rallying your crew for a summer adventure — this is the event that delivers.
Mother’s Beach is our absolute favorite spot for group paddling — calm, protected, beginner-friendly, and surrounded by the beauty of Marina del Rey. Our professional coaches handle everything, so all your group has to do is show up, get on the water, and have the time of their lives.
Paddle Parties are priced at $65 per person for groups of 8 or more, making it one of the best-value group experiences in Los Angeles. You’ll get coaching, boards, paddles, and memories that last a lifetime. Plan your Paddle Party at Mother’s Beach →
Why Paddle Method Is LA’s Premier Water Sports Experience
Since 2010, Paddle Method has been turning people into paddlers — and that’s not just a tagline. Founder Tim Sanford has coached thousands of people of all ages, backgrounds, and ability levels across some of the most diverse water environments in Southern California: the busy channels of Marina del Rey, the open swells of the Santa Monica Bay, the surf zone off Venice Beach, and the coastal waters of Malibu and Palos Verdes.
Our learning methodology is built on a baby-steps approach that’s customized to your goals and abilities. Whether you’re stepping on a board for the very first time or you’re ready to SUP surf, we’ll meet you exactly where you are and coach you toward where you want to go. And now, with the addition of our Discover Sailing Series, the adventure extends beyond the board.
Waterlust is real — and once you feel the call of the water, there’s no going back. Come find out why so many Angelenos and visitors from around the world have made Paddle Method part of their lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience to try the Venice Beach water sports activities?
Not at all! Our Discover SUP and self-guided Venice Canal tours are welcoming to first-timers. The Lesson 3 Waves & Ocean class is designed for intermediate paddlers who have completed foundational lessons. Our Discover Sunset Sailing requires zero sailing experience — our licensed captain guides you through everything on board.
What is included in the Venice Canals Self-Guided SUP Tour?
The self-guided tour includes your paddleboard, paddle, and a route guide so you can explore the Venice Canals at your own pace. It’s a perfect way to see one of LA’s most charming neighborhoods from an entirely unique vantage point on the water.
How big does my group need to be for a Paddle Party at Mother’s Beach?
Paddle Parties are available for groups of 8 or more at $65 per person. Mother’s Beach in Marina del Rey is calm, protected, and perfect for groups of all experience levels — from complete beginners to seasoned paddlers.
What is the Discover Sunset Sailing experience like?
It’s a 3-hour guided sailing cruise on a 40-foot ocean-going cruiser, departing Wednesday evenings at sunset. You’ll get hands-on time at the helm, hoist a sail, and learn basic seamanship from an OUPV-licensed captain. Pricing starts at $250 per person or $400 for two, with private charters available.
Is the Lesson 3 Waves & Ocean class right for me?
Lesson 3 is ideal for paddlers who are comfortable on flat water and ready to take on the ocean — including crossing the surf zone and catching waves on a SUP. If you’re newer to paddleboarding, we recommend starting with our Lesson 1 Marina Maneuvers or Marina Discovery Paddle first, then working your way up.
Looking for something more? Check out our guide on the 15 Best Things to do in Marina del Rey for 2026
