Real! Reviews

Name: Leucadia Surf School
Price range: $$

“Keeping showing the kids all that you know about this fun, crazy sport.”

“The ultimate California experience, and no trip to this coast is complete without it.”

“They gave me the funnest day of my life.”

“Gerry and his team kept their promise of getting everyone standing up on their boards on the first day. Motivated by their success, the kids (11, 12 & 15) were eager to keep surfing for the five-day surf camp. He has a low instructor-student ratio, so it seemed as though there was always someone to help the kids catch a wave.”

“My husband and I had a private two hour surf lesson with Leucadia Surf School and it was one of the most exciting things we have ever done.”

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Great experience for my 8-year old daughter. Guys are professional but also easygoing. We were late to the beach one day and they were totally accommodating to me and my family. Surfing is in a good area. Moonlight Beach is beautiful. No pressure to do anything beyond your comfort or skill level. You will have a GREAT time with this school.

Mark K. Encinitas, CA

I was researching surf schools online, and here’s what struck me, Leucadia said, “we don’t do games we surf, what’s more fun than surfing waves?” I grew up going to the beach. My parents didn’t have a lot of money, but the beach was free, so that’s where we went. The philosophy of this school stood out to me, so I went with it. I couldn’t be happier. From the beat up van, to the no frills school, Gerry and his instructors are old school surfers. Their philosophy is “The more waves, the better.” They don’t bog you down with crazy instruction, they just let their patrons surf the waves. Their instruction has not only taught my 6 year old how to surf, but also have respect for the ocean, as their safety instruction is par none. My son loves Lucas, and he has taught my son how to grab his board, paddle out, and catch waves. I can’t express how happy I am with this school! We’ll be back for sure!

Desirae L. San Diego, CA

Fantastic surf school for kids

My 8-year-old son had a free day while we were in the San Diego area, and Gerry allowed him to join in for a day of the usual 5-day surf camp. He had a wonderful time! Thanks to the wonderful instruction, he got up and was surfing with no problems and in no time at all. Full wetsuit (provided) kept him warm. The lessons begin with a short on-beach instruction, then they get them right into the ocean for a total of 3 hrs. Gerry Kantor, the owner, is super easy to work with. It can all be arranged by phone, payment is simple, and the instructions for where to meet, etc., are spot-on. We will definitely be back for more lessons, and next time allow more than a day. My son is hooked!

loftissm, Nashville, Tennessee

Great Fun!

Gerry is professional and well versed in teaching beginning surf, but he treats you like you’ve been best friends for years.
You can tell his first goal is to keep everyone safe. He goes over and repeats many times simple tips to stay safe and ways to make progress after the lesson. But overall, it was a fun day and he kept us laughing. It’s been weeks since my lesson, and I’m still surfing. Thanks Gerry!

Pepper D Encinitas, California

Great way to learn to surf

Gerry and his team kept their promise of getting everyone standing up on their boards on the first day. Motivated by their success, the kids (11, 12 & 15) were eager to keep surfing for the five-day surf camp. He has a low instructor-student ratio, so it seemed as though there was always someone to help the kids catch a wave. His young instructors kept it fun for the kids.

My husband & I also gave it a go and were surprised to find that we too were able to get up on the board (more than once!) during our first morning out there. Gerry took the time to explain some options for me, so that even with a bad knee, I could stand up. He also makes sure to choose a board that suits each participant’s size and ability, and gave us the attention we needed in the water.

Gerry’s open and easy-going manner put everyone at ease and ensured we all had a great time. The only downside would possibly be the range of ability among his instructors: some were fantastic, making sure to give you the pointers you needed to get up and giving you a push of the right strength at just the right time. A couple were less in tune with their students’ needs. Having said that, most of the instructors were great and the kids quickly learned who to avoid.

NMSwiss Zug, Switzerland

Excellent Experience

My husband and I had a private two hour surf lesson with Leucadia Surf School and it was one of the most exciting things we have ever done. Before getting in the water, we were taught some great lessons on safety. Once in the water, we were up and riding waves almost immediately. Gerry made sure we were set up with all the info we needed so that we could go out an catch some waves on our own next time. It was well worth the experience and a must do while in Southern California.

Terianne B., Loveland, Colorado

You’ll be surfing like a champ!

I had a great surf lesson at Moonlight beach! Gerry taught me the basics and made sure that I would be able to surf on my own after one lesson. He is patient and encouraging. He is also strategic in making sure your lesson will be at a time when the tides are good. I felt confident that I could surf on my own by the end of the lesson.

Sarah T

The Best!

Gerry and his staff are incredible! They took our “land mammals” family from Colorado and had us surfing right away. This was hands down one of the best vacation experiences we’ve ever had. We learned so much, had an absolute blast and can’t wait to come back next year and do it again. Best crew ever!

jennaphant, Grand Junction, Colorado

Surfing the waves

Gerry was great to work with. He helped our family of five all get up on the board. Great dry land teaching that made it easy once in the water. He kept in contact with us prior to our scheduled day and adjusted according to the tide, making it a wonderful experience for learning to surf. Encouraging and gave us pointers for continuing to learn in our days at Encinitas.

mferroggi, Portland, Oregon

Amazing Experience for First Time Surfers

Just got back from hitting the waves for the first time with with Gerry of Leucadia Surf School and had such a blast! Gerry went over the basics and was thorough in what to avoid – perfect for first time surfers like my wife and I. But most importantly he gave us a ton of time in the water and was sure to point out the good waves to hit. He was extremely patient with beginners and will make sure that you can stand up and catch a great wave! Overall a fantastic experience – it has turned me on to trying to surf on the east coast! Would recommend Gerry and Leucadia Surf School to anyone!