Well, I asked this same question yesterday in regards to San Diego without much luck on responses. So trying again-- I'm thinking of heading to LA (around the beach communities) and/or Santa Barbara late summer and was hoping to do some surfing. Can any residents or travlers recommend a good surf school/lessons in either of these areas for a beginner? Thanks.

Ok this will only be a little bit helpful as I don't actually know any of the companies but a lot of the surfing is done in Ventura (between LA and SB). Maybe google Ventura and surfing lessons?

This is an excellent school in Santa Barbara: http://www.surfsb.com/newsite/camps/camps_summer.asp

My son grew up surfing in Manhattan Beach (near LAX)in the South Bay, and the beach is beautiful here. We know of this group which teaches surfing. Check out the web site if interested.

http://www.campsurf.com/index2.html

Miramar - Sorry didn't have time to respond to your San Diego post. There are plenty of good spots for beginners in San Diego. My BF learned to surf in SD. Go to Pacific Beach - there are several shops along the beachwalk that offer lessons and rentals. You can also surf by La Jolla and Ocean Beach.