Learn a lot more than just popping up.
Monterey Surf School is a unique program that teaches ocean safety, etiquette, and knowledge of the ocean environment. If you are looking to become a dedicated surfer or just swim with ease and joy, these classes are for you.
At its core, we believe surfing is more than a sport. It’s a relationship with the ocean. Our mission is to promote safety, ocean awareness, and a deep respect for nature. We’re here to pass on knowledge earned through decades in the water: how to read conditions, how to stay safe, how to understand what the ocean is telling you, and ultimately how to move with it rather than against it.
Surfing offers an exciting and dynamic environment that’s different every time. It’s a step into the unknown that builds humility, courage, and joy. We love sharing that experience with others, especially kids and beginners who may one day feel confident enough to paddle out on their own.
How We Teach
Our approach to teaching goes beyond just “stand up on the board.” We teach you how to read the ocean, to understand currents, swell, and timing. You’ll learn how to get comfortable in the water, dive under waves with confidence, and identify your own limits.
We are inspired by philosophies like Wim Hof’s approach to calm, breath, and ego, encouraging students not to force progress, but to build it naturally and patiently.
We meet every student where they are, from first-timers to confident intermediates.
We believe surfing is for everyone, and learning should feel joyful, safe, and empowering.
Pauly’s Story
Monterey Surf School was founded by big wave surfer Paul Wetterau in 2025.
Surfing has been part of Paul’s life since childhood, boogie boarding at Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York. As Paul grew, he surfed through the New York winters, preparing himself for the cold Pacific. At 17, Paul moved from New York to Monterey to attend CSUMB, and straight into foggy, hooded-wetsuit California surf. Since then, Paul has competed and placed in major big wave competitions, surfing alongside legends he admires like Peter Mel and surfers from the Big Wave World Tour. He still remembers breaking a board on a massive day and having Ed Guzman generously offer one of his own, a deeply meaningful moment of mentorship and community support. And Erik Landry, who founded the Monterey Junior Lifeguard program, encouraged Paul to pursue big waves and ocean safety education.
This surf school exists because giving back matters.
After years of working in a world focused on revenue, Paul believes that real happiness comes from sharing something that serves others, promotes healthy living, and leaves the ocean community and environment better than we found it.
