Surf shops offering lessons and board rentals line the Pacific Coast Highway (P.C.H. in local lingo), but Kai Sanson of Zuma Surf and Swim Training (949-742-1086; www.zsstraining.com) takes his fun seriously. Mr. Sanson, 35, a Malibu native, was named L.A. 19s best surf instructor last year by L.A. Weekly. He 19ll size you up with a glance and gear the instruction to your skills. Lessons for two are $80 a person. His tales of growing up in Malibu are free. Locals also give Malibu Makos Surf Club (310-317-1229; www.malibumakos.com) and Jeff White of Captain Kahuna 19s Wave Travel Adventures (310-863-3802) high marks.