If the ocean has been calling your name, this conversation with Jon Pierce of JP's Surf Camp might be the nudge you needed to finally paddle out. We sit down with the longtime San Clemente educator and surf coach to explore how a simple, focused approach helps kids and adults learn to surf quickly, safely, and with a lot of joy. Jon shares the story behind launching a grassroots surf camp through the city’s Parks and Recreation program, why he keeps sessions capped with a three-to-one student-to-instructor ratio, and how a culture of cheering from the sand turns a solo sport into a shared experience.

You’ll hear practical advice that demystifies the first steps: choosing a soft-top with enough volume, picking a comfortable wetsuit so you stay warm, and learning to read the lineup without feeling overwhelmed. Jon breaks down the biggest myth he hears from adults—that they missed their chance to start—and shows how the right gear and patient coaching flip fear into fun. For parents, he explains how the camp’s structure, daily themes, and summer-only schedule make progress measurable and meaningful, with many campers returning year after year and even stepping up as junior instructors.

We also zoom out to the bigger picture: turning proximity to beautiful beaches into an everyday wellness habit. Whether you’re chasing your first ride, looking for beginner surf lessons in Orange County, or seeking a community that treats the ocean as a place to connect, JP's Surf Camp offers a clear, welcoming path. Want dates, details, and sign-ups?

Visit https://jpssurfcamp.com/ or find JP's Surf Camp on Instagram and Facebook. If this story inspires you, follow the show, share it with a neighbor, and leave a quick review to help more locals find their way to the water.