beach smart
SWOS Classes
Sandies - Ages 3-6
Crushers - Ages 10-14
Barrelers - Ages 7-9
little learner scared of the ocean?! We get it.
Little ones take their first splash into ocean awareness with our Sandies program! In a fun, nurturing environment, young beachgoers learn the basics of water safety how to stay close to a grown-up, what to do if they get knocked down by a wave, and how to identify a lifeguard, and much more.
little learner scared of the ocean?! We get it.
Little ones take their first splash into ocean awareness with our Sandies program! In a fun, nurturing environment, young beachgoers learn the basics of water safety how to stay close to a grown-up, what to do if they get knocked down by a wave, and how to identify a lifeguard, and much more. Through songs, games, and play, Sandies build comfort and confidence at the water's edge while developing a healthy respect for the ocean.
$25 per class /a week
Monthly costs per request
Barrelers - Ages 7-9
Crushers - Ages 10-14
Barrelers - Ages 7-9
Feeling a bit confident?
Ready to go a little deeper! Barrelers are building real ocean skills, including how to read the shore, spot rip currents, and swim safely in moving water. Kids in this group learn body su basics, safe entry and exit through the ocean, and how to help a friend in need without putting themselves at risk. This hands-
Feeling a bit confident?
Ready to go a little deeper! Barrelers are building real ocean skills, including how to read the shore, spot rip currents, and swim safely in moving water. Kids in this group learn body su basics, safe entry and exit through the ocean, and how to help a friend in need without putting themselves at risk. This hands-on program builds both competence and confidence for young swimmers alike, while still building comfort and confidence at the water's edge.
$25 per class /a week
Monthly costs per request
Crushers - Ages 10-14
Crushers - Ages 10-14
Crushers - Ages 10-14
All things ocean?
For the next generation of ocean savvy learners, Crushers dives into advanced water safety and real-world ocean awareness. Participants learn to identify and escape rip currents, assist in basic beach emergencies, and understand ocean conditions including swell patterns, tides, and hazardous marine life. Crushers are chal
All things ocean?
For the next generation of ocean savvy learners, Crushers dives into advanced water safety and real-world ocean awareness. Participants learn to identify and escape rip currents, assist in basic beach emergencies, and understand ocean conditions including swell patterns, tides, and hazardous marine life. Crushers are challenged to think and act like junior lifeguards — developing the skills, judgment, and leadership to stay safe and look out for others, while developing a healthy respect for the ocean.
$25 per class /a week
Monthly costs per request
Our Philosophy
Founded in 2025, Small Waves is dedicated to helping students achieve confidence and safety measures when approaching, learning and playing in the ocean. We strive to keep our beaches and oceans, a clean place for our children to grow up, and share the message with our students. At Small Waves, we believe that every student has the potential to succeed. We strive to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Values
- Safety
- Trust
- Growth
- Sustainability
- & a whole lot of fun
Our Story
Santa Cruz is a place shaped by the ocean. Its rhythms, its moods, its generosity, and its power are woven into the fabric of daily life here. For those of us who grew up along this coastline, the water is home! But we've noticed something over the years: for many people, that first step toward the shore can feel uncertain. Whether you're new to the area, visiting for the season, or simply haven't had the opportunity to learn, the ocean can feel more intimidating than inviting.
Small Waves Ocean School was born from a simple belief: everyone deserves to feel confident, capable, and welcome in the water. As Santa Cruz locals and lifelong ocean enthusiasts, we created Small Waves to bridge that gap — offering thoughtful, individualized ocean education rooted in safety, respect for the natural environment, and a genuine love for this community. We believe that when people feel prepared and supported, they don't just enjoy the ocean, they develop a lasting relationship with it.
We are proud to serve our neighbors, welcome visitors, and grow the next generation of ocean stewards right here on the Central Coast.
We can't wait to meet you in the water.