Top California Classes & Workshops

Suitable for all experience levels, this private surfing lesson in Malibu will have you catching waves in no time. Get hands-on instruction from a local surfer and lifelong Malibu resident, who can also give personalized travel tips. Learn the ins and outs of surfing, including paddling and standing, with the goal of riding waves.

Explore the studio, then create your own pieces at this Ojai pottery workshop and studio tour. This is a private experience, for you, or for you and your group (max 8 people). You’ll have a tour of the studio to learn about different styles of pottery and kilns, then you’ll have a demo. After that, you’ll be able to create your own, with help if needed. You will make 3-4 pieces during the workshop

Enter the dark, mysterious, stylish space and find yourself transported to a cosmopolitan oasis. We forge our way off the beaten path, seek interesting varietals and blend them together to make wines that are approachable and thought-provoking. You won’t find another place like it in Napa.

Discover the underwater world of Catalina Island during a 45-minute ride on a semi-submarine. The semi-sub allows you to view the marine life of Avalon Bay as you dive six feet (two meters) below the surface at Lovers' Cove. Stay dry as you get a close look at fish feeding around the submarine, then take in views of the island from your vessel's top deck during the return journey to Avalon.

Craft custom candles in a fun, hands-on workshop led by an experienced candle and soap artisan. Begin with an introduction to candle basics, including safety tips and fragrance options. Melt and mix wax to create your unique scent, and learn essential techniques for clean burns and strong scent throw.

See what lives in the Pacific waters surrounding Catalina Island without getting wet on a 45-minute underwater cruise. As you sit comfortably in a climate-controlled cabin on board a large boat, you'll glide below the surface to look for marine life in its natural habitat through your own porthole. Along the way, listen to live commentary from a guide.

Create your own unique piece of jewelry using Palm Springs flower petals in this engaging workshop. All materials are provided, making it easy for anyone to dive into crafting their one-of-a-kind wearable art. With step-by-step guidance from a skilled instructor, you'll explore your creativity and leave with a stunning handmade accessory to cherish or gift. Perfect for those looking to try something new, this experience is a blend of artistry and nature.

Santa Barbara is known for its artisan food scene, including its bean-to-bar chocolate offerings—but while anyone can visit the city and pick up a sweet treat, it takes insider knowledge to craft authentic chocolates. On this 1.5-hour workshop, fill a box with your own handmade vegan, gluten-free goodies. Then, put your art skills to the test as you decorate from dozens of toppings, from candied ginger to pretzel sticks.

Meet some of the world's most exotic animals with your admission ticket to the renowned San Diego Zoo, one of California's top family-friendly attractions. More than 4,000 animals representing 800 species live in this state-of-the-art zoo, including some that are rarely seen at other zoos. Admire the animals and go in-depth during daily keeper talks. With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the San Diego Zoo. Ticket must be redeemed on travel date selected. Tickets must be purchased at least one day prior to visit.

Do something different with your time in San Diego by taking part in this private hands-on cigar rolling workshop. Don’t worry about bringing anything with you, as all tools and materials are provided. During your class, learn top tips from expert cigar rollers as well as fascinating insights on the history of the craft that most travelers usually miss out on.

We created this experience to be a very authentic day/morning in the life of a surfer. Not just a surf lesson. Guests and truly treated as family...Like going for a surf with your uncle Micah! All participants receive a comprehensive and thorough lesson and are immersed in an authentic experience that for some; create a new passion and way of life. We meet downtown, select the wetsuit that fits best, and the board you want to surf from a large selection of long boards, mid-length and foamies. (short boards are available for advanced surfers.) I hope you can join us for a truly authentic unforgettable day of surf and good vibes. NOTE - As the group gets larger we break into smaller groups of 3 or 4ish per instructor. (everyday is different depending on the vibe of the group.)

Take a journey around San Francisco's top sights in a retro way with this small-group tour by vintage Volkswagen bus, decorated with long eyelashes so you can't miss your tour vehicle. You'll pass by neighborhoods like Chinatown, Union Square, Pacific Heights, North Beach, Haight-Ashbury, the Marina, and Hayes Valley, plus see the Palace of Fine Arts, Golden Gate Bridge, Golden Gate Park, Civic Center, and more.

Indulge in a delightful chocolate-making with an optional wine or craft beer tasting at The Wine Experience on Cannery Row, Monterey. Under the guidance of Carrie Griffin, a seasoned wine curator turned chocolate enthusiast, learn to temper chocolate, craft truffle shells, and fill them with smooth ganache. This two-hour hands-on class ensures you leave with a beautiful box of your own decadent creations, perfect for sharing or indulging yourself. Whether it’s a romantic date night or a fun outing with friends, this experience is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Two-hour chocolate truffle-making class at Cannery Row Optional tastings of four Central Coast wines or craft beers Led by Carrie Griffin, a passionate host with years of wine expertise Group sizes up to 10, perfect for couples, friends, and private parties

We are a surf school based on Venice Beach. Our goal is for you to have an excellent surfing experience, whether it's your first time trying surfing or you are trying to advance your skills. For the first 30–40 minutes, we will be training on the beach, and then it’s one hour with the instructors in the ocean. The remaining time is yours to practice your skills and have fun with the surfboards that we provide.

Go beyond the movies and gain a deeper understanding of the man behind some of the world’s most beloved animated characters at The Walt Disney Family Museum. Located in San Francisco’s historic Presidio, the museum brings Walt Disney’s life and creative legacy into focus through early cartoons, films, personal stories, and recordings in his own voice. Before you leave, take in sweeping views of San Francisco Bay from the museum’s glass-walled galleries.

Slip behind the wheel of a supercar—and discover some of Hollywood's iconic landmarks as you go—on this private Ferrari tour. Pick from multiple start times, from morning to evening, and choose whether you want to drive, split the driving with someone else, or ride as a passenger. Whichever you pick, you can cruise along Hollywood Boulevard, stop to pose in front of the Hollywood Sign, and more.

Experience the thrill of soaring 600 feet (183 meters) above sea level, across multiple high-speed ziplines on this incredible Catalina Island zipline eco-tour. After a safety briefing and equipment fitting, cruise along 1,100 lineal feet (335 meters) of line and fly some 300 feet (91 meters) above scenic canyon floors. Reach speeds of 40 mph (64 kph) as you take flight on this epic adventure, ideal for daredevils and thrill-seekers. Note: all zipline participants must be at least 55 inches (140 cm) tall and weigh between 80 and 240 lbs (36 and 109 kgs)

Discover the natural and manmade beauty of 17-Mile Drive on an electric bike tour from Pacific Grove. The e-bike allows you to cover more ground without getting worn out. The tour is great for the whole family, with the option to ride tandem with children weighing up to 120 lbs (54 kgs). Along the way, learn about the area from your guide and make stops at impressive viewpoints.

Get an introduction to the fun sport of archery near beautiful Joshua Tree National Park during this private experience, which has everything you need. Start with a beginner bow and a bucket of arrows to shoot from any distance you choose, with guidance on the proper form to aim and shoot. When you are ready, you can move up to a more advanced bow and heavier arrows.

If you’re looking for a new recipe to add to your go-tos and uncover the secrets to French baking, this small-group macaron baking class in Carmel-by-the-Sea is a great choice. Not only will you learn how to make these French delights from scratch, but you will also get tips to make things easier as you go from a master chef featured on the Cooking Channel. This hands-on baking class is fun for both beginner and experienced bakers alike.

Learn the ins and outs of catching the perfect wave during a 2-hour surf lesson in La Jolla. Thanks to its holistic approach, the class is a great opportunity for everyone ranging from first-timers to advanced surfers. Advance your knowledge of surfing etiquette, techniques, safety, and more. Your instructor also teaches you how you can help ocean conservation to keep the waters safe for surfers and sea life alike.

Learn to surf at one of California’s most famous spots during this introductory surfing class at Venice Beach. This class is suitable for all levels, whether it's your first time surfing or you are advancing your skills. Spend some time training on the beach, then hop in the Pacific Ocean for instruction in the water, followed by time for practice.

Look for whales as they migrate through the waters of the Pacific Ocean off of California on this whale-watching cruise from Monterey. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the whales and their habitat as you search for gray whales (most common), humpback and blue whales, and other marine life such as dolphins and sea lions during your cruise.