Top California Classes & Workshops

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.

You will learn and practice assembling geometric patterning as well as techniques for laying the tiles (tesserae). Using your selected geometric template you will be guided to create your own traditional Turkish mosaic lamp! With our expertise and guidance, we can help you unleash your inner creativity and discover your full artistic capabilities. After you attend the workshop you will take your very own artistic masterpiece with you. In this 2.5 hour class you will learn the techniques of this 500-year ancient craft. Be guided in creating your own traditional Turkish mosaic lamp with the geometric templates you select while enjoying a sumptuous Turkish tea service, delectable treats & homemade Turkish shortbread cookies. This experience is the only one of its kind in USA and is sure to light up your day not only on your date but in the days to follow as you enjoy your lamp at home.

Get wet while learning to surf in Santa Cruz, a picturesque coastal California town popular with surfers. Your 3-hour lesson starts with the basics of how to paddle out, pop up, balance, and catch a wave, along with surfing etiquette and understanding the ocean. Your instructor has you practice on the beach before accompanying you into a spot with small waves that are ideal for beginners. Includes all necessary equipment and instruction.

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

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.

Take part in a small-group graffiti art workshop led by a local Los Angeles artist. Learn core aerosol techniques while gaining insight into the city’s graffiti culture and visual style. Hosted in a dedicated studio in Downtown Los Angeles, the session welcomes all ages and skill levels, offering a structured introduction to an influential but often misunderstood art form.

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.

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.

Visit San Francisco’s historic Presidio District, and learn about the man behind the Disney classics, when you prebook admission tickets to The Walt Disney Family Museum. Benefit from seamless admission, and then admire Walt’s early cartoons and films, hearing about his life through videos and narration from the animator himself. Don’t forget to check out views of the Bay from the museum’s glass wall before you go.

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.

Escape the ordinary and delve into a world of creativity during this Wild Clay Pottery Workshop. We'll work together amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature on private property in Julian, California. This immersive experience invites travelers to unleash their artistic spirits (no experience necessary) against a backdrop of rolling, oak-strewn hills and apple orchards. Discover the timeless art of pottery-making guided by expert artisan, Becky Sangha, as you mold and shape clay sourced from the very earth beneath your feet. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned potter, our workshop promises an unforgettable journey of self-expression and connection with the land. Book your spot today and indulge in a truly enriching adventure in the mountains here in Julian, where artistry meets nature in perfect harmony.

At Diamond E Ranch, a hands-on soap-making experience awaits you. Spend 90 minutes crafting luxurious goat milk soap alongside our friendly miniature dairy goats. Ideal for adults and mother/daughter pairs, each participant creates a custom 3-lb soap loaf, choosing from an array of scents and colors using fresh goat milk from our own herd. This beginner-friendly class not only teaches the traditional cold-process method but also leaves you with a nourishing product that’s perfect for sensitive skin. Enjoy quality time while indulging your creativity in a serene ranch setting.

No other surf company locally has this product because they can't do it right like we do. This is a private group surf lesson for you and your own friends, with no outsiders. We've been offering regular group lessons for many years but this product is a step up with a closed out lessons for you and your friends only.

Renting a swan boat is a fun way to exercise and explore the Rainbow Lagoon at the same time. If your rental is on a hot day—no need to worry about the California sunshine, as each boat comes with shaded canopies to protect you from the elements. Choose from a variety of time slots to suit your schedule—you can even go for an atmospheric evening ride with LED lights on your boat.

Here at Menchaca Chocolates we'd like to think we are adventurers continuing to re-define an ancient Pod found 150 miles from the equator. So we decided that to truly understand this magical bean you have to experience it through all your senses: taste, touch, smell, cracking and visual transformation. We developed these Chocolate & Art Workshops to do just that. You will get to know the possibilities and have a chance to make a custom unique Chocolate product and if you choose, design a label or Box to package it in. You can also learn exactly how we make our chocolate in Mr. Menchaca's Micro- batch Chocolate Factory Tour!

Take a tour to three backroads Sonoma wineries, and get more out of your trip to the Sonoma Valley than you would if you explored alone, on this small-group, half-day tour. Not only does your guide pick three impressive wineries to visit (tasting fees own expense), but they also set up a picnic lunch for your group to enjoy in a winery setting. Round-trip transport from your Sonoma hotel is also included, so you can focus on enjoyment and leave the driving to someone else.

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.

Roll through Northern California’s famous wine country on the renowned Napa Valley Wine Train. Pass charming towns like Rutherford and St. Helena, and soak up the scenery of rolling hills, vineyards, and estates through large picture windows on the trip. Explore the restored vintage train cars, and then take a seat for a gourmet lunch or dinner freshly prepared by the train’s acclaimed on-board restaurant.

Travel to Southern California’s Catalina Island by boat, and solve your transit logistics in advance, when you prebook this one-way departure ferry service aboard the Catalina Express. Depart from San Pedro in Los Angeles, and enjoy views of the Pacific during the journey. The ferry conveniently drops you in the town of Avalon, the main town on the island, which is home to shops, restaurants, hotels, activities and more.

All Equipment Provided – Premium recurve bows & full safety gear Stunning Outdoor Range – Practice in fresh alpine air Certified Instructors – Patient, encouraging coaching

Get out and ride some waves in Carlsbad on this two hour surf lesson in the Pacific Ocean. Your instructor will give you plenty of individualized attention, and is guaranteed to be CPR-certified. You’ll learn about safety, surfing etiquette, tides, ocean conditions, and technique. You’ll also learn about why ocean conservation is so important. Get ready to hang ten.

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.

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.