LA Surf and Swim5526

LA Surf and Swim is the swim school operated by popular Westside swim coach Sydney Lovelace. For years Lovelace only catered to clients with private pools, but in 2007 LA Surf and Swim became available to everyone.

Lessons are all private or semi-private. The latter approach makes private lessons affordable for most families, since Coach Syd teaches semi-privates as tandem sessions, in which each child alternates between one-on-one time with him and practice with an assistant (or resting on the floats).

In addition to being the man behind so many successful swimmers west of the 405, Lovelace also gives surf lessons to adults and children as young as three; if they can stand, Lovelace can get them on a board. He provides the surf element of Venice del Play Surf and Yoga Camp.

Unique to LA Surf and Swim are the school's ocean swim classes. Primarily available during the summer months, Coach Syd and his team offer swimming lessons one or two days a week down at the beach, so that budding swimmers can apply what they've learned under less placid water conditions. These lessons are invaluable for getting little ones comfortable and safe dealing with waves and surf and can - in the long run - offer parents a lot more peace of mind on family beach trips.

Pool-based lessons are offered at two locations, in Venice and in Mar Vista. Birthday parties are also available, with lifeguards included, at the venice pool location.