Learning to surf in Oceanside is a great idea for vacations and for locals. I teach 7 days a week all year round to individuals, couples, groups and families. I offer 1 hour, 1.5 hour, and 2 hour lessons. I teach big groups regularly often by splitting them into a few sessions so everyone can get more personal instructions. Being in too big of a group tends to be too chaotic to learn.
I also have packages that have become extremely popular. Locals take 3 to 5 lessons to perfect their styles over a period of time and vacationers take 3 lessons in a week to master their skills rather than just renting boards. If surfing is going to be a lifetime pursuit, taking more lessons ensures you get on track with the correct fundamentals.
Moms often approach me to teach a group of kids rather than going to camps. Kids get better instruction and have more fun with their friends. Lessons are also less expensive per student when there are more students in a class. I rarely teach more than six as I have found that to be the most manageable number.