JP, his camp, and his instructors are the best in Malibu. We are heading into our 3rd year at Pelican, and when my son started at 4yrs old, he was reluctant to get in the water. He wanted to learn to surf, but it felt to daunting. JP believes that surfing changes your life for the better, his patience, passion, and dedication comes through at every moment. I feel so lucky our family found this program. He truly is such a gem of a human. He’s exactly the kind of person I’d want my son to look up to. He’s a true mentor and I can’t recommend his program enough.

- Annie, Parent

Wow! Peli and Pelican Ocean Therapy are legends. JP Pereat aka Peli is an iconic and legendary surfer based in Malibu. Between his own non-profit and volunteering for other charities like A Walk On Water, there is no better surf instructor. He is personable and genuinely cares for all of his athletes. Peli is the surf whisperer for the special needs community. He surfs with my son often and he is severely autistic and physically handicapped.

I cannot recommend Pelican Ocean Therapy any stronger. WORLD CLASS.

- Jason Wolk, Parent & Co-Founder of A Walk on Water

Pelican Ocean Therapy has truly transformed my family’s life in ways we never imagined. My son Weston, who is on the autism spectrum, has faced significant challenges with communication, sensory needs, and anxiety. When we first started, he couldn’t even place his feet on the sand without discomfort. Fast forward just six months, and he’s now confidently riding 4ft waves with his instructor! The joy on his face as he drops into a wave is absolutely priceless. The beach has become his happy place—he thrives in the waves, sand, and the overall positive energy of this incredible program. This program is a gift to families like ours. I cannot recommend it enough for anyone looking to help their child grow, thrive, and find pure joy in the ocean. Pelican Ocean Therapy is life-changing!

- Shannon, Parent & Independent Facilitator

My son’s experience at Pelican Ocean Therapy has been truly transformative. When he first started, he was hesitant about the waves, but with the patience, consistency, and encouragement of the instructors, he has not only overcome his fear but has also learned to embrace the ocean with confidence. Beyond just learning to surf, this camp has provided him with a sense of peace and connection to nature. The instructors have been incredibly mindful of his challenges, always adapting to his needs while still encouraging him to push past his limits. Thanks to their guidance, he has developed better balance, resilience, and emotional regulation—skills that extend far beyond the water. Each week, he looks forward to attending, even when the sessions are challenging. He chooses to keep going, to face the waves, and to grow. Seeing his excitement and determination is a testament to the incredible impact this camp has had on him. I’m truly grateful for the team at Pelican Ocean Therapy and their dedication to creating such a supportive and empowering environment!”

- Aga, Parent

Alexander started Pelican Ocean Therapy surf sessions in Summer ‘24 and had an absolute blast!

The smaller intimate group size gave him a ton of individualized attention allowing Alexander to flourish into a confident surfer while making great friends along the way.

By the end of the summer JP, Jo and their crew felt like family! We did not want the party to stop! We decided to continue with POT lessons in the off season. Over the past year the amount of growth I have seen in Alexander is remarkable.

- Emma, Parent

Pelican Ocean Therapy elevated my daughter’s surfing experience to new heights. The staff are patient, experienced, and dedicated to safety. They work closely with each child, ensuring they feel comfortable and at ease in the water.

The organization of the camp is impeccable. Peli and his team does an excellent job of managing groups, and we’ve been participating in their Summer sessions for four consecutive seasons, and we’ve thoroughly enjoyed it.

This summer, our younger daughter will be joining as a beginner surfer. We’re thrilled for her to embark on this new journey. We have complete confidence in the team’s expertise and their unwavering commitment to safety.

Thanks Pelican Ocean Therapy!

- Russotti Family, Parent

From the moment we arrived on the beach J.P. and Jo made my son feel comfortable and special. My son had a great time on the water and J.P. made sure to set him up for success from the very beginning. Our experience exceeded our expectations so much so that even my daughter signed up for lessons.

We have found our happy place at the beach! Thank you Pelican Ocean Therapy!

- Kathy, Parent

JP has opened Oliver up to surfing, something we never thought he could access. He has built a community of surfers and families that are getting through this together. We feel so lucky to have found him and be included at the beach! O is not an easy client but when it works, it's the best thing for him.

- Jesung, Parent