About Gracie Jiu Jitsu Santa Cruz
Gracie Jiu Jitsu Santa Cruz is a top-notch BJJ gym that prioritizes safety and fun. The instructors, led by Drew, create a joyful and expert atmosphere, explaining techniques well and emphasizing the importance of proper execution. The Combatives program is structured and beginner-friendly, focusing on fundamental techniques and safe training practices before advancing to rolling. The space is clean and beautiful, making training enjoyable for both adults and kids. Many students, including young children, find their experience rewarding—they find strength and confidence while having a great time. The instructors are knowledgeable and welcoming, and the community feels like a group of friends. This gym is a great choice for anyone looking for a supportive, safe environment to learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, whether for self-defense, sport, or personal growth.
My two daughters and I take the Women's Empowerment classes here and it's an excellent program! Both the community and instruction are very supportive. Over the last year, we've developed the basic self-defense and combative skills to feel significantly more confident in our ability to recognize, avoid, and respond to unsafe situations. The instructors break techniques down in a way that is easy to understand and build on over time, and they consistently reinforce practical, real-world application while making it fun to learn. Highly recommend this studio.
Steve and the instructors in Capitola and Monterey are incredible. They’re welcoming, supporitve, encouraging, considerate all around and so knowledgeable. They make training fun. Every location is clean and tidy. Honestly the best school to train with!
I first came to get my kids learning Jiu Jitsu so they could build confidence and self defense skills. Since then, I have started training, and my wife has done their women focused self defense program. The studio is clean and welcoming. I am so glad to have found this place for my family.