Costa Rica · SURF LESSONS
Every trip has one free day too few. These 10 surf lessons justify the slot, priced and timed so you can decide in minutes and get back to the fun part.
Meet Glen and his surf team at Playa Espadilla Norte for a two-hour lesson suited to beginners and improving surfers. Instructors such as Derek, Sebastian, Isaac, and others teach water safety, wave timing, and board technique. After class, keep the board for the rest of the day and practice on your own.
“Very fun, good instructors!!! A lot time was spent on the water, which was great. Would recommend!!!”
Spend about two hours learning to surf at Jaco Beach with Aloha Josi Surf School. You’ll get beach instruction, safety guidance, a board, rash guard, sunscreen, water, and an instructor who stays with you in the waves. Names frequently associated with lessons include Jason, Jeyson, Giovanni, and David. Keep the board and beach chairs after class.
“Great experience! First time surfing, great, patient host. So much fun. The location, the beach and the weather are 10/10”
Meet Álvaro or Juan at Playa Hermosa for a private 90-minute surf lesson suited to beginners and improving riders. You’ll learn board parts, water safety, proper entry, and the pop-up before receiving constant coaching in the waves. A surfboard is included, but transportation to the beach is not.
“Absolutely amazing surf lessons with Álvaro and Juan! I booked together with two friends and had an unforgettable experience. From the very first moment, we felt incredibly welcome, safe, and perfectly taken care of. They explained all the basics and the rules in the water in a clear and motivating way, which gave us a lot of confidence right from the start. Álvaro took a very individual approach, gave constant, constructive feedback, and helped us improve so quickly. The surf sessions in the lineup were an absolute highlight and so much fun. I’m already looking forward to coming back to Playa Hermosa and surfing again with Álvaro and Juan. Thank…”
Meet Blue Wave Surf & Tours on Tamarindo Beach for a two-hour lesson with instructors such as Andric, Jonathan, Johnny, and Pablo. You’ll get beach practice, equipment, safety guidance, and plenty of time in the water. Private instruction suits families, first-timers, and surfers ready for focused coaching.
“We had a great time! We opted for private lessons so there was an instructor for each of us. They taught us the basics and got us in the water right away. They are so patient and very professional.”
South Surf Costa Rica offers a private two-hour surf lesson near Dominical with ISA-certified instructor Josué Venegas and lifeguard-trained staff. You’ll cover beach safety, paddling, standing, and wave riding, then practice in the water. Boards, fruit, water, ten digital photos, chairs, and umbrellas are included.
“Super surf lesson - one of the best I ever had. Really enjoyed the session with Jossue & Mario.”
Meet Sammy, Ryan, or another Santa Teresa Extreme Center instructor for a private 90-minute lesson at Santa Teresa or Hermosa Beach. Beginners learn board control and standing up, while stronger surfers work on green waves, bottom turns, cutbacks, and roundhouses. A board is included.
“We took our first lesson ever with Sammy & Ryan and we will never forget this experience. It was amazing we had zero experience and walked away with having caught some wicked waves. If you have never taken a lesson before this is the place to go. Our instructors were patient and explained everything in great detail and helped us unlock our inner surfer. Can’t wait to return for more lessons on our next trip back out to Costa Rica.”
Meet at Tamarindo’s beach parking area for a two-hour surf lesson with about 30 minutes of land instruction and guided practice in the water. Boards, rash guards, leashes, and sunscreen are provided. Instructors such as Gustavo and Jonathan work with beginners, while rentals, body boards, and stand-up paddle board lessons are also available.
“Jonathan did an AMAZING job with us (adult and 9 year old). On the beach, he taught a lesson on what to do. Then we went to the water and he helped so much with tips and physically guiding. Both of us got up many many times and it was such a fun experience.”
Meet Tony at Restaurante Marlin beside Playa Espadilla for a private, roughly two-hour surf lesson. You’ll practice standing and foot placement on the sand, then head into the water for close coaching, pushed waves, and a gradual move toward catching waves alone. Suitable for beginners with moderate fitness.
“Tony is an excellent teacher! I had a great time learning how to surf. I am very happy that I was able to surf. Thanks again! 100% recommend!”
Meet Seafari Costa Rica in Tamarindo for a 90-minute beginner surf lesson. You’ll practice the pop-up on land, learn ocean safety, then work with a certified instructor in the water. Boards and rash guards are included. Instructors such as Alejandro, Tommy, and Stephen have helped first-timers and returning surfers build solid technique.
“Excellent experienced surfing instructor. Great personality and a perfect match for an active college student.”
Meet at Sababa Surf School in Jacó for a two-hour lesson with an ISA-certified instructor. You’ll learn surf rules, board handling, wave selection, and how to ride Pacific waves. Jay may be your instructor, and lessons suit complete beginners as well as intermediate and advanced surfers.
“Jay is a very respectful and motivating young man. His surfing skills are master level as are his instruction skills related to surfing. Even if you’re intermediate to advanced skill level, he can pinpoint the things you need to focus on to improve your surfing skills. I give my highest recommendation.”
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