Surf Lessons by Surf Culture
Tour / Activity Description
Group classes are available for those that want to learn to surf and do not mind learning with other people in their group. At Surf Culture we never allow groups bigger than 4 people per instructor, we you will be sure to get the attention you need.
We start every lesson on Tamarindo beach to teach you the basics about surfing, safety, etiquette and the basics on how to stand up and ride a wave. After about 20 minutes on Tamarindo beach, we head to the water where you will be riding your first waves in no time.
If you are someone that likes extra attention when learning you might want to check out our private lessons, as they would probably be a better fit for you.
PRIVATE SURF LESSONS
Wave goodbye to wipeouts.
A private surf lesson is an investment in your safety that pays off in saved time and frustration. Learning one-on-one is the more traditional recommended approach to learning how to surf.
We recommend a two-hour lesson. Included in the package is personal coaching, a surfboard and a rashguard.
Approximately ninety percent of our students stand up on their first lesson!
Plan for a morning; Afternoons can be windy. We’re available all year-round by appointment, and usually ready to go same-day. Appointment times are more flexible during the off-season, and often the conditions are better.
Private surf lessons are for all ages. We require a private lesson for kids 8 and under. To make it more affordable, we offer a one-hour lesson if you prefer. We are well-versed in youth instruction from our summer camp programs, and cater to the abilities – or disabilities – of different surfers. Individual lessons are for all skill levels as well. The goal is to improve your surfing and have a great time. Whether you are a surf prodigy or have never seen the ocean before, you will walk away with valuable tips and techniques that you can use forever. First-timers get the full step by step treatment in our beginner-friendly waters at Tamarindo Beach, while more advanced surfers are taken to the ‘outside break’ where we can coach their wave-riding to the next level.
SEMI PRIVATE SURF LESSONS
Our Tamarindo Beach semi private surf lessons are great for couples or friends that seek personalized service rather than a group experience.
Our lessons typically last one and a half to two hours, and included in the package are the surfboards, rashguards and expert instruction. A lesson will save you hours of frustration. We teach on epoxy boards (not inflatables) in crystal clear water of a beautiful sandy beach. For an extra fee we can also arrange a catered lunch, picnic areas, firewood, and our pro photographer to prove that all of you actually stood up and had fun.
A good, safe, beginner surfing area is extremely important, and Tamarindo’s location is the best in Costa Rica’s North Pacific Coast. We specialize in fun & safety, and are always mindful of the lesser skilled or younger members of your party.
Appointment times are more flexible during the off-season, and often the conditions are better. So the best season to guarantee space and good conditions for a large group is now.
The student-to-instructor ratio is 2:1 depending on skill levels and conditions. Our instructors gauge the skill levels of each surfer and proceed accordingly, so that everyone is challenged but no one is overwhelmed.
Whether your partner wants fun in the sun or an intense session geared towards serious instruction, you will create a shared memory and get some exercise doing it! That’s why we tell folks to save touristic stuff for a rainy day; There’s no waiting in lines for this ride
GROUP SURF LESSONS PACKAGE DEAL (3 or 7 CLASSES)
Maximize your potential and save money with this Surf Lessons Package deal.
Group classes are available for those that want to learn to surf and do not mind learning with other people in their group. At surf culture we never allow groups bigger than 4 people per instructor, we you will be sure to get the attention you need.
We start every lesson on Tamarindo beach to teach you the basics about surfing, safety, etiquette and the basics on how to stand up and ride a wave. After about 20 minutes on Tamarindo beach, we head to the water where you will be riding your first waves in no time.
If you are someone that likes extra attention when learning you might want to check out our private lessons, as they would probably be a better fit for you.
SURF TIPS AND ETIQUETTE
Surfing tends to be pretty free form but there are certain accepted rules, mostly based on safety and common sense, that you should adhere to.
These rules apply to body boarders, short and long boarders, surf skiers and kayakers.
1. Always look inside
Before committing yourself to the wave ALWAYS look inside (toward the apex of the wave) to see if someone is already on or about to take off on the wave. If you don’t you could be putting yourself and another rider in serious danger because you may cause a collision.
2. Wave ownership
The person closest to the breaking part of the wave has the right of way.
If someone is up and riding, paddling into the wave behind them does not give you the wave. A surfer taking off on one side of a peak does not have right of way over a surfer who has already caught or is riding the other shoulder. This means a surfer cannot cross under the peak to the opposite shoulder and expect right of way if it is already occupied.
A wave rider must try to avoid all other swimmers or surfers.”
3. Dropping in
‘Dropping in’ is when you take off on a wave in front of someone else who is about to or is already up and riding and obstruct or interfere with their right of way.
Don’t do this. Ever. No exceptions.
Remember: If you ‘Drop In’ on someone unintentionally then make sure you apologize to them for your error and let them know that no harm was intended. Generally they will accept your apology.
4. Paddling out
When paddling out, if you must get over a wave that someone is riding, paddle behind them (on the white water side). This allows them to continue riding the wave without having to dodge you. It generally means getting knocked around by the wave for the sake of someone else’s ride. Take comfort in the hope that they would do the same for you. Also when you get out the back remember that others were waiting for a wave well before you so don’t paddle round them and park yourself on their inside in order to take the next wave.
 
*This is typical surfboard beginners are taught on at Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
“This is a selfish and un sportsman like act and not the way to have a friendly surf.
Remember – Do not paddle in front of someone unless you are so sure that you will be 20 feet in front of them.
5. Attitude
If you are having a bad day, then take your ‘bad attitude’ somewhere else. No one wins an argument, especially in the surf. Surfing is supposed to be FUN and exhilarating not an unpleasant experience.
6. Accidents
Always apologize if you make a mistake. If you are involved in or near a collision then stop what you’re doing and make sure that everyone is okay. Above all, keep a good attitude.
Remember – You are out there to enjoy yourself while participating in an exhilarating sport. Say “Pura Vida” to your fellow surfers and you will all have a better day.
