Rio de Janeiro: Surflessons and Surfcoach – A Deep Dive into Surfing with Style and Substance

Imagine standing on a paradisiacal beach in Rio, the sound of waves crashing nearby, a friendly instructor by your side, and the thrill of catching your first wave. That’s exactly what the Surflessons and Surfcoach experience promises. For $83 per person, you get a one-hour personalized session with highly trained professionals, at some of the best surf spots in the Rio de Janeiro area. Whether you’re a total beginner or aiming to sharpen advanced skills, this tour offers training, video analysis, and a chance to truly connect with the ocean.
Two things we love about this experience are the professional coaching tailored to each level—from beginners to seasoned surfers—and the video analysis component that allows you to see your progress in real time. It’s a thoughtful touch that’s rare in casual surf lessons, helping you understand your technique better. On the flip side, one potential consideration is that the lesson duration is only about an hour, which might feel brief for those wanting a more extensive, immersive surf day.
This tour suits travelers who are eager to improve their surfing skills with expert guidance, appreciate personalized feedback, and love the idea of learning at Rio’s top surf spots. It also works well for all ages, from kids to adults, and for those curious about the technical side of surfing thanks to the video analysis.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Personalized coaching available for beginners to advanced surfers.
- Video analysis helps identify areas for improvement.
- All equipment included, from wetsuits to surfboards.
- Flexible options for surf classes and training sessions.
- Small group sizes ensure personalized attention.
- The experience is offered at some of the best surf spots in Rio.
Planning more time in Rio De Janeiro? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Setting the Scene: What to Expect from Your Rio Surf Experience

When you sign up for Surflessons and Surfcoach, you’ll start at the Cades headquarters, the central point where your instructor will meet you. This meeting spot is conveniently located and has bathrooms, showers, an activity room, and even a skateboard surf simulator—a nice place to warm up, get your gear, and mentally prepare for the waves ahead.
The lessons are structured with a brief 10-minute warm-up, followed by a quick sea analysis (about 5 minutes). Your instructor, whether Portuguese, Spanish, or English-speaking, then helps you understand the sea conditions, wave peaks, and safety considerations. This preparatory phase is crucial, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the surf spots or Rio’s ocean currents.
Next comes the practical part—about 50 minutes in the water—where the real action happens. The instructor might meet you at a defined surf spot based on the day’s conditions. Here, you’ll put your newly acquired knowledge into practice, with the coach providing tips tailored to your skill level and goals. The small group setting, limited to five participants, ensures you don’t get lost in the crowd and receive plenty of individual attention.
Following the surf session, there’s a 20-minute video review at Cades or directly at the training spot. Watching yourself surf, with the feedback from your instructor, can be a game-changer—highlighting what you’re doing well and what to work on.
Why This Tour Truly Stands Out

What makes this experience particularly valuable is its focus on technical training combined with video analysis. For those seriously interested in improving, this feedback loop can accelerate progress, making lessons more effective than just catching waves. Alberto, one of the positive reviewers, mentions, “Henry is a very good teacher, especially he has a lot of patience, I would recommend it to anyone who wants to learn to surf.” That patience and professionalism are key ingredients for a successful lesson experience.
The location adds immense appeal: Rio’s beaches are visually stunning, with a vibrant surf culture. The waves at these top spots are ideal for training, whether you’re just starting or refining your skills. The inclusion of all necessary equipment—boards, wetsuits, wax—means you don’t need to worry about bringing your gear, simplifying your experience.
From the reviews, it’s clear that the personalized approach resonates with participants. Aris called his experience “an excellent experience,” emphasizing the quality of the coaching and the memorable nature of the session. Such praise underscores the tour’s ability to deliver authentic, satisfying moments.
The Practicalities: What Travelers Should Know
The cost of $83 is quite reasonable considering the personalized coaching, equipment, and video analysis included. Compared to private lessons in other surf destinations, this offers good value, especially given the quality of instruction. However, transport to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan for additional costs depending on where you’re staying—Rio’s spread-out neighborhoods mean this can vary.
The lessons are short, about an hour, which is perfect if you’re looking to try surfing without committing to a full day. For more extensive practice or multiple sessions, you might want to book additional lessons or extend your time on the water.
Weather and wave conditions are factors to consider; the tour includes surfing in the best conditions of the day, which is great for safety and quality of experience. The small group size not only ensures personalized feedback but also makes the experience more intimate and manageable, especially for first-timers.
Booking flexibility is a plus—cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior, and you can reserve now and pay later. This makes it easier to fit into your Rio itinerary without stress.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Experience?
Travelers eager to learn and improve their surfing skills should find this ideal. The focus on technical coaching, video feedback, and small group size provides a customized, educational experience. It’s perfect for beginners wanting a solid start, but also for intermediate and advanced surfers aiming to refine their technique. If you’re traveling with family or friends of mixed skill levels, this could be a great shared activity.
Those who appreciate authentic local instruction—the guides speak multiple languages and are experienced—will feel well looked after. And if you’re curious about Rio’s surf scene or want to capture your progress on video, this experience offers both.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those seeking a personalized, professional surf lesson in Rio de Janeiro’s beautiful beaches, this tour hits the mark. The combination of expert coaching, video feedback, and access to top surf spots makes it a valuable choice, especially for visitors serious about improving their game or gaining confidence in the water.
The experience is well-suited for all ages and skill levels, with a friendly, small-group setting that encourages learning and fun. The price reflects a high-quality coaching service, and the added bonus of video analysis makes it stand out among casual surf lessons.
If you’re looking for a learning-focused, authentic surf experience that balances a relaxed vibe with expert guidance, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable adventure in Rio’s surf culture.
FAQ

Do I need to bring my own surf equipment?
No, all necessary equipment, including boards, wetsuits, and wax, are provided, so you can travel light.
Is the lesson suitable for beginners?
Yes, the lessons cater to all levels, including complete beginners, with workouts tailored to your experience.
Are transfers included?
Transfers between the headquarters and surf spot are included if necessary, but transportation to the meeting point is not.
How long is each lesson?
Each session lasts approximately 1 hour, with about 10 minutes for warm-up and sea analysis, and 50 minutes in the water.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the experience suitable for children?
Yes, all ages are served, and the small group size allows for personalized attention suitable for younger surfers.
What languages are available?
Instructors speak Portuguese, Spanish, and English, ensuring clear communication.
Where does the lesson take place?
Lessons are at Rio’s best surf spots, selected based on weather and wave conditions for optimal safety and fun.
What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, water, beachwear, and clothes that can get dirty, especially if you plan to stay after your lesson.
In sum, the Rio de Janeiro surf lessons by CADES offer a fantastic blend of professional coaching, stunning beaches, and personalized feedback—a perfect way to experience Rio’s surf culture, whether you’re just starting or refining your skills.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Rio De Janeiro
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More Rio De Janeiro experiences we've covered
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- Rio de Janeiro: Papagaio Peak Hike in Tijuca Forest
- Niteroi Oceânico + Caminho Niemeyer (MAC)
- Discover Pedra do Telégrafo: A Scenic Guided Hike in Rio
- Rio de Janeiro: Maracanã Stadium Match Ticket and Drink
- Rio de Janeiro: Fluminense soccer experience at Maracanã
- Rio de Janeiro: Zip Lining and Canopy Tree Tour
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- Rio de Janeiro: Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Tour with
