Semi Private Surf Lessons on Stunning Playa Grande

Semi Private Surf Lessons on Stunning Playa Grande

Imagine stepping onto a beautiful, less crowded beach in Costa Rica, with warm waves perfect for learning or improving your surf skills. For around $220 per group, up to three people, you get a 2-hour 15-minute experience that includes personalized instruction, professional photos, and transportation. Led by skilled local instructors, this tour offers a chance to catch authentic Pacific waves away from the hustle of Tamarindo’s rocky, crowded surf spots.

What we love most is the secluded setting—no noisy crowds, just the gentle sounds of the ocean and a pristine, sandy shoreline. The longer lesson time—over two hours—is another highlight, providing ample opportunity to practice and improve. Plus, the photo and video package guarantees a fun souvenir of your surf journey.

A minor consideration is that additional guests beyond two will incur a $50 fee, which might matter if you’re traveling with a larger group. Also, while transportation is available for a fee, you might want to factor that into your planning if you’re staying outside the pickup zones.

This tour suits beginners and intermediate surfers of all ages, especially families with kids as young as 4, thanks to the instructors’ skill with children. If you’re after a more intimate, tailored surfing experience in a peaceful setting, this lesson fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Private, semi-private lessons ensure personalized attention for up to three people.
• Longer duration (over 2 hours) allows more time to practice and catch waves.
• Secluded Playa Grande offers calmer, better waves for beginners and children.
• Professional photos and videos capture your surfing highlights—an exclusive feature.
• Transportation options available for added convenience, with a small fee.
• All equipment and rash guards are provided, making it simple to just show up ready to surf.

Why Choose This Surf Experience?

Starting with the location, Playa Grande is a stunning, quiet stretch of sand directly across from Tamarindo. Unlike the popular Tamarindo surf scene, this beach is less rocky and crowded, making it ideal for beginners and children. The absence of rocks and crowds creates a safer, more relaxed environment to learn and enjoy your time in the water.

The personalized approach of this tour is a major plus. You have your own instructor, ensuring tailored feedback and a pace suited to your comfort level. This is particularly valuable for families or groups with mixed skill levels, as the instructors can adapt quickly. The lesson structure begins with a brief land tutorial, followed by two separate surf sessions with a tasty break in between—fresh pineapple and ice water to keep you energized.

The quality of instruction is consistently praised, with reviews highlighting how instructors take pride in their teaching and ensure everyone gets up on their board. Heidi_B called this a “huge highlight” of her trip, noting the instructors’ local expertise and their enthusiasm. Douglas_M appreciated the comprehensive lessons and safety focus, especially for beginners and teenagers.

The photo and video package, which is unique in Costa Rica, adds significant value. With 150-250 professional shots captured during your lesson (extra cost), you’ll leave with lasting memories of your time on the waves—something many tour operators don’t offer.

The Experience in Detail

Meeting and Pickup

The tour begins at a designated meeting point in Santa Cruz, with complimentary or additional transportation available from select resorts like Casa Chameleon and JW Marriott for a small fee. The pickup process is smooth, with clear communication, so you’ll know exactly where to meet your instructor. The tour runs daily from early morning to late afternoon, accommodating most schedules.

The Beach Setting

Once you arrive at Playa Grande, you’ll be greeted by a long stretch of clean, sandy beach with no rocks to worry about—an ideal environment for beginners and children. The sands are soft, and the waves are generous yet manageable, especially around high tide. The instructors emphasize safety and fun, making sure everyone feels comfortable in the water.

The Lesson Structure

Initially, you’ll spend about 10 minutes on land, where your instructor will cover basic paddling techniques, wave positioning, and safety protocols. This land session is especially helpful for first-timers or nervous newcomers. Then, it’s out into the surf for 45 minutes to an hour—your chance to stand up and ride waves with guidance. After a quick break with pineapple and ice water, you’ll head back out for another hour of surfing, consolidating your skills.

The Personal Touch

The semi-private setting allows your instructor to focus solely on your group, providing personalized tips and encouragement. This is especially helpful if you’re traveling with kids—many reviews mention how well instructors handle children as young as 4, making learning approachable and fun for all ages.

Photos and Videos

Throughout the lesson, professional photographers are capturing your progress from multiple angles. The resulting 150-250 photos and videos serve as a fantastic souvenir, though they come at an extra cost. Many reviewers, like Heidi_B, have raved about the quality and candid nature of these pictures, noting how they help relive the fun.

End of the Day

The tour concludes back at the meeting point. If you opted for transportation, your driver will bring you back to your accommodation. The overall experience is leisurely, with plenty of time to soak in the scenery, chat with your instructor, and feel accomplished on your first or tenth surf outing.

Pricing and Value

At $220 for up to three people, this tour offers great value for personalized, extended lessons. When you consider the professional photos, equipment, rash guards, and private instruction, the cost becomes more understandable. It’s an investment in memorable, well-supported surfing—particularly appealing if you’re seeking a more intimate, tailored experience rather than a large group lesson.

While the additional $50 fee for a third guest might seem extra, it still remains affordable considering the two-hour plus duration and the quality of instruction. The included transportation adds convenience, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate area.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This surf lesson is ideal for beginners, families with children, and intermediate surfers wanting more personalized attention. The calm, scenic beach environment is perfect for those new to surfing or trying to build confidence. The longer lesson time and professional photography make it suitable for travelers who want a comprehensive, fun, and memorable experience.

It’s especially good if you’re seeking a less crowded, more relaxed setting to learn or practice surfing away from Tamarindo’s busy spots. The focus on safety and fun, combined with the expert instructors’ local knowledge, ensures you’ll feel comfortable and supported throughout your time in the water.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a personalized surfing experience in Costa Rica, this semi-private lesson at Playa Grande ticks many boxes. You’ll enjoy a stunning, uncrowded beach, professional guidance tailored to your skill level, and a treasure trove of photos documenting your progress. The longer lesson duration offers plenty of time to practice and get comfortable on your board, making it a great choice for families, first-timers, or those wanting to refine their skills.

While the cost may seem high compared to group classes, the individual attention, scenic environment, and photo package make it a worthwhile investment. The setting alone—calm waves and soft sands—is worth the trip, especially if you’re after an authentic Costa Rican surf experience away from the crowds.

All in all, this tour provides excellent value for a focused, friendly, and scenic surf adventure in one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful beaches.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the price?
Transportation is available for an extra fee of $20 per person from certain locations like Casa Chameleon and JW Marriott. If you’re staying nearby, you might arrange your own transport or meet at the designated spot.

How many people can join the lesson?
The session is designed for 2-3 people per group. The price covers two participants, with an additional guest (up to three) for an extra $50.

What should I bring?
Bring towels and sunscreen to stay comfortable after your session, but all surf equipment and rash guards are provided.

Can children participate?
Yes, children as young as 4 are welcome, and instructors are skilled with kids, making the experience especially family-friendly.

What is the duration of the lesson?
The total experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, with a good balance of land instruction, surfing, and breaks.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions cancel the tour, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Good weather is essential for the best experience.

Are the photos included?
Photos and videos are available for an additional cost. The photographer captures 150-250 shots during your lesson.

What makes Playa Grande a good surf spot?
It’s less rocky and crowded than Tamarindo, with great waves for beginners and intermediate surfers, making it a safer, more relaxed environment to learn.