Puerto Vallarta: Private Surf Lesson at Playa La Lancha

Imagine standing on a quiet, untouched beach with the Pacific Ocean rolling gently in front of you. That’s what you get with a private surf lesson at Playa La Lancha in Punta de Mita, a part of Jalisco that’s renowned for its laid-back vibe and friendly surf conditions. This 5-hour experience combines a scenic walk through lush tropical forest, expert instruction tailored just for you, and a chance to relax afterward at a local surf bar. The cost is reasonable considering the personalized attention and the authentic surf setting you’ll enjoy.

What we really love about this tour is the intimate, hands-on approach that ensures you’re not just watching but actively riding waves. Plus, the walk through the jungle to reach the beach adds a special touch of adventure that sets it apart from more commercialized surf lessons. On the flip side, the 10-minute walk through the forest may be a consideration for those with mobility issues or very young children. This experience suits beginners, those wanting to build confidence, or anyone eager for a genuine connection with surf culture in Mexico.

Key Points

• Private instruction provides tailored guidance for all skill levels
• Scenic walk through tropical forest adds an adventurous touch
• Beginner-friendly waves at Playa La Lancha make it ideal for first-timers
• Relaxing post-surf drinks and snacks at a local surf bar enhance the experience
• Flexible booking options allow cancellations up to 24 hours in advance
• Group size is small and private, ensuring personalized attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Surfing Start in Punta de Mita

Our journey begins at a convenient starting point on Av. México, just next to a Pollo Feli restaurant in front of a Pemex gas station. It’s easy to find, especially if you’re familiar with the area, and provides a relaxed spot to meet your instructor. Once everyone’s gathered, you’ll hop into a Jeep or SUV for a roughly 45-minute drive to Punta de Mita, a well-known surfing hub on the Pacific Coast. The drive itself offers scenic views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains, setting the tone for an adventure that’s both accessible and awe-inspiring.

The Scenic Walk to Playa La Lancha

Before hitting the waves, you’ll unload your boards, then set out on a brief, leisurely 10-minute walk through a tropical forest. This part of the experience is surprisingly refreshing—you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, hearing the calls of tropical birds, and feeling the cool shade contrast with the warmth of the sun. The path leads to a relatively secluded, local beach known for its gentle tides and beginner-friendly surf.

This walk is one of the highlights for many, offering a peaceful moment to connect with the natural environment and build anticipation. Reviewers often comment on how this walk enhances the overall experience, making it feel more like an authentic escape rather than just a lesson. Expect to see palm trees, dense foliage, and maybe even some iguanas basking on rocks.

Learning to Surf with a Private Guide

Once at Playa La Lancha, your instructor—who speaks both English and Spanish—will provide comprehensive, easy-to-understand instructions. For those new to surfing, the focus is on mastering fundamental techniques like paddling, positioning, and catching waves, all in a relaxed, encouraging manner.

The instruction is hands-on, with the instructor often staying close on the board, helping you with your stance and timing. Many reviews praise the guides for their patience and knowledge, with one participant noting, “My guide was fantastic—he broke everything down step-by-step, which made me feel confident.” The beach’s gentle waves mean you’ll be riding small, manageable surf almost immediately, which boosts confidence and makes for a truly fun experience.

The Water Session

After some practice on the sand, you’ll head into the water. The guides are attentive, ensuring safety and offering tips as you go. Even if you’re a complete novice, you’ll likely find yourself riding a wave or two by the end of the lesson. For those with some experience, it’s a great chance to refine techniques or just enjoy the thrill of catching a wave in a stunning setting.

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Post-Lesson Relaxation

The final part of the experience is relaxing at a local surf bar—a perfect spot to unwind, enjoy drinks and snacks (not included), and reflect on your progress. Many reviewers appreciate this laid-back atmosphere, noting it’s a genuine way to connect with local surf culture. It also gives you a chance to chat with your guide and other surfers about the waves, the best spots, or just share laughs.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Starting point on Av. México, easy to locate
• Jeep/SUV ride to Punta de Mita, with scenic coastal views (approx. 45 minutes)
• Walk through tropical forest to Playa La Lancha, a peaceful, scenic route
• Three-hour surf lesson, personalized and beginner-friendly
• Return drive back to base (15 minutes)
• Two-hour lunch in Sayulita, a vibrant town known for its boho vibe and local eateries
• Return trip to the starting point (about 45 minutes)

This well-structured itinerary allows plenty of time for each part of the experience—enough to enjoy the surf without feeling rushed, plus time to explore and relax afterward.

Transportation & Practical Tips

The transportation between locations is via private vehicle, making the journey comfortable and efficient. The total duration is about 5 hours, which offers a nice balance—enough time to learn, surf, and relax without overdoing it. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes, bring sunscreen, a hat, water, snacks, and a towel. The walk through the forest, although brief, can be warm, so lightweight clothing and good footwear are advisable.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is particularly perfect for beginners or those with limited surfing experience who want to learn in a safe, supportive environment. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy scenic nature walks and are comfortable with a short hike to reach the surf zone. The private setting and small group size make it ideal for families, couples, or friends seeking personalized attention from experienced guides. If you’re seeking a genuine cultural experience with local surf culture, this tour delivers it.

Possible Considerations

The walk through the forest, while charming and scenic, might be a concern for travelers with mobility issues or very young children. Also, the 10-minute trek is not strenuous but does require some light walking; comfortable shoes and moderate fitness help. The experience isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with specific health considerations like back problems or epilepsy.

A private surf lesson at Playa La Lancha offers a wonderful balance of adventure, natural beauty, and personalized guidance. It’s ideal for beginners eager to stand up on their boards, nature lovers who enjoy a forest walk, and travelers looking for authentic local experiences. The guides’ expertise and the stunning, less crowded beach make this a memorable way to connect with Mexico’s surf culture while enjoying some truly scenic surroundings.

If you’re after a relaxed, friendly introduction to surfing with a touch of adventure, this experience hits the mark. The combination of a scenic forest walk, expert instruction, and the chance to unwind at a local surf bar makes it a valuable addition to any trip to Puerto Vallarta or Punta de Mita.

Do I need previous surfing experience?
No prior experience is needed. The lesson is designed for beginners, focusing on fundamental techniques and confidence-building.

How long is the entire experience?
The total duration is about 5 hours, including transportation, instruction, and relaxation time.

Is the walk to the beach difficult?
No, it’s a leisurely 10-minute walk through tropical forest, suitable for most fitness levels, but not ideal for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat, swimwear, towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking and water activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this suitable for children?
Not for children under 10, as the activity involves a short walk and water activities best suited for older kids and adults.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear instructions and local insights.

What’s the post-surf scene like?
You’ll relax at a local surf bar with drinks and snacks, a great spot to soak up the laid-back surf culture and share stories.

How is the value for the price?
Considering the private instruction, scenic walk, and relaxed atmosphere, most find it an excellent value for a personalized surf experience in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby