Surf course 7 days

Experience the Waves with a 7-Day Surf Course in Bilbao

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or improving your surf skills, the 7-day surf course offered by Escuela Cántabra de Surf in Bilbao is worth considering. For around $232.71 per person, you get about 14 hours of guided instruction at Playa de Somo, one of the region’s most popular surf spots. This course is designed for beginners and those looking to build confidence on the water, with all equipment included and a friendly, professional vibe.

What really draws us to this experience is its long-standing reputation—created in 1991, it’s one of Europe’s most recognized surf schools. The personal attention from experienced surfers who love what they do is another highlight. Plus, the flexible mobile ticket makes planning simple, especially if you’re traveling through Bilbao and want a memorable, active day on the coast.

On the flip side, one consideration is that some reviews mention inconsistencies in instructor enthusiasm and the condition of facilities, which might affect your overall experience. This course is best suited for beginners or families with teens looking to learn in a supportive environment. If you’re after a structured week of surf, this could be a good choice, especially if you value a well-established school with decades of experience.

Key Points

• Experienced School: Over 28 years of surf teaching in Spain and across Europe.
• All-Inclusive: Equipment is provided, so no need to rent gear separately.
• Duration & Flexibility: 2 hours a day for 7 days, perfect for beginners looking for consistent practice.
• Location Advantage: Starting at Playa de Somo, a renowned surfing spot with good waves.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers rave about the professionalism, while others report issues with staff enthusiasm and facilities.

Detailed Review of the 7-Day Surf Course in Bilbao

The Location: Playa de Somo

We love the choice of Playa de Somo as the meeting point. It’s a well-known beach in Cantabria, famous for its long sandy shoreline and consistent surf. The beach is easily accessible from Bilbao, making it a practical base for a week of surf instruction. The setting offers stunning views of the Cantabrian Sea, and the laid-back vibe of Somo makes it ideal for beginners.

In terms of surf conditions, Somo generally catches good waves in summer, although, as one reviewer pointed out, “sometimes the absence of olas (waves)” can be a drawback, especially during quieter periods. Still, for those new to surfing, the focus is often on foundational skills rather than perfect swell.

The School: Escuela Cántabra de Surf

Founded in 1991, this school has been around long enough to develop a solid reputation. We appreciate their status as the first surf school in Spain, and their recognition across Europe speaks to their reliability. Many reviews note the professionalism of the staff, with some describing the instructors as “great professionals” who show genuine passion.

However, some reviews mention inconsistent enthusiasm from staff, with one stating that “the monitors (instructors) had little desire to work”. This highlights that while the school has a strong history, the actual experience can vary depending on the staff on duty. Group size is capped at 15 travelers, which should allow for enough individual attention, especially in a beginner’s course.

The Course: What to Expect

The course runs 7 days, with 2 hours of instruction daily. This schedule strikes a good balance; it’s enough time to learn basics and build confidence without overwhelming beginners. The all gear included policy means you don’t need to worry about renting or buying equipment—surfboards, wetsuits, and leashes are provided.

Since the course is directed by surfers who love surfing, you’re likely to be in the hands of enthusiasts rather than just paid staff. This enthusiasm can make a difference, especially for first-timers who might be nervous.

Daily Routine and Learning Experience

During these two hours, you can expect to go through the fundamentals of paddling, stance, and safety, followed by practical time in the water. The instructors often focus on personalized feedback to help improve your technique rapidly. We loved the idea of consistent daily practice, which helps solidify skills faster than a single day or weekend.

Group Dynamics and Personal Attention

With a maximum of 15 travelers, it’s a manageable group size. This allows instructors to give personalized tips and corrections, which is crucial for beginners. Some reviews mention that the “attention from instructors is excellent,” while others note that staff enthusiasm could be better. It’s a mixed bag, but overall, the group size is a plus.

Facilities and Comfort

Some reviews point out that the facilities are basic, and that some instructors might not be as motivated as you’d hope. Plus, one reviewer mentioned that after surfing, students are made to bathe in cold water and sometimes sleep on the floor—details that sound more like a budget camp than a premium experience. If comfort and amenities are high on your list, this might be a consideration.

Value and Cost

At $232.71 per person, the price appears reasonable for a weeklong course that includes all equipment and expert guidance. Compared to other surf schools in Europe, this is a competitive rate, especially considering the reputation of the school. When you factor in the potential for skill improvement, local scenery, and the camaraderie of group lessons, the value is solid—though some travelers might wish for more polished facilities or more enthusiastic staff.

Authenticity and Cultural Experience

While primarily focused on surfing, this experience offers a taste of the Spanish coast and a chance to interact with local instructors. The relaxed beach environment complements the learning process, making it ideal for those wanting an active yet authentic experience close to Bilbao.

Review Highlights & Authentic Perspectives

From the mixed reviews, it’s clear that experiences can vary. One traveler said, “Inmejorable lugar para empezar en el surf”, praising the location and friendly staff. Conversely, a reviewer called the experience “poor,” citing cold water, tired instructors, and basic facilities. This diversity shows that while many enjoy the course, it may not meet everyone’s expectations or standards.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Bring warm clothes for after surfing, especially if facilities are basic.
• Arrive prepared for variable weather; summer days are usually warm, but mornings and evenings can still be chilly.
• Since the course requires good weather, expect possible cancellations or rescheduling if storms roll in.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before, which is flexible if weather turns bad.

Who Should Consider This Surf Course?

This course is best suited for beginners and families with teenagers eager to learn in a supportive environment. If you’re looking for a cost-effective, week-long introduction to surfing with experienced instructors, this fits the bill. Travelers who value long-standing reputation and group size will appreciate the balance of professional guidance and social interaction.

However, if you’re seeking luxury facilities or highly enthusiastic staff, you might find some gaps here. Also, if you’re a seasoned surfer, you’ll probably want more advanced options.

The Sum Up

The 7-day surf course in Bilbao offers a practical, approachable way to learn or improve your surfing in a relaxed setting. The long-standing reputation of the school, combined with the all-inclusive gear and manageable group sizes, makes it a solid choice for those new to the sport. While some reviews point out areas for improvement—like instructor enthusiasm and basic amenities—the overall experience tends to be positive, especially for travelers eager for authentic, active fun.

This course is perfect for beginners, families, or solo travelers wanting to connect with the local surf scene and enjoy the beautiful Cantabrian coast. It’s a good value for a structured, week-long introduction to surfing, especially if you’re okay with the occasional inconsistency in facilities or staff energy.

FAQ

Is this surf course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the course is designed for beginners, with all equipment provided and a focus on foundational skills.

How long is each daily session?
Each day features 2 hours of instruction, enough time to learn and practice without feeling overwhelmed.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear—surfboards, wetsuits, and leashes—are included in the price, so you don’t need to rent separately.

Where does the course start and end?
It begins at Playa de Somo in Cantabria and finishes back at the same meeting point.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. If weather cancels the activity, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is this course suitable for children or teenagers?
Yes, some reviews mention a week-long camp for teens, and families with kids are often welcome.

How many people are in each group?
Maximum group size is 15 travelers, allowing for more personalized instruction.

Is this experience good value for money?
Given the reputation, location, and equipment included, it offers good value—especially for those wanting a structured introduction to surfing.

What’s the best time of year to book?
Most likely during summer months when surf conditions are generally favorable, but always check weather forecasts and local conditions.

In sum, if you’re after a practical, friendly, and reasonably priced way to learn surfing in Spain, this 7-day course could be just what you need. Pack your wetsuit, bring your enthusiasm, and get ready to ride some waves.