Private Beginner 1 on 1 Surf Lesson at Kuta Beach: An Honest Look

If you’ve ever dreamed of standing up on a surfboard in Bali, the Private Beginner 1 on 1 Surf Lesson at Kuta Beach might be just the way to turn that dream into a reality. For about $19, you get roughly two hours of personalized coaching, including hotel pickup and all necessary equipment. It’s a low-stress, beginner-friendly introduction to surfing in one of the world’s most iconic surf spots.
What we love about this experience is the tailored attention you receive — no group to keep pace with, just your dedicated instructor guiding you step-by-step. The other highlight is the combination of land-based theory and water practice, which gives you a solid foundation before hitting the waves.
A possible consideration is the safety aspect, especially since beginners are taken only to easier waves for safety’s sake. If you’re nervous about falling or potential injury, it’s worth discussing your comfort level with the instructor beforehand.
This tour suits first-timers or those with some surfing experience wanting a gentle, private lesson in a friendly setting. It’s perfect for travelers who value personalized instruction and a relaxed pace over large-group classes.
Key Points

- Personalized attention ensures tailored coaching for beginners.
- All equipment and safety gear are provided, simplifying planning.
- Hotel pickup makes it a convenient, hassle-free experience.
- Two hours of instruction include both land theory and water practice.
- Easy waves and safety focus create a supportive environment.
- Highly rated and recommended by 97% of previous clients.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Kuta
A Closer Look at the Bali Surf Experience
Choosing to learn to surf at Kuta Beach is a smart move. This stretch of Bali is renowned for its long, gentle waves, making it ideal for newcomers. The private lesson format promises personal attention, which is especially valuable if you’re anxious about your first time or simply want clear, tailored feedback.
The Itinerary and What Makes It Special
The experience begins with hotel pickup, which takes the hassle out of finding your way to the beach. Once there, the instructor — in this case, often Erwin — will greet you and get to know your background, whether you’re an absolute beginner or have some prior experience. We appreciate how this personal approach immediately sets a relaxed tone.
Next, you’ll be fitted with rash guards and zinc sunscreen — essentials for sun and surf protection. Then, the session kicks off with theory lessons on land. Here, you’ll learn about body positioning, paddling techniques, and wave timing. This land-based prep gives you a clearer picture of what to expect, reducing the nerves that often come with jumping straight into the water.
The real fun begins with two 45-minute water sessions. The first focuses on standing up on the board. If you’re already comfortable, your instructor will push you to try catching your own waves, but for first-timers, the emphasis is on learning to balance and paddle without rushing into deep water.
The Water Practice and Safety
Since safety is a priority, beginners are only taken to easy, manageable waves. This ensures that falls are safe and controlled, and your confidence builds gradually. According to reviews, many clients are amazed at how quickly they can stand on their boards — one even reports, “stood on a surfboard in 20 minutes!”
The instructors are praised for their encouraging and patient style. As one reviewer shared, “Erwin was a great teacher! Encouraging and patient as it was my first time surfing.” This supportive atmosphere is crucial for newbies, helping you stay positive even if you fall a few times.
Equipment and Extras
All you need to bring is yourself — the tour provides surfboards, rashguards, zinc, and a photo or video of your session, so you can relive the moments. The cost of $18.94 includes these essentials, making it a very good value considering the personalized instruction and scenic setting.
While in Kuta, here are other experiences we've covered
Post-Lesson Relaxation
After your surf, you’re free to relax on the beach, soaking in Bali’s famous sea views and vibrant beach scene. For an extra fee (around IDR 25,000), you can also request hotel drop-off, which adds convenience at a small extra cost.
What Do Past Participants Say?
Reviews overwhelmingly praise the fun, relaxed vibe and professional guidance. One says, “They stored our things and took pictures for us. No hassles! It was fun and enjoyable for all of us!” Another highlights the quick progress: “Stood on a surfboard in 20 minutes! Fun times!”
However, not all experiences are perfect. One review mentions a dangerous incident where a traveler hurt their toe, emphasizing the importance of safety awareness. The instructor responded sincerely, acknowledging the incident and promising to improve safety practices.
Who Will Love This Tour?

This private lesson is best suited for total beginners or those with minimal experience who want a personalized, relaxed introduction. It’s ideal if you’re traveling solo or with a small group, and prioritize safety, fun, and quick progress. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or advanced techniques, you might want to consider a more intensive or group class.
The tour’s affordable price point combined with personal coaching makes it a great value for first-time surfers. Plus, the scenic setting and friendly instructors ensure a memorable, supportive experience that will leave you with a sense of achievement—and maybe a new hobby.
Final Thoughts

Opting for a private beginner surf lesson at Kuta Beach offers a balanced mix of expert guidance, safety, and scenic beauty. The fact that all equipment and pickup are included means you can focus on learning and enjoying yourself. The personalized approach helps build confidence in a supportive environment, making it perfect for those new to surfing or even hesitant first-timers.
The positive reviews and high recommendation rate speak to the quality of instruction and overall experience. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a stress-free, authentic Bali surf experience at a reasonable price. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to try something new, this lesson is likely to leave you with a smile—and maybe a newfound love for surfing.
FAQ

Is this lesson suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the lesson is designed specifically for beginners, focusing on easy waves and fundamental techniques to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
How long is the session?
The lesson lasts approximately 2 hours, divided into two 45-minute water sessions and land theory.
What equipment is provided?
All necessary gear — surfboard, rash guard, and zinc sunscreen — are included, so you just need to bring yourself.
Is hotel pickup offered?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfer is included, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying near Kuta.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the session. A full refund will be issued if you cancel within this window.
Are there any safety concerns I should know?
The tour focuses on easy waves for safety, but a review mentioned a safety incident. We recommend discussing any concerns with your instructor and following their guidance.
Is this activity suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, it’s best for children who are comfortable in the water and can follow basic instructions. The instructor’s approach is friendly and encouraging, making it suitable for young beginners.
If you’re after a friendly, private, and affordable way to dip your toes into surfing in Bali, this lesson at Kuta Beach hits the spot. Soft waves, expert guidance, and scenic views make it a memorable start to your surfing journey.
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More Kuta experiences we've covered
- Ubud Hidden Gems Waterfall, Temple and Rice Terraces Private Tour
- Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep Tour
- Individual Bali Day Trip with Private Driver and Free WiFi
- Mount Batur Sunrise Jeep 4WD Tours with optional
- Bali Spa Tour, Beaches, Uluwatu Temple Sunset & Jimbaran Bay Dinner
- Adventures Tour : Bali Hidden Canyon Trekking – Beji Guwang
- Shipwreck Diving in Tulamben
- Airport Bali Transfers – Bali Airport Taxi
- Bali Luxury Spa Massage, Flower bath 2hour
- All Ticket Inclusive-Blue Lagoon Snorkeling-Ubud Monkey Forest & Ubud Waterfall
- Waterbom Bali Tickets with Private Transfers
- Nusa Penida One Day Tour All Inclusive
