Professional surf lessons Dominican Republic, Cabarete, Encuentro

Experience the Joy of Surfing in Cabarete, Dominican Republic

When it comes to surfing in the Caribbean, Cabarete stands out as a favorite among travelers seeking warm waters and beginner-friendly waves. The 2-hour surf lessons offered by Bobo Surfs Up Surf School provide a fantastic introduction to the sport—whether you’re a complete novice or looking to sharpen your skills. For just around $49, you’ll be guided by local legend Victor ‘Bobo’ Peralta, renowned for his teaching prowess and deep knowledge of wave mechanics. The lessons start early at 8:00am at Bobos Point Encuentro Surf Camp, with all the necessary equipment provided, including a board chosen specifically for your skill level and body type. The proximity to public transport and the inclusion of round-trip hotel transportation make this a convenient option for travelers staying nearby.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention from Bobo, who is praised for his focus on technique and safety, as well as the warm, inviting waters of Cabarete Beach—perfect for learning to stand and catch that elusive wave. Plus, the small group size—limited to five people—ensures everyone gets plenty of guidance and feedback. One potential consideration is that transportation is not included in the cost, so you’ll need to coordinate your own arrival or departure from the meeting point, which isn’t far from public transit routes.

This tour is ideal for beginners eager to learn the basics or intermediate surfers wanting to refine their paddling, stance, or wave-catching skills with a seasoned instructor. Those who value authentic local expertise and focus on fundamental techniques will find this lesson especially worthwhile.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 15 Workshops & Classes In Dominican Republic.

Key Points

• Expert guidance: Learn from Victor ‘Bobo’ Peralta, a recognized local surf legend.
• Personalized equipment: Boards are selected based on your skill level and size.
• Ideal for all levels: Suitable for complete beginners and experienced surfers.
• Includes full gear: Surfboard, instruction, water assistance, and supervision.
• Small groups: Limited to five participants for personalized attention.
• Convenience: Round-trip transportation included, meeting at Bobos Point.

Deep Dive into the Surf Lesson Experience

The Location: Cabarete’s Surfing Paradise

Located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, Cabarete is famous for its consistent, manageable waves that make it ideal for learning to surf. The meeting point at Bobos Point Encuentro Surf Camp is a well-known hub in the surfing community, offering a relaxed yet professional environment. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a sense of camaraderie and passion for wave riding, setting the tone for a memorable experience.

The Itinerary: From Theory to Wave

The lesson begins with a beach introduction and warm-up stretches, which help loosen muscles and prepare you for paddling. Victor ‘Bobo’ Peralta then shares a rundown of surfing theory, covering everything from wave formation to safety rules. This grounding in basics ensures that even absolute beginners understand what they’re about to do and why.

Next, you’ll move to practical water skills — most importantly, paddling and balancing. With supervision and water assistance, we found this part especially helpful, as it builds confidence and correct technique early on. Bobo’s patience and clear explanations make even tricky skills approachable. As one reviewer remarked, “He cares about the quality and the technique of the surfing,” which is evident throughout the lesson.

The Water Practice: Catching Waves

Once in the water, the focus shifts to applying what you’ve learned. The boards are carefully chosen for each participant, ensuring comfort and stability. The warm waters of Cabarete make this stage especially enjoyable, and the waves are generally gentle enough for beginners while offering enough challenge for those more experienced.

In our experience, most participants—including those with no prior experience—managed to catch their first waves within an hour, as several reviews confirm. “They were able to teach us beginners, and I was catching waves within an hour,” shares a happy participant. The small group setting allows personalized feedback, helping correct posture, paddling technique, or timing—crucial elements for progressing in surfing.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This?

If your goal is to learn the fundamentals of surfing in a supportive environment, this lesson is unbeatable. It’s equally suitable for families with children as young as 5, provided they are comfortable in the water. The small group size and dedicated instruction make it a good value, especially considering the full gear, theory, and water support included.

Why Travelers Keep Coming Back

Based on glowing reviews, many visitors find that this experience boosts their confidence in the water. One reviewer said, “Thanks to his guidance, we were able to catch our first waves in no time,” highlighting how effective the teaching style is. Others appreciated the focus on technique — from paddling to foot placement — which helps surfers progress faster.

The personal connection with Bobo himself is another highlight. As a local legend, Bobo’s insights into the surf culture of Cabarete, combined with his patience and passion, make this more than just a lesson — it’s an introduction to the local surfing community.

The Value Proposition

At roughly $49 for a two-hour lesson, this offering balances affordability with quality instruction. When you consider the full surf equipment and personalized guidance, it’s a great value for travelers eager to learn or improve their skills. The small group size ensures that everyone gets ample attention, making it feel more like a private lesson than a group class.

While transportation isn’t included, the meeting point is accessible by public transit, which helps keep costs reasonable. Plus, the flexibility to reschedule or cancel 24 hours in advance without penalty adds peace of mind—especially if weather conditions change unexpectedly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This surf lesson works best for beginners and intermediate surfers who want a solid technical foundation. Families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate local expertise and a small, friendly group will find it especially rewarding. If your priority is learning from a passionate local and gaining confidence in surfing, this is a fantastic choice.

Travelers looking for an authentic, well-organized experience in Cabarete’s surf scene will enjoy the mix of professional guidance, warm waters, and personalized instruction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the lessons are designed for all skill levels, including complete novices. Many participants catch their first wave within the first hour.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a 2-hour lesson, full surf equipment, a professional guide, and water supervision.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all necessary equipment is provided and selected based on your size and skill.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included, but the meeting point is accessible by public transit or taxi.

What is the best time to take the lesson?
The lesson starts at 8:00am, which is a good time to avoid larger crowds and enjoy calmer waves.

Are there age restrictions?
The minimum age is 5 years, making it family-friendly.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 5 travelers for personalized attention.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the lesson.

What happens if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, the activity might be canceled or rescheduled, or you’ll be offered a full refund.

To sum it up, this surf lesson in Cabarete offers an accessible yet professional introduction to surfing, led by a well-respected local. Whether you’re a complete beginner or just want to improve your technique, the small group size, expert guidance, and warm Caribbean waters make it a worthwhile investment. For travelers eager to connect with local surf culture and gain confidence in the water, it’s an experience that’s hard to beat—especially at this friendly price point. If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and authentic surfing experience, this tour could be your perfect first step into the waves.