Surf Lesson at a National Park in Playa Grande, Costa Rica!

Starting at just $60 per person, this 2-hour surf lesson in Playa Grande offers a chance to catch waves with the help of passionate local instructors. Located in Playa Flamingo, the experience kicks off at a nearby hotel, with the option of pickup, making it convenient for travelers staying in the area. The lesson is designed for small groups (max 4 people), ensuring personalized attention and plenty of fun.

What we love most about this experience is the careful attention to safety and fundamentals, especially the dedicated 15-minute popup practice on the beach, which helps beginners build confidence before getting into the water. The second highlight is the drone footage that captures your triumphs, making it easier to relive those memorable moments long after your toes are back on dry land.

A possible consideration is that the lesson length might feel a bit short if you’re eager to spend more time on the waves. Also, while transportation is available for an extra fee, you’ll want to check your schedule to make sure you arrive on time for your session.

This tour is best suited for beginners or early-intermediate surfers who want a personalized, fun, and safe way to learn in a beautiful setting. It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or small families looking for a memorable Costa Rican adventure.

Key Points

Personalized Instruction: Lessons are tailored to individual needs, with experienced local guides.
Excellent Safety Focus: Includes beach practice and safety gear like rash-guards and waterproof sunscreen.
Stunning Natural Setting: Located just a short walk from Playa Grande, with excellent waves for beginners.
Drone Footage Included: Capture those epic moments and relive your surfing success.
Small Group Experience: Max 4 travelers, ensuring attention and personalized coaching.
Convenient Location & Options: Meeting point at ONDA hotel with optional pickup service.

The Heart of the Experience

When we first arrived, the close proximity to Playa Grande meant we could start the adventure quickly after meeting at the ONDA hotel. The walk to the beach takes just three minutes, so there’s minimal fuss before jumping into the surf. The staff at the shop was welcoming and well-prepared with waterproof sunscreen, rash-guards, wax, and boards tailored to our size — a thoughtful touch that shows they really care about comfort and safety.

The initial 15-minute popup practice is particularly valuable. It gives beginners a chance to get familiar with the pop-up technique on the sand before stepping into the surf, which most reviews find reassuring and confidence-building. As Cori shared, “We both got up on the board in 2 tries!! Had a BLAST!” That quick success rate is a testament to the quality of coaching, especially for first-timers.

Once in the water, the instructors are attentive and encouraging. The focus isn’t just on catching waves but on mastering the basics, such as paddling positioning and timing. The local Costa Rican guides bring a playful energy that makes learning enjoyable, even if you’re feeling a little nervous. From the reviews, it’s clear that safety and fun are prioritized — Brad mentioned that “Everyone was safe, getting up on the board easily and having fun.”

The drone footage is a real bonus. It allows you to see your progress from a bird’s-eye view, which both enhances the experience and gives you fantastic photos to share. For many, this is the icing on the cake — a high-quality keepsake that captures those moments of triumph.

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From Booking to Wave: The Itinerary

Booking & Arrival: The process is straightforward. You reserve your spot online, usually 11 days in advance, and can opt for pickup if needed. On the day of your lesson, you meet at the ONDA shop inside Playa Grande’s main road, about 10 minutes early—a good idea to get set up and ask questions.

Preparation: Upon arrival, you’re fitted with rash-guards and sunscreen, which is great for protection against the sun and surf. Your instructor provides the appropriate board based on your size, along with wax and leash. This attention to detail makes the experience more comfortable and accessible.

Beach Practice: Before entering the water, you’ll spend around 15 minutes practicing your pop-up on the sand. This session is often highlighted as a favorite by guests, as it helps break down the technique into manageable steps.

In the Water: The next step is heading into the ocean, just a few minutes away. The instructor guides you through paddling, positioning, and riding waves. The lesson lasts up to two hours, but you can end early if tired—another good feature for beginners.

Post-lesson & Photos: After a fun session, you’re back at the shop, where your drone footage is usually ready to view — a fun way to reflect on your progress and share with friends.

Why This Surf Lesson Is Worth It

Pricing at $60 per person is quite reasonable for a personalized, small-group lesson in a stunning location. Given the focus on fundamentals, safety, and the friendly local guides, you’re getting more than just a quick intro — you’re receiving quality instruction that can set you up for future surfing adventures.

The small group size (max 4) ensures everyone gets individual attention, which is especially important for beginners. Reviews consistently mention how effective and friendly the instructors are, making the whole process less intimidating and more enjoyable.

While the lesson duration might seem short for those wanting hours of surf time, the emphasis on quality and safety can make this a worthwhile investment. Plus, with the drone footage capturing your victories, you’ll have images and videos that serve as powerful memories.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for beginners or those with limited surfing experience who want to learn in a safe, supportive environment. It’s especially well-suited for travelers seeking a personalized, small-group lesson that maximizes safety and fun. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want shared memories, this setup works perfectly.

Lovers of stunning coastal views and authentic local guides will appreciate how the instructor’s local knowledge and playful energy elevate the experience. The included drone footage makes it perfect for anyone wanting a unique, visual memento of their Costa Rican trip.

The Sum Up

In the end, this surf lesson in Playa Grande offers more than just the chance to stand on a board — it provides an authentic connection to Costa Rica’s surf culture, guided by passionate local instructors. The attention to safety, personalized coaching, and stunning scenery make it a standout choice for beginners eager to learn and have fun.

If you’re after a low-pressure, high-value experience that combines instruction with memorable photos, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially well-suited for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a taste of surfing paradise with a knowledgeable team behind them.

For those who want to dive right into the surf in a relaxed, friendly setting, this lesson will leave you with not only new skills but also a sense of achievement and some great stories to tell. Costa Rica’s waves are calling—are you ready to answer?

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FAQ

Is transportation included in the price?
Transportation is not included in the base price of $60. However, pickup and drop-off are available for an additional charge, making it easier if you don’t have your own transport.

What should I bring to the lesson?
You don’t need to bring much — the shop provides all the gear, including rash-guards, sunscreen, and boards. Just wear comfortable swimwear and perhaps a towel for after.

How long is the lesson?
The lesson lasts about 2 hours, with plenty of time for practice and catching waves. You can end early if you’re tired or ready to call it a day.

Is this suitable for total beginners?
Yes, the lessons are designed for beginners and include a dedicated beach practice to build confidence before hitting the waves.

Can I book for a group or family?
Yes, the tour caters to small groups up to 4 people, making it perfect for families or friends wanting to learn together.

What if the weather is bad?
If weather conditions aren’t suitable, your lesson might be canceled or rescheduled. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if that happens.

In all, this surf lesson in Playa Grande combines professional instruction, friendly guides, and stunning scenery for a genuinely fun and educational Costa Rican adventure. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, it’s a worthwhile add-on to your beach getaway.