Your first surf lesson: what to expect, what to bring and how to prepare

You've booked your first surf lesson and now the questions start: will it be hard? Do I need to be fit? What should I bring? Take a deep breath: nobody is born knowing how to surf, and the first lesson exists precisely to give you the basics safely while having fun.

Do I need experience or to be in really good shape?

No. You just need to feel comfortable in the water and know how to swim. You don't need to be an athlete: in the first lesson we assess your level and adapt the group and the pace. If you have any health condition or injury, let the coach know before you go into the sea.

How a 2-hour lesson works

1. Welcome and briefing (10–15 min): we meet the group and explain the sea conditions and the safety rules.
2. Warm-up: mobility exercises for the shoulders, torso and legs to prepare your body and prevent injuries.
3. Theory on the sand: you learn the parts of the surfboard, how to paddle and the pop-up sequence, the movement for getting to your feet. We repeat it several times on land before heading into the water.
4. Practice in the water: with the coach by your side, you catch broken waves and feel the surfboard glide. We correct your position and timing throughout the lesson.
5. Final feedback: we tell you what went well and what to work on next.

What to bring

• Swimwear (to wear under the wetsuit)
• A towel and dry clothes for afterwards
• Sunscreen, even on cloudy days (read our article on skin care for surfing)
• Water and a light snack to recover your energy
• A hair tie, if you have long hair
• Glasses with a strap or disposable contact lenses, if you need vision correction

What you don't need to bring: surfboard, wetsuit and leash are included.

Tips to make the most of it

• Eat light 1 to 2 hours before. A full stomach and the sea don't mix.
• Arrive early, so you can warm up without rushing.
• Listen to the coach and ask questions: there are no silly questions.
• Take off rings, necklaces and watches, as they can get lost or hurt you.
• Expect to feel tired: paddling uses your shoulders, back and core. It's normal to feel your muscles the next day. If you want to arrive better prepared, check out our fitness training for surfing plan.

What if the sea isn't good?

Safety comes first. If conditions don't allow the lesson to go ahead, we reschedule at no cost or refund the amount paid. The exact lesson location is shared the day before, depending on the best conditions of the day (see our guide to the best beaches to learn to surf).

How many lessons does it take to start surfing?

It depends on each person, but it's common to ride your first wave in the very first lesson. To become independent, ideally you should keep it up regularly: that's why we have packs of 5 lessons for 125 €. Group lessons: 30 € per person. Private lessons: 50 €.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you need to feel comfortable in the water and know how to swim.

What is the minimum age?

For children we have lessons from 4 to 12 years old, with a maximum ratio of 3 children per instructor. Find out more in the article surfing for kids.

Do I need to bring equipment?

No. Softboard, wetsuit and leash are included.

How long does the lesson last?

Two hours, including warm-up, theory on the sand and practice in the water.

Ready for your first wave?

👉 Book your first lesson or check out our surf lessons for beginners. If you have any questions, talk to us on WhatsApp.

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