Learn to Surf in Jaco Beach: Small-Group Lessons for All Levels

Catch waves, learn technique, build confidence in the water

A 90-minute surf lesson in Jaco Beach taught by local, CPR-certified instructors who work with all ages and skill levels, from your first pop-up to more advanced paddling and turning. The lesson includes a safety briefing, equipment, rash guards, sunblock and hydration. You'll spend time in the water practicing fundamentals and building the skills to ride waves on your own.

The experience

The lesson starts with a safety introduction to the ocean and the equipment, then moves straight into the water. You'll learn the basics: how to pop up on the board, how to paddle, and how to read the difference between white water waves and open face waves. The instructors (lifelong surfers and competitive athletes local to Costa Rica) adjust the pace and focus based on your comfort level and what you want to improve. Whether you're standing on a board for the first time or you've surfed before and want to refine your technique, the lesson is built around your goals, not a fixed script.

The 90 minutes includes breaks for hydration, rest and feedback as you need them. Ride In provides the surfboard, rash guard, sunblock and water. You bring only swimwear and a towel. The team is CPR and First Aid certified through the International Life Saving and International Surfing Association, and they've built the lesson around creating a welcoming, safe environment where the focus stays on the fun of being in the water and the rush of riding a wave.

What’s included

• Surfboard, rash guard, sunblock and hydration.
• instruction from a CPR and First Aid certified local instructor.
• safety briefing and ocean orientation.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (21 to 30 years) · Senior (35 to 60 years) · Youth (12 to 20 years) · Child (5 to 10 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 15

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated 10 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortWheelchair accessibleStroller-friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Ride In Surf School

Is this one for you?The lesson meets right at Jaco Beach, so if you're staying nearby or can arrange a taxi, you can book without needing a car. The 90-minute format fits a free afternoon or a morning before other plans, and the instructors work with ages 5 and up, so families can join together or book separately depending on what works.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 20 years); Child (5 to 10 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What do I actually learn in a 90-minute surf lesson?

You start with safety and board fundamentals (how to pop up, paddle and sit on the board), then move into reading waves and turning as your confidence builds. The instructors adjust what you focus on based on your skill level and what you want to work on, so a first-timer and someone with prior experience get different instruction inside the same lesson.

Do I need to know how to surf already, or is this for complete beginners?

All levels and ages from 5 and up are welcome. The Ride In team specializes in teaching the technical skills that go beyond catching your first wave, so whether this is your first time on a board or you've surfed before, they'll meet you where you are.

What's included in the lesson, and what do I need to bring?

The lesson includes the surfboard, rash guard, sunblock and hydration. You bring swimwear and a towel. Transportation to and from the beach is not included, so plan your own way there or arrange a taxi or rideshare.

How long is the actual time in the water?

The full lesson is 90 minutes, which includes the safety briefing and equipment setup at the start. You'll spend most of that time in the water, with breaks built in as needed for rest, hydration and feedback from your instructor.

Are the instructors certified, and is this safe for someone who's never been in the ocean?

Yes, all instructors are CPR and First Aid certified by the International Life Saving and International Surfing Association. The lesson opens with a full safety introduction to the ocean and equipment, and the team creates a welcoming, safe environment for all skill levels.