Surf Lessons in Jaco: Stand Up Your First Wave

Relax under your umbrella between guaranteed stand-up moments on Jaco’s shore

Surf lessons in Jaco teach you paddling, positioning and wave-riding in a 2-hour session certified by the International Surfing Association. The instructor covers safety and technique, and you'll stand up on a board in the first lesson. Boards, rash guard, beach chairs and an umbrella are included. Lessons run in English or Spanish, and children from age 3 are welcome.

The experience

The lesson starts with safety and paddling drills on the sand, then moves into the water where the instructor watches your positioning and timing. You'll practice popping up on the board in shallow water before paddling out to catch actual waves. The goal is simple: stand up and ride your first wave during the session itself, not weeks later. Most people do.

Boards are matched to your level and weight, so beginners get stable, forgiving equipment. A rash guard protects your skin from the board and the sun. After the 2-hour session ends, you stay on the beach in a provided chair and umbrella to rest, dry off and watch the water. The lesson includes everything except food and drinks.

Jaco's beach break works for learners because the waves roll in predictably and the water stays warm. The instructors are certified and speak English or Spanish, so language is not a barrier. Children from age 3 can join, though very young kids may do better watching from the beach chairs first. Public transport runs nearby if you don't have a car.

What’s included

• 2-hour surf lesson with certified instruction in safety, paddling and wave-riding.
• surfboard matched to your level.
• rash guard.
• two beach chairs and an umbrella for the day.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (18 to 63 years) · Senior (64 to 90 years) · Youth (13 to 17 years) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Under 3: can't be included in the booking

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 9 pickup points.Operator's directions: “Google maps Jaco Surf School. Arrive 15/ 20 mins before lesson. Please note free pick ups are available within a 1 (one) Kilometer radius of Jaco.”

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 3 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelers

Operated by Jaco Surf School

Is this one for you?You take the lesson yourself in a shared group with other learners, guided through each step in the water. This works best if you're comfortable getting wet and want hands-on instruction to build the skill, not a spectator experience or a solo private session.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (13 to 17 years); Child (3 to 12 years). Under 3: they can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24h before the start.

Will I actually stand up on a surfboard in my first lesson?

Yes. The lesson is designed so you paddle into waves and pop up during the 2-hour session. Most people ride at least one wave the same day.

What do I need to bring to a surf lesson in Jaco?

Bring sunscreen, a towel and water. The lesson includes the board, rash guard, beach chair and umbrella. Wear swimwear under the rash guard.

How long is a surf lesson and what happens after?

Lessons run 2 hours in the water and on the sand. After you finish, you can relax in the provided beach chair and umbrella for as long as you want before heading back.