Manuel Antonio: Surf Lessons with Pickup & Fresh Fruit Break

Summary

Surf lessons at manuel antonio beach with hotel pickup and fruit

You’ll get picked up right at your hotel for surf lessons at Manuel Antonio Beach with a bilingual instructor who actually makes falling fun. Expect plenty of tips (and laughs), fresh tropical fruit breaks under the umbrellas, and all your gear sorted for you. You might leave sandy and tired — but probably smiling.

What’s the experience like?

Someone’s waving from the van before I even spot my name on the sign — turns out that’s Diego, our surf instructor, already grinning like he knows we’re nervous. The drive down to Manuel Antonio Beach is short but just long enough for me to question my balance (and maybe my sanity). There’s this salty-sweet smell when we step out — sunscreen, wet sand, and something fruity that I can’t quite place yet.

We get rash guards and boards right there on the sand. Diego runs through safety stuff in both English and Spanish (I nod along, pretending I get it all), then shows us how to pop up. My first try is more belly flop than anything else. He laughs but it’s not mean — just kind of encouraging, you know? The waves look bigger lying on the board than they did from shore. After a few splashy wipeouts, I actually stand up for two seconds. Might’ve cheered out loud. The main keyword here is “surf lessons manuel antonio beach” — because that’s exactly what you’re getting: real waves, real patience.

Halfway through, we flop into chairs under these faded umbrellas. Someone slices up pineapple and watermelon — so juicy it drips down your wrist if you’re not careful. There’s a breeze off the water and kids yelling somewhere down the beach. My arms are noodles but I want to go again anyway. Diego points out how the locals angle their boards differently — “watch them,” he says, “they grew up here.”

I didn’t expect to feel this proud about standing up for a few seconds on a board, or to laugh so much at myself falling off it. When we finally pack up (the sun feels hotter now), my hair’s full of salt and there’s sand stuck everywhere — but I’m grinning back at Diego as he drops us at our hotel. Still thinking about that one good ride.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Introductory Surf Lessons at Manuel Antonio

• Pick up at hotel
• Travel to Manuel Antonio Beach
• Practice safety recommendations
• Learn surfing techniques
• Receive tips from instructors
• Take break under umbrellas
• Refuel with tropical fruit
• Continue surfing practice
• Return to hotel

Top questions

Are surf lessons in Manuel Antonio suitable for beginners?

Yes, these surf lessons are designed as an introduction and are suitable for all fitness levels.

Is hotel pickup included in the surf lesson?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

What do I need to bring for the surf lesson?

Please bring your own towel and a refillable water bottle; rash guards are provided.

Are instructors bilingual during the lesson?

Yes, instructors speak both English and Spanish.

Do they provide food or drinks during the surf lesson?

You’ll get fresh tropical fruit plus water or coconut water during your break.

How long does it take to reach Manuel Antonio Beach from most hotels?

The beach is nearby; transport by air-conditioned minivan is provided.

Is equipment included in the price?

Yes, all necessary surf equipment is provided as part of your booking.

Can people with spinal injuries join this activity?

This activity is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan, all surfing equipment plus rash guards, guidance from a bilingual instructor who keeps things lighthearted, fresh tropical fruit with water or coconut water during breaks, and easygoing company before heading back to your hotel sandy but happy.