Montezuma: Playa Grande Surf Lesson & Fresh Fruit Break

Summary

Surfing Playa Grande’s white sand with local guides and fruit break

You’ll walk from Montezuma through jungle sounds to Playa Grande’s wide sands for two hours of surf lessons with local Costa Rican instructors. Practice on the beach first, then ride real waves—with breaks for fresh fruit and stories under palm trees. Expect laughter, wipeouts, and at least one moment you’ll want to hold onto long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We started walking from Montezuma, boards under our arms, following our instructor—Luis, who grinned like he already knew how much we’d struggle. The jungle was loud that morning, birds yelling over each other, and the air felt sticky on my skin. Twenty minutes later, Playa Grande just opened up in front of us—wide white sand, waves rolling in steady lines. I could smell salt and something sweet from the trees behind us. Luis handed out rashguards and picked out boards for everyone (I got the biggest one, which made sense once I tried to carry it).

We practiced on the sand first—awkwardly popping up while Luis showed us how to fall without looking ridiculous. He kept saying “just relax” but my arms were already tired and we hadn’t even touched the water yet. Then suddenly we were out there, knee-deep in foamy white water. Luis stayed close, pushing my board into the waves so I wouldn’t just float around like driftwood. I wiped out a lot—lost count honestly—but every time I caught a wave for half a second longer than before, he’d cheer like I’d won something big. There was this moment when I finally stood up (briefly)—the sun hit the water just right and everything else went quiet except for my own heartbeat.

Halfway through we stopped for a break under some scraggly palms. Someone had brought fresh pineapple and watermelon—it tasted colder than it should’ve been in that heat. We sat there dripping wet and laughing about our wipeouts; Luis told us stories about growing up surfing here and pointed out a couple of locals further down who made it all look easy. After that it was back to the waves until our arms gave out or maybe just our nerves did—I’m not sure which came first.

The walk back to Montezuma felt slower somehow; maybe because saltwater makes you heavier or maybe because none of us really wanted it to be over yet. I still think about that one wave where everything clicked for a second—even if nobody else saw it but me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 2-hour surf lesson at Playa Grande

• Walk 20 minutes to Playa Grande
• Receive safety and surfboard training on sand
• Practice surfing with instructor support
• Take a break with fresh fruits
• Continue surfing practice
• Return to Montezuma with the team

Top questions

How long is the surf lesson in Montezuma?

The surf lesson lasts 2 hours including a short break.

Is equipment provided for the surf lesson?

Yes, surfboard and rashguard are included.

Do I need experience to join this surf lesson?

No experience is needed; beginners and advanced levels are welcome.

Where does the lesson take place?

The lesson takes place at Playa Grande near Montezuma.

Is there food included during the activity?

Yes, you get fresh fruits during your break.

Are the instructors certified?

Yes, instructors are certified lifeguards and ISA2 qualified.

How do we get to Playa Grande from Montezuma?

You’ll walk about 20 minutes with your guide from Montezuma to Playa Grande.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes all surf equipment—board and rashguard—a guided walk from Montezuma to Playa Grande with certified local instructors by your side throughout the lesson, plus a refreshing break with fresh fruits before heading back together at the end.