Santa Teresa: Private Surf Lessons with Local Instructors

Summary

Private surf lessons in santa teresa with local guides and pickup

You’ll learn to surf on Santa Teresa or Hermosa Beach with a local guide who knows every wave by heart. Expect private instruction tailored to your level (beginner to advanced), all gear included, plus pickup so you don’t have to stress logistics. You’ll probably laugh at yourself — but you’ll remember standing up for that first wave long after.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if you could actually stand up on a board your first time? I did — and honestly, I was half-convinced I’d just end up swallowing saltwater. But in Santa Teresa, something about the way the morning air smelled (a bit like wet sand and sunscreen) made me feel like maybe I could pull it off. Our instructor, Diego, met us right at the edge of the beach — he’s lived here his whole life and you can tell. He greeted us with this easy smile, handed me a board that felt way bigger than I expected, and said, “Don’t worry, everyone falls.”

The surf lesson itself was private — just me flailing around while Diego patiently explained how to paddle out past the break. He showed me how to pop up (I definitely did not look cool), but he cheered anyway when I managed it for half a second. The waves at Santa Teresa were gentle enough for beginners but still had some push; you could hear them rolling in before you saw them. At one point, I caught a glimpse of Hermosa Beach down the coast — it’s quieter there, Diego said, good for people who want more space or are nervous about crowds.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much. There was this moment when I wiped out spectacularly and came up spitting water — Diego just grinned and said, “That’s surfing.” The sun kept peeking through clouds, making everything look silvery for a minute. My arms got tired fast (way faster than I thought they would), but somehow that made catching even one wave feel like a win. We talked about Costa Rica between sets — he told me about growing up here, how the ocean changes with the seasons. It felt real, not like some touristy thing where you’re just another face.

If you’re thinking about taking private surf lessons in Santa Teresa or Hermosa Beach, just know: you’ll probably fall a lot. But there’s something kind of freeing about it — letting go of looking cool and just being part of the ocean for an hour or so. Even now, sometimes when I hear waves at night, I remember that feeling.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private surf lessons at Santa Teresa Beach

• Arrive at Santa Teresa Beach
• Attend 90-minute private surf lesson
• Learn surfing basics or advanced techniques

Top questions

Are surf lessons in Santa Teresa suitable for beginners?

Yes, all levels are welcome including beginners. The instructor explains basics like standing up and controlling the board.

How long is each private surf lesson?

Each lesson lasts 90 minutes on either Santa Teresa or Hermosa Beach.

Is transportation included for these surf lessons?

Yes, private transportation is included with your booking.

Do I need my own surfboard?

No, all necessary equipment including a surfboard is provided.

Can intermediate or advanced surfers join?

Yes, intermediate and advanced surfers get tailored instruction on techniques like bottom turns and cutbacks.

Are these lessons run by locals?

Yes, instructors are locals from Costa Rica with over 15 years’ experience.

Is lunch included in the tour?

No lunch is included; only transportation and equipment are provided.

Is this activity suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation to either Santa Teresa or Hermosa Beach plus use of a quality surfboard during your 90-minute lesson with an experienced local instructor guiding you throughout.