Tamarindo Surf Lessons: Small Group Waves with Ronaldo

Summary

Learn to surf Tamarindo’s waves with a local who grew up here

You’ll get hands-on surf lessons in Tamarindo from Ronaldo, a local who knows these waves inside out. Expect practical tips on land, plenty of laughs in the water, all your gear sorted for you, and real encouragement every step. It’s not just about surfing — it’s about feeling part of Tamarindo for a couple hours.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I didn’t expect to laugh so much during my first surf lesson in Tamarindo. Maybe it was the way Ronaldo grinned when I fumbled with the rash guard, or maybe it was just the salty air making everything lighter. He’s lived here his whole life and you can tell; he knows every break, every current, even which dogs belong to which beach vendors. The sand felt rough under my feet while we practiced popping up on the board, and I remember thinking: there’s no way I’m going to stand up out there.

But once we got into the water, something shifted. The Pacific wasn’t as cold as I’d imagined (honestly, more like bathwater), and Ronaldo kept shouting encouragement over the crash of waves — “Paddle! Paddle! Now!” Sometimes he’d just laugh when one of us wiped out spectacularly. There was this moment where I actually caught a wave for three seconds (felt like thirty), and he high-fived me right in the water. Salt stung my nose but I didn’t care. You know that feeling when you surprise yourself? Yeah.

The whole thing lasted about two hours but time got weird — part nerves, part sun on my back, part just watching Ronaldo chat with locals between sets in rapid Spanish. He made sure everyone had the right board and rash guard before we started, even swapped mine halfway because it was too big (“You’ll thank me,” he said). There’s something about learning from someone who really loves their home beach; it rubs off on you without trying. Anyway, if you’re looking for surf lessons in Tamarindo that don’t feel like a tourist factory line… well, this is it. I still think about that first wave sometimes when I hear seagulls back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surf lesson with Ronaldo in Tamarindo

• Select surfboard and rash guard
• Learn surf basics on land
• Practice surfing in water for 90 minutes

Top questions

How long is the surf lesson with Ronaldo in Tamarindo?

The lesson lasts around 2 hours total: about 15-20 minutes on land for basics and safety, then 90 minutes in the water practicing with guidance.

Is equipment included for the surf lesson?

Yes, both a surfboard and rash guard are provided as part of your lesson.

Are these surf lessons suitable for beginners?

Absolutely — beginners will learn fundamentals like paddling and standing up safely before heading into the waves.

Where do the surf lessons take place?

The lessons are held right on Tamarindo Beach in Costa Rica.

Is lunch or food included during the lesson?

No meals are included; just bring your swimsuit and sunscreen.

Is pickup included for this activity?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you meet directly at Tamarindo Beach.

Can children join the surf lesson?

Children can join but infants must sit on an adult’s lap; some health restrictions apply for safety reasons.

What’s included

Your time includes all necessary surf equipment — both a board suited to your level and a rash guard — plus guidance from Ronaldo himself throughout your small group session on Tamarindo Beach.