Cabarete Playa Encuentro: Surf Lesson with Local Guides

Summary

Learn to surf in cabarete with locals at playa encuentro beach

You’ll learn to surf at Playa Encuentro in Cabarete with friendly local guides who know every wave. Expect sandy feet, plenty of laughs, and real encouragement whether you’re a total beginner or just rusty. All gear is included so you can focus on catching your first wave — or just enjoying the wild beach vibe.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound — not just waves, but this low, steady thump of boards hitting water and people laughing under the almond trees. Playa Encuentro isn’t polished or crowded; it’s got this wild edge, sand that sticks to your ankles, and a salty breeze that somehow wakes you up before you even touch the board. Our guide, José, grinned when he handed me my rashguard — “Don’t worry, everyone falls at first.” He wasn’t wrong.

I’d never tried surfing before Cabarete. The lesson started right on the sand, with José showing us how to pop up (I definitely did not look cool). The sun was already warm but not too much — just enough that you could smell sunscreen and seaweed mixed together. When we finally paddled out into the waves, my heart was pounding in a way I didn’t expect. There’s this moment when you’re lying on the board waiting for your turn and everything goes quiet except for the ocean and someone shouting encouragement from behind.

I wiped out more times than I can count. At one point I swallowed half the Atlantic (or felt like it), but every time I managed to stand up for even a second, José would cheer like I’d won something big. There were kids learning next to us, some locals who made it look easy — one of them high-fived me after a particularly clumsy ride. Afterward we sat under those almond trees with our boards propped up beside us, salt drying on our skin and sand everywhere. I still think about that feeling — tired in a good way, kind of proud and kind of wanting to go again tomorrow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surfing Lesson at Playa Encuentro

• Surf lesson with Cabarete Surf Company

Top questions

Is this surfing lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes, lessons are designed for all levels including complete beginners.

Where does the surf lesson take place?

At Playa Encuentro beach in Cabarete, Dominican Republic.

Are surfboards and equipment provided?

Yes, surfboard, rashguard, leash, and water shoes are included.

Is there shade or somewhere to relax after surfing?

Yes, almond trees along Playa Encuentro offer natural shade.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

The activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or heart conditions.

Can small children join the lesson?

Infants and small children can be present in a pram or stroller but may not participate in surfing.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near Playa Encuentro.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a surfboard matched to your level along with a rashguard for sun protection, sturdy water shoes so you don’t worry about rocks underfoot, and a leash to keep your board close while you learn from local instructors right on Playa Encuentro’s shore.