Lanzarote Famara: Beginner Surf Lesson with Gear & Local Coach

First surf lesson in Lanzarote’s Famara beach with friendly local instructors and all equipment included for beginners

You’ll suit up in Lanzarote’s Famara beach, meet your local instructor, and learn to read waves and paddle out as a true beginner surfer. Expect laughs on shore and in the water as you try standing up—maybe fall a few times—and leave with sandy hair and that stubborn grin only surfing gives you.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a beginner-friendly surfboard matched to your skill level, wetsuit and rash vest rental, practical instruction both on land and in water from local guides, plus insurance during your surf lesson—all starting from their base near Playa Famara before heading down to the waves together.

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Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Beginner surf lesson at Playa Famara

• Briefing at the surf shop
• Receive wetsuit and surfboard
• Ride to surf spot on the beach
• Safety talk and warm-up exercises
• Practice exercises on beach and water
• Learn paddling and stand-up techniques
• Catch your first waves

The Experience

Ever tried to stand up on a surfboard while your heart’s pounding and you’re not sure if you’ll just faceplant? That was me this morning at Playa Famara, Lanzarote — I’d seen photos but didn’t expect the sand to feel so cool under my feet that early, or the wind to carry this salty tang. Our guide, Elena, handed out wetsuits at the little surf shop (she joked mine would make me look “muy guapo”—I’m not convinced) and then we piled into a van for a quick ride down to the water.

The first thing I noticed was how everyone seemed half-nervous, half-excited. Elena explained everything — how to spot rips (which I’d never even thought about), how to paddle without flailing around like a seal. She had this way of making us laugh at ourselves when we wiped out. The Atlantic was colder than I expected but honestly, after five minutes you don’t care. There’s this weird thrill when you catch your first wave — just for a second, I actually stood up before tumbling off. Someone cheered from further down the beach, maybe for me or maybe for themselves. Doesn’t really matter.

I still remember the grit of sand inside my wetsuit and Elena shouting encouragement over the wind. We did some warm-ups on the beach that felt silly at first but made sense once we hit the water. It’s hard work — my arms are jelly now — but there’s something about feeling part of this odd little group of strangers all flopping around together that sticks with you longer than any perfect photo could. Lunch tasted better after all that saltwater (not included, by the way), and yeah, I’m already thinking about booking another day trip surf lesson in Famara next time I’m back.

Top questions

Is this surf lesson suitable for complete beginners?

Yes, no experience is required—it's designed for beginners in Famara.

What equipment is provided during the lesson?

You get a surfboard suited to your level, wetsuit, and rash vest included.

How long does the surf lesson last?

The full lesson lasts 4.5 hours including theory and practical exercises.

Are there health restrictions for joining?

It's not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues; you should be able to swim at least 50m.

Is transport provided from the shop to the beach?

Yes, there's a short ride from the surf shop to Playa Famara included.

Will there be video analysis during lessons?

Video analysis is available only for 4.5-hour lessons.

Can non-swimmers join this activity?

No, participants must be able to swim at least 50 meters confidently.