Surf lessons in Lanzarote: Small groups, certified instructor

Warm-up and theory on the sand, then three hours in the water with a certified instructor

Group or private surf lessons in Lanzarote with a certified instructor, maximum 4 students per class, include roundtrip transport and all equipment. The instructor picks the beach based on conditions that day, then leads warm-up and stretching on the sand before moving into the water for hands-on practice.

The Experience

How much of the day you spend actually surfing depends on the conditions. The lesson runs 4 hours total with transport, but you're on the beach for 3 of those hours — the rest is pickup and the drive to wherever the instructor has chosen to work that day. The operator picks the spot based on the swell and wind, so you're not locked into one beach; it means the waves are right when you arrive.

On the sand, you start with a warm-up and stretching to avoid injury, then the instructor separates the group by level for theory — the basic rules of surfing, the movements to stand up, how to read the water. Once everyone has the mechanics down, you paddle out. The boards, wetsuits and all the gear you need are provided; you just bring yourself and a willingness to get wet. The class stays small — no more than 4 students with one instructor — so you get real feedback instead of being one face in a crowd.

Roundtrip transport is included, which means no figuring out how to get to the beach or back to your hotel. The instructor speaks English, Spanish, Italian, French or another language depending on the class, so the instruction is in whatever works for you. Children can join from age 5 onward, and the operator notes the lessons suit all fitness levels, though they do flag that people with poor cardiovascular health should check before booking.

What’s included

• Surfboards, wetsuits and all equipment.
• roundtrip transport from your hotel.
• warm-up and stretching on the beach.
• theory and technique instruction.
• three hours of practice in the water.
• certified instructor leading the class in your choice of language.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for heart conditions

Operated by Cactus Surf School Lanzarote

Is this one for you?If you speak English, Spanish, Italian, French or another language, the instructor teaches in that language, so you follow the instruction and feedback without translation delays. The small group size — maximum 4 students — means you're not waiting for turns or competing for the instructor's attention.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

74 verified traveler reviews

5 ★74

4 ★0

3 ★0

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What's the difference between the group and private surf lessons?

Group lessons keep to a maximum of 4 students per instructor; private lessons are one-on-one. Both follow the same structure — warm-up and theory on the beach, then practice in the water — and both include transport and all equipment.

How do I know which beach we'll surf at?

The instructor chooses the beach the morning of the lesson based on that day's swell and wind conditions, so you're guaranteed waves that are actually suitable for learning. You'll find out the location when you're picked up.

What if I've never surfed before?

The lessons are designed for all levels, including complete beginners. The instructor teaches the fundamentals on the beach — how to position yourself, how to stand up, how to read the water — before you get in the water, so you're not learning from scratch in the waves.

Is everything I need to surf included?

Yes — surfboards, wetsuits, rope and the school lycra are all provided. You just need to bring yourself, a swimsuit underneath, and a towel.

Can I bring my children?

Children are welcome from age 5 onward. Younger children can come along in a pram or stroller if you're bringing them, and service animals are allowed as well.