Mui Ne Surf Lesson & Sunset Beach Experience

Summary

Learn to Surf in Vietnam with a Local Surfer

You’ll meet your local surf guide in Mui Ne before heading out to Little Buddha beach for a relaxed lesson at sunset. Practice on land, then paddle out with guidance and laughter from Tuan and his crew. All equipment is included — just bring your sense of humor and get ready for that first wobbly ride you’ll remember long after you leave Vietnam.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the sound — boards thumping softly as Tuan and his friends stacked them outside the little surf office, all laughing about something in Vietnamese I couldn’t quite catch. The air smelled like salt and sunscreen, and there was this lazy golden light that made everything feel slower than usual. Tuan grinned when he saw me hesitate with the longboard (“Don’t worry, it’s lighter than it looks!”), and honestly, he was right — though I still managed to nearly trip over my own flip-flops.

We rode out together on motorbikes, boards strapped on with what looked like a hundred bungee cords. Little Buddha beach isn’t far from Mui Ne town — maybe fifteen minutes? — but by the time we got there, my nerves had started to kick in. The waves were rolling in steady and gentle, nothing too wild. Tuan explained how this left-hand point break is perfect for beginners (I’m living proof), and he showed us how to pop up on the sand first. My arms felt awkward at first, but he kept things light — even joked about my “unique” paddling style. Li laughed when I tried to say “cảm ơn” properly; probably butchered it.

Once we finally hit the water, everything else faded out except for the rush of catching those first tiny waves. There’s this weird mix of panic and joy when you stand up for half a second longer than before — I still think about that moment sometimes. The sun started dipping behind some fishing boats off to the side, painting everything orange-pink. Tuan cheered every time someone managed to ride a wave all the way in (even if it was mostly luck). My hands were wrinkled from the salt by then, but I didn’t want it to end just yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Surf Lesson at Little Buddha Beach

• Meet at surf office and discuss surf level
• Travel to surf spot
• Check wave conditions
• Practice take-off exercises on land
• Learn paddling and safety tips
• Surf and catch waves

Top questions

Is this Mui Ne surf lesson suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for beginners and uses soft-top boards at a gentle point break.

How long does the surf lesson last?

The whole experience takes about 2–3 hours including practice on land and water time.

Do I need to bring my own surfboard or wetsuit?

No, all surf equipment including board, lycra top, and zinc are provided.

Where does the lesson take place?

The surf lesson is held at Little Buddha beach near Mui Ne.

Is transportation included from Mui Ne town?

You can join by motorbike or arrange pickup with Tuan’s team from their surf office.

What should I wear or bring?

Wear swimwear under your clothes; sunscreen is provided but sunglasses or a hat help before/after surfing.

Are group sizes small?

Yes, lessons are usually small groups so everyone gets personal attention from the guide.

Can kids join this surf lesson?

This activity is best for adults or older teens with basic swimming ability.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all surfing equipment (longboard, lycra top for sun protection, special zinc for your face), friendly instruction from a local guide at Little Buddha beach, plus flexible transport options — either follow by motorbike or arrange pickup directly from Mui Ne town before heading back after sunset wraps up your session.