Taking your first surf lesson in Costa Rica is an exciting experience. I remember how nervous and curious I felt before paddling out for the first time. If you’re planning to learn in a place like Santa Teresa, you’re already making a great choice. This tropical paradise offers warm waters, consistent waves, and a welcoming surf community.
Here’s everything I recommend you keep in mind to make your first surf lesson smooth, safe, and fun. Explore Junior Surf School to get started.
1. Choose the right surf school
The first step is finding a reputable surf school. Look for one that specializes in beginners, has certified instructors, and good reviews. In Santa Teresa, I went with a local school that offered personalized guidance, small group sizes, and all equipment included.
Make sure your school provides:
- Soft-top boards for safety
- Bilingual instructors
- A pre-lesson briefing on ocean safety and basic technique
Want to start with the best? See our prices and packages for beginner surfers.
2. What to bring to your surf lesson
You don’t need much gear to get started, but a few essentials will make your lesson much more comfortable:
- Swimsuit or surf leggings that stay in place
- Rash guard or UV shirt to prevent chafing and sunburn
- Towel and water bottle for post-session refreshment
- Sunscreen (reef-safe and waterproof)
Most schools will provide the board, leash, and sometimes even the rash guard.
3. Warm up and stretch
I didn’t expect surfing to be so physical, but it works your whole body. That’s why warming up before you get in the water is crucial. A few minutes of stretching and light cardio can prevent muscle cramps and help you stay agile on the board.
Before my first lesson, we did:
- Arm circles and shoulder rolls
- Lunges and hip stretches
- Light jogging on the beach
Taking five minutes to warm up makes a huge difference.
4. Learn basic terms and techniques
Don’t worry—your instructor will teach you everything, but I found it helpful to know some terms in advance. It made me feel more confident and helped me absorb more during the lesson.
Here are a few to remember:
- Pop-up: The movement to go from lying on the board to standing
- Lineup: Where surfers wait for waves
- Whitewater: The broken wave foam you’ll likely start in
- Leash: The strap that keeps the board connected to your ankle
Understanding these basics gives you a head start.
5. Respect the ocean
Surfing is not just about riding waves. It’s about connecting with nature. In Costa Rica, the ocean is beautiful but powerful, and beginners must approach it with respect.
During my lesson, the instructor emphasized:
- Never turning your back to the waves
- Listening closely to safety instructions
- Asking questions if unsure
Surf etiquette and ocean awareness are as important as learning to stand up.
6. Manage your expectations
I’ll be honest—I didn’t stand up on my first wave. But that’s okay! Surfing takes time. Your first goal is to understand the board, feel the water, and have fun. Falling is part of the journey.
Focus on:
- Learning how to paddle effectively
- Practicing your pop-up on the sand
- Catching a few whitewater waves
Celebrate the small wins. Even paddling out and trying counts as progress.
7. After the lesson
Once your lesson is done, take a moment to reflect and rest. Stretch again, hydrate, and ask your instructor for feedback. I also recommend taking a photo—you’ll want to remember the day you started surfing.
Things to do after:
- Rinse off with fresh water
- Thank your instructor
- Book your next lesson while it’s fresh in your mind!
Preparing for your first surf lesson in Costa Rica is about mindset as much as equipment. Choose a good school, bring the right gear, learn some basics, and go in with a willingness to fall and have fun. Whether you’re in Santa Teresa or anywhere along the coast, you’re about to experience something truly special.
I’ll never forget the feeling of catching that first wave—and neither will you. Book your first surf lesson with us.