Learn to surf in Jacó
Surf lessons for every level on Jacó beach, Costa Rica, with local instructors who have been surfing these waves for over 20 years. Two hours, board included.
Your surf lesson: start on the sand, finish on a wave
Every lesson begins on the beach: a warm-up, the pop-up practiced on a board in the sand, and how to read the whitewater. Then you head into the water with your instructor beside you, pushing you into waves until you are standing on your own.
It's for every level. If it's your first time, the goal is your first ride. If you've surfed before, we work on what's next: paddling, timing, and choosing your waves.
Before you come
- Know how to swim.
- Be ready to swallow some salt water.
- Wear a wetsuit top or a long-sleeve T-shirt.
- Put on sunscreen before you arrive.
Why surf in Jacó, Costa Rica
Jacó is one of the best places in Costa Rica to learn to surf. Its long beach break on the central Pacific coast has consistent waves all year, warm water, and room for beginners and experienced surfers alike.
It's also a real surf town. Surf shops, cafés and restaurants line the streets a few steps from the sand, the locals are friendly, and everything you need is close by. After your lesson you can rent a board, grab a meal, and paddle back out.
Waves all year. Pick your weather.
There are surfable waves in Jacó every month, and the water stays warm. What changes is the sky.
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Dry season, December to April
Sunny days and offshore winds that keep the waves clean and consistent. This is peak season, and the best time to learn.
Green season, May to November
Occasional rain and thunderstorms. The waves are still good, with fewer people in the water and lower prices around town.
Surf lesson prices
Every lesson lasts two hours and includes your surfboard. Prices are per person, in US dollars.
-
Shared lesson
Join a small group. One instructor for every two or three students.
$49
-
Big group
Bring your family or friends. One instructor for every two students.
$45
-
Private lesson
Just you and your instructor, the fastest way to progress.
$60
Photos from our surf lessons
First waves, big smiles, and a lot of salt water.
Questions people ask
I've never surfed. Can I still take a surf lesson in Jacó?
Yes. Lessons are for every level, and they start on the sand before you ever paddle out. Experienced surfers are welcome too; we adjust the lesson to your level.
How much does a surf lesson in Jacó cost?
A two-hour lesson costs $45 per person for big groups, $49 per person for a shared lesson and $60 for a private lesson. The surfboard is always included.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Yes. You'll be in the ocean with a board leashed to your ankle, so you need to be comfortable swimming on your own.
What should I bring to my surf lesson?
Swimwear, sunscreen, and a wetsuit top or a long-sleeve T-shirt to protect you from the sun and the board. We provide the surfboard.
When is the best time of year to surf in Jacó, Costa Rica?
December to April brings dry, sunny weather and clean waves. May to November has more rain but fewer crowds and lower prices, and the waves are still there.
How do I book a surf lesson?
Pick a date on our booking page, or send us a message on WhatsApp and we'll set it up with you.
Talk to Javi
The quickest way to reach us is WhatsApp.
- +506 8778 2146
- Phone
- +506 8778 2146
- [email protected]
- Meet us at
- Morales St, Jacó, Costa Rica