Tamarindo: Surf Lessons SALT Therapy & Small Groups

4.99

(146 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so nervous standing on the sand in Tamarindo, holding a surfboard that looked way too big for me. Our instructor, Diego, grinned and said not to overthink it — “The ocean’s got moods, but we’ll find her good side.” We started with this short lesson about safety and what he called “surf etiquette” (I still forget who gets the right of way on a wave). The sun was already warm but there was this salty breeze that made everything feel lighter. I kept fidgeting with my rashguard — never worn one before, kind of felt like superhero gear for beginners.

When we finally paddled out, I could hear kids laughing somewhere behind us and pelicans diving way off to the left. Diego stayed close, giving these quick tips in Spanish and English. He had this way of making you laugh just when you were about to panic — which helped a lot when I wiped out (twice in five minutes). The waves weren’t huge but they rolled in steady. There was this moment where I actually stood up for a few seconds — not graceful at all — but I caught myself grinning like an idiot. Saltwater up my nose, hair everywhere, but suddenly it felt less about looking cool and more about just being there.

The best part? It never felt rushed. We took breaks between sets, just sitting on our boards while Diego pointed out which waves to watch for next time or told stories about growing up here. There was something calming about floating out there with everyone else trying (and failing) together. When we finally came back in, I realized two hours had flown by and my arms were jelly. But honestly? I still think about that first shaky ride every time I see a surfboard now.