Learn to Surf or Watch Private Lesson for Beginners & Kids

If you’re looking for a fun, low-stress way to dip your toes into surfing while enjoying the beautiful beaches of Ensenada, this private beginner’s lesson might just be your new favorite activity. Whether you’re a total newbie or bringing kids along for a family adventure, this experience offers a relaxed and supportive environment. With excellent reviews praising the guides and the beach setting, it’s clearly a popular choice for cruise travelers and locals alike.

What makes this tour especially appealing? First, it’s completely private, meaning your group gets personalized attention. Second, the friendly, bilingual instructors focus on making learning enjoyable rather than intimidating. And third, the shallow waters and soft sandy beach create ideal conditions for beginners and kids to get up on their boards safely. A potential downside? It’s primarily suited for those with moderate physical fitness, so if you’re seeking a high-energy adventure, this might not be the fit.

This tour works best for families, first-time surfers, and anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic introduction to surfing with excellent guidance. If you’re after a straightforward, value-packed activity that offers a genuine taste of the surf scene, this is worth considering.

Good To Know

• Personalized instruction tailored specifically for beginners and kids.
• Inclusive gear: wetsuits, boards, snacks, and water provided.
• Flexible ride-along option for non-surfers and kids under 5.
• Convenient private transportation from port or hotel.
• Short travel time — only 15 minutes from Ensenada’s cruise port to the beach.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for peace of mind.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Transportation

Starting your adventure, the tour offers private pickup from your cruise port or hotel—a real time-saver. After a quick 15-minute ride, you’re dropped off at Playa Hermosa Surf Shop, a friendly, well-equipped spot right on the sandy beach. The transport service alleviates the stress of navigating unfamiliar roads and sets the tone for a hassle-free experience.

Wetsuit Fitting & Warm-Up

Once at the shop, you’ll get a private changing room to try on wetsuits that keep you comfortable in the cool Baja air. This part of the process might seem simple, but it’s crucial for comfort and safety. The team’s attention to detail here is appreciated, especially since proper wetsuit fit can make or break a beginner’s experience.

Personalized Instruction

The lesson itself lasts about 90 minutes, during which a bilingual instructor guides you through warm-up exercises, safety tips, and surfing fundamentals. The guides are praised for their patience and energy—they really put effort into making sure everyone understands and feels confident.

Surfing Practice

After the instruction, you’ll head into the shallow beach break, perfect for learning. The sand and gentle waves provide a forgiving environment to practice balancing on your board and catching your first wave. This part of the experience is highly praised; one reviewer mentioned that the instructors “went hard to get everyone up on surfboards,” emphasizing that you get plenty of hands-on guidance.

Ride-Alongs and Family Fun

Parents and kids under 5 can opt for ride-alongs, relaxing under a shaded tent with chairs, water, and snacks while watching the action unfold. This setup allows families to enjoy the beach vibe without pressure, making it ideal for non-surfers or younger children.

Return and Post-Activity Options

After the lesson, the transportation will bring you back to your point of origin. If desired, you can book an optional 60-minute massage (at an extra cost), perfect for unwinding after your surf adventure.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Included in the Price

• Private transportation from port or hotel to the beach.
• All surf equipment: wetsuits and boards—no need to rent locally.
• Snacks and bottled water to keep you energized.
• The 90-minute personalized lesson (if you select that option).
• Ride-Alongs’ shaded area with chairs, water, and snacks.

What’s Not Included

• Massage (available at an additional cost of $49). If you’re looking to relax after surfing, this is a tempting add-on.

Practical Details

• The tour is price-friendly at $37 per person, making it accessible for most travelers.
• It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, given the active nature of surfing.
• As a private activity, only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.
• The tour is available with free cancellation if plans change, up to 24 hours beforehand.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

One reviewer, Matthew W, summed it up perfectly: “Do it. This was the tail end of our cruise. It was the highlight after 2 days in Cabo. The surf instructors went hard the whole time to get us all up on surfboards. The beach is great, the waves are great.” This highlights how dedicated the guides are to making sure everyone has a good shot at surfing, even if it’s your first time.

Another review praised the friendly bilingual guides and the fact that the surf conditions are just right for beginners—gentle enough to learn without feeling overwhelmed. The shallow waters and soft sand are consistently mentioned as key advantages for safety and ease of learning.

Parents appreciate the ride-along option because it allows the whole family to enjoy the beach atmosphere without pressure. The included snacks and water have also been noted as small but thoughtful touches that enhance the experience, especially on warm days.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized, Patient Guidance

The guides are known for their friendly, bilingual approach, making beginners feel at ease from the start. Their dedication to helping each participant stand up on their board is evident. This hands-on support means even complete newbies can enjoy the thrill of surfing in just 90 minutes.

Gentle Water Conditions

The shallow, sandy beach at Playa Hermosa provides a safe environment for learning. The beach break offers manageable waves that build confidence rather than intimidate, which is essential for kids and first-timers.

Value for Money

At just $37 per person, including all gear and snacks, this activity delivers notable value. The private transfer and all equipment remove hidden costs, making it easier to budget for your trip.

Ideal for Families

With the option for Ride-Alongs, families can enjoy the day together without having to worry about non-participating members. The shaded area and snacks make it a comfortable spot for relaxing while watching loved ones learn.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with children, first-time surfers, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, beginner-friendly environment. It’s perfect for cruise passengers looking for a quick but memorable activity that combines learning, fun, and beautiful scenery. If you’re after an activity that combines a bit of adventure with comfort and safety, this tour checks all the boxes.

However, travelers seeking high-energy, advanced surf conditions or longer surf sessions might want to look elsewhere. The focus here is on gentle, safe learning in shallow waters, making it ideal for absolute beginners and kids.

Final Thoughts

This private surf lesson in Ensenada balances value, accessibility, and fun. The guides’ patience and attention to safety, combined with the ideal shallow beach setting, make this a top pick for those new to surfing or families wanting to experience the ocean together. The included gear, snacks, and flexible ride-along options add layers of convenience that elevate the experience from just a lesson to a relaxing beach day.

While it’s a short activity, many reviewers consider it a highlight of their trip—a perfect way to create lasting memories and maybe even ignite a lasting love for surfing. For anyone craving a light, supportive introduction to the surf world, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, kids can participate as ride-alongs, and the shallow beach makes it safe for children under 5 to relax and watch.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation, all surf equipment (wetsuits and boards), snacks, bottled water, and a 90-minute surfing lesson if you choose that option.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the activity, ensuring flexibility.

How long is the transfer from the port?
The transfer takes around 15 minutes, making it a quick and easy trip to the beach.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear casual, quick-drying clothes and bring a towel, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Wetsuits are provided, so no need to bring your own gear.

Is this activity physically demanding?
Moderate fitness is recommended. The lesson involves some paddling and balance, but guides support beginners throughout.

Are the guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

What is the experience level needed?
This is designed for complete beginners, kids, or anyone new to surfing.

Can I book as part of a group?
Yes, it’s a private activity for your group only, adding a personal touch to your day.

In summary, this surfing lesson offers a wonderful chance for first-timers and families to enjoy the ocean in a safe, supportive environment. The combination of professional guidance, gentle surf, and inclusive amenities makes it a standout choice for those looking to add a memorable beach activity to their Ensenada visit.