If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or sharpening your existing skills, the Tenerife surfing experience offered by Shaka Surf Tenerife deserves your attention. This 2-hour group lesson on Playa de las Américas caters to everyone—beginners, intermediates, and even the more advanced surfers looking to improve technique. With a solid 4.9-star rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, it’s clear that many visitors find this experience both fun and rewarding.
What makes this stand out? First, the personalized instruction with certified guides like Juan, Kaja, and Martin makes even first-timers feel confident. Second, the inclusion of professional photos lets you relive the best moments without any extra hassle. Third, the location right by the waves means you’re immediately immersed in the surf environment, rather than spending ages getting to the spot.
One thing to keep in mind is that hotel pick-up is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point. This isn’t a deal-breaker, but it’s worth factoring into your plans. This tour suits anyone eager to learn or improve surfing in a relaxed, friendly setting—no matter your age or skill level.
Good To Know

- All skill levels welcome: Whether you’re a complete beginner or want to refine your technique, the instructors tailor the lessons.
- Professional guidance: Certified instructors like Juan, Kaja, and Martin are praised for their patience, clear explanations, and friendliness.
- Photos included: Take home pictures of your waves and progress, a nice bonus that adds value to the overall experience.
- Convenient location: Situated just 30 meters from the surf waves at Playa de las Américas, so you’re right in the action.
- Small group size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring plenty of personalized attention.
- No hotel transfer: Participants must arrange their own transport to the meeting point, which is straightforward but worth noting.
Exploring the Experience in Detail

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Location and Setting
Located in the bustling heart of Playa de las Américas, the surf school is just 30 meters from the water’s edge. This proximity means you get immediate access to the waves after your gear-up, avoiding long walks or transfers. The beach itself is lively but not crowded during lessons, thanks to the small group format, which keeps the experience intimate and manageable.
The Meeting Point and How It Works
You’ll meet your instructor at the Shaka Surf Tenerife school on the beach about 15 minutes before your scheduled start. This early arrival helps with gear fitting, a quick briefing, and settling into the laid-back surf vibe. Since there’s no included hotel pickup, travelers typically arrange their own transportation—be it via bus, taxi, or rental car. The activity concludes back at the same meeting point, making logistics simple.
The Lesson Breakdown
Gear Preparation: Upon arrival, you’re provided with all necessary equipment—wetsuits, water shoes, lycra, and a surfboard. The gear quality is good, and the wetsuits are suitable for the mild waters of Tenerife, ensuring comfort without overheating.
Theory Session (20 minutes): The lesson kicks off with a brief, engaging theoretical introduction. Guides like Kaja and Juan excel at making this part fun and easy to understand. You learn core techniques like paddling, positioning, and how to take off. Reviewers often mention how instructors like Kaja clearly explained the basics, making sure everyone felt confident before heading into the water.
Warm-up and Safety: Before hitting the waves, your instructor will lead a warm-up, emphasizing safety and proper technique. This prep helps prevent injuries and gives you a mental boost.
In the Water: Once in the surf, the guides give tailored feedback based on your skill level. Whether you’re just trying to stand up or refining your paddling, they’re attentive and encouraging. Many reviews highlight how helpful and patient the instructors are, with some praising Juan’s attentiveness and Kaja’s kindness.
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Expect to spend roughly 1.5 hours actually in the water, catching waves, practicing paddling, and getting comfortable on the board. Reviewers frequently mention how quickly they managed to stand or catch their first wave, often within minutes of starting—thanks to clear instructions and hands-on coaching. Waves may vary depending on the day, but the guides are adept at adjusting their approach accordingly.
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Photos and Memories
A major perk is the inclusion of professional photos taken during the lesson. These capture your surfing moments, smiles, and wipeouts—perfect for sharing or keeping as souvenirs. Many visitors find this a valuable addition, especially since the instructors are skilled at capturing candid shots without disrupting the flow of the lesson.
Post-Lesson Comforts
After surfing, you can shower and change at the facilities provided by the school. Light snacks and water are included, helping you recharge after your exertions. This thoughtful touch contributes to the overall value, making the experience feel complete.
Why This Surfing Lesson Is Worth It

Given the glowing reviews and the thoughtful setup, it’s clear this experience offers excellent value. The small group size means you get plenty of personal attention, which is crucial for learning a new sport like surfing. The guides’ multilingual skills (including English, Spanish, Italian, German, and more) ensure clear communication and tailored advice.
The included photos are a standout feature—no need to worry about snapping your own shots or paying extra. You’ll leave with tangible memories of your wave-riding debut or progress.
While the lesson is priced reasonably, the real value lies in the quality of instruction, the friendly atmosphere, and the convenience of a prime beach location. It’s a perfect choice for first-timers who want to learn in a supportive environment or more experienced surfers eager to fine-tune their skills.
Who Should Consider This Experience?

This surfing lesson suits a wide range of travelers. First-time surfers will appreciate the patient coaching and safety focus, while more experienced surfers can benefit from personalized tips. Families with children (not suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers) will find the small group setting reassuring. If you’re looking to tick surfing off your bucket list or simply want a fun, active day by the sea, this tour is a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the lesson is designed for all levels, including absolute beginners. The instructors tailor their approach to your experience, making sure everyone feels comfortable.
Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, all necessary gear such as surfboards, wetsuits, water shoes, and lycra are provided by the school.
How long is the lesson?
The activity lasts approximately 2 hours, with around 20 minutes dedicated to theory and the rest in the water catching waves.
Are there any age restrictions?
While specific age limits aren’t mentioned, it’s not suitable for pregnant women and non-swimmers are advised against participating.
Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.
Final Thoughts

This Tenerife surfing lesson combines expert instruction, a friendly atmosphere, and thoughtful extras like photos, creating a comprehensive package for surf lovers. The small group size guarantees personal attention, helping even complete beginners stand up on their boards in a matter of minutes. The location’s proximity to waves means you’re immersed in the surf environment from the start, making for an authentic experience.
Whether you’re in Tenerife for a few days or just looking to try something new, this tour offers fantastic value. It’s perfect for travelers eager to learn a new skill while enjoying the sun and sea of the Canary Islands.
If you’re seeking a fun, safe, and well-organized surf lesson that delivers on quality and friendliness, this experience is hard to beat. Plus, who wouldn’t want beach photos of their first surf adventure? Book it, and prepare for some great memories and maybe even a new hobby.
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