Private Tour
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Saltwater surf co. Is located in the beautiful town of Santa Teresa in Costa Rica, one of the best surfing destinations in the world. Our surf instructors are certified by (ISA) international surfing association
Beach rescue lifeguard and Institution Costa Rican of Tourism (ICT)
Our mission is to educate inspire and empower people to a greater sense of awareness and knowledge through surfing. It is our job to help you feel comfortable, confident and have fun out there.
Lessons can be 1 on 1 or for a group up to 12 people.
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Tabla de surf
Private transportation
We will explain the security in the water, parts of the board how to stand up how to get in the water the right way and in a fun way and when we are surfing we give you constant feedback
68 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
869anushh,
Nov 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Alvaro is a great coach and person, we had lots of fun and waves. Great choose for our family, all surf levels. Alvaro es excelente coach y persona, súper recomendable para todos los niveles y edades.


shell62783,
Nov 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I highly reccomend Salt Water Surfing Co! Alvaro has extensive knowlegde of surfing and the area. He is very attentive, patient and provides clear directions. WIth his instruction my surfing has progressed so much and he helped me get so many fun waves. Whether you're a begnnier or an advanced surfer you will learn a ton, always feel safe in the water and have a blast. You can tell he really cares and wants his students to do well. I can't thank him enough and this is the place to go if you're looking for surf lessons!
LarapGarcia,
Aug 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had such a great time learning how to surf here. The instructor was super patient, fun and really made me feel comfortable in the water. I took a few lessons and improved so much more than I expected. It ended up being one of the best parts of my trip. Can’t wait to come back. Pura vida!

GreyYYZ,
Aug 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We have worked with Alvaro several times in the past. This year we had a longer stay in Costa Rica and rented a car to try different breaks. Not only did Alvaro help us with accommodations and the car rental, but we really improved our surfing! Some days we drove together from Santa Teresa to Cabuya, and along the way Alvaro shared so many facts and stories about Costa Rica from significant sights to traditional plant medicine. Alvaro is a true professional. He would check the conditions and choose the next day’s break based on our skill level. He worked with a videographer and reviewed the footage with us to make corrections. He is straightforward and clear in his instructions and always puts safety first. Over the many years we’ve been Alvaro’s clients, we truly feel cared for and comfortable. He and his team want you to be the best surfers you can be, and have a great time doing it! I highly recommend this experience.
Compass114480,
Aug 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Salt water surfing co is THE BEST!!! We just returned home from our third Mother-Daughter Surf Yoga trip to Costa Rica surfing with Salt water Surfing co’s instructor Alvaro. He instills knowledge and confidence in safety for self as well other surfers. We had successful sessions each day progressing, adding skills, changing boards and adapting to different conditions all while having a blast! So far, I’m pretty content being a white water warrior- I love honing my skills with “concierge” wave service- Alvaro assists as needed while I become re-acquainted and then helps me as I become more independent in the process. Each day I feel successful and excited for the next. My daughter has progressed more quickly and spent the week in the line up surfing in some LEGIT waves- her confidence soared as she not only caught amazing waves and had memorable rides - but she challenged her comfort-zone head on with the help of Alvaro’s expertise and experience. Can’t wait for our next trip and look forward to working with Salt water surfing co again!



irisjY1680YJ,
Jul 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Alvaro is an amazing surf teacher if you're looking to improve your surfing. He genuinely cares about your progress and focuses on skills that help you become more independent in the water—like paddling, wave selection, and positioning. He creates a safe and supportive environment while also encouraging you to push your limits and gain confidence in different conditions. Highly recommend!
melm987,
Jul 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
I did a week long surf class with Alvaro Dormus and he had a middle age landlocked midwestern standing up and surfing on day 1. The week progressed in learning ocean and wave education. Surf etiquette in the ocean with other surfers and surf students around. His calm and professional attitude is the best in the business. I always felt enthusiastic to meet him (even at530am). What was amazing about Alvaro's surf instruction was that he made me feel confident,relaxed & safe in the water during all size waves. Alvaro's demeanour was always safe, relaxed and serious. He repeatedly explained pop up techniques, stance, and board-pumping to ride the wave longer. Alvaro can teach ANYONE to ride a wave @Santa Teresa, CR. He's your man!
victordA4351SR,
Jul 23, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Learned a lot in a very short time, the instructors where really good and very nice people! They also help you out with the right gear and are ready to help people off all skill levels!
gabriellerB1712UK,
Jun 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Alvaro was a great surf teacher, very pedagogue, friendly and patient. I loved all the classes. I highly recommend it.
L9493YBjuanaa,
Jun 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Everything was 10/10: the class, the energy, the teachers, the equipment and, above all, the good vibe and willingness of Alvaro and Chimy. I felt super comfortable and motivated. Surely, when I get back, I'm back to school!
Operated by Salt water surfing co.