Private Tour
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
Learn how to surf in Tamarindo, one of the best spots around for beginners! Or if you are intermediate and looking to take that next step in your surfing career we have great instructors for you.
Learn to surf with Mariano and other trusted local surfers right here in Tamarindo!
My name is Mariano and Tamarindo is exactly where I first learned to surf! I am so excited to share my passion for surfing through teaching in this beautiful place I get to call home. Learn to surf like a local with my amazing team. Pura Vida
We also provide surfing photography and videography for an additional fee, please inquire with us prior to your lesson in order to reserve capturing your surfing session!
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
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.
General: All the classes will last 1.5- 2 hours long and will have a 15-30 minute theory session to go over terminology and surfing basics to keep our minds fresh. Beginner: -Learn the parts of the surfboard -Body Positioning -Beach Practice -Standing up -Surf! Intermediate/Advance: -turning -reading waves -board and body positioning -short board/long board styles Lessons can be done in small groups or private. Depending on the surfing conditions we may travel to a different part of the beach to fit every persons surfing needs. The lesson does include surfboard rental, however if you have specific board preferences please let us know and if you have your own board we also welcome you!
Surfboard Rental
Licensed or certified Guide
Private Lesson: One-on-One with Instructor
Group Lesson (2-10 people): Enjoy learning to catch waves in Tamarindo with your friends and family!
Semi-Private Lesson: Your group only with private instructor(s). Ideal for couples or groups of 2-3.
20 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
670bennys,Mar 7, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Mariano is a damn good surfer and because of his nature I learned more from surfing in 3 days than last year in 7 days surf camp! He is a huge recommendation on my part!
944kiaram,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had the most enjoyable and helpful lessons with Mariano. He is highly knowledgeable and very enthusiastic. Constantly working to help each person in the lesson improve.




P9612POjuliag,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Absolutely gorgeous experience!!! Had so much fun that I took more lessons than initially planned :D Mariano is an incredible instructor, his knowledge is impressive and the tips he’s giving during the lessons are true gems❤️
W2004XMgabriela,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very funny guy. And very helpfull with beginners. If you wanna learn to surf, Mariano is the GUY!!!
587valdas,Feb 9, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
I had a wonderful lesson with Mariano. He is so supportive and a really good teacher. He gives really good advice and you always feel safe in the water with him. Highly recommend Mariano as a teacher.
theresacH4905DH,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
My Husband and I took a private surf lesson with Mariano and the whole experience was amazing! We were both beginners at surfing, but by the end of the lesson we were catching every wave and having a blast! I would definitely suggest a private lesson with Mariano, he teaches on land, and then teaches the technique in the water between surf. If you want to learn faster and catch more waves, do a private session with him. What a great experience, thank you, Mariano!!!


Joel L,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Mariano is an outstanding surf instructor! He is incredibly patient, professional, and motivating, which makes learning to surf both fun and effective. He explains everything clearly, pays close attention to safety, and always adapts the lessons to your skill level. Thanks to Mariano, I made huge progress in a short time and felt confident in the water from the very beginning. His positive energy and passion for surfing are contagious, and he genuinely cares about his students’ improvement. I can highly recommend Mariano to anyone—from complete beginners to more advanced surfers. One of the best surf instructors I’ve ever had!



633wilsonw,Nov 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had a great lesson with Mariano in Tamarindo. Even after one lesson, I have a good solid understanding of what I need to continue to do to improve at this sport. Mariano is super knowledgeable, patient, and keeps the learning process simple and fun! I'd highly recommend getting a lesson in with him.
Bella R,Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
fell in love with surfing here! learned & improved so much in such a short time. grace & mariano are truly passionate about what they do and it makes all the difference. surfing is part of my everyday life now & that’s all thanks to these guys :)
K2724EIgabrielf,Aug 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Awesome experience, great people super pleasant! Whether your experienced or total beginner both will have fun and improve their surf! highly recommend!
Operated by Tamarindo Surf Lessons