Puerto vallarta and Nayarit: surf lessons

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or simply want to improve your surfing skills in Mexico’s gorgeous Banderas Bay area, this surf lesson tour by Okala Surf School might just be what you’re looking for. With a solid five-star rating from real travelers and a reputation for friendly, knowledgeable instructors, it promises a personalized, fun, and scenic experience.

What sets this offering apart? First, the local surf spots—like La Lancha, Litibu, and Nuevo Nayarit—are ideal for all skill levels. Second, the all-in-one package includes transport, gear, photos, snacks, and instruction, making it not only convenient but also very good value.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a two-hour session — great for a quick, focused introduction or improvement. If you’re looking for a longer immersion or multi-day courses, you might need to look elsewhere. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a bite-sized, authentic surf experience without hassle, especially if you’re staying in Puerto Vallarta or Nayarit and prefer private, tailor-made lessons.

Key Points

• All skill levels welcomed — from total beginners to experienced surfers seeking a tune-up.
• Private instruction ensures personalized feedback and guidance.
• Includes transportation, gear, snacks, and free surf photos — great value.
• Stunning natural locations make the surf sessions memorable.
• Flexible booking with free cancellation and pay later options.
• Experienced instructors actively surf and provide expert advice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Surf Experience

The Location: La Lancha Beach and More

The tour operates at some of Puerto Vallarta’s most beautiful surf spots, such as La Lancha, Litibu, and Nuevo Nayarit. La Lancha, in particular, is renowned for its gentle waves and scenic backdrop, making it a favorite for both beginners and intermediate surfers. The beaches are surrounded by lush greenery, offering a peaceful environment away from the bustling city. This setting adds a special charm to your surf outing, turning what could be a simple lesson into a full sensory experience.

Transportation and Convenience

The tour includes free pickup outside your hotel or home, provided you’re within certain geographic parameters. This saves the hassle of figuring out how to get to the beach and allows you to focus on the fun. The pickup process is straightforward—just be ready in your hotel lobby about five minutes before your scheduled time. It’s a no-fuss way to start your adventure.

What to Expect: The Lesson

Once at the beach, your experience begins with a quick introduction—covering the basics of the pop-up technique, paddling, and how to handle your surfboard. This pre-water instruction is essential and thoughtfully designed to build confidence, especially for beginners.

The instructors are actively surfing alongside you, which not only demonstrates proper technique but also keeps the energy lively. Practice on the sand helps create muscle memory and ensures you’re comfortable before hitting the water. The lesson is private, with 1-2 students per instructor, allowing for tailored feedback and a more relaxed environment.

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Equipment and Extras

Your session includes everything you need: surfboard, rash guard, and safety gear. The inclusion of a GoPro10 camera means you’ll get free photos and videos of your best waves, an excellent way to remember your achievement without having to take your own camera into the surf.

Snacks and drinks are provided—a water bottle, granola bar, and seasonal fruit—to keep your energy up in the sun. There’s also an umbrella on hand to provide shade during breaks. These thoughtful touches enhance the experience, especially on hot days.

The Scenic Value

The real magic of this tour lies in its surroundings. Surrounded by nature, with views of lush hills and the ocean, you’ll find the environment conducive to relaxation, making the lessons more enjoyable. The instructors’ passion for surfing and the area’s beauty shine through, creating an atmosphere that feels authentic and not overly commercialized.

What Past Participants Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, noting how well they tailor lessons to individual skill levels. One traveler from the US mentioned, “Kristhian and Jonathan adjusted the surf lesson to my skill level. They provided me tips on how to improve my technique.” This kind of personalized attention seems to be a hallmark of this tour.

Another reviewer from Mexico called the class “amazing” and highlighted how well it was explained and how attentive the instructors were. The inclusion of photos and videos was also a big hit, with travelers saying they now have great memories and progress to show.

Value for Money

At $105 per person for a two-hour private lesson, this package offers good value—especially considering that transportation, gear, snacks, and photos are all included. For travelers looking for a convenient, all-inclusive surf experience that doesn’t break the bank, it’s a solid choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re a beginnings or intermediate surfer eager to learn or improve, and you prefer a more personal, relaxed setting. It’s also great for travelers who want professional guidance without committing to days of lessons. Families with older children, solo travelers, or couples seeking a fun activity will all find this enjoyable.

For anyone visiting Puerto Vallarta or Nayarit and craving a taste of surfing without the fuss, this tour offers authenticity, professional instruction, and scenic beauty. You won’t just learn how to stand up on a board—you’ll get a sense of what it’s like to be a surfer in a stunning environment, surrounded by friendly guides who genuinely want you to succeed.

The quality of instruction, combined with the natural settings and thoughtful extras, makes this a worthwhile investment for those eager to experience the water’s thrill. It’s an ideal pick for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a manageable yet memorable surfing introduction.

If your goal is a relaxed, supportive, and scenic surf lesson, this tour hits all the right notes. Just bring your swimwear, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure—you’re set for a memorable day on the waves.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup outside your hotel or home within specified parameters.

What is the duration of the lesson?
The lesson lasts for 2 hours, making it a perfect quick intro or refresher.

Are gear and equipment provided?
Yes, your package includes a surfboard, rash guard, and safety gear.

Can I get photos of my surf session?
Absolutely. Free pictures and videos are taken with a GoPro10, so you can relive your best waves.

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s designed for all levels, including complete beginners.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, towel, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), and beachwear.

Are tips included?
No, tips are not included in the price, but they are appreciated if you feel the instructors did a great job.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is this a private group experience?
Yes, the lessons are conducted with private groups, typically 1-2 surfers per instructor, ensuring personalized attention.

This surf lesson tour in Puerto Vallarta and Nayarit offers an engaging, well-supported introduction to surfing with natural beauty and expert guides. Whether you’re a total newbie or looking to sharpen your skills, it’s a practical choice that balances fun, learning, and value—all in a stunning setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: