From Corralejo: Small Group Windsurfing Class in El Cotillo

If you’re visiting the Canary Islands and craving a fun, active day on the water, this small group windsurfing lesson in El Cotillo might just be what you’re looking for. Based out of Corralejo, this experience offers a chance to learn windsurfing from seasoned instructors in a relaxed, friendly environment. Whether you’re a total newbie or have some prior experience, this tour promises a personalized approach packed with beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities to test your new skills.

What really caught our attention are the small group size—limited to just five participants—which means you won’t get lost in a crowd. Plus, the flat water lagoon in El Cotillo is ideal for beginners, offering safe and manageable conditions. However, this experience does involve transport to the lagoon, so keep in mind it’s not a quick, walk-up activity if you’re staying in Corralejo. This tour suits travelers who love a hands-on approach, enjoy learning new sports, and want to combine fun with a bit of adventure.

One point to consider is the price—at $96 per person, it’s a decent investment for a half-day of guided instruction, especially since all equipment and wetsuits are included. That said, the experience is aimed at those happy to spend about 4.5 hours on the water, which might be quite a chunk of time if you’re on a tight schedule. Though, this would be a fantastic choice for those eager to try windsurfing in a safe, manageable setting, especially if you prefer small groups and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners and those with some experience thanks to patient instruction and calm waters.
• Small groups mean you get more personalized attention from your instructor.
• The flat lagoon offers safe, easy conditions for learning, free of waves and strong currents.
• Transport and equipment are included, making it a convenient, all-in-one experience.
• The views and environment are stunning, with great photo opportunities and a relaxed vibe.
• Suitable for families, as the activity is safe for children and designed for a wide age range.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Windsurfing Tour

When you sign up for this windsurfing class, you’re in for a well-structured experience that balances learning, fun, and stunning scenery. The pickup service in Corralejo is straightforward—just look for the Gecko Windsurf School van, and you’ll be on your way. From there, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the sheltered lagoon in El Cotillo, a place renowned for its calm, shallow waters perfect for beginners.

Once you arrive, the instructor will help you get comfortable with the equipment. All gear, including wetsuits and boots, are provided, so you don’t need to bring much—just your swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. The first part of the lesson takes place on land, where you’ll learn how to set up your board and sail, giving you a solid understanding before you hit the water.

For those with some experience, the instructor might let you skip straight to the water, but beginners will appreciate the detailed, step-by-step guidance. The instructor’s patience is often highlighted in reviews; one traveler noted that the instructor was “patient and very helpful,” even as they fumbled with the basics. You’ll be encouraged to try different maneuvers, challenge yourself, and get familiar with balancing and steering.

Throughout the session, expect the instructor to keep a close eye on your progress, offering tips and encouragement. They’ll also take photos of you in action, perfect for sharing or keeping as memories. After an energetic couple of hours on the water, you’ll have time to relax, change, and then head back to Corralejo.

The Learning Environment

The key to making this experience worthwhile is the small group size. With only up to five students, each person receives tailored feedback, which accelerates learning. The flat lagoon conditions remove the worry of waves and currents, making it a safe space to practice. Participants praised how “the location was perfect for beginners,” emphasizing how the calm water and professional guidance helped them catch on quickly.

The guide’s approach is both professional and friendly. They’re fluent in several languages, including English, Spanish, Bulgarian, and Dutch, making communication smooth. Many reviews mention the instructor’s patience, noting that even those with initial struggles left feeling confident and capable.

The Equipment and Facilities

All necessary gear is provided, including wetsuits, boots, and life vests if needed. The focus on safety is clear, and the included insurance adds peace of mind. The wetsuits help keep you warm and comfortable, especially if the breeze picks up, while the boots provide grip and protection.

The equipment setup on land is designed to familiarize you with the parts of the sailboard, which helps build confidence before you venture into the water. This step-by-step approach ensures you understand what you’re doing, reducing the intimidation factor and making the learning curve manageable.

The Views and Experience on the Water

As you windsurf across the lagoon, the views are truly lovely. You’ll see the coastline of El Cotillo, with its rugged cliffs and turquoise waters, providing a beautiful backdrop for your adventure. It’s a satisfying feeling to stand on your board, balancing with the breeze in your hair, knowing you’re mastering a new skill.

The open water here is free of waves, which means you’ll feel less overwhelmed and more in control. Many reviewers appreciated how “the location was perfect for beginners,” and how the instructor “guided you step by step,” making it accessible for first-timers. The highlight for many is catching that first glide across the water, a moment of triumph that sticks with you.

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Practical Details and Tips

The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, which includes pickup, transfer, instruction, and time on the water. Starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability when booking. The price of $96 per person covers all essentials, making it a good deal considering the included gear, instruction, and transportation.

Remember to bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen to protect against the sun’s rays. If you’re bringing kids or traveling with family, this activity is suitable for children, which makes it a fun family outing.

The transportation is straightforward: a grey van with the Gecko Windsurf School logo will pick you up from your hotel in Corralejo or nearby. The pickup process is described as simple, with travelers waiting in hotel parking lots, which keeps things hassle-free.

Reviews and Feedback

Customer reviews reflect high satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 17 reviews. Travelers praise the instructors’ patience, the location’s suitability for learners, and the overall experience. One review highlighted that “communication, instructor, transportation, and equipment was spot on,” and that the location was perfect for beginners. Another noted that after just a few tries, they managed to perform respectable tacks and felt confident by the end of the session.

Several reviews mention that the instructor, Martin, was particularly helpful and that they’d happily return to improve their skills. Participants appreciated the photos taken during the session, which serve as great keepsakes of their water adventure.

This windsurfing class is an excellent fit if you’re seeking a fun, beginner-friendly activity in the Canary Islands. It’s especially suitable if you value small groups and personalized attention. The safety of the calm lagoon and professional guidance make it ideal for those new to windsurfing, while the beautiful scenery adds an extra layer of enjoyment.

Travelers who enjoy a mix of learning and outdoor adventure will find this experience rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with friends or family and want a shared activity that’s engaging but not overly physically demanding.

Final Thoughts

If you’re curious about windsurfing but worried about waves or technical difficulty, this tour offers a low-pressure, supportive environment to get started. The combination of expert instructors, tranquil lagoon waters, and scenic surroundings makes it one of the more accessible ways to test this exciting sport.

For those who want to try something new, learn a new skill, and enjoy a beautiful part of Fuerteventura, this small group windsurfing class is well worth considering. The reviews speak volumes about the friendly guidance and memorable experience, making it a solid choice for a fun day on the water.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the experience is designed for beginners, with clear land-based instruction and calm lagoon conditions that make learning easier.

What equipment is included?
All necessary gear, including a sailboard, sail, wetsuit, boots, and life vest (if needed), is provided.

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including pickup, transfer, instruction, and time on the water.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. All other gear is provided.

Can I participate if I already have some windsurfing experience?
Yes, experienced riders may be able to skip some land instructions and start on the water sooner, depending on their skill level.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 5 participants, ensuring plenty of personal attention.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Corralejo or surrounding areas are included.

Is there an age limit?
The tour is suitable for kids, though specific age restrictions aren’t provided. It’s best to check with the provider directly if traveling with young children.

What languages are instructors available in?
Instructors speak English, Spanish, Bulgarian, and Dutch, facilitating smooth communication.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

If you’re after a friendly, well-organized introduction to windsurfing with spectacular views and expert guidance, this experience offers a lot of value. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, it’s a chance to learn something new while soaking up the beauty of the Canary Islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: