From Sayulita: La Lancha Surf Lesson w/ Transportation

If you’re thinking about trying surfing in Sayulita, I’d say the La Lancha surf lesson offered by Marea Sayulita could be a solid choice. It’s a tour that combines scenic drives, personalized coaching, and manageable waves—all within a manageable four-hour window. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a genuine sense of what to expect.

What I really appreciate about this experience is how it balances professional instruction with the chance to relax and enjoy the surroundings. The fact that they offer over 50 surfboards means you’re likely to find a good fit, and the scenic jungle drive to La Lancha sounds like a great way to get in the mood for some surf. One small note: some travelers have mentioned that check-in can be a bit chaotic and communication isn’t always perfect at first, so just be prepared for a laid-back, informal start. This trip seems best suited for beginners, first-timers, or intermediates who want to learn in a friendly, scenic setting.

Key Points

• Personalized surf instruction with expert guides
• Beautiful scenery with jungle views and waves suitable for all skill levels
• Flexible options with over 50 boards to choose from
• Transport included for a hassle-free trip
• Great for families and solo travelers looking for a relaxed surf adventure
• Some communication hiccups reported at check-in, so patience is key

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the La Lancha Surf Experience

Starting Point: Convenient Location and Transportation

The tour kicks off at Marea Surf School, conveniently located in Calle Pelicanos right in Sayulita, in front of Bichos Restaurant. This spot is easy to find, and they offer the essential convenience of transportation included in the package. The drive to La Lancha takes around 30 minutes—a scenic trip through lush jungle, with open-air surf cars that make the journey enjoyable. Expect to feel the wind in your hair and listen to some tunes as you head out for what promises to be a memorable day.

The Scenic Drive and Short Hike

What makes this trip stand out is the drive through the jungle, which enhances the entire experience. It’s relaxed, fun, and sets a great tone before arriving at the beach. Once you reach La Lancha, a brief 8-minute hike through mangroves leads you to the surf break. This short walk adds a bit of adventure, and the environment is refreshingly natural—perfect for those looking to combine surfing with a touch of nature.

The On-Beach Instruction

Before jumping into the waves, your guides spend about 20 minutes on the beach teaching the basics. They cover board positioning, paddling techniques, wave-reading, and safety, which is especially helpful if this is your first time or you’re still building confidence. The guides are described as knowledgeable and patient, offering personalized feedback that helps you improve at your own pace.

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Surf Session: 1.5 Hours of Hands-On Coaching

This is the core part of the experience. You get a 1.5-hour surf session with hands-on coaching from professional instructors. The focus is on guiding you through mastering the pop-up, choosing the right waves, and gaining confidence in the water. From reviews, guides are clear and supportive, ensuring everyone receives constant support and feedback.

Travelers mention that the waves are suitable for beginners and intermediates, which makes it a flexible option. The over 50+ surfboards mean you can select the best match for your size and skill level, making the whole process more comfortable and tailored.

Post-lesson Relaxation and Exploration

After your surf, you can stay on the beach to practice, relax, or explore the area. Many find La Lancha’s location stunning and enjoy the quiet, natural environment. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on your new skills before heading back.

The Return Journey

The return drive offers more scenic views, and the whole trip wraps up back in Sayulita. The scenic drive makes the whole adventure more than just a lesson—it’s an experience in itself.

Is it worth the price?

At $95 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of value. You’re getting transport, a 20-minute on-beach lesson, and a 1.5-hour guided surf session with access to a variety of boards. For beginners and intermediates looking to get their feet wet, this is a cost-effective way to learn in a beautiful setting without the hassle of organizing everything yourself.

What the Reviews Say

One review from June 2025 mentions that while the excursion was fun, the check-in process felt a little chaotic and communication at first was not very clear. They also noted that the guides sometimes changed the location without much notice, but overall had a good time. This kind of feedback suggests that while the experience is generally positive, travelers should be ready for a laid-back vibe where things might not be perfectly smooth at every step.

Who is this experience best suited for?

This tour is excellent for first-time surfers or those with some basic experience who want to improve their skills in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s also a good fit for families, solo travelers, or groups of friends looking for a fun, scenic day out. Since the tour is described as family-friendly, it could be suitable for older children who are comfortable in the water.

However, it’s important to note that the tour is not suitable for children under 5, or anyone with back problems or who isn’t a confident swimmer. Also, the focus on beginner to intermediate waves means more advanced surfers might find it too gentle.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive 15 minutes early at the surf school for check-in.
• Bring your own sunscreen, towel, snacks, and water to stay comfortable.
• Wear beachwear and bring a change of clothes.
• Leave valuables at your accommodation to avoid worries.
• Remember that alcohol and drugs are not allowed on the beach.
• The lesson is confirmed 24 hours in advance, so be flexible with your schedule.

This La Lancha surf lesson with transportation is best suited for those wanting a stress-free, scenic introduction to surfing. The expert guides, supportive coaching, and stunning surroundings make it a memorable experience, especially if you’re new to surfing or want a relaxed day by the water. The scenic drive and short hike add a sense of adventure, and the variety of surfboards ensures you can find a comfortable match.

While a few travelers have found the check-in process a touch chaotic, the overall experience seems warm and genuine. If you’re looking for a fun, beginner-friendly surf outing in Sayulita that balances learning with relaxing in nature, this tour likely fits the bill.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation to and from La Lancha beach, making it easy to focus on having fun without logistics worries.

How long is the surf lesson?
The core surf session lasts 1.5 hours, with an additional 20 minutes of on-the-beach instruction beforehand.

Can I choose my surfboard?
Absolutely. There are over 50 surfboards to pick from, so you can find one that suits your size and confidence level.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes, the experience is designed for beginners and intermediates, with personalized coaching and manageable waves.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, water, snacks, and a change of clothes. Leave valuables at your accommodation.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s described as family-friendly and suitable for older children, but not for children under 5 or those with certain health issues.

How do I confirm my booking?
Your lesson is confirmed 24 hours before via the provider, so stay flexible with your schedule.

What are the main downsides?
Some travelers mention minor check-in chaos and communication issues initially, but these don’t seem to detract much from the overall experience.

In the end, this tour offers a genuine chance to enjoy scenic views, good instruction, and the fun of surfing in a relaxed environment. If you’re after a memorable beginner surf experience in Sayulita, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: