From Sayulita: Private Surf Lesson at La Lancha Beach

If you’re looking to get your feet wet in surfing while visiting the Sayulita area, this private surf lesson at La Lancha could be just what you need. Whether you’re a total newbie or someone wanting to sharpen your skills, the combination of personalized instruction, top-notch gear, and gorgeous scenery makes this experience appealing.

What really caught our eye is the dedicated instruction with certified instructors and the chance to surf in warm water with fun waves, all in a setting that’s both scenic and manageable for beginners. Plus, the included transportation makes it easier to focus on riding waves rather than navigating logistics.

That said, a note of caution—some reviews suggest the overall time on the water can be shorter than expected, which can feel a bit rushed for those hoping for a full, relaxing surf session. This tour generally suits travelers who want a quality, guided introduction to surfing without a huge time commitment, especially if they appreciate having gear and transport included.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, beginner-friendly surf experience that balances professional instruction with fun, this private lesson is worth considering. Just go in with realistic expectations about the time on the water, and you’ll likely leave with a new skill—and some great photos.

Key Points

• Personalized instruction tailored to your skill level, ideal for beginners and those looking to improve.
• High-quality gear provided, including rash guards, surf booties, and wetsuits in winter.
• Convenient transportation from Sayulita to La Lancha saves stress and time.
• Beautiful setting with soft sands and turquoise waters—perfect for relaxing and photographing.
• Specialized guidance from ISA-certified instructors with proven experience.
• Shorter typical surf time (about an hour of actual riding), so set your expectations accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re considering this tour, you’ll want to know what it really involves. Starting in Sayulita, you meet at the surf shop where your instructor and gear await. Transportation is smooth, with air-conditioning helping you stay comfortable during the short 25-minute drive to La Lancha in Punta Mita. The ride itself offers a glimpse into the lush surroundings, and you’ll arrive at a beach that looks postcard-perfect—soft sands, gentle waves, and clear waters.

The standout feature here is the dedicated instruction, which is tailored to your level. Whether you’re trying surfing for the first time or you’re hoping to improve your technique, the ISA-certified instructors are equipped to help. They’ll guide you through the basics on the sand, help you pick the right board from over 300 options, and then lead you into the water.

We loved the way the experience balances professionalism with a relaxed vibe. The gear — rash guards, surf booties, and wetsuits — makes sure you’re comfortable and protected, especially in cooler months. The instructors are attentive, patient, and clearly experienced, which makes a difference whether you’re on your first wave or just trying to tweak your stance.

Once in the water, you’ll be riding “mellow waves” perfect for beginners. The actual time spent surfing might be around an hour—some reviews mention that the 2-hour lesson can feel quite brief, especially if you’re eager to spend more time catching waves. Still, the quality of instruction and the beautiful environment more than make up for the shorter session.

After your surf, you’ll head back through the jungle to rinse off at the shop, which offers fresh water showers, Wi-Fi, toilets, towels, and secure storage. This adds a lot of convenience to the experience, letting you clean up before heading back to Sayulita or your accommodation.

Pricing-wise, $98 per person for a private lesson feels fair given the quality instruction, gear, and transport included. It’s a good value, especially if you’re new to surfing and want a guided introduction without the hassle of renting gear or figuring out transportation on your own.

The Reviews: What Others Say

One traveler from the U.S. mentioned feeling somewhat misled because the “2-hour private lesson” turned out to be shorter than expected, with actual surfing less than an hour. They described the lesson as “perfunctory,” comparable to a group class rather than a true private session. That’s worth considering if you’re expecting a lengthy, intensive lesson.

However, another guest from the U.S. said, “fun day, great drivers and great instructors,” highlighting the professionalism and friendliness of the team. Many also appreciated the stunning views and how the setting made the experience memorable.

This variety in reviews suggests that while the core experience is solid, some may find the session length a bit brief, especially if they’re hoping for extended time on the water. Managing expectations around session duration can help ensure satisfaction.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Scenic Location

La Lancha is a gorgeous beach—long stretches of soft sand with turquoise waters. It’s less crowded than Sayulita itself, giving you more space to focus and enjoy the surf. The jungle walk to get there adds an adventurous touch, and the natural beauty is an extra perk.

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The Professional Guidance

The ISA-certified instructors bring real expertise to the lesson. We loved the way they adapted to different skill levels, ensuring beginners felt comfortable while still providing valuable tips for those who already had some surfing experience.

The Convenience

From pickup in Sayulita to the rinse-off after surfing, everything is organized to keep things simple. The air-conditioned transfer is a nice touch, especially helpful if you’re coming from the heat of town.

The Gear

Having top-quality equipment included means you don’t have to worry about renting or bringing your own. Surfboard options are plentiful, giving you the chance to choose the right one for your size and style.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want an introduction to surfing in a safe, beautiful environment. It’s particularly good for beginners or those wanting a refresher, thanks to the personalized instruction. If you’re expecting a long, intensive session, just be aware that the actual riding time might be around an hour.

It’s also ideal for those who value convenience: gear, transportation, and guidance are all included. If you’re comfortable with a walk through the jungle and short ride, this experience fits well with a laid-back, nature-focused trip.

However, if you’re an advanced surfer seeking lengthy, unstructured waves, this probably isn’t the right fit. Also, since it involves a short walk through the jungle with a surfboard, it might not be suitable for very young children or pregnant women.

Final Thoughts

This private surf lesson at La Lancha offers an attractive combination of professional instruction, stunning scenery, and hassle-free logistics. It’s a solid choice for beginners and those wanting to build confidence in the water, especially if you appreciate a guided, all-in-one package.

While some may find the actual time riding waves is a bit shorter than the total lesson time, the quality of the environment and instruction more than compensate. The included gear and transportation make it a straightforward option for travelers wanting to focus on the fun part—learning to surf.

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic, beginner-friendly surf experience that packs a lot of value and convenience, this tour should definitely be on your list. Just keep your expectations in check about the length of your surf time, and you’ll likely leave with a smile—and maybe a new hobby.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll be picked up at a location in Sayulita and transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to La Lancha. You can also meet directly at the shop in Punta Mita.

What should I bring?
Just swimwear is needed—gear and towels are provided. Remember to bring some sunscreen, and if it’s winter, the wetsuit, neoprene top, and surf booties are included.

How long is the entire activity?
The full experience lasts about 4 hours, with roughly an hour of actual surfing time. The drive from Sayulita to La Lancha is around 25 minutes.

Are the lessons suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 5 years or pregnant women, mainly because of the walk through the jungle and the nature of the activity.

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

Is this a group or private experience?
It’s a private lesson, which means personalized guidance tailored to your skill level.

What if I’m a beginner?
This experience is particularly well-suited for beginners, with lessons designed to help you catch your first waves or improve your basic skills.

What’s the quality of the surf equipment?
You’ll be using top-quality surfboards from a selection of over 300 options, along with rash guards, surf booties, and wetsuits in winter.

Is La Lancha a good surf spot?
Yes, La Lancha offers mellow, manageable waves perfect for beginners, with beautiful surroundings making it a pleasant environment to learn.

If you’re after a memorable, scenic, and beginner-friendly surfing experience with reliable guides, this private lesson at La Lancha could be just what you need. It’s all about setting you up for success—on the waves and in your adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: