Gran Canaria Surf Lessons: Playa del Inglés & Maspalomas

Gran Canaria Surf Lessons: Playa del Inglés & Maspalomas — An Honest Look

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or refining your surf skills in Gran Canaria, this is one tour worth considering. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice that this surf school has a solid reputation—it’s been operating since 2004, making it one of the longest-standing surf schools on the island. The fact that they’re certified instructors from the Spanish Surf Federation adds a layer of confidence that you’re in good hands.

What immediately caught our eye was the emphasis on personalized instruction and small-group lessons. Whether you’re a complete beginner or someone looking to sharpen your technique, the structured approach combined with years of experience promises a tailored experience. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup makes the entire day feel seamless—from your accommodation directly to the beach.

One thing to keep in mind is that the lesson schedule varies depending on the weather and tides, which means flexibility is key. Also, the activity is primarily suited for those who aren’t pregnant or have back issues, so it’s not ideal for everyone. This tour is perfect if you’re after a genuine surfing experience with a focus on safety, fun, and skill development—especially if you’re staying in the south of Gran Canaria.

Key Points

• Certified Instructors: All lessons are led by professionals from the Spanish Surf Federation.
• All Equipment Provided: Surfboard, wetsuit, and insurance are included, so no need to bring gear.
• Flexible & Personalized: Small groups ensure personal attention, with lessons tailored to your level.
• Optimal Surf Conditions: The team picks beaches daily based on swell, tide, and wind for the best experience.
• Duration & Timing: Expect about 4-5 hours total, with approximately 2 hours in the water.
• Customer Satisfaction: Rated 4.7/5 from 76 reviews, many praising the guides’ patience and friendly vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Our understanding of this tour is based on multiple detailed reviews and the official tour description, so here’s a look at what you can really expect.

Meeting Point & Initial Welcome

Your day begins at the surf base in Playa del Inglés, where you’ll be welcomed warmly. The instructors kick things off with a quick theory and safety briefing—a crucial step that helps set the tone and prepares you mentally for what’s ahead. Expect a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, with guides eager to answer questions and ensure everyone feels comfortable.

The Beach Selection & Conditions

One of the smart features of this surf school is their daily beach choice—they pick the best spot depending on swell, tide, and wind conditions. This means that your lesson might take place at different beaches around Maspalomas or Playa del Inglés, but that’s all part of ensuring you get the safest and most enjoyable surf experience. The beaches are known for their gentle, manageable waves—ideal for beginners but equally fun for intermediates and advanced surfers who want to refine technique.

In-Water Practice

Once in the water, your instructor stays close, offering continuous feedback and coaching. Even complete beginners get personal attention, which makes a big difference in building confidence. The water sessions last around 2 hours, with breaks for hydration and rest. Many reviews highlight how helpful the instructors are—one reviewer mentioned, “they make learning surfing easy,” praising the good mood and explanations.

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Learning & Progress

Whether it’s your first time on a surfboard or you’re looking to perfect your pop-up, the instructors tailor the lesson to your skill level. The focus is on safe, fun, and authentic surf experiences. Experienced surfers have appreciated the technical tips, while newcomers have enjoyed the patient guidance. One traveler even commented, “Our coach Victor is an amazing guide. He is professional and patient with us—absolute beginners.”

Post-Lesson & Atmosphere

After your time in the water, you’ll have moments to relax, hydrate, and soak in the surf lifestyle. The overall vibe is friendly and encouraging, which is probably why so many people leave with a big smile and a sense of achievement. Many reviews mention the good value for money, especially considering that all equipment and insurance are included, as well as hotel pickup.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour lasts approximately 4-5 hours, depending on how conditions shift and where the best surf spot is each day. Pickup is available only from the south area between 8:00 AM and 8:30 AM, so plan accordingly. The total time in the water is about 2 hours, which is quite a good span for beginners and intermediate surfers alike.

You should bring:

• Comfortable shoes and beachwear
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• Swimwear and a towel
• Camera to capture those fun moments
• Passport or ID

Luggage and pets aren’t allowed, as the focus is on your surf experience.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for beginners and intermediate surfers who want structured lessons from certified instructors in a safe environment. It’s also great for anyone staying in the south of Gran Canaria, given the hotel pick-up. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with back issues—safety always comes first.

How the Tour Has Been Appreciated

The high rating of 4.7/5 is supported by numerous reviews highlighting the knowledgeable guides and stunning views. Christoph from Austria summed it up nicely: “The guys make learning surfing easy! Good mood, perfect explanations, and much fun included.” This emphasizes the friendly, approachable vibe that guides create.

Other reviews praise the professionalism of instructors like Victor, as well as the overall value for money. Multiple travelers mentioned that the lessons are well-structured, fun, and make learning to surf accessible. The small group setting means you get plenty of personal attention, which many find crucial in building confidence in the water.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a reliable, fun, and professional surf school in Gran Canaria, this one checks many boxes. It offers personalized instruction, safe conditions, and a chance to live the surfing lifestyle in a beautiful setting. Whether you’re a complete rookie or someone wanting to polish your skills, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.

The combination of local expertise and proven professionalism makes it an excellent choice for travelers who want more than just a touristy activity—they want to genuinely learn and enjoy the waves. The fact that it’s been around since 2004 and has thousands of satisfied students supports the idea that this is a trustworthy and well-run operation.

For those staying in the south and craving a surf adventure, this tour could turn your sunny days into unforgettable memories. Just remember, flexibility with timing due to surf conditions is part of the package, but that’s also what makes each day a little different and exciting.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The lessons are designed to cater to all levels, including complete beginners, with certified instructors guiding each step.

What equipment do I need to bring?
You should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, swimwear, a towel, and a camera for capturing the moments. All necessary surf gear is provided.

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

How long is the entire activity?
The full experience lasts about 4-5 hours, with approximately 2 hours spent in the water practicing.

Where do the lessons take place?
Lessons are held at different beaches around Playa del Inglés and Maspalomas, depending on daily surf conditions.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, free pickup from hotels in the south area is included, scheduled between 8:00 and 8:30 AM.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is generally geared toward adults and older teens, especially since it involves water activities and safety considerations. Not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.

What do reviews say about the guides?
Numerous reviewers praise the guides for their professionalism, patience, and ability to make the learning process enjoyable—one called Victor “an amazing guide.”

All in all, this surf lesson in Gran Canaria offers a well-rounded experience, blending expert guidance, stunning beaches, and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s a chance to really connect with the ocean and develop a new skill in a beautiful setting—something you’ll cherish long after you leave the island.

You can check availability for your dates here: