Tenerife: Surfing Lesson for All Levels, Photos included

If you’ve ever looked at the waves on Tenerife’s Playa de las Américas and thought, “Hey, I’d love to try surfing,” then this tour might be just what you need. We’ve seen plenty of surf schools and lessons, but this one stands out for its friendly vibe, excellent reviews, and a good balance of instruction and fun. Whether you’re completely new to surfing or want to improve your technique, this 2-hour group lesson promises a safe, personalized experience with photos to remember it by.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is—beginners can feel comfortable from the start, thanks to the knowledgeable instructors and all the gear provided. Plus, the inclusion of photos is a real bonus, helping you capture your first waves without having to worry about snapping pictures yourself. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the activity doesn’t include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation to the meeting point.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, guided introduction to surfing in Tenerife’s stunning southern beaches. It’s also a good pick for those looking for a straightforward, no-fuss activity that blends adventure with safety, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family who are keen to try something new.

Key Points

• All Levels Welcome: Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, the instructors tailor the lesson to suit your experience.
• Excellent Reviews: With a 4.9/5 rating from nearly 1,000 reviews, it’s clear most participants leave happy.
• Photos Included: You get professional pictures of your time in the water, a great souvenir.
• Convenient Location: The surf school is just 30 meters from Playa de las Américas, making it easy to find and access.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants, so you get more personalized attention.
• Cost-Effective: The price includes gear, instruction, photos, snacks, and a shower—offering good value for a fun ocean experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from Your Tenerife Surf Lesson

When you arrive at Shaka Surf Tenerife, just a short walk from the waves, you’ll be greeted and fitted out with all the gear—wetsuit, water shoes, and Lycra—all included in the price. The setup is designed to make sure you’re comfortable and prepared before heading into the water.

The lesson kicks off with a quick theory session—roughly 20 minutes—where your instructor introduces you to the essentials of surfing: paddling, taking off, positioning, and safety tips. Don’t worry if you’re new; the explanation is clear, and the instructors are skilled at tailoring the information to your level. Many reviews praise the clarity and patience of the guides, with one noting, “Kaja was such a kind and patient instructor! She explained everything clearly and made the whole surfing experience so enjoyable.”

After the theoretical part, there’s a warm-up to get your muscles ready. Then, it’s time to hit the water. The instructors will be right there with you, offering hands-on guidance, encouragement, and safety checks. You’ll be encouraged to communicate what you want to learn, whether it’s catching your first wave or improving your stance.

Waves and conditions are unpredictable, and that’s something everyone understands; a common theme in reviews is that the instructors can’t control the sea, but they do everything to maximize the fun and safety. Many participants mention that despite waves not always being perfect, they still managed to catch some and had a blast. One reviewer said, “Waves weren’t the best but the instructors can’t control the sea. Overall a great experience.”

Post-session, you’re invited to shower, enjoy a complimentary snack and water, and then head back home with photos capturing your surf adventure. These photos are a wonderful way to remember your first (or improved) surf experience without having to take out your phone in the water.

The Value of This Surfing Lesson

The package includes everything you need: a surfboard, wetsuit, water shoes, Lycra, a 20-minute theoretical intro, and the guidance of certified instructors. The fact that the small group is limited to just six people means you get personalized feedback and attention, which many reviewers highlight as a major plus. The friendly and professional staff make sure everyone feels comfortable, regardless of their experience level.

Participants rave about how much they learned and how quickly they could stand up on the board. As one reviewer enthusiastically put it, “Instructors were very friendly and super helpful. First time experience was a breeze with this company and I cannot recommend them highly enough.”

The cost might seem modest for a comprehensive lesson that includes photos, snacks, and gear. Many reviewers agree it’s good value, especially considering the quality of instruction and the safety measures in place.

Who Is This Surf Lesson Best For?

This experience is best suited to beginners and intermediate surfers who want a relaxed, safe environment to get on the water. It’s particularly good if you’re traveling in a small group or with friends who want to try surfing together. It’s also family-friendly, with many reviews mentioning kids and even a 10-year-old learning to surf, thanks to the attentive instructors.

However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or non-swimmers, based on the safety considerations of being in the ocean. It’s also worth noting that you need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point, as hotel pickup isn’t included.

The Experience in Detail: A Step-by-Step Look

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Meeting and Gear Up

At the designated Shaka Surf Tenerife location, you’ll meet your instructor about 15 minutes early—it’s good to arrive a little ahead so you’re not rushed. The team is welcoming and ready with all the equipment, which eliminates any worries about gear. You’ll be given a wetsuit, Lycra, and water shoes—important for comfort and safety, especially if you’re new to the water.

Learning the Basics

The theory part is designed to ensure you understand the fundamentals without feeling overwhelmed. Many reviewers have commented on how well-explained the instructions are, with some mentioning that the lessons are in several languages, including English, Spanish, and German. This part is crucial because it helps you feel more confident before entering the sea.

Warm-up and Water Time

After warming up, the real fun begins. Your instructor will take you into the water, possibly just 30 meters from the shore. The goal is to learn how to paddle, position yourself, and catch waves safely. You’ll receive personalized tips, encouragement, and safety checks.

Many reviews highlight how quickly beginners start catching waves. One reviewer said, “Within 15 minutes, all of us were able to do it by ourselves,” which is a testament to the effective coaching.

Photos and Aftercare

Once you’ve caught some waves and had fun in the water, you’ll return for a shower and enjoy some snacks and water. The photos, taken during the session, are included in the price and serve as a fun reminder of your surfing adventure. Several reviews rave about the quality of the photos and how they make for great souvenirs.

Price and Overall Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the package includes gear, instruction, photos, snacks, and shower facilities. This comprehensive offering ensures you’re not paying extra for equipment or basic amenities, which often happens with other tours. Many happy guests have remarked on the good value for such a well-rounded experience.

Given the high ratings—4.9 out of 5 from 918 reviews—and the detailed attention from instructors, it’s clear that most participants feel they received more than their money’s worth.

Final Thoughts: Is This Surf Lesson Right for You?

If you’re a first-timer eager to get a taste of surfing in a safe and friendly environment, this tour probably ticks all the boxes. The small group setup means personalized attention, and the inclusion of photos plus snacks makes it a complete experience. The instructors’ patience and clear communication help demystify surfing, making it accessible even for complete novices.

Travelers who appreciate good value and a hands-on approach will find this lesson rewarding. It’s perfect if you want a memorable experience in Tenerife that combines learning, fun, and a touch of adventure. Just remember, you’ll need to arrange your own transport to the meeting point, and it’s not suitable if you’re pregnant or not comfortable in the water.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own equipment? No, all the gear—including a surfboard, wetsuit, water shoes, and Lycra—is provided.

Is the lesson suitable for complete beginners? Yes, the lesson is designed to cater to all levels, especially beginners, with plenty of personalized guidance.

How long is the session? The lesson lasts approximately 2 hours, with a 20-minute theoretical introduction.

Are photos included? Yes, professional photos of your time in the water are part of the package.

Is hotel pickup available? No, transportation to the meeting point isn’t included, so plan your own way there.

What languages are available for instruction? The guides speak several languages, including Italian, English, Spanish, German, French, Slovenian, and Croatian.

Can I do the activity if I don’t swim well? It’s not suitable for non-swimmers, as safety is a priority.

Is it safe for children? Many reviews mention kids enjoying the experience, but this activity is best for children who can swim and are comfortable in the water.

What should I wear? Bring swimwear and a towel.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This surfing lesson in Tenerife offers a genuine shot at catching your first wave, guided by friendly, professional instructors in a fun, relaxed setting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, it’s a memorable way to connect with the ocean and create some great stories—photos included.

You can check availability for your dates here: