Surfing in Lima can feel intimidating.

Then you get personal coaching and the right setup at Makaha Beach.

I like that the lesson is truly tailored to your level and goals, so you’re not stuck doing random “try and see” moves. I also like the optional video feedback angle, which helps you spot what to change instead of guessing.

One thing to plan for: transportation to the meeting point costs extra, and you’ll want to be comfortable swimming before you book.

5 things you’ll care about

• Makaha Beach bridge meeting point: you’ll find the guide near the staircase with boards and a wetsuit
• Private coaching for your level: you’re taught paddling, positioning, and wave riding step-by-step
• Warm-up plus dry-land simulation: you build confidence before you hit the water
• Optional video feedback: you can track improvements instead of repeating the same mistake
• Extra hour in the water if you want it: practice while it’s fresh

Makaha Beach in Miraflores: The start that sets you up to learn

If you’re nervous about surfing, I get it. The beach can look wild from shore, and the ocean has a way of making even confident people second-guess. The good part here is how the class starts: you meet at the bridge at Makaha Beach in Miraflores, a clear local landmark near the surf zone. Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll get exact details for how to recognize your instructor, and you’ll usually spot them by the wetsuit plus surfboards near the staircase to the beach.

This matters because it reduces the first stress. You’re not wandering the coastline trying to figure out where to check in. You’re also not showing up cold and unprepared, because they build in fitting and warm-up time right away.

You should arrive about 15 minutes early for check-in and equipment fitting, since the best lessons run on smooth timing.

The lesson format: Private coaching, 90 minutes to up to 3 hours

You’re looking at a 90-minute private surf lesson that can run up to 3 hours depending on scheduling and how the day flows. The key word is private. You get focused instruction instead of being one of many people trying to catch the same wave at once.

You’ll be guided through the core skills that make progress actually happen:

• paddling mechanics (how to move efficiently without wasting energy)
• positioning (where to be when waves approach)
• wave riding (how to get up and stay stable)

Even if you’re brand new, you’re not just thrown into the deep end of effort. They run a gentle warm-up and dry-land practice so your body understands what you’re supposed to do before the ocean asks you to do it for real.

And if you’re not brand new, you still benefit from the coaching approach. Intermediate surfers often need a reset on technique details like timing, stance, and how you enter and line up for waves. A tailored lesson can be the shortcut that many people skip.

Gear included: Surfboard and wetsuit that match your needs

This class includes surfboard and wetsuit rental, which is a big deal when you’re trying a new sport and don’t want to buy gear on day one. The wetsuit choice matters because it affects comfort and endurance. If you’re cold, your technique goes downhill fast.

You’ll also get secure storage for your personal belongings. That’s practical and calming, especially if you’re bringing a small bag or switching from city clothes into swimwear.

If you want extra protection, you can request protective surf boots and a lifesaver vest, but they cost extra. That can be worth it depending on water conditions and how you feel about rocks and footing.

What this means for you: you can show up with swimwear, towel, and sunscreen, and focus on learning instead of logistics.

Warm-up, stretching, and dry-land moves that build confidence

Before you get tossed into the surf, you’ll start with a warm-up plus stretching and a dry-land simulation. This isn’t just a formality. It helps your brain connect the dots between “what the instructor wants” and “what your body can do.”

Dry-land practice is especially helpful for beginners because surfing skills are physical and timing-based. When you first try to paddle or stand up on the board, it’s not only about strength. It’s also about balance, posture, and sequencing. Getting the sequence right on land gives you a cleaner first shot in the water.

There’s also an optional surf-focused stretching or yoga component mentioned as a way to improve flexibility and reduce injury risk. If you tend to get stiff or you’re coming from a long travel day, that’s a nice bonus.

Bring a towel and be ready to move. You’ll likely go from dry-land drills to ocean action quickly.

Paddling, positioning, and wave riding: What you’ll learn step-by-step

The lesson is built around three big outcomes: paddling, positioning, and wave riding.

Paddling

You’ll get coached on how to paddle so you’re not burning energy fighting the water. Good paddling is about rhythm and direction, not just strength. For beginners, this is often where confidence is either made or lost, since early efforts can feel awkward.

Positioning

Once you can paddle, the next jump is knowing where to be relative to incoming waves. Positioning is about reading the set, choosing timing, and setting yourself up so you’re not constantly scrambling at the last second.

Wave riding

When it’s time to try riding, the instructor guides you through the moment that scares most first-timers: getting up and staying stable. With one-on-one guidance, you can correct your stance and timing on the fly instead of learning through trial and wipeout after wipeout.

This is where the private format pays off. You’re not waiting your turn for the instructor to notice what’s going wrong.

Optional video feedback: How you improve faster

One of the smartest parts of this surf class is the option for video feedback. Even without having any film-editing skills, the concept is simple: you can compare what you did against what you should be doing.

For most beginners, the hard part isn’t effort. It’s feedback. You feel like you’re doing something, but you can’t see your body angle, your timing, or your posture. Video helps make invisible details visible.

In the class setup, this is offered as a way to track progress and tighten technique. If you’re the type who likes to understand the why, video feedback turns the lesson into something you can actually work on afterward.

Also, photos and videos of the session are available for an additional fee. If you want keepsakes, ask what’s possible and what costs extra.

Extra practice time: Use it or don’t

After your main lesson, you can stay for an optional extra hour in the water. This is a great option if:

• you’re already comfortable in the ocean and want more reps
• you learn best by repeating a skill right away
• you can feel momentum building and want to capitalize on it

If you’re tired, still sore, or you’re visiting Lima on a tight schedule, you can skip it. The core learning happens in the coached session.

Either way, you’ll also get local tips related to surf culture, safety, and ocean conservation, so you’re not just learning tricks. You’re learning how people treat the ocean and other surfers.

Safety and comfort: Certified instructors and clear rules

The class is described as safe and beginner-friendly with certified instructors, and that shows up in the way it’s structured. You warm up, you do dry-land practice, you get one-on-one help, and you follow safety guidance before you go all-in on waves.

You do need to be in good physical health and able to swim. If you have any medical concerns, it’s smart to consult your doctor before booking.

There are also clear behavior rules:

• no alcohol or drugs
• no glass objects
• no fireworks or explosive substances

Those rules are typical for ocean activities, but they’re worth noting because they affect how safely the session stays organized.

Who should book this class (and who should skip)

This is a strong match for beginners who want a low-pressure path into surfing, especially if you want someone watching your technique closely. It’s also useful for intermediate surfers who want a structured tune-up.

It’s not suitable for:

• children under 3
• pregnant women
• people over 95

And you should think twice if you’re not comfortable swimming or you’re dealing with a health condition that affects balance, stamina, or cold-water tolerance.

Language options are English, German, and Spanish, which is helpful if you’d rather ask questions in your own language.

Price and value: Why $10 is the hook

At $10 per person, this is priced for real value, especially since it includes private coaching plus surfboard and wetsuit rental. For many surf classes, the hidden costs pile up fast: equipment rental, guide time, and sometimes extra coaching upgrades. Here, the core package covers the basics you need to learn.

Two cautions for value:

• transportation is extra, so plan for that if you’re not already close to Miraflores
• optional gear like lifesaver vests and protective boots may add cost if you request them

There are also optional extras: video/photos cost extra, and leaving pets with a caretaker has an additional charge. If you need those things, factor them in so the final bill matches your expectations.

If you’re visiting Lima and you want one activity that gives you something tangible, you’ll likely feel this lesson was worth it. You go in a beginner or a rusty surfer, and you come out with real technique feedback and a new connection to the local surf scene.

Local vibe in the water: More than just standing up

Surfing isn’t only about balance. It’s about learning the relationship between people, waves, and environment.

This class includes tips on local surf culture plus ocean conservation. That sounds like a nice add-on, but it matters. When you understand why locals treat the water a certain way, you blend in faster and you surf more responsibly.

The vibe can also be guided by the instructor’s teaching style. In past sessions, instructors like Denis and Nicolas have been praised for being patient and encouraging, especially for first-timers who want a calm, supportive pace. That kind of coaching makes a big difference when you’re learning something new with your hands, feet, and nerves all involved.

Should you book it?

Yes, you should book this surf class if you want:

• beginner-friendly instruction with certified coaching
• equipment included so you can start fast
• a lesson format that focuses on paddling, positioning, and wave riding
• the option for video feedback and extra practice time

You might want to reconsider if you know you won’t be able to swim comfortably, you need transportation included in the price, or you’re looking for a lesson with boots and a lifesaver vest already included.

If you’re in Miraflores and you want a practical first step into surfing at an unusually friendly price, this is one of the most sensible ways to spend a morning or afternoon on the coast.

FAQ

Where do I meet for the surf class?

You meet at the bridge at Makaha Beach in Miraflores. After booking, you’ll receive exact details on how to recognize your instructor, who is typically wearing a wetsuit and carrying surfboards near the staircase.

How long is the lesson?

The experience runs for 90 minutes to up to 3 hours. Check availability for starting times.

Is equipment included?

Yes. The class includes a surfboard and a wetsuit rental, plus warm-up, stretching, and dry-land training.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Yes. You should be in good physical health and able to swim.

Is transportation included?

Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, and options can be arranged for an extra cost.

Is the class private or group-based?

Private lessons run regardless of group size, as long as they’re booked in advance. Group sessions require a minimum of 4 participants.

Do I get video feedback?

There is an option for video feedback to track your improvement. Photos and videos of your session are available for an additional fee.

Are lifesaver vests or protective surf boots included?

Lifesaver vests and protective boots for the rocks are available upon request for an additional fee.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and water.

Who isn’t this class suitable for?

It isn’t suitable for children under 3 years, pregnant women, and people over 95 years.