Surfing on the north of the bay

If you’re dreaming of catching your first wave or refining your surf skills in a friendly, scenic setting, the Surfing on the North of the Bay tour in Jalisco, Mexico, might just be what you’re looking for. Offered by Vallarta SUP Adventure, this experience combines practical instruction with breathtaking views, all wrapped into a flexible, private group package.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it promises a comprehensive introduction to surfing, perfect for beginners but also adaptable for intermediates. Second, the stunning location near Puerto Vallarta offers some of the best waves in the area. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer to the meeting point.

If you’re someone who enjoys a personalized coaching style in a scenic environment, this tour suits travelers eager to learn, relax, and get a taste of the Pacific surf without feeling overwhelmed. Now, let’s explore what this experience offers in detail.

This experience made our article of 15 Top Tours & Things To Do In Nuevo Vallarta (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Beginner-friendly: Detailed beach lesson prepares newcomers for their first waves.
• Flexible for different levels: Ask for advanced spots if you’re experienced.
• All essentials included: Water, sun protection, and a shaded umbrella.
• No ride included: Hotel transfers are not part of the package.
• Private group: Ensures personalized attention.
• Stunning local surf spots: Near Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Basics of the Experience

This tour is centered around learning to surf in one of the area’s top beginner beaches. It lasts approximately 1.5 to 4.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your holiday plans. The experience is structured to first give you a 25-minute lesson on the beach, where trained instructors teach the basics—how to paddle, sit on the board, and catch a wave. You then move into about two hours of in-water practice with your instructor, making sure you get plenty of time to put your new skills into action.

Pricing is set at $71 per person, a reasonable rate considering it includes both the beach instruction and the water lesson, plus essentials like an umbrella and bottled water. For solo travelers or small groups, the private setting enhances the learning experience, allowing instructors to tailor advice to your level.

The Location and Its Appeal

The meeting point is Nuevo Nayarit (Nuevo Vallarta) Public Beach, an accessible and popular spot that offers excellent waves for beginners. The local surf conditions are generally favorable for learning, and the area boasts some of the best surf near Puerto Vallarta and Riviera Nayarit.

The tour emphasizes surf spots suitable for intermediate and advanced surfers as well—so if you’re more experienced, simply ask your instructor for the best location for your skill level. Keep in mind that some advanced spots require a short walk through jungle terrain, about 10 to 15 minutes, which adds a layer of adventure but also a bit of physical effort.

Surfing Lessons: What to Expect

The initial beach lesson lasts about a quarter of an hour, but it’s packed with essential info—how to position yourself, paddle techniques, and safety tips. This quick prep is designed to help you feel confident before entering the water.

During the two-hour water session, you’ll be in the surf with your instructor right there beside you, guiding you as you attempt to catch your first wave. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and their ability to make beginners feel comfortable. One guest from Canada noted, “The lesson was thorough, fun, and challenging,” which speaks to the quality of instruction.

What makes this stand out? The instructor’s approach, patience, and the chance to actually surf rather than just watch others. A key review mentions the post-lesson photos, which turned out to be “amazing,” allowing you to remember your first surf experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes everything you need for a comfortable, safe lesson: a beach lesson, 2 hours in the water, an umbrella for shade, and bottled water. These details show the provider’s attention to comfort and hydration, essential for a fun day in the sun.

However, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll have to organize your own transportation to the meeting point. This might be a minor inconvenience but also an opportunity to explore the local area beforehand.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for beginners and those curious about surfing who want professional guidance in a safe setting. It’s also good for travelers who enjoy scenic surroundings and want a flexible schedule, since the duration can be up to 4.5 hours.

If you’re intermediate or advanced, you can still join—just ask for the best surf spot for your level. Keep in mind, some spots require a short walk, so be prepared for a bit of jungle trekking if you choose a more challenging location.

Pregnant women, unfortunately, are advised not to participate due to the physical nature of surfing.

Why It’s Worth Considering

We loved the way the tour balances instruction and fun—you get enough coaching to surf confidently, but enough free time to enjoy the waves. The stunning views of the Pacific coast add a memorable backdrop to your lesson, making it more than just a workout; it’s an experience.

The private group setting means personalized attention, which can significantly boost your confidence on the board. Plus, the expert guides receiving praise for their knowledge and kindness show that safety and enjoyment are priorities.

The value for the price is solid, especially considering how inclusive the package is (lesson, water, shade, photos). If you’re short on time but want a meaningful introduction to surfing, this tour hits the mark.

The Itinerary in Detail

Your day begins at the Nuevo Nayarit Public Beach, where your instructor greets you and provides a quick safety briefing. The beach setting is ideal—flat, sandy, with gentle waves perfect for learning.

The initial beach lesson is lively and focused; instructors demonstrate paddling technique and explain wave dynamics. Their approachable manner makes it easy to ask questions, and many reviews mention how much they appreciated the personalized coaching.

Once ready, you head into the water, equipped with your board. The instructor remains close, providing real-time feedback as you try to stand up and ride your first wave. The 2-hour water session is a highlight, filled with moments of breakthrough and plenty of laughs. Some lucky participants even manage to surf a few waves solo, which is a huge confidence booster.

Afterward, there’s time for photos and relaxing under the umbrella, enjoying the stunning views of the coastline. Bottled water helps you stay hydrated, crucial after your exertions.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen—the sun can be intense.
• Consider wearing a rash guard or shirt, especially if you’re a beginner, to prevent chafing.
• Arrive prepared to walk a short distance if you choose a more advanced spot.
• Remember, no hotel transfers are included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• The tour is conducted in English, French, and Spanish, making it accessible for diverse travelers.

The Sum Up

Surfing on the North of the Bay offers a well-rounded, authentic introduction to surfing in a beautiful setting. Its focus on beginner-friendly instruction, combined with the chance to surf some of the area’s best waves, makes it a terrific choice for first-timers eager to get their feet wet.

For those with some surfing experience, the option to ask for more challenging spots adds flexibility. The private group format ensures everyone receives personal attention, and the overall value is high when you consider the inclusions and the stunning location.

While transportation isn’t included, the tour’s meeting point is convenient, and the total experience delivers a good balance of practical learning, scenic beauty, and fun. If you’re seeking a memorable, confidence-building surf lesson in Puerto Vallarta or Riviera Nayarit, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Nuevo Nayarit Public Beach.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts between 1.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on the specific schedule and your level of participation.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the beach lesson, a 2-hour water session, an umbrella for shade, and bottled water. Photos taken afterward are also included.

Can I ask for a more advanced surf spot?
Yes, if you’re an intermediate or advanced surfer, ask the instructor for the best spot suited to your skill level.

Is this suitable for children or pregnant women?
Pregnant women are not advised to participate. For children, it depends on age and swimming ability; it’s best to check with the provider directly.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, and possibly a rash guard or shirt for sun protection and comfort.

What language is the instruction in?
Instructors communicate in English, French, and Spanish, catering to a diverse group of travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby