Beginners: Puerto Rico
Join a group of like-minded travelers to learn to surf in Rincón, Puerto Rico’s northwestern edge.
Learn what takes people years, in 4 days. Thermal's Surfer Development Program fast tracks beginner surfers to the next level thanks to in-water coaching, photo/video analysis, and a 2:1 student-to-instructor ratio. Settle in on arrival day with the next 3 days being full surf days, with a morning session on departure day.
Learn to surf on a variety of chill waves
15 hours of in-water training and video analysis with our veteran instructors allow beginners to level up their technique. With a bunch of fun waves in the Rincón area, it is the perfect place to learn and dial in those skills.
Instruction from a Rincón regular
Coaching from a man who’s spent nearly a decade doing it at the very location you’ll be learning. Derek Rio is part surf coach, part client experience manager. When he’s not teaching beginners, he’s working with pros. He knows how to help surfers develop at any skill level and age level. This life-long surfer has been doing for over 20 years.
Surf Rincón's Sandy Beach
Rincón is the best surfing Puerto Rico has to offer. There are about seven well-known spots along the shores such as Domes, Maria’s, Tres Palmas, and Sandy Beach, catering to all skill levels. Enjoy long rides, powerful barrels, and a vibrant surf culture in this tropical paradise.
Stay poolside in a hidden gem
You’ll stay in a charming family friendly hotel a block from the beach in Puerto Rico’s secluded western coast. Rooms come complete with A/C, wifi, and pool access. Dine at the hotel’s burger bar or take as short walk to TripAdvisor-awarded Red Flamboyan.
We've got you covered
5 days / 4 nights at a poolside hotel
Daily personalized surf guiding and coaching
We’ll pick you up from the hotel every day, and you’ll have 2 surf sessions on full days and one session on arrival/departure days. We’ll also have a beach set-up with umbrellas, snacks, and cold drinks so you can relax between sessions.
Surf equipment
Onsite photographer
Airport transfers
We’ll pick you up and drop you off at Rafael Hernández International Airport (BQN), which is a 40 minute drive from the hotel. Airport pickup will be at 1pm so plan to have your flight land before 12pm. Airport drop-off will be at 12pm.
How well do I need to surf?
This trip is designed for beginner surfers. Come with zero experience or a year’s worth – if you struggle catching waves, fall off too often, or simply want to press the reset button and learn to surf the right way, this trip is for you.
How long will we surf each day?
You’ll have 2 surf sessions on full days and one session on the departure days. We’ll also have a beach set-up with umbrellas, snacks, and cold drinks so you can relax between sessions.
What’s in the beginners curriculum?
The curriculum includes understanding equipment, entering and exiting the water, board maneuverability, paddle technique, pop-up technique, reading the line-up, controlled falling, and surf etiquette.
How many surfers will be in the group?
We’ll have a maximum of 4 and a minimum of 2. We’ll maintain at least a 2:1 student-to-instructor ratio so you get the most out of the experience. Come solo or bring friends!
Why Rincón?
Puerto Rico has a range of incredible waves both in the town of Rincón and all along the north and northwest coast, earning in the knick name, “Hawaii of the Atlantic.” Trips are planned at the beginning and end of summer with perfect water temperature (72-84°F) and weather (70-80°F daily).
What airport do I fly into?
We’ll pick you up and drop you off at Rafael Hernández International Airport (BQN), which is a 40 minute drive from the hotel. Airport pickup will be at 1pm so plan to have your flight land before 12pm. Airport drop-off will be at 12pm so you’ll want your flight to depart after 1:30 pm.
I’m a solo traveler, is it safe?
Puerto is a territory of the United States and is probably safer than most cities. The people are amazing and you’re perfectly safe walking around at night visiting the different cafés, bars and restaurants.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Our team will provide all equipment, including surfboards, rash tops, and wetsuits (for those that feel the cold.) Just bring yourself and be ready to get in the water!
What’s not included?
Flights and dinner are not included. Breakfast and lunch are included (not on arrival day, breakfast only on departure day). For dinner you can explore all of the great restaurants near your hotel (we’ll have recommendations!)
Can I book a private session?
Absolutely. Contact us if you’re interested in private groups, different dates, or different accommodations.
OK, how much?
Each trip is $2,195 per person. You can cancel anytime 60 days prior to the trip’s start date for a full refund including your deposit.