Learn to Surf in Capbreton
Dreaming of catching your first waves in Capbreton, southwest France? The Santocha Surf Club has been teaching beginners since 1975 on the best spots between Hossegor and Seignosse. Our certified instructors will guide you through the basics in a friendly atmosphere, with adapted equipment and a step-by-step approach.
Pricing
Beginner lesson prices
Group lesson
Most popularFrom
36EUR/session
50EUR single session · 36EUR with pack of 5 (180EUR)
- Duration: 2 hours
- 8 people max per group
- Equipment included
Pack of 5 sessions
Best for real progress
180EUR instead of 250EUR
- 5 x 2-hour lessons
- Progress tracking
- 28% discount
Step by step
Your first surf lesson
No need to stress! Your first lesson is designed to build confidence and get you feeling the stoke in complete safety. Here's what a typical session looks like:
Welcome and gear up
We provide your wetsuit and surfboard. Quick safety briefing and session overview.
Warm-up
Gentle exercises to get the body ready and prevent injuries.
Beach practice
Learning the key moves on the sand: lying position, paddling, and most importantly the pop-up (standing up).
Into the water
Time for the whitewater! You practise everything you learned, guided by your instructor.
Your first waves
The instructor pushes you into the waves. You focus entirely on the pop-up.
Debrief
Review of the session, areas to improve, tips for next time.
Progression
What you'll learn
Lessons 1-2: The basics
- Board positioning
- The pop-up technique
- Riding straight in the whitewater
- Safety rules
Lessons 3-5: Progression
- Paddling on your own
- Steering the board
- Reading the waves
- Right-of-way rules
Lessons 6+: Independence
- Paddling out to the line-up
- Catching green waves
- First turns and manoeuvres
- Surfing independently
Tips
Tips for a great first session
Before the lesson
- Avoid eating right before (light snack 1 hour before is fine)
- Stay well hydrated
- Apply waterproof sunscreen generously
- Arrive 15 minutes early to gear up comfortably
During the lesson
- Listen carefully to the safety briefing
- Don't get discouraged after a few wipeouts
- Look towards the horizon, not at your feet
- Have fun - that's what matters most!
Frequently asked questions about learning to surf
Is it hard to learn to surf?
Surfing takes practice, but the basics come quickly with good coaching. In your very first lesson, you'll learn to stand up on the board in the whitewater (small broken waves). Most of our students manage to pop up during their first session!
How many lessons does it take to learn to surf?
Generally, 3 to 5 lessons are enough to get the basics down: standing up, gliding straight, and starting to steer the board. To surf independently on green (unbroken) waves, count on around 10 sessions depending on your comfort in the water.
Do I need to be fit to learn to surf?
Not necessarily! A reasonable level of fitness is enough. Surfing works your balance, coordination and a bit of stamina. Our instructors adapt the exercises to your fitness level. The main requirement is being able to swim.
I'm nervous about the ocean. Can I still try?
Of course! Our instructors are experienced at coaching people who feel apprehensive. Beginner lessons take place in shallow zones with gentle whitewash waves. You progress at your own pace, in complete confidence.
What is the minimum age to start surfing?
Children can start from age 8. There's no upper age limit: we regularly welcome adults in their 40s, 50s and even 60s discovering surfing for the first time. It's never too late!
When is the best time of year to start surfing?
Summer (June to September) offers the best conditions for beginners: warmer water (20-22C), gentler and more consistent waves. But you can learn year-round in Capbreton with the right wetsuit.
What should I bring for my first lesson?
Just your swimsuit, a towel, and waterproof sunscreen. All equipment is provided: a foam surfboard designed for beginners, a neoprene wetsuit and a rash vest.
Are group lessons suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely! Our group lessons are capped at 8 people and groups are arranged by ability. True beginners are grouped together, allowing tailored coaching and steady progression.
Ready to jump in?
Book your first surf lesson and experience the thrill of catching a wave!