Ulap Surf

Ulap Surf: The Perfect Intro to Surfing on Siargao

If you’ve ever dreamed of riding your first wave in a tropical paradise, Ulap Surf on Siargao Island might just be your best shot. This highly-rated beginner surf experience offers more than just the basics—it’s a full package that combines expert guidance, top-quality gear, and memories to take home. With a perfect 5-star rating from eight reviews, Ulap Surf clearly hits the mark for first-timers and those eager to improve their skills.

What really draws us in is their focus on building confidence and understanding rather than just pushing you into the water. The fact that they include a personal photographer is a bonus, giving you stunning photos and videos to show off your progress. One potential consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to organize your own ride to the meeting point. Still, for those seeking an authentic, well-structured, and fun introduction to surfing, this tour is a top contender—especially suited for travelers who value guidance from knowledgeable instructors and personalized attention.

Key Points

• Personalized Instruction: Private surf lessons with expert guides speed up learning and build confidence.
• All-Inclusive Experience: Longboard rental, photos, videos, and a safety guide are part of the package.
• Prime Location: Lessons at Cloud 9, Siargao’s most iconic surf break, ensure memorable surroundings.
• High-Quality Guidance: Instructors like Ana Mae and Loloy are praised for their expertise and friendly approach.
• Suitable for Beginners: The stable, 9-foot longboard makes starting easier and safer.
• Value for Money: At $105, you get a comprehensive, well-organized experience that many reviewers consider worth every peso.

An In-Depth Look at Ulap Surf

If you think surfing is just about standing on a board and riding a wave, Ulap Surf offers a much richer picture. Their two-hour experience is designed to give you a step-by-step introduction, ensuring you learn not only how to ride but also how to understand the ocean’s rhythm. The process begins with a straightforward briefing—just 10 minutes—to cover safety, the surf area, and what to expect. This quick orientation keeps the session focused and avoids information overload.

What makes this tour stand out is the dedication to teaching proper technique from the ground up. The instructors emphasize fundamentals like popping up, foot placement, and balance. You’ll warm up on the beach, then spend around 90 minutes in the water, with guides right beside you, coaching wave after wave. Many reviews highlight this aspect, with one reviewer noting, “Ana Mae of Ulap Siyam is definitely the best to go to if you’re looking to learn about basic surfing techniques—from paddling and pop-up to maneuver and speed. And of course, safety.”

The longboard provided is specifically chosen for beginners—its stability and size make it easier to catch waves and reduce frustration. This isn’t about racing ahead; it’s about building a solid foundation so you can surf confidently in the future. The guides, including Ana Mae, Loloy, and their team, are appreciated not just for their technical expertise but also for their friendly, approachable manner—a key factor in making beginners feel comfortable.

The post-surf review is another part of what makes this experience valuable. You get to see your footage, analyze your technique, and get personalized tips on what to improve. One reviewer shared, “Her video analysis is what really changed the game for me,” highlighting how this close feedback elevates the learning process beyond just riding waves.

What You Get and What You Need to Arrange

The package includes the use of a soft-top surfboard, guide services, a beginners course certificate, a safety guide via Google Slides, and the all-important photos and videos of your surf session. These extras add a lot of value, especially the photo and video keepsakes, which are often mentioned as highlights in reviews. They allow you to relive the experience and share your progress with friends.

One thing to note is that private transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to organize your own way to the meeting point at Cloud 9, situated in the General Luna area. The tour runs daily from early morning (6:00 AM) to late afternoon (3:30 PM), giving you plenty of flexibility to slot it into your schedule.

The meeting point is conveniently in the popular Cloud 9 surfing area, meaning you’re already in the heart of Siargao’s surf scene. The fact that the activity is private means your group gets undivided attention—ideal for those who prefer tailored coaching over larger, less personalized classes.

The Experience Itself: From Beach to Wave

Once you arrive, the briefing sets the tone—clear, to the point, and focused on safety. This no-nonsense approach is appreciated by reviewers who value professionalism. After a quick warm-up, you’ll learn how to pop up on land. Some reviewers, like the one who raved, “I was riding waves like a pro,” credit this initial technique drill for their quick progress.

Then, it’s into the water. The instructors—Ana Mae and Loloy—are praised for their knowledge and patience. You’ll find that they tailor their coaching to your pace, constantly encouraging and correcting. Many comments highlight how progress feels tangible after just a few waves, with one reviewer saying, “You see progress. You feel it.”

The photos and videos taken during the session are a real plus. Seeing yourself in action helps understand what to improve, making the lessons more effective. Reviewers mention how Ana Mae’s video analysis was a game-changer, breaking down their technique and giving clear pointers.

In the final review segment, you’ll get to see your footage with your instructor, which helps reinforce what you’ve learned and inspires confidence. This kind of personalized feedback is not always available at beginner surf lessons, and it’s one reason why so many feel they’ve truly grown as surfers by the end.

Why This Surf Tour Delivers Great Value

At $105 per person, considering the personalized coaching, professional guidance, quality gear, and memorable photos, Ulap Surf offers exceptional value. Many reviews reflect this sentiment, noting the level of professionalism and tailored instruction makes the price worthwhile. You’re not just paying for a lesson—you’re investing in a confidence-building experience that can serve as a foundation for future surfing adventures.

The attention to safety and the focus on fundamental skills means you’re learning correct techniques from the start, reducing bad habits later on. This is especially important for beginners wanting to progress quickly and safely.

On top of that, the location at Cloud 9 means you’ll get to surf at one of Siargao’s most famous breaks. While the lesson is designed for beginners, you’ll also enjoy stunning views and the vibrant surf culture that makes Siargao such a celebrated destination.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour is ideal for first-time surfers or those who want to refine their basic skills with expert guidance. It’s perfect if you prefer private lessons over group classes, especially for those who feel a bit nervous about trying surfing for the first time.

Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find the session manageable, as it involves some paddling and balance work, but nothing too strenuous. If you’re after a relaxed, structured, and highly supportive learning environment, this is a superb choice.

Solo travelers, couples, or small groups will all appreciate the private setup, and the inclusion of photos and videos makes it a memorable keepsake. However, do note that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan how to get to Cloud 9 ahead of time.

The Sum Up

Ulap Surf offers a top-tier beginner surfing experience on Siargao, blending professional coaching, high-quality gear, and memorable photos into a comprehensive package. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach help newcomers feel confident and excited about catching their first waves, making it a worthwhile investment especially for those keen to learn the fundamentals correctly from the start.

This tour is best suited for travelers who prioritize personalized instruction, a safe learning environment, and a scenic surf location. If you’re looking to kick off your surfing journey with a program that genuinely cares about progress and enjoyment, Ulap Surf delivers on all fronts.

While transportation isn’t included, the value-packed content, expert guidance, and beautiful setting make this a standout choice for beginners eager to surf in Siargao. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or just curious about this sport, it’s an experience that can truly inspire a lifelong love of surfing.

FAQ

Do I need prior surfing experience?
No, this lesson is designed specifically for beginners, so no prior experience is necessary.

What is included in the price?
The package covers a soft-top surfboard, guide services, a beginners course certificate, safety guide, and photos/videos of your session.

Is transportation arranged?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to organize your own way to the meeting point at Cloud 9.

How long is the lesson?
The entire experience lasts around 2 hours, with about 10 minutes briefing, warm-up, and 90 minutes of in-water coaching.

Can I book this for a group?
Yes, it’s a private activity, so only your group will participate, making it ideal for family, friends, or couples.

What’s the best time of day for the lesson?
The tour operates from 6:00 AM to 3:30 PM, so you can choose morning or afternoon sessions depending on your preference and the weather.

Is the longboard suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The sturdy, 9-foot longboard is perfect for those just starting to learn, offering stability and confidence.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled session for a full refund.

Ulap Surf provides an authentic, well-structured introduction to surfing that balances professional guidance with a fun, scenic environment. Whether you’re looking to stand on your first wave or simply want a memorable slice of Siargao’s surf culture, this experience is worth considering.