2 day surf course

Discover the Joy of Surfing in Spain with a Two-Day Course in Samo, Cantabria

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching your first wave or sharpening your surf skills in a scenic coastal setting, this 2-day surf course in Samo, Cantabria might be just what you’re after. Offered by the renowned Escuela Cántabra de Surf, this experience combines expert instruction, manageable group sizes, and the stunning Spanish coastline. For around $83, you’ll get a total of four hours of hands-on learning, making it an accessible option for travelers eager to dip their toes into surfing or improve their technique.

What stands out most about this course is the long-standing reputation of the school, established in 1991 and regarded as one of the best surf schools in Europe. Plus, the inclusion of all necessary gear—boards and wetsuits—means you can focus solely on learning and enjoying the waves without worrying about additional costs. We also love the small group size, which promises personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. The only thing to consider is that, like any outdoor activity, weather conditions are key—bad weather could mean a reschedule or refund.

This course is perfect for those new to surfing, or anyone wanting to build confidence and technique in a friendly, low-pressure environment. If you’re traveling to Bilbao and looking for a fun, active way to connect with the local coast, this experience offers a practical and memorable introduction to surfing.

Key Points

• Expert instruction tailored for beginners and those looking to improve
• All gear included, removing the hassle of renting equipment
• Small groups (max 15), ensuring personalized guidance
• Convenient location in Samo with stunning coastal views
• Flexible schedule with sessions available throughout the day
• Affordable price point for quality instruction in a sought-after surf spot

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Surf Course

Location & Atmosphere: Catching Waves in Samo, Cantabria

The course takes place at Escuela Cántabra de Surf, situated in Samo, a small coastal town renowned among surfers for its consistent waves and beautiful scenery. The meeting point at Isla de Mouro, 12 in Somo, sets the scene for a beachside adventure that’s easy to reach from Bilbao. The location is ideal for beginners because the waves here tend to be manageable but still exhilarating—perfect for building confidence.

From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by seasoned instructors who are not only passionate about surfing but also genuinely love sharing their knowledge. The school’s long history, dating back to 1991, hints at a seasoned team that knows how to make learning both effective and fun.

The Structure of the Course: What’s Included

Over two days, you’ll spend approximately two hours each day on land and in the water—a balanced approach that helps you grasp the fundamentals before hitting the waves. The first hour on the sand focuses on understanding paddle techniques, stance, and safety, while the second hour immerses you on the water with guided practice.

The small group size of up to 15 participants ensures you get plenty of individual feedback. And because everything needed—boards and wetsuits—is included, you won’t need to worry about bringing or renting gear separately. This makes the experience straightforward and hassle-free.

What You’ll Learn: Technique and Confidence

Expect to receive tailored tips from instructors who are surfers themselves and love teaching others. The reviews highlight the friendly, approachable guides who are as humorous as they are knowledgeable. One review from Christina_M states, “You get insight to a great wipe and I loved it,” emphasizing the practical advice that can make the difference between a stumble and a ride.

Throughout the course, you’ll focus on proper form, positioning, and wave reading, which are crucial for progressing quickly. The ultimate goal? Standing up and riding a wave—an adrenaline rush that many find addictive. The best part, noted in reviews, is feeling the thrill when you finally catch that wave, which makes all the effort worthwhile.

The Experience: Surfing the Spanish Waves

The beauty of this course is that it doesn’t just teach you to surf—it immerses you in the local surf culture. The instructors are surfers who love what they do, and their enthusiasm is contagious. You’ll learn about local surf etiquette, safety, and how to respect this fragile environment—all vital knowledge for becoming an independent surfer.

You might find the waves in Samo are suitable even for complete beginners, which means you’ll likely spend more time practicing than struggling. The instructor’s guidance is often personalized, and reviewers mention how they felt confident improving each day.

Considerations: Weather & Group Size

While the experience is highly praised, weather can impact the schedule. Since conditions are weather-dependent, cancellations due to poor weather are possible, but the school offers rescheduling or full refunds. This flexibility adds reassurance, especially if you’re traveling during uncertain seasons.

Group size is capped at 15, which is great for personalized attention but means booking in advance is wise, especially in peak seasons. The sessions run from March through December, with daily slots available, giving you ample flexibility.

The Value: Is It Worth It?

At $83.01 per person for four hours of instruction, including gear, this course offers excellent value. Compared to other adventures or lessons, this package provides not just a fleeting experience but a solid foundation in surfing. The insights shared by reviewers—such as the instructors’ friendliness, humor, and skill—add to the overall value, making it more than just a lesson but a memorable experience.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This surf course is ideal for beginners and casual surfers who want a supportive environment to learn or improve. It’s also perfect if you’re visiting Bilbao and looking for an active, outdoor activity that introduces you to Spanish coastal life. The manageable group size and inclusion of gear make it accessible for solo travelers, couples, or small groups of friends.

If you’re after a memorable, hands-on experience that combines learning, fun, and stunning scenery, this course hits the mark. It’s a great way to spend a couple of days moving beyond sightseeing and engaging directly with the natural landscape.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day surf course in Samo, Cantabria offers genuine value through expert instruction, all-inclusive gear, and a friendly atmosphere. The small group setting allows for personal coaching, perfect for those new to surfing or looking to refine their skills in a supportive environment. The location itself, with its scenic waves and welcoming vibe, makes this experience stand out among coastal activities in Spain.

While weather can be unpredictable, the school’s flexible policies and the instructors’ dedication help ensure you’ll have a positive experience. The cost is reasonable for the quality of instruction and the opportunity to learn from some of Europe’s top surf professionals.

Overall, whether it’s your first time on a board or a chance to sharpen your skills, this course provides a practical, fun, and memorable way to connect with Spain’s beautiful coast. It’s a fantastic choice for active travelers eager to add a splash of adventure to their trip.

FAQ

Is this surf course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the course is designed to cater to beginners and those looking to improve their skills, with instructors providing tailored guidance.

Are all the necessary gear provided?
Yes, boards, wetsuits, and insurance are included in the package, so you don’t need to bring or rent anything separately.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15, which helps ensure personalized instruction and attention.

What are the operating hours?
Sessions run daily from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, from March 15 to December 31, 2025.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the experience is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is each day’s session?
Each session lasts about two hours, comprising both land-based and water-based instruction.

Is this experience good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. The small group setting makes it easy to meet fellow surfers and make new friends.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred dates, especially during peak seasons, due to the limited group size.

Whether you’re craving your first wave or just want to enjoy Spain’s stunning coastline from a new perspective, this surf course offers a well-rounded, fun, and value-packed introduction to surfing.