Surf course 5 days

Introducing the 5-Day Surf Course in Somo, Cantabria

Our review of this five-day surfing course in Bilbao’s nearby surf haven, Somo Beach, highlights a balanced mix of professional instruction, authentic coastal vibes, and good value. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills, this course offers a practical and engaging way to get into the waves while enjoying the stunning Spanish coastline.

What really catches our eye is the small group setting—with a maximum of 14 participants, you’ll find room to learn, ask questions, and get personalized feedback. Plus, the inclusion of boards, wetsuits, and insurance makes it straightforward and hassle-free to focus on learning.

However, a potential consideration is that the course is only about 10 hours spread over five days, which means consistent practice depends heavily on daily weather conditions and your own dedication. Still, the friendly atmosphere and seasoned instructors make it a fantastic choice for newcomers and those with a bit of experience wanting to refine their technique.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic, instructor-led learning in a relaxed environment—perfect if you want to combine a coastal holiday with an active, rewarding skill.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 5-day course with 10 hours of instruction
• Small group experience for personalized teaching
• Inclusive equipment and insurance, removing extra costs
• Professional instructors with long-standing surf school expertise
• Ideal for beginners or those brushing up on skills
• Authentic surf experience at Somo Beach, renowned in Europe

The Setting: Somo Beach, Cantabria

Somo Beach, just a short trip from Bilbao, is a favorite among surfers and beach lovers alike. Its consistent waves, gentle enough for beginners, make it an ideal spot for learning. The surf school operates in updated facilities with good quality gear, which is a significant plus, especially for those new to the sport.

From the moment you arrive at Playa de Somo, the lively yet relaxed vibe sets the tone. You’ll notice that the school has been teaching here since 1991, so they’re seasoned in making sure visitors have a safe, fun, and educational experience. Expect to be greeted by friendly staff at the meeting point, ready to gear you up and introduce you to your instructor.

What Does the 5-Day Course Cover?

This course is designed to build confidence and skill through a balanced mix of theory and practice. Each day involves two hours of instruction, split between on-the-sand coaching and in-the-water exercises. The structure aims to ensure you grasp essential form, technique, and safety before trying to ride a wave.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

While the schedule is flexible, here’s a typical flow based on the course structure:

• Day 1: Foundations & Safety
  You’ll start with understanding surf safety, equipment handling, and basic paddling techniques. The instructors emphasize creating a solid foundation, so don’t expect to be riding on your first wave, but you will learn how to position yourself and catch smaller waves safely.

• Day 2-3: Improving Technique & Wave Reading
  As your confidence grows, you’ll work on paddling more efficiently, timing your take-off better, and maintaining balance. The instructors provide individual feedback, which reviewers have appreciated — one said, “Big smiles every day and personalized feedback in fluent English.”

• Day 4-5: Riding & Refining Skills
  The final days focus on catching and riding waves, refining techniques, and developing your confidence to handle different types of surf. Expect a noticeable sense of achievement when you successfully stand up and ride a wave.

Equipment & Insurance

All necessary gear, including wetsuits and surfboards, is included. That means no hidden costs or last-minute gear shopping—your worry is simply to show up ready to learn. Plus, insurance coverage gives peace of mind, important for beginners still learning the basics of paddling and balancing.

The Instructors & Atmosphere

From one reviewer’s glowing praise, Jose (‘Huevo Frito’) is a standout instructor—“learned us to catch waves from day one,” said one happy participant. The staff tend to be experienced, patient, and fluent in English, which is a big help for international travelers.

Another highlight is the friendly, welcoming environment. Whether it’s the reception staff, skate instructors, or those handling gear, everyone seems genuinely committed to making sure you feel at home. One review mentioned, “from the girls at reception to the skate teachers, everyone welcomes you with a smile,” which helps ease the nerves of first-time surfers.

While some reviewers pointed out issues with management communication—notably, emails in Spanish or unclear schedules—the overall focus on quality instruction and team friendliness shines through.

The Small Group Advantage

With a maximum of 14 people, you won’t be lost in a large crowd. This smaller size allows instructors to give more individualized feedback and tailor their tips to your specific needs. Multiple reviews praise the instructor’s attention to detail and the consistent encouragement, which accelerates learning.

Participants have also enjoyed the camaraderie, often making new friends during the course, sharing the excitement of catching that first wave, and swapping stories afterward.

Pricing and Value

At $172.86 per person, this five-day course is a reasonable investment for those serious about learning to surf in a supportive environment. Considering that boards, wetsuits, and insurance are included, there are no hidden costs, making it straightforward to budget.

When you compare this to organizing separate lessons or gear rentals, the bundled price offers good value, especially with the added benefit of multiple sessions spread over days—giving ample time to practice and improve.

This course is ideal for travelers who want a structured, immersive experience rather than just a one-off lesson. It offers enough time and instruction to really get a feel for surfing, which can be hard to find with shorter courses.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

The course is dependent on good weather, which is typical for any outdoor activity. If weather conditions prevent classes, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change or weather turns unsuitable.

Who Will Love This Course?

This experience is perfect for beginners or those with a little experience looking to improve their skills. It’s also well-suited for travelers who appreciate small-group learning and want to be coached by experienced, friendly instructors.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a luxury, all-inclusive resort experience or if you’re an advanced surfer seeking challenging waves—this course is designed with entry-level to intermediate surfers in mind.

The Sum Up

This five-day surfing course at Somo Beach offers solid value, friendly instruction, and a genuine opportunity to learn or refine your surf skills. With small group sizes, professional teachers, and all gear included, you’ll have an enjoyable, safe, and productive experience. The focus on building confidence makes it a great choice for those new to surfing, or anyone wanting to get more comfortable on the waves in a relaxed environment.

While some administrative hiccups were noted, the overall vibe—positive, encouraging, and expert-led—definitely shines through. If you’re prepared to commit a few days, you’ll come away with new skills, new friends, and a memorable coastal adventure.

For travelers craving an active, authentic taste of Spain’s surf scene, this course hits the right notes. Just remember to pack your enthusiasm, and maybe a sense of humor—because catching that first wave is totally worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this surf course suitable for complete beginners?
Yes, the course is designed to accommodate beginners, with instructors focusing on fundamental skills, safety, and confidence-building.

What is included in the price?
Boards, wetsuits, and insurance are all included, so you don’t need to worry about extra gear costs.

How many people will be in my group?
The maximum group size is 14, which allows for more personalized attention and better feedback from instructors.

What is the duration of each session?
Each day offers about two hours of instruction, split between sand lessons and water practice, over five days.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. If weather cancels the activity, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, all necessary equipment—boards and wetsuits—are provided, making it easy to focus on learning.

This surf course in Somo presents a balanced, authentic, and value-packed way to dip your toes into surfing. Whether you’re chasing that first ride or just want a break from sightseeing, it’s a practical and enjoyable choice for your Spain trip.